Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
- In a bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter.
- Press about 1 tablespoon of this mixture into the bottom of each cupcake liner.
- Bake the crusts for 5 minutes, then let them cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all the dry ingredients: flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the egg, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.
- Gradually add the hot water or coffee, stirring until combined. The batter will be thin.
- Pour the chocolate batter over the cooled crust, filling each liner about 2/3 full.
- Bake for 18–22 minutes, then let cool completely.
- Use a cupcake corer or small knife to remove the center of each cupcake.
- Spoon or pipe marshmallow filling into the center.
- Chill in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes to set the marshmallow.
- Heat the cream until steaming (not boiling) and pour it over the chocolate chips.
- Let it sit for 2 minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy.
- Dip the tops of the cupcakes in the ganache or spoon it over them.
- Optional: Garnish with graham cracker crumbs, mini marshmallows, or a toasted marshmallow on top.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
These S’mores Cupcakes are perfect on their own, but you can elevate the experience even further. Serve them warm with a drizzle of extra ganache or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. For an added touch of whimsy, consider pairing them with a glass of cold milk or a cup of coffee to balance the sweetness.
How to Store & Freeze
To keep your S’mores Cupcakes fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them for up to a week. For freezing, place them in an airtight container with wax paper between layers. They can be frozen for about a month; just be sure to let them thaw in the refrigerator before enjoying.
Tips for Success
- Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature before starting; this helps create a better batter consistency.
- For a more intense chocolate flavor, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with cocoa powder.
- If you want to save time, prepare the graham cracker crust in advance and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake the cupcakes.
Creative Twists
Feeling adventurous? Here are some delicious variations to consider for your S’mores Cupcakes:
- Use flavored marshmallows or even chocolate marshmallow fluff for an extra kick.
- For a twist on the chocolate, try using white chocolate chips for the ganache.
- If you’re gluten-free, you can replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
FAQs
How long does it take to prepare?
From start to finish, these S’mores Cupcakes take about an hour and a half, including baking and cooling times.
Can I substitute some ingredients for dietary needs?
Absolutely! You can use non-dairy milk in place of buttermilk, and there are gluten-free graham crackers available for the crust.
How do I prevent the cupcakes from sticking to the liners?
Make sure to line your muffin tin thoroughly with good-quality liners. If you find they’re still sticking, lightly spray the insides of the liners with cooking spray before adding the batter.
These cupcakes are not just a dessert; they’re an experience that brings the essence of summer indoors. Whether for a special occasion or a cozy evening at home, this S’mores Cupcakes recipe is bound to become a favorite!
