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 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup buttermilk; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup hot water; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup confectioners' sugar; 1/2 cup marshmallow fluff; 1/4 cup crushed graham crackers; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Chocolate sauce; Mini marshmallows; Crushed graham crackers

Highlighted under: Family Baking Recipes

I love creating desserts that capture the essence of classic treats, and these S'mores Inspired Cupcake Stacks do just that. When I first bit into one, I was transported back to campfire nights with gooey marshmallows and melted chocolate. Each layer of these cupcakes incorporates graham cracker, chocolate, and fluffy marshmallow cream, celebrating the beloved s'mores flavor in a delightful new way. Perfect for parties or as a sweet surprise for family, these stacks are a hit that you just can’t resist enjoying!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-07T18:02:27.307Z

When I decided to make these S'mores Inspired Cupcake Stacks, I wanted to blend the nostalgia of campfire treats with a fun twist. After several attempts and taste tests, I discovered that a combination of moist chocolate cupcakes and creamy marshmallow frosting truly captures the essence of s'mores.

To enhance the flavor profile, I added crushed graham crackers into the frosting, which not only added texture but also echoed the classic crunch of traditional s'mores. Incorporating layers means every single bite is packed with flavor, a detail that I believe elevates the entire experience!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh orange zest
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

Understanding the Ingredients

The ingredients for these S'mores Inspired Cupcake Stacks play a vital role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture. The unsweetened cocoa powder provides a rich chocolaty base, while the buttermilk adds acidity, ensuring the cupcakes are moist and tender. If you don't have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by mixing milk with a tablespoon of vinegar and letting it sit for a few minutes. The vegetable oil contributes to the cupcakes' moistness, giving them that deliciously soft bite.

Graham crackers not only serve as a flavor-packed element in the frosting but also add a delightful crunch that mimics the classic s'mores experience. When crushed, they take on a light texture that blends beautifully with the other ingredients. I recommend using freshly crushed graham crackers for maximum flavor. If you need a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free graham cracker alternatives available in stores.

Mastering the Frosting Technique

Creating a fluffy, stable marshmallow frosting is key to the overall success of your cupcake stacks. Start by beating the softened butter until it reaches a creamy consistency; this is crucial as it helps to aerate the frosting, making it light and fluffy. Gradually incorporate the confectioners' sugar to avoid a sugary cloud, mixing until glossy and smooth before adding the marshmallow fluff. If your frosting is too thick, a tablespoon of milk can help achieve the desired spreadable consistency.

When piping the frosting, ensure your piping bag is fitted with a large round tip, which creates beautiful swirls. For a fun variation, consider adding a touch of flavored extract or a few tablespoons of crushed candy bars to the frosting to personalize the flavor profile even further. Just remember—this frosting is best enjoyed fresh and doesn't hold up as well in warm conditions, so keep your stacks in a cool place until serving!

Ingredients

For the Cupcakes

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup buttermilk
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup hot water

For the Marshmallow Frosting

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup confectioners' sugar
1/2 cup marshmallow fluff
1/4 cup crushed graham crackers
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Garnish

Chocolate sauce
Mini marshmallows
Crushed graham crackers

Instructions

Directions

Prepare the Cupcakes

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a cupcake pan with cupcake liners. In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, whisk together buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla. Combine wet and dry ingredients, then stir in hot water until smooth. Pour batter into cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool completely.

Make the Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add confectioners' sugar and continue to mix until well combined. Add marshmallow fluff, crushed graham crackers, and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth and fluffy.

Assemble the Stacks

Once cupcakes are cooled, cut each in half horizontally. Pipe a generous layer of marshmallow frosting on the bottom half, place the top half back on, and then add more frosting on top. Drizzle with chocolate sauce, sprinkle with mini marshmallows and crushed graham crackers. Serve and enjoy!

Enjoy your delicious S'mores Inspired Cupcake Stacks!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try toasting the mini marshmallows before adding them on top. It adds a delightful caramelized flavor that enhances the s'mores experience.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning to make these cupcakes ahead of time, store the unfrosted cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or in the refrigerator for a week. This way, you can frost them just before serving, ensuring that the marshmallow frosting stays fresh and fluffy. For longer storage, freeze the unfrosted cupcakes by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transferring them to a freezer bag, where they can be kept for up to three months.

When you're ready to enjoy your frozen cupcakes, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before frosting them. This helps retain their moisture and texture. For a crowd-pleasing advantage, consider doubling the recipe for larger gatherings; you can easily layer additional frosting and garnishes to cater to larger appetites!

Serving Suggestions

These S'mores Inspired Cupcake Stacks are not only stunning but also versatile in serving. For a themed dessert table, consider pairing them with other campfire-inspired treats like chocolate-dipped pretzels or a s'mores dip. This cohesive presentation will impress your guests and enhance the nostalgic theme. If serving at a party, label each cupcake stack, especially if you have variations, such as salted caramel drizzle or different flavors of marshmallow fluff.

As a fun twist, try using different types of chocolate—dark, milk, or even white chocolate—when drizzling on top. Each will provide a unique taste and visual appeal. For a mini version, consider baking them in a mini cupcake pan; these bite-sized delights are perfect for a buffet-style dessert and allow everyone to indulge without overdoing it!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cupcakes a day in advance and store them in an airtight container. Frosting can also be made a few hours prior to assembly.

→ How do I store leftover cupcakes?

Store leftover cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

→ Can I use a different frosting?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with chocolate frosting or cream cheese frosting for a different flavor twist.

→ What's the best way to crush graham crackers?

You can crush graham crackers easily by placing them in a zip-top bag and using a rolling pin or a flat object to break them down.