Decadent Chocolate S’mores Cupcakes with Gooey Marshmallow Center

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I grew up roasting marshmallows over backyard fires, sandwiching them between graham crackers and rich chocolate squares. That golden, toasty memory became the heart of this dessert, only elevated in the form of a decadent cupcake. When I decided to blend that iconic s’mores magic into a handheld treat, I wanted something that didn’t just taste nostalgic, but felt indulgent from the very first bite.

The process of layering textures was so satisfying—a buttery graham crust, a moist chocolate cake base, and then the surprise: a gooey, creamy marshmallow center that melts slightly into the sponge. And to finish, I topped it with a silky, chocolate ganache swirl that makes these cupcakes nearly impossible to resist. It’s the kind of dessert that turns heads at a bake sale, steals the spotlight at family dinners, and makes people close their eyes with the first bite.

I love how this recipe captures the playful side of baking while delivering on rich, satisfying flavors. Each component on its own is delicious, but together they create an experience that’s both comforting and exciting. If you’re looking to wow guests or treat yourself to a next-level cupcake, these Chocolate S’mores Cupcakes are it.

Why You’ll Love This Decadent Chocolate S’mores Cupcakes with Gooey Marshmallow Center

These cupcakes bring out the inner child in everyone. The graham cracker crust gives a subtle crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft chocolate cake. That surprise marshmallow center? It oozes creamy sweetness and elevates each bite to something memorable. They’re rich, indulgent, and downright fun to eat. Plus, they look gorgeous without much effort, making them perfect for parties or cozy nights in. If you’re craving more nostalgic twists on classics, don’t miss our Blueberry Cheesecake Heaven Rolls or the Irresistible Peanut Butter Truffles.

Ingredients

Graham cracker crumbs: Essential for building that toasty base layer reminiscent of traditional s’mores. Mixed with butter and sugar, it forms a crust that gives a slightly crunchy bite.

Unsalted butter: Helps bind the crust and brings richness to the overall flavor of both the base and the chocolate batter.

Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to the crust and balances the bittersweet cocoa in the cupcake.

All-purpose flour: Gives the cupcake structure and helps it hold together beautifully over the gooey marshmallow core.

Unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds deep, chocolatey flavor. Choose a high-quality cocoa for a rich, bold taste.

Baking powder and baking soda: Both are needed to help the cupcakes rise properly and achieve that perfect crumb.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness.

Egg: Binds the ingredients and contributes to the moist texture.

Milk: Provides moisture and helps blend the dry ingredients smoothly into the batter.

Vanilla extract: Adds warm flavor that complements both chocolate and marshmallow.

Large marshmallows: The gooey heart of each cupcake, they melt slightly in the oven to form that perfect creamy surprise center.

Chocolate frosting or ganache: A decadent topping that ties all the layers together and adds an extra dose of chocolate love.

How to Make Decadent Chocolate S’mores Cupcakes with Gooey Marshmallow Center

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners. In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press a spoonful into the bottom of each cupcake liner to create the crust. Bake for 5 minutes and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Chocolate Cupcake Batter

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar. In a separate bowl, mix the egg, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Combine the wet and dry ingredients and stir just until smooth.

Step 3: Assemble the Cupcakes

Spoon a layer of chocolate batter over the pre-baked graham crust. Press a large marshmallow into the center of each, then cover with another spoonful of batter, making sure the marshmallow is fully covered.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Bake the cupcakes for 15–18 minutes or until the tops are set and spring back lightly when touched. Let them cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Frost and Serve

Once cool, generously frost each cupcake with chocolate ganache or your favorite frosting. Serve immediately or refrigerate for later indulgence.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

For a fun flavor twist, try using chocolate graham crackers instead of traditional ones for a deeper cocoa base. If you’re short on large marshmallows, substitute with a few mini marshmallows in the center—they melt just as beautifully. Want a more intense chocolate hit? Add semi-sweet chocolate chips into the batter. For a gluten-free version, use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour and gluten-free graham crackers. And if you’re not a fan of ganache, marshmallow fluff or a swirl of peanut butter frosting adds an unexpected yet delightful spin.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

These cupcakes are a showstopper on their own, but if you want to really elevate the experience, serve them slightly warm alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. The contrast of cold ice cream and warm, gooey center is unbeatable. Pair them with a chilled glass of milk, a creamy hot cocoa, or even a rich dark roast coffee. They also fit beautifully on dessert platters next to lighter bites like fruit skewers or buttery shortbread.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store leftover cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days. If chilled, allow them to come to room temperature before serving or warm slightly in the microwave (10–15 seconds) to reactivate the gooey marshmallow center. For longer storage, freeze unfrosted cupcakes for up to 2 months, then thaw and frost when ready to enjoy.

FAQs

Can I make Decadent Chocolate S’mores Cupcakes with Gooey Marshmallow Center ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake the cupcakes a day in advance and store them unfrosted. Just add the frosting right before serving for the freshest taste and best texture.

How do I prevent the marshmallow from disappearing inside the Decadent Chocolate S’mores Cupcakes with Gooey Marshmallow Center?

Make sure the marshmallow is completely covered with batter before baking. This helps preserve its gooey texture without it completely dissolving into the cupcake.

Can I use store-bought frosting for Decadent Chocolate S’mores Cupcakes with Gooey Marshmallow Center?

Absolutely. While homemade ganache is luxurious, a high-quality store-bought chocolate frosting works well and saves time.

What type of cocoa is best for Decadent Chocolate S’mores Cupcakes with Gooey Marshmallow Center?

Use unsweetened natural cocoa powder for a more classic chocolate flavor or Dutch-processed cocoa for a deeper, more intense profile.

Are Decadent Chocolate S’mores Cupcakes with Gooey Marshmallow Center kid-friendly?

Completely! They’re a fun and interactive dessert that both kids and adults love, making them perfect for birthdays, school events, or casual family treats.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If you love how playful and indulgent these cupcakes are, you’ll definitely want to check out our Pineapple Cheese Pie, a tropical twist with creamy filling and a buttery crust. For something a little richer, don’t miss the Hot Fudge Brownie Bread—it’s dense, chocolatey, and utterly divine. Or dive into peanut-buttery bliss with our Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread.

Save and Share This Recipe for Later

Don’t let this delicious treat slip away! Make sure to pin these Decadent Chocolate S’mores Cupcakes with Gooey Marshmallow Center to your favorite dessert board on Pinterest. They’re too good not to share—so send them to a fellow chocolate lover or post on social media to spread the s’mores love. Every share brings a little more sweetness into the world!

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