If you’re searching for a dessert that’s both nostalgic and irresistibly delicious, S’mores Cupcakes are exactly what you need. Combining the classic flavors of toasted marshmallows, melted chocolate, and graham cracker crunch into a moist, fluffy cupcake, these treats are bound to be the star of any gathering. S’mores Cupcakes blend comfort and creativity, making them the ultimate crowd-pleaser that’s as fun to make as they are to eat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Classic Flavors Made Fun: S’mores Cupcakes take the beloved campfire treat and turn it into a handheld party delight.
- Easy and Quick to Prepare: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, it’s perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
- Customizable for Everyone: The recipe easily adapts to gluten-free, vegan, or extra indulgent versions based on your needs.
- Impressive Presentation: The toasted marshmallow topping and chocolate drizzle make these cupcakes an eye-catching centerpiece.
- Great for All Occasions: Whether it’s a birthday, barbecue, or simple weekend treat, these cupcakes fit every party vibe.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in S’mores Cupcakes plays a crucial role—from adding texture to unlocking rich, gooey flavors. Here’s what you’ll want on hand to whip up these delectable goodies:
- All-Purpose Flour: The base for the cupcake batter providing lightness and structure.
- Baking Powder: Helps your cupcakes rise and become fluffy.
- Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness balancing the marshmallow and chocolate.
- Unsalted Butter: Creates moistness and richness without overpowering flavors.
- Large Eggs: Bind the ingredients and contribute to the perfect crumb.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor with subtle warmth.
- Milk: Keeps the batter smooth and tender.
- Graham Cracker Crumbs: Provide that signature s’mores crunch and a hint of cinnamon.
- Mini Marshmallows: For the iconic toasted topping that melts beautifully.
- Chocolate Chips or Chunks: Offer gooey melted pockets of chocolate inside.
Variations for S’mores Cupcakes
One of the best things about S’mores Cupcakes is how adaptable they are. Feel free to tweak the recipe to fit your taste buds, dietary preferences, or even your pantry supplies.
- Vegan Version: Swap butter for coconut oil and eggs for flaxseed mix to make it plant-based.
- Gluten-Free Twist: Use gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour without losing texture.
- Extra Chocolatey: Add a layer of chocolate ganache between the cupcake and topping for indulgence.
- Peanut Butter Addition: Incorporate peanut butter in the batter or frosting for a nutty flair.
- Spiced Up: Add cinnamon or cayenne to the mix for a subtle kick that enhances the s’mores vibe.
How to Make S’mores Cupcakes
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Preheat
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a muffin tin with cupcake liners to ensure easy removal.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt to evenly distribute the rising agent.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a separate large bowl, use a mixer to beat the unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, which takes about 2-3 minutes.
Step 4: Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract to enhance flavor.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk, beginning and ending with the dry mix, until the batter is smooth but not over-mixed.
Step 6: Fold In Graham Cracker Crumbs and Chocolate Chips
Gently fold the crushed graham crackers and chocolate chips into the batter to distribute the classic s’mores elements.
Step 7: Fill Cupcake Liners and Bake
Spoon the batter evenly into your lined muffin tin, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake for 18-22 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Step 8: Toast the Marshmallow Topping
Once cupcakes are cooled, top with mini marshmallows and use a kitchen torch to toast until golden brown, or place briefly under a broiler watching carefully.
Step 9: Add Final Touches
Drizzle melted chocolate or chocolate ganache over the toasted marshmallows for a glossy, rich finish that completes the look and flavor.
Pro Tips for Making S’mores Cupcakes
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This helps the batter come together more smoothly and bakes evenly.
- Don’t Overmix Batter: Keep mixing until just combined to avoid dense cupcakes.
- Evenly Distribute Toppings: Make sure your marshmallows and chocolate chips are spread out so every bite has that s’mores surprise.
- Watch Your Toasting: Marshmallows can go from perfectly golden to burnt very quickly, so stay close when using the torch or broiler.
- Use Fresh Graham Crackers: Fresh crumbs make a huge difference in flavor and texture.
How to Serve S’mores Cupcakes
Garnishes
Sprinkle extra crushed graham crackers or mini chocolate chips on top of the toasted marshmallows for added crunch and visual appeal.
Side Dishes
Serve alongside cold ice cream or fresh fruit like strawberries and bananas to complement the rich cupcake flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Display them on a rustic wooden board or layer on a tiered cupcake stand for a warm, inviting party centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover S’mores Cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate for up to five days to maintain freshness.
Freezing
You can freeze unfrosted cupcakes wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer bag for up to three months; thaw before adding toasted marshmallow topping.
Reheating
Reheat cupcakes briefly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to soften before adding marshmallows, then toast the topping for best results.
FAQs
Can I make S’mores Cupcakes without a kitchen torch?
Yes! You can toast the marshmallows by placing the cupcakes under the broiler for just a few minutes, but watch closely to prevent burning.
Are S’mores Cupcakes suitable for kids?
Absolutely! Kids love the familiar flavors and the fun, gooey marshmallow topping makes them a hit at any family gathering.
Can I make these cupcakes dairy-free?
Yes, substitute dairy butter with a plant-based alternative and use dairy-free chocolate to make a delicious dairy-free version.
How do I prevent marshmallows from melting too much?
Toast marshmallows just until golden brown and add them as the final step before serving to keep their shape and texture.
Can S’mores Cupcakes be made ahead of time?
Definitely. Bake the cupcakes ahead, store them without the marshmallow topping, then add and toast the marshmallows just before serving.
Final Thoughts
S’mores Cupcakes are a magical twist on a timeless dessert that anyone can enjoy. Whether you’re planning a big celebration or simply want to treat yourself, they bring that warm, cozy feeling of roasting marshmallows by the fire in every bite. So grab your ingredients, get baking, and watch these cupcakes disappear fast at your next party!
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S’mores Cupcakes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 cupcakes 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
S’mores Cupcakes combine the nostalgic flavors of toasted marshmallows, melted chocolate, and graham cracker crunch into a moist, fluffy cupcake. Perfect for any gathering, these cupcakes turn the classic campfire treat into a fun, handheld dessert that is easy to prepare, customizable for dietary needs, and impressively presented with toasted marshmallow topping and chocolate drizzle.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup graham cracker crumbs
Wet Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup milk
S’mores Elements & Topping
- ½ cup mini marshmallows
- ½ cup chocolate chips or chunks
- Melted chocolate or chocolate ganache for drizzle
Instructions
- Prepare Your Pan and Preheat: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners to ensure easy removal.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the rising agent.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate large bowl, beat the unsalted butter and granulated sugar using a mixer until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract to enhance flavor.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk, starting and ending with the dry mixture, mixing until the batter is smooth but not over-mixed.
- Fold In Graham Cracker Crumbs and Chocolate Chips: Gently fold the graham cracker crumbs and chocolate chips into the batter to distribute the classic s’mores flavors evenly.
- Fill Cupcake Liners and Bake: Spoon the batter evenly into the lined muffin tin, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake for 18-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Toast the Marshmallow Topping: Once cupcakes have cooled, top each with mini marshmallows. Use a kitchen torch to toast until golden brown, or place briefly under a broiler while watching carefully.
- Add Final Touches: Drizzle melted chocolate or ganache over the toasted marshmallow topping for a glossy, rich finish that completes the flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Use room temperature ingredients for smooth batter and even baking.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep cupcakes light and fluffy.
- Distribute marshmallows and chocolate chips evenly for a s’mores surprise in every bite.
- Watch marshmallows closely when toasting as they can burn quickly.
- Use fresh graham crackers for best flavor and texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cupcake
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 130mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: s'mores cupcakes, marshmallow cupcakes, chocolate cupcakes, graham cracker dessert, campfire dessert, toasted marshmallow, easy cupcakes