Name: S'mores Chocolate Cake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 1.5 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 0.5 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (preferably Dutch-processed); 1 tsp baking soda; 0.5 tsp salt; 0.5 cup vegetable oil; 1 cup water (at room temperature); 1 tsp vanilla extract

There’s nothing quite like the delightful combination of chocolate, marshmallows, and graham crackers. This s’mores chocolate cake recipe brings that camping classic to your dining table with a sophisticated twist. Imagine all the taste you love from s’mores wrapped up in a moist, decadent chocolate cake that will leave your guests begging for more.

I remember the first time my family stumbled upon this recipe during a summer hiking trip. After hours of trail adventures, there wasn’t much appetite left for an elaborate meal. I quickly whipped up this easy-to-make s’mores chocolate cake, and it became an instant hit, reminding us of cozy campfires and laughter-filled evenings, even while at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Indulgent Flavor: This cake features the perfect balance of rich chocolatey goodness and the sweetness of toasted marshmallows.
Simple Ingredients: Everything you need is basic and easily available, making it a quick go-to dessert.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will appreciate this nostalgic treat, making it perfect for gatherings.

Ingredients Notes

For this recipe, the fresh ingredients make all the difference. Opt for high-quality cocoa powder and dark chocolate to accentuate the flavors. If graham crackers are unavailable, digestive biscuits make an outstanding substitute. Fresh, fluffy marshmallows are key to achieving that delightful s’mores toastiness.

Recipe Steps

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter your cake pan and line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients: flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Sift them for an airy texture.

Step 3

In a separate bowl, beat together the eggs and sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually add melted chocolate and butter, blending until smooth.

Step 4

Mix the dry ingredients with the wet mixture until just combined. Gently fold in crushed graham crackers and marshmallows.

Step 5

Pour the batter into your prepared pan. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out mostly clean. Allow it to cool before topping with melted marshmallows.

Storage Options

Store leftover cake covered at room temperature for up to two days to retain its moistness. To freeze, wrap slices in plastic wrap and foil, then store in a freezer-safe bag. Reheat in a toaster oven for that freshly-baked aroma.

Variations & Substitutions

Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking mix for a celiac-friendly dessert.
Vegan Twist: Use flax eggs in place of regular eggs and choose dairy-free dark chocolate and marshmallows.
Flavor Variations: Add a pinch of cinnamon to the batter for a Mexican chocolate flavor or a handful of chopped nuts for a crunchy surprise.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I prepare the batter in advance? Yes, you can make the batter and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. However, remember to let it come to room temperature before baking for even cooking.

What can I use if I don’t have graham crackers? Digestive biscuits are a great alternative. They provide a similar texture and mildly sweet taste that pairs well with the chocolate and marshmallows.

How do I prevent marshmallows from burning? Ensure that the cake is completely cooled before adding marshmallows and toasting them under a broiler. Watch them closely to prevent burning and achieve that perfect golden hue.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I assemble the entire s’mores chocolate cake ahead of time, including the marshmallow topping?

While you can bake the cake a day ahead, it’s best to add the marshmallow topping just before serving. The marshmallows can become sticky and lose their toasted texture if stored for an extended period. You can bake the cake, let it cool completely, wrap it tightly, and store it at room temperature for up to 24 hours. Then, add the marshmallows and toast them right before serving for the best results.

What are some good substitutes for dark chocolate in the s’mores chocolate cake?

If you don’t have dark chocolate, you can substitute it with semi-sweet chocolate at a 1:1 ratio, but the cake will be slightly sweeter. Milk chocolate can also be used, but reduce the sugar in the recipe by 1/4 cup to compensate for the increased sweetness. For a richer, more intense flavor, you can use unsweetened chocolate, but you’ll need to add an additional 1/4 cup of sugar to balance the bitterness.

How do I know when the s’mores chocolate cake is perfectly baked and not undercooked?

The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs attached, but no wet batter. The top should be springy to the touch and slightly pulling away from the sides of the pan. If the toothpick comes out clean, it might be overbaked. An internal temperature of around 200-205°F (93-96°C) is a good indicator of doneness.

I’m having a large party. How do I double this s’mores chocolate cake recipe?

To double the recipe, simply double all the ingredient quantities. You’ll likely need to use two 9-inch cake pans or one larger sheet pan. The baking time might increase by 5-10 minutes, so keep a close eye on it and use the toothpick test to check for doneness. Ensure your mixing bowl is large enough to accommodate the doubled batter.

What are the key nutritional benefits of the s’mores chocolate cake ingredients?

While this is a dessert, the dark chocolate provides antioxidants and can be a source of iron and magnesium. Cocoa powder also contains flavonoids, which are beneficial for heart health. Graham crackers offer some fiber and B vitamins, though the cake is primarily a source of carbohydrates and sugars for energy. Remember to enjoy in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

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S'mores Chocolate Cake Recipe

A decadent S'mores Chocolate Cake that combines rich chocolatey flavor with gooey marshmallow and crunchy graham cracker layers.

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Prep Time: 20

Cook Time: 35

Total Time: 55

Servings: 8

Calories: 120kcal

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

▢ 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
▢ 1 cup granulated sugar
▢ 0.5 cup unsweetened cocoa powder preferably Dutch-processed
▢ 1 tsp baking soda
▢ 0.5 tsp salt
▢ 0.5 cup vegetable oil
▢ 1 cup water at room temperature
▢ 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

Preparation Steps

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
Add the vegetable oil, water, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until well combined.
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans.
Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Notes

Let the cake cool completely before frosting with marshmallow cream and adding graham cracker crumbs for that authentic s'mores flavor.

If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and rating below. I love to hear from you and always appreciate your feedback!

S’mores Chocolate Cake Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ingredients Notes