I remember the first time I decided to bake a cake for a potluck. I wanted to make something special that would impress everyone, so I chose a Smores Chocolate Cake. As I mixed the ingredients and smelled the rich chocolate aroma wafting through my kitchen, I could feel the excitement build. The best part was watching the cake transform into a delightful masterpiece that looked as good as it tasted. The combination of chocolate, graham crackers, and marshmallows created the ultimate nostalgic treat reminiscent of campfire gatherings. If you’re looking to recreate this indulgent dessert, you’re in the right place.
What is Smores Chocolate Cake
Smores Chocolate Cake is a delectable dessert that brings together the beloved flavors of s’mores—chocolate, marshmallows, and graham crackers—into a rich chocolate cake. This cake has become a favorite for many because it successfully captures the essence of an outdoor barbecue in a beautiful layered cake. Typically, it features a moist chocolate cake layered with creamy marshmallow frosting, a crunchy graham cracker layer, and luscious chocolate ganache. Each bite delivers a taste of nostalgia, reminiscent of childhood camping trips, yet it feels elegant enough for any occasion. The combination of textures between the fluffy cake, silky frosting, and crunchy crumbs makes it an irresistible treat for both kids and adults alike.
Why You’ll Love This Smores Chocolate Cake:
There are countless reasons why this cake is simply irresistible, here are just a few:
– Quick and simple to prepare
– Perfect for family gatherings and celebrations
– Appeals to both chocolate lovers and s’mores enthusiasts
– Fun to decorate and customize
– Sure to impress guests with its decadent appearance and layered texture
– Combines multiple flavors and textures in every slice
– Great for both adults and kids, making it a versatile dessert
Baking this cake is more than just making a dessert; it’s an experience filled with sweet scents, colorful layers, and the delightful anticipation of sharing a slice with loved ones. It’s perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or simply as a weekend treat to brighten your day.
Ingredients
• 2 cups (260g) flour
• 2 cups (414g) sugar
• 3/4 cup (85g) natural unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup (240ml) milk
• 1 cup (240ml) vegetable oil
• 1 1/2 tsp vanilla
• 1 cup (240ml) hot water
• 3/4 cup (100g) graham cracker crumbs (about 6 full sheet graham crackers)
• 1 1/2 tbsp (20g) sugar
• 1/4 cup (56g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 3/4 cups (392g) unsalted butter, room temperature
• 3 1/4 cups marshmallow fluff*
• 6 cups (690g) powdered sugar
• 1 1/2 cups mini marshmallows
• 9 oz (1 1/2 cups) semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 3/4 cup (180ml) heavy whipping cream
• 3/4 cup (168g) unsalted butter, room temperature
• 3 cups (345g) powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp milk or cream
Step-by-Step Instructions Smores Chocolate Cake
1. **Make the chocolate cake:** Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round baking pans. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Add eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla. Mix well until smooth. Finally, stir in hot water until the batter is well-combined and thin. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool completely in the pans before transferring to a wire rack.
Make the graham cracker crunchies: In a small bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Spread this mixture out on a baking sheet. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes, keeping an eye on it so it does not burn. Allow it to cool and set aside.
Make the toasted marshmallow frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat room temperature butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and marshmallow fluff, mixing until smooth. For a toasted flavor, you can lightly toast the marshmallows before adding to the frosting.
Make the chocolate ganache: In a small saucepan over medium heat, bring the heavy whipping cream to a simmer. Remove from the heat and pour over semi-sweet chocolate chips in a bowl. Let it sit for a few minutes, then stir until completely smooth. Allow to cool slightly before using.
Make the vanilla frosting: In another mixing bowl, cream the room temperature butter with powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in vanilla extract and milk or cream until you achieve the desired consistency for spreading.
Pro Tips and Variations:
– **Timing is Key:** Ensure your cake layers are completely cool before frosting to prevent melting and sliding.
– **Experiment with Flavors:** Add different extracts or zest to the frosting for a unique twist. Orange or almond extracts can elevate the flavor profile.
– **Graham Cracker Substitutes:** Consider using chocolate graham crackers for an extra chocolate punch.
– **Make it Gluten-Free:** Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free dessert without compromising flavor.
– **Try Different Frostings:** Swap the marshmallow frosting for a whipped cream topping for a lighter option during warmer weather.
– **Storage Variants:** You can freeze individual slices of the cake wrapped tightly in plastic to enjoy later without losing flavor or texture.
How to Serve Smores Chocolate Cake
This cake is a showstopper and can stand alone, but there are fun ways to serve it to elevate the experience:
– **Pair with Ice Cream:** Serve each slice warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added richness.
– **Add Fresh Fruits:** Consider adding berries on the side for a fresh contrast. Strawberries or raspberries work beautifully.
– **Decorate with Toppings:** Top each slice with extra mini marshmallows and a drizzle of chocolate ganache to make a stunning presentation.
– **Present with Coffee:** This cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or milk for a cozy treat anytime of the day.
Serving it beautifully can make your special occasion even more memorable.
How to Store Smores Chocolate Cake
To keep your Smores Chocolate Cake fresh and delicious, it’s essential to store it properly. If you have leftovers, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap the cake tightly with plastic wrap and then foil, placing it in the freezer. It can last up to three months when frozen. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving. To reheat individual slices, you can place them in a microwave for short bursts of 10-15 seconds to warm slightly while ensuring the texture remains intact.
Nutrition Information (Optional but Recommended)
Each serving of Smores Chocolate Cake offers a delightful mix of flavors and a satisfying sweetness. The cake is rich in carbohydrates due to the cake and frosting but also provides a good amount of fats from the butter and chocolate. Keep in mind while indulging that moderation is key, but this cake can be part of a balanced diet if enjoyed occasionally. Customizing ingredients can also make it fit better into different dietary preferences.
FAQs Smores Chocolate Cake
– **Can I make this cake ahead of time?** Yes, the cake layers can be made one day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just ensure they are well-wrapped to keep them moist.
– **What can I substitute for marshmallow fluff?** If you can’t find marshmallow fluff, you can make your own by whipping together marshmallows and a little butter until it reaches soft peaks.
– **Can I use a different type of flour?** Absolutely! You can use cake flour for a lighter texture, but if you’re gluten-sensitive, a gluten-free flour blend can also work.
– **How do I prevent my cake from sticking to the pan?** Always grease and flour your pans well or use parchment paper to line the bottoms of the pans before pouring in your batter.
Conclusion
Trying your hand at baking a Smores Chocolate Cake is not only rewarding but offers a wonderful excuse to indulge in a nostalgic treat. The rich chocolate, gooey marshmallow, and crunchy graham experience is perfect for celebrations or simple family gatherings. Whether for a birthday, a picnic, or a cozy evening at home, this cake promises to delight and surprise everyone who takes a bite. Try this recipe, and I’d love for you to share your experience of making this fabulous cake!
Smores Chocolate Cake
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round baking pans.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla. Mix well until smooth.
- Stir in hot water until the batter is well-combined and thin.
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let cool completely in the pans before transferring to a wire rack.
- In a small bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar.
- Spread this mixture out on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes, keeping an eye on it to prevent burning.
- Allow to cool and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, beat room temperature butter until creamy.
- Gradually add powdered sugar and marshmallow fluff, mixing until smooth.
- For a toasted flavor, lightly toast the marshmallows before adding to the frosting.
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, bring the heavy whipping cream to a simmer.
- Remove from heat and pour over semi-sweet chocolate chips in a bowl.
- Let sit for a few minutes, then stir until completely smooth.
- Allow to cool slightly before using.
- In another mixing bowl, cream the room temperature butter with powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Mix in vanilla extract and milk or cream until desired spreading consistency is achieved.