If you love the nostalgia of campfire s’mores but want something a little more elegant and indulgent, these Chocolate S’mores Cupcakes with Gooey Marshmallow Centers are the ultimate treat. Imagine biting into a moist chocolate cupcake only to find a molten marshmallow filling and a crunchy graham cracker layer hidden inside. Topped with a silky ganache, they deliver everything you love about s’mores—without the sticky fingers or the smoke from the firepit.
This recipe is a true showstopper for birthdays, bake sales, or cozy nights in. By combining rich chocolate flavor, fluffy marshmallow, and buttery graham crackers, each bite offers contrast, texture, and balance. These aren’t just cupcakes; they’re a handheld gourmet experience.
Why These Chocolate S’mores Cupcakes Stand Out
Most recipes for s’mores cupcakes are either overly sweet or lack balance. What makes this recipe different is the layering technique and the way each component has been carefully adjusted:
- The Chocolate Cupcake Base – Moist, rich, and not overly sweet thanks to cocoa powder, buttermilk, and boiling water.
- The Gooey Marshmallow Center – Whether you use marshmallow creme or frozen marshmallows, the inside stays soft and gooey.
- The Graham Cracker Crunch – A buttery layer in the center provides contrast and keeps the cupcake true to its s’mores roots.
- The Ganache Topping – Silky and glossy, made from high-quality chocolate for a luxurious finish.
- The Presentation – A dusting of powdered sugar gives them a bakery-style look without needing complicated decorations.
These cupcakes are rich without being heavy, fun without being childish, and perfect for both casual gatherings and special occasions.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a breakdown of the key ingredients and why each one matters. Understanding this will help you tweak the recipe if needed.
Dry Ingredients
- All-Purpose Flour (1 ½ cups) – Provides structure.
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder (¾ cup) – Delivers deep chocolate flavor. Use Dutch-processed for smoother taste.
- Baking Powder (1 tsp) & Baking Soda (1 tsp) – Leavening agents for lift.
- Salt (½ tsp) – Balances sweetness.
- Granulated Sugar (1 ½ cups) – Sweetens and keeps cupcakes tender.
Wet Ingredients
- Eggs (2 large) – Add structure and richness.
- Buttermilk (1 cup) – Provides tang and moisture.
- Vegetable Oil (½ cup) – Keeps cupcakes soft and moist longer than butter.
- Vanilla Extract (2 tsp) – Enhances chocolate flavor.
- Boiling Water (1 cup) – Activates cocoa and creates tender texture.
Filling
- Marshmallow Creme (1 cup) or Large Marshmallows (12, frozen slightly) – For the gooey center.
- Graham Cracker Crumbs (1 cup) – Adds the authentic s’mores crunch.
- Butter (2 tbsp, melted) – Helps crumbs stick together.
Topping
- Chocolate Ganache – Made with 1 cup chocolate chips + ½ cup heavy cream.
- Powdered Sugar – For dusting.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
Step 2: Make the Chocolate Batter
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar.
- In another bowl, whisk eggs, buttermilk, oil, and vanilla.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients gently.
- Stir in boiling water last. Batter will be thin—don’t worry, that’s perfect.
Step 3: Add the Layers
- Spoon 1 tbsp batter into each liner.
- Add a teaspoon of graham cracker mixture.
- Place a dollop of marshmallow creme (or a frozen marshmallow).
- Cover with more batter until liners are ¾ full.
Step 4: Bake
- Bake 18–20 minutes, until edges test clean.
- Cool 5 minutes in the pan, then transfer to a wire rack.
Step 5: Ganache Topping
- Heat cream until steaming, pour over chocolate chips. Stir until smooth.
- Spoon or drizzle over cooled cupcakes.
Step 6: Final Touch
- Dust lightly with powdered sugar.
Pro Tips for the Best Results
- Freeze Marshmallows First – This keeps them from dissolving too quickly while baking.
- Use High-Quality Chocolate – Since ganache is the finishing touch, better chocolate makes a huge difference.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter – A few lumps are fine; overmixing makes cupcakes tough.
- Check Doneness Carefully – Test near the edge, not the center (since marshmallow stays gooey).
- Add Texture on Top – Sprinkle extra graham crumbs or mini marshmallows for a bakery-style finish.
Variations You Can Try
- Peanut Butter S’mores Cupcakes – Add a layer of peanut butter with the graham crackers.
- Caramel-Stuffed S’mores Cupcakes – Replace marshmallow with caramel for a richer twist.
- Mini Cupcake Version – Use a mini muffin tin for bite-sized party treats.
- Gluten-Free Option – Substitute 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free graham crackers.
- Dairy-Free Option – Use almond milk + vinegar instead of buttermilk, coconut cream for ganache.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with the marshmallow slightly melted.
- Pair with coffee, hot chocolate, or cold milk.
- For a party, top with toasted marshmallow frosting and an extra graham cracker piece.
Storage and Freezing
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days.
- Refrigerate up to 5 days, but bring to room temp before serving.
- Freeze (without ganache) up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and glaze with ganache after.
Estimated Nutrition (Per Cupcake)
- Calories: 315
- Carbs: 45g
- Fat: 14g
- Protein: 4g
- Sugar: 29g
- Fiber: 2g
(values are approximate and vary by ingredient brands)
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How do I stop marshmallow from disappearing completely?
Freeze marshmallows slightly before baking, or use marshmallow creme which holds shape better.
Q2: Can I make these with cake mix?
Yes! Use chocolate cake mix and just add the graham + marshmallow layers.
Q3: Can I skip ganache?
You can, but the ganache adds richness and balance. A simple chocolate glaze or frosting also works.
Q4: Can these be made ahead for parties?
Yes, bake and store without ganache. Add ganache on the day of serving for best presentation.
Q5: Can I turn this into a full cake?
Absolutely! Bake in two 9-inch pans, layering graham + marshmallow in the middle.
Related Recipes You’ll Love
- Chocolate Peanut Butter Dream Bars
- No-Bake Banana Pudding Cheesecake
- Indulgent Chocolate Chess Pie
- Thick and Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies
Final Thoughts
These Chocolate S’mores Cupcakes with Gooey Marshmallow Centers combine nostalgia and indulgence in one perfect dessert. They’re moist, flavorful, and visually stunning—yet simple enough for any home baker to pull off. Whether you’re making them for a bake sale, a family gathering, or just to satisfy a chocolate craving, this recipe guarantees rave reviews.
