If you’re a fan of the classic campfire treat, you’ll love this Decadent S’mores Cake. This delightful dessert combines all the beloved flavors of s’mores—graham crackers, chocolate, and marshmallows—into a stunning and delicious cake. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or just a special treat at home, this S’mores Cake will impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into how to create this mouth-watering dessert!
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
For the Graham Cracker Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Marshmallow Filling:
- 1 jar (7 ounces) marshmallow fluff
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Ganache:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped
For the Topping:
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 4 graham crackers, broken into pieces
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
How to Make S’mores Cake
Step 1: Prepare the Cake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Combine wet ingredients: Add the milk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Beat on medium speed until well combined.
- Add boiling water: Carefully stir in the boiling water until the batter is smooth. The batter will be thin, but that’s okay.
- Bake the cakes: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the cakes: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove them from the pans and place them on a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 2: Make the Graham Cracker Crust
- Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar. Stir in the melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press into pans: Press the graham cracker mixture into the bottom of the same 9-inch cake pans used for the cake layers. Use the bottom of a measuring cup to press it firmly.
- Bake the crust: Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Allow the crusts to cool completely before assembling the cake.
Step 3: Prepare the Marshmallow Filling
- Beat butter and marshmallow fluff: In a large mixing bowl, beat the marshmallow fluff and butter together until smooth and creamy.
- Add powdered sugar and vanilla: Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until fluffy. Mix in the vanilla extract.
Step 4: Make the Chocolate Ganache
- Heat the cream: In a small saucepan, bring the heavy cream to a simmer over medium heat. Do not boil.
- Melt the chocolate: Place the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit for 2-3 minutes to melt.
- Stir until smooth: Stir the mixture until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth. Allow the ganache to cool slightly until it thickens to a spreadable consistency.
Step 5: Assemble the S’mores Cake
- Place a cake layer: Place one cooled cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand.
- Add marshmallow filling: Spread a generous layer of marshmallow filling over the cake.
- Top with graham cracker crust: Place one of the graham cracker crusts on top of the marshmallow filling.
- Repeat layers: Add another layer of marshmallow filling, followed by the second cake layer. Finish with the remaining graham cracker crust on top.
- Spread chocolate ganache: Pour the chocolate ganache over the top of the cake, letting it drip down the sides.
- Add toppings: Sprinkle mini marshmallows, graham cracker pieces, and chocolate chips on top of the ganache.
About the Main Ingredients
Graham Crackers
Graham crackers are a key ingredient in traditional s’mores, providing a sweet and crunchy base that complements the soft marshmallows and rich chocolate. In this recipe, they are used to create a flavorful crust that adds texture and a familiar taste to the cake.
Cocoa Powder
Cocoa powder is essential for giving the cake its deep chocolate flavor. It’s derived from cocoa beans and provides a rich, chocolaty taste without adding extra sweetness, allowing the other ingredients to shine.
Marshmallow Fluff
Marshmallow fluff is a sweet, spreadable version of marshmallows that adds a light and fluffy texture to the filling. It helps to create the signature gooey layer that makes s’mores so irresistible.
Heavy Cream
Heavy cream is used to make the chocolate ganache, providing a smooth and creamy consistency that is perfect for drizzling over the cake. It also adds a luxurious richness to the ganache.
This Decadent S’mores Cake is a show-stopping dessert that combines the nostalgic flavors of s’mores with the elegance of a layered cake. The combination of chocolate cake, graham cracker crust, marshmallow filling, and chocolate ganache makes for an unforgettable treat. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just to enjoy a taste of childhood, this S’mores Cake is sure to be a hit. Enjoy!
