Delicious S'mores Layer Cake with chocolate, marshmallows, and graham crackers

S’mores Layer Cake

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S’mores Layer Cake: A Sweet Slice of Nostalgia

There’s something irresistibly cozy about the aroma of toasted marshmallows wafting through the air, mingling with rich chocolate and buttery graham crackers. It brings me back to those summer nights spent around a crackling campfire, sharing stories and laughter with friends and loved ones. As the stars twinkled above us, we’d roast marshmallows to a perfect golden brown, sandwiched between chocolate and graham crackers, creating the ultimate treat—s’mores.

Now, imagine all that nostalgic delight transformed into a luscious S’mores Layer Cake. This easy weeknight dessert is a creamy, dreamy homage to that campfire classic, layered with soft cake, fluffy marshmallow frosting, and decadent chocolate ganache. When you take a bite, you’ll be transported to those joyful summer nights, even if it’s the middle of winter. This is one you’ll definitely want to pin for later!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Decadent Layers: With each slice, experience layers of moist chocolate cake, fluffy marshmallow frosting, and silky chocolate ganache. A truly indulgent treat!
  • Crowd-Pleasing Flair: This S’mores Layer Cake is bound to be the star of any gathering, ensuring smiles all around.
  • Family-Friendly Fun: Involving the kids in the decorating process makes this a perfect family baking adventure. It’s an easy way to create lasting memories.
  • No-Bake Elements: Parts of this recipe don’t require any baking, making it an effortlessly economical choice for dessert lovers.
  • Versatile Enjoyment: Great for summer barbecues or cozy winter nights, this cake brings warmth and joy to any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need for S’mores Layer Cake

To whip up this mouthwatering S’mores Layer Cake, gather these simple ingredients:

For the Cake:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
  • 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • ½ cup vegetable oil
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 cup boiling water

For the Marshmallow Frosting:

  • 1 cup unsweetened marshmallow cream
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Ganache:

  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • ½ cup heavy cream

For Decoration:

  • Graham cracker crumbs
  • Mini marshmallows
  • Chocolate bar pieces

Let’s Make It Together

Ready to create a slice of heaven? Follow these sensory-rich steps to bring your S’mores Layer Cake to life:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease three 9-inch round cake pans.

  2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt until combined.

  3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Gradually add to the dry ingredients.

  4. Add Boiling Water: Slowly add the boiling water to the batter, stirring until the mixture is combined and smooth. It will be quite thin, but that’s okay!

  5. Bake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

  6. Prepare the Marshmallow Frosting: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add marshmallow cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract, whisking until fluffy and smooth.

  7. Create the Chocolate Ganache: In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the heavy cream until it begins to simmer. Pour over the chocolate chips and let it sit for a couple of minutes. Stir until smooth and glossy.

  8. Assemble the Cake: Place one layer of cake on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of marshmallow frosting on top, then place a second cake layer. Repeat the frosting, then top with the last layer.

  9. Finish with Ganache: Pour the chocolate ganache over the top of the cake and gently spread it down the sides.

  10. Decorate: Finally, sprinkle graham cracker crumbs, scatter mini marshmallows, and top with chocolate pieces for that perfect s’mores finish.

Fun Ways to Customize It

  • Chocolate Variations: Swap out the semi-sweet chocolate chips for dark chocolate to create a rich twist that enhances the flavors of this dreamy dessert.
  • Flavor Infusion: Add a splash of peppermint extract to the frosting for a fresh, minty sensation—a delicious twist for winter holidays!
  • Fruit Toppings: For a zesty contrast, consider topping your cake with some fresh raspberries for a pop of tartness against the sweet layers.
  • Nutty Crunch: Fold in some crushed nuts like pecans or almonds into the cake layers for an extra textural surprise.

Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips

  • Make-Ahead Magic: You can bake the cake layers a day in advance. Just wrap them well and store in the refrigerator. Frost before serving!
  • Slicing Secrets: Use a sharp serrated knife to slice the cake layers evenly, ensuring that each slice looks beautiful for serving.
  • Storage Solutions: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
  • Ingredient Swaps: For a slightly lighter cake, use Greek yogurt in place of half the oil in the batter—it adds moisture and a hint of tang!

What’s Inside – Nutrition Breakdown

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of the cake)
  • Calories: 450
  • Carbohydrates: 56g
  • Sugar: 42g
  • Fat: 22g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Sodium: 180mg

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can I make this ahead?
    Absolutely! You can prepare the cake layers a day prior and frost just before serving.

  • Can I use different ingredients?
    Yes! Substitute gluten-free flour or vegan butter for allergen-friendly adjustments.

  • How do I store leftovers?
    Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

  • How long does it last?
    If stored properly, the cake can last up to a week in the fridge.

A Cozy Closing Note

There’s something undeniably special about baking a cake that not only tastes delightful but also holds memories of joy and laughter. This S’mores Layer Cake brings that cozy essence into your kitchen, bridging the gap between childhood nostalgia and present-day sweetness. So, save this S’mores Layer Cake to your sweet treats board so it’s ready when you need a cozy dessert! Happy baking!

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S’mores Layer Cake

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  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian
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Description

A luscious S’mores Layer Cake featuring layers of moist chocolate cake, fluffy marshmallow frosting, and decadent chocolate ganache, evoking fond summer campfire memories.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
  • 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • ½ cup vegetable oil
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 cup boiling water
  • 1 cup unsweetened marshmallow cream
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • Graham cracker crumbs
  • Mini marshmallows
  • Chocolate bar pieces

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease three 9-inch round cake pans.
  2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt until combined.
  3. Combine the wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Gradually add to the dry ingredients.
  4. Add the boiling water to the batter, stirring until the mixture is combined and smooth.
  5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
  6. Prepare the marshmallow frosting by beating softened butter until creamy, then gradually adding marshmallow cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until fluffy and smooth.
  7. Create the chocolate ganache by heating the heavy cream until simmering, then pouring it over the chocolate chips and stirring until smooth.
  8. Assemble the cake: Place one layer on a serving plate, spread marshmallow frosting, add the second layer, repeat, and top with the last layer.
  9. Finish with ganache by pouring it over the top and gently spreading it down the sides.
  10. Decorate with graham cracker crumbs, mini marshmallows, and chocolate pieces.

Notes

You can bake the cake layers a day in advance. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 42g
  • Sodium: 180mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 1g
  • Carbohydrates: 56g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 50mg

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