S'mores Inspired Cupcake Stacks

Name: S'mores Inspired Cupcake Stacks
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 cupcakes
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1 cup buttermilk; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup graham cracker crumbs; 1/4 cup sugar; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1/4 cup heavy cream; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup mini marshmallows

Highlighted under: Sweet Ending Recipes

I always liked the idea of enjoying the classic campfire treat in a more decadent form, so I decided to create these S'mores Inspired Cupcake Stacks. Each layer combines the rich flavors of chocolate, marshmallow, and graham cracker in a way that captures all the cozy memories of summer evenings. The beauty of these cupcakes lies not only in their taste but also in their presentation, making them a perfect centerpiece for gatherings or celebrations. Plus, who can resist that gooey marshmallow topping?

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-07T18:06:28.237Z

When I first thought of making cupcakes, I wanted them to be a nod to the nostalgic flavors of S'mores. I experimented with different combinations of cake batters and frosting, finally finding the right balance that not only tasted divine but also held the structure needed for stacking. Trust me, the light graham cracker crumb base paired with the chocolate cake makes for a perfect indulgence.

To ensure that each cupcake was as flavorful as possible, I decided to add a layer of marshmallow frosting that I lightly toasted for that genuine campfire experience. This method brought out the sweetness and depth of flavors in a delightful way. It's a must-try technique!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Decadent layers of rich chocolate and fluffy marshmallow
Perfectly stacked for an impressive presentation
Brings the nostalgic taste of campfire S'mores into bite-sized treats

Understanding the Flavor Profiles

The classic combination of chocolate, graham crackers, and marshmallows brings an indulgent flavor profile that balances sweetness with slight bitterness. The unsweetened cocoa powder in the cupcake batter provides a rich chocolatey depth that is essential for mimicking the authentic taste of S'mores. When combined with the creamy marshmallow frosting, the chocolate flavor is both highlighted and softened, creating an irresistible bite with every layer.

Graham crackers contribute a delightful crunch to the texture of the cupcake stacks. Before baking, it’s important that the graham cracker crust is patted down firmly to ensure it holds together post-bake. This crust serves as a sturdy base that contrasts wonderfully with the soft, fluffy cupcake and the decadent frosting, providing a variety of textures that keeps each bite interesting.

Tips for Perfect Assembly

When piping the marshmallow frosting, I recommend using a large star tip to achieve that attractive swirl on top of each cupcake. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also creates peaks that can be lightly toasted for added flavor dimension. Make sure to allow the cupcakes to cool completely before frosting; otherwise, the warmth can cause the frosting to melt and lose its shape.

If you choose to stack the cupcakes for presentation, ensure the frosting has set slightly before doing so. This will help prevent the layers from sliding off each other. For an added visual effect, consider garnishing with extra mini marshmallows or chocolate shavings on top, which also enhances the flavor experience.

Ingredients

Ingredients:

For the Cupcakes

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1 cup buttermilk
1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Graham Cracker Crust

1 cup graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup sugar
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Marshmallow Frosting

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup heavy cream
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup mini marshmallows

Instructions:

Instructions

Steps:

Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust

In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until crumbly and pat into the bottom of cupcake liners in a cupcake pan. Bake at 350°F for 5 minutes, then set aside.

Make the Chocolate Cupcake Batter

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, beat the butter until creamy, add eggs one at a time, then mix in buttermilk and vanilla. Gradually add wet ingredients to dry until well combined.

Bake the Cupcakes

Spoon chocolate batter over the graham cracker layer in cupcake liners, filling them about 2/3 full. Bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Allow to cool completely.

Prepare the Marshmallow Frosting

Whip the softened butter until light and fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar and heavy cream, then mix in vanilla until smooth. Stir in mini marshmallows.

Assemble the Cupcake Stacks

Once the cupcakes are completely cooled, pipe a generous amount of marshmallow frosting on top. If desired, use a kitchen torch to lightly toast the frosting for a caramelized effect. Stack cupcakes if desired for a decorative touch.

Enjoy your delightful S'mores Inspired Cupcake Stacks!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a layer of chocolate ganache between the cupcake and frosting. It elevates the taste and adds richness.

Storage and Make-Ahead Options

These S'mores Inspired Cupcake Stacks can be made ahead of time, as they hold up well in the fridge for up to three days. Store them in an airtight container to keep the cupcakes moist. If you’re planning to serve them later, consider frosting them the day of your event to maintain that fluffy texture and fresh appearance.

If you need to freeze them, it's best to freeze the un-frosted cupcakes for up to 2 months. Once fully cooled, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Frosting can be made fresh or stored separately in the fridge and piped on after thawing.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend, ensuring it contains xanthan gum for structure. Additionally, check your graham cracker crumbs, as many brands offer gluten-free options that will still provide that signature S'mores flavor.

If you want to make these cupcakes a bit lighter, consider using low-fat cream cheese in place of some of the butter in the frosting. This will give you a tangy flavor that complements the sweetness of the marshmallows while reducing the overall fat content. Just keep in mind that the frosting's texture may be slightly different, so a thicker consistency might be needed.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the cupcake batter in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the batter a few hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking.

→ How can I store leftover cupcakes?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I substitute the heavy cream in the frosting?

Yes, milk or a non-dairy alternative can be used, but the texture may vary slightly.

→ What if I don’t have mini marshmallows?

You can use regular marshmallows, cut into smaller pieces, or make a different frosting altogether.