Decadent S'mores Cake: A Layered Chocolate, Marshmallow & Graham Cracker Dream

Name: Decadent S'mores Cake: A Layered Chocolate, Marshmallow & Graham Cracker Dream
Prep time: 60 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 180 min
Ingredients: 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar; 3/4 cups Dutch cocoa powder; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 3/4 cup vegetable oil; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 3 large eggs; 1 cup buttermilk; 1/2 cup strongly brewed coffee; 3/4 cup unsalted butter (softened); 2 cups powdered sugar; 3/4 cup marshmallow fluff; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted); 2 tablespoons honey ((or sugar!)); 1 cup graham cracker crumbs

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Introduction

Discover the ultimate indoor treat with this incredible S’mores Cake recipe. It features layers of moist chocolate cake, fluffy homemade marshmallow frosting, and a buttery graham cracker crumble. You can enjoy the classic campfire flavors of s’mores without needing a fire pit! This show-stopping dessert is perfect for celebrations, birthdays, or any occasion craving a taste of nostalgia. Get ready to bake a memorable treat everyone will adore.

Why You’ll Love This S’mores Cake

Slice of S’mores cake with chocolate layers and marshmallow frosting on a white plate.

All-in-One S’mores Flavor: Enjoy every classic s’mores element, from rich chocolate to toasted marshmallow, in a single slice of this delicious S’mores Cake.
Perfectly Balanced Textures: Experience the delightful contrast of moist cake, creamy frosting, and satisfyingly crunchy graham cracker crumble.
Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: This impressive cake is always a hit, making it ideal for parties, family gatherings, or any special event.
Impressive Presentation: The beautiful layers and optional toasted marshmallows create a visually stunning dessert that will surely wow your guests.
Year-Round Treat: Crave campfire flavors anytime, anywhere with this convenient and delightful indoor version of a beloved classic.

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Cake:

1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
3/4 cups Dutch cocoa powder
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup vegetable oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
3 large eggs
1 cup buttermilk
1/2 cup strongly brewed coffee

For the Marshmallow Frosting:

3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
3/4 cup marshmallow fluff
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Graham Cracker Crumble:

3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons honey (or sugar!)
1 cup graham cracker crumbs

Notes & Substitutions

Dutch Cocoa Powder: This gives the chocolate cake a darker color and richer, less bitter flavor. Understanding the differences between Dutch-process and natural cocoa powder can help you choose the right one for your baking needs, as they react differently with leavening agents. You can use natural unsweetened cocoa powder, but the color and taste will be slightly different.

Buttermilk: If you do not have buttermilk, you can make a substitute. Add one tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to a liquid measuring cup. Then, fill the rest with regular milk to make one cup. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it slightly curdles.

Coffee: Strong brewed coffee enhances the chocolate flavor without making the cake taste like coffee. Hot water works as an alternative if you prefer, but coffee adds depth.

Marshmallow Fluff: Store-bought marshmallow fluff is easiest for the frosting. For a homemade option, consider a sturdy meringue like Swiss or Italian meringue, which provides a similar texture.

Honey in Crumble: Honey helps bind the graham cracker crumble and adds a subtle sweetness. Use granulated sugar instead for a less sweet or crispier crumble.

Cake Pans: The recipe uses three 6-inch cake pans for tall, elegant layers. You can use two 8-inch cake pans instead; adjust baking time as needed.

Equipment

Gather these essential tools to create your perfect S’mores Cake.

Three 6-inch cake pans (or two 8-inch)
Parchment paper
Large mixing bowls
Whisks
Stand mixer with whisk attachment
Wire cooling rack
Offset spatula
Kitchen torch (optional, for toasting marshmallows)

Instructions

A whole S’mores cake topped with toasted marshmallows and chocolate drip on a cake stand.

Follow these steps for a delicious S’mores Cake masterpiece.

Prepare Cake Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line the bottoms of three 6-inch cake pans (or two 8-inch pans) with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and ensures easy release.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, Dutch cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Make sure there are no lumps and everything is well combined.
Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, vanilla extract, large eggs, and buttermilk until smooth.
Combine Batters: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, whisking gently until just combined and no dry streaks remain. Do not overmix. Gradually pour in the strongly brewed coffee, mixing until the batter is smooth.
Bake Cake Layers: Divide the cake batter evenly among your prepared cake pans. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a wooden skewer or knife inserted into the center of a cake comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans on a wire rack for 10-15 minutes, then invert them onto the rack to cool completely before frosting.
Make Marshmallow Frosting: Once the cakes are completely cool, prepare the marshmallow frosting. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, beat the softened unsalted butter until it is smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, salt, and vanilla extract, beating until combined. Scrape down the bowl, then add the marshmallow fluff. Beat on medium-high speed for about 3 minutes until the frosting is light, fluffy, and well aerated.
Prepare Graham Cracker Crumble: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted unsalted butter, and honey (or sugar). Stir everything together with a fork until the crumbs are moistened and clumpy.
Assemble the Cake:
- Place one cooled cake layer onto your desired cake stand or serving plate.
- Spread a generous layer of marshmallow frosting evenly over the top.
- Sprinkle about half of the graham cracker crumble over the frosting.
- Carefully place the second cake layer on top and repeat with another layer of frosting and the remaining graham cracker crumble.
- Add the final cake layer. Frost the top and sides of the entire cake with the remaining marshmallow frosting using an offset spatula for a smooth finish.
- For an authentic s’mores look, decorate the top of the cake with additional mini marshmallows and use a kitchen torch to toast them lightly until golden brown. Optionally, drizzle with chocolate ganache for extra decadence.

Pro Tips & Troubleshooting

Don’t Overmix Cake Batter: Overmixing develops gluten, resulting in a tough, dry cake. Mix just until ingredients are combined for a tender crumb.
Cool Cakes Completely: Frosting a warm cake will cause the frosting to melt and slide off. Ensure your cake layers are completely cool before assembling.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Use room temperature butter and eggs for the frosting. This helps them cream together smoothly, creating an emulsified, fluffy texture.
Achieving Fluffy Frosting: Beat the butter until light and pale before adding other ingredients. Whip the marshmallow fluff vigorously for the full 3 minutes to incorporate air, making it truly fluffy.
Crumb Coat: For a perfectly smooth finish, apply a thin layer of frosting (a crumb coat) to the entire cake, chill for 15-20 minutes, then apply the final frosting layer. This traps any loose crumbs.
Preventing Dry Crumble: If your graham cracker crumble seems too dry, add a tiny bit more melted butter until it holds together slightly when pressed.
Adjusting Frosting Sweetness: The marshmallow frosting is sweet. If you prefer it less sweet, slightly reduce the amount of powdered sugar to taste, keeping in mind texture.

Serving, Storage & Variations

S’mores cake slice showing chocolate layers, marshmallow frosting, and graham crumble.

Serving Suggestions:

This decadent S’mores Cake is delightful on its own. For an extra special treat, serve slices with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a mug of rich hot chocolate.

Storage Instructions:

Store your cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, keep it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Allow refrigerated cake to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving for the best texture.

Freezing Cake:

You can freeze unfrosted cake layers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Frosted cakes can also be frozen by flash-freezing until firm, then wrapping tightly.

Variations:

Meringue Frosting: Instead of marshmallow fluff, try a homemade Swiss or Italian meringue buttercream for a rich, stable, and less sweet alternative.
Chocolate Ganache Drizzle: Elevate your cake with a simple chocolate ganache. Melt equal parts heavy cream and good quality chocolate chips, then drizzle over the top.
S’mores Cupcakes: Adapt this recipe into delightful cupcakes. Bake the chocolate cake batter in cupcake liners and frost with the marshmallow frosting, topping with crumble and toasted mini marshmallows.
Add Chocolate Chips: Fold a handful of mini chocolate chips into the cake batter or sprinkle them between the layers with the graham cracker crumble for extra chocolatey goodness.

Nutrition

Indulging in homemade desserts like this S’mores Cake is a treat! While exact nutritional values vary based on ingredients and serving size, this cake is a rich dessert. Each serving typically contains a significant amount of calories, primarily from carbohydrates (sugar and flour) and fats (butter and oil). It also provides some protein from eggs and dairy. Enjoy this delightful cake in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Nutrient	Estimated Per Serving
Calories	500-600 kcal
Carbohydrates	70-80g
Fat	25-30g
Protein	5-7g

(Disclaimer: These are approximate values and can vary. This information is for general guidance only and not medical advice.)

FAQ

Can I use store-bought graham cracker crumbs?

Yes, absolutely! Pre-crushed graham cracker crumbs are a convenient time-saver and work perfectly for this S’mores Cake recipe.

How do I get perfectly level cake layers?

For level layers, use a kitchen scale to divide the batter evenly among the pans. After baking, a serrated knife or a cake leveling tool can trim any domed tops.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

You can bake the cake layers up to 2 days in advance and store them, wrapped, at room temperature. The entire cake can be assembled and frosted a day ahead, then stored in the fridge.

Conclusion

This S’mores Cake brings the magic of a campfire right into your kitchen, delivering a truly unforgettable dessert experience. With its irresistible layers of moist chocolate cake, ethereal marshmallow frosting, and crunchy graham cracker crumble, it’s a symphony of textures and flavors.

Embrace the joy of baking this delightful treat for your next gathering or simply to satisfy a sweet craving. We hope you love this recipe; please share your thoughts and creations with us!