Description
This Ultimate S’mores Layer Cake combines rich chocolate cake layers with fluffy marshmallow cream filling and a crispy graham cracker crunch, all topped with a decadent chocolate ganache and toasted marshmallows for an irresistible dessert reminiscent of classic campfire s’mores.
Ingredients
Scale
Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 0.75 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
- 0.5 cup vegetable oil
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup hot coffee or boiling water
Graham Crust
- 1.5 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tbsp light brown sugar
- 1 pinch salt
Filling
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 7 oz marshmallow cream (fluff)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Ganache
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 0.5 cup heavy whipping cream
Topping
- 1 bag large marshmallows (for toasting)
Instructions
- Prepare the pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the cakes.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
- Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Combine wet and dry: Gradually add the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing gently to combine. Then slowly whisk in the hot coffee or boiling water until the batter is smooth and uniform.
- Bake cakes: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and allow the cakes to cool completely in the pans before removing.
- Prepare graham cracker topping: In a bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, light brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 8-10 minutes to toast. Remove and let cool completely.
- Make marshmallow filling: Using a mixer, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, marshmallow cream, and vanilla extract, beating until the mixture is fluffy and smooth.
- Assemble the cake: Place one chocolate cake layer on your serving plate. Spread a layer of marshmallow filling evenly over the cake, then sprinkle a layer of the toasted graham cracker crumbs on top. Repeat with the second layer of cake, marshmallow filling, and graham crumbs. Top with the final cake layer. Apply a thin crumb coat of marshmallow filling around the sides and top. Chill the assembled cake to set.
- Prepare chocolate ganache: Heat the heavy whipping cream until hot but not boiling, then pour it over the semi-sweet chocolate chips. Let sit for a few minutes to soften the chocolate, then whisk until smooth and glossy. Allow ganache to cool slightly to thicken but remain pourable.
- Decorate the cake: Drizzle the ganache over the chilled cake, letting it drip down the sides. Arrange large marshmallows on top of the cake and use a kitchen torch to toast them until golden brown and charred in spots, creating a classic s’mores effect.
Notes
- Make sure all your ingredients like eggs and buttermilk are at room temperature to achieve the best texture in the cake.
- Hot coffee enhances the chocolate flavor but can be substituted with boiling water if preferred.
- Use a kitchen torch carefully when toasting the marshmallows to prevent burning.
- The cake layers can be baked a day in advance and wrapped tightly to store.
- Chilling the cake before applying ganache and final decoration helps maintain clean layers and prevents ganache from melting too quickly.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: S'mores cake, layered cake, chocolate cake, marshmallow filling, graham cracker, dessert, s'mores dessert
