S’mores Cake Recipe: A Gooey, Chocolatey Twist on the Campfire Classic!

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Author: Adam
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Introduction

What if you could enjoy the iconic campfire s’mores experience in the form of a rich, decadent cake? Enter the S’mores Cake—a mouthwatering dessert featuring layers of moist chocolate cake, creamy marshmallow frosting, crunchy graham cracker crumbs, and a gooey chocolate ganache drizzle.

This cake is perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just because you’re craving s’mores but don’t have a campfire nearby. It combines the best parts of s’mores—graham crackers, marshmallows, and melted chocolate—but in a beautifully layered cake that’s sure to impress.

Let’s dive into the recipe and learn how to make the ultimate homemade S’mores Cake! 🔥🍫


Ingredients

For the Chocolate Cake:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
  • 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 cup boiling water

For the Marshmallow Frosting:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 (7 oz) jar of marshmallow creme (marshmallow fluff)
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Ganache:

  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream

For the Graham Cracker Layer & Topping:

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/4 cup melted butter
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar

Optional Garnishes:

  • Mini marshmallows (to toast on top!)
  • Extra graham cracker crumbs
  • Chocolate shavings or pieces

Directions

Step 1: Make the Chocolate Cake

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. Add eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed until smooth.
  4. Stir in boiling water (batter will be thin, but that’s okay—it makes the cake super moist!).
  5. Pour batter evenly into the prepared cake pans.
  6. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  7. Let the cakes cool completely before assembling.

Step 2: Prepare the Graham Cracker Layer

  1. In a small bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar.
  2. Press the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8 minutes.
  3. Let it cool, then break it into crumbles for layering.

Step 3: Make the Marshmallow Frosting

  1. In a large mixing bowl, beat butter until smooth.
  2. Add marshmallow fluff and vanilla extract, and mix until fluffy.
  3. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until fully combined.

Step 4: Make the Chocolate Ganache

  1. Heat heavy cream in a small saucepan until it begins to steam (don’t boil!).
  2. Pour over chocolate chips and let sit for 2 minutes.
  3. Stir until smooth and glossy.

Step 5: Assemble the S’mores Cake

  1. Place one chocolate cake layer on a serving plate.
  2. Spread a layer of marshmallow frosting, followed by a sprinkle of graham cracker crumbs.
  3. Add the second cake layer, then cover the entire cake with marshmallow frosting.
  4. Drizzle chocolate ganache over the top, letting it drip down the sides.
  5. Sprinkle with extra graham cracker crumbs and top with mini marshmallows.

Step 6: Toast the Marshmallows (Optional, But Recommended!)

  1. If you have a kitchen torch, lightly toast the mini marshmallows on top for a real s’mores effect.
  2. If you don’t have a torch, place the cake under the oven broiler for 30 seconds—watch it carefully to avoid burning!

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 12-16 slices
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Cooling & Assembly Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes

Variations of S’mores Cake

  • S’mores Cupcakes: Use the same ingredients, but bake as cupcakes instead. Pipe on the marshmallow frosting and drizzle with ganache!
  • Peanut Butter S’mores Cake: Add a layer of peanut butter frosting between the cakes for a nutty twist.
  • Cookies & Cream S’mores Cake: Mix crushed Oreo cookies into the graham cracker crumbs for an extra chocolatey crunch.
  • Extra Gooey Version: Add a layer of melted marshmallows between the cake layers instead of just the frosting!

Storage and Reheating

How to Store S’mores Cake

  • Refrigerator: Keep the cake covered in the fridge for up to 5 days. Let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving.
  • Freezing: You can freeze the individual cake layers (before frosting) for up to 3 months. Wrap in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container.

How to Reheat for Maximum Gooeyness

  • Warm individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to soften the marshmallow and chocolate.

10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use a cake mix instead of making the cake from scratch?

Absolutely! A chocolate cake mix works great if you’re short on time.

2. What can I use if I don’t have marshmallow fluff?

Melt mini marshmallows with a little butter for a homemade substitute.

3. How do I make the cake extra moist?

Adding sour cream or buttermilk in place of some of the milk makes it even richer!

4. Can I make this cake in a 9×13 pan instead?

Yes! Simply bake in a 9×13-inch pan for about 35-40 minutes.

5. How can I make this cake gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix and substitute gluten-free graham crackers.

6. Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet for the ganache?

Yes! If you prefer a sweeter ganache, milk chocolate works beautifully.

7. What’s the best way to crush graham crackers?

Use a food processor or crush them in a Ziploc bag with a rolling pin.

8. Can I toast the marshmallows in the oven?

Yes, but be careful! Use the broiler for 30 seconds, watching closely.

9. Can I use store-bought frosting?

Of course! A marshmallow or vanilla frosting works as a quick swap.

10. What’s the best way to slice this cake neatly?

Run a sharp knife under hot water, wipe it dry, and cut for cleaner slices.


Conclusion

S’mores Cake takes the beloved campfire classic and transforms it into a show-stopping dessert that’s rich, gooey, and packed with all the flavors you love. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just a cozy night in, this cake is guaranteed to impress.

So grab your fork (or your hands, no judgment!) and dig into this ooey-gooey, chocolatey, marshmallowy masterpiece. 🔥🍫✨

Let me know—what’s your favorite s’mores-inspired dessert? 😍

Matt Recipes

Hi there! I’m Matt, the chef and creator behind Matt Recipes. Cooking has been my passion for as long as I can remember, and I’ve dedicated my life to exploring flavors, experimenting with new dishes, and sharing my love of food with others.

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