S’mores Brownie Cupcakes

When it comes to desserts that bring a smile to your face, few can match the joy of S’mores Brownie Cupcakes. These delightful treats take the beloved combination of chocolate, graham crackers, and marshmallows and transform them into moist, fudgy cupcakes. Imagine biting into a cupcake that tastes like a rich brownie, with a crunchy graham cracker base and a luscious layer of toasted meringue on top. This unique dessert perfectly combines flavors and textures, making it ideal for parties, potlucks, or a special family treat. They’re easy to make, highly customizable, and sure to impress anyone who gets to taste them. So let’s dive into what makes these S’mores Brownie Cupcakes so special!

Ingredients for S’mores Brownie Cupcakes

To create mouthwatering S’mores Brownie Cupcakes, you’ll need a variety of ingredients that work together to create a perfect blend of flavors. Here is a list of the ingredients along with their necessary measurements:

List of Ingredients with Measurements

• 1 and 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 6 Tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 2 (4-ounce) semi-sweet chocolate bars, coarsely chopped
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3 large egg whites, at room temperature
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/8 teaspoon cream of tartar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (for meringue)

Optional Ingredient Substitutions

You can customize this recipe according to your taste or dietary needs. Here are some substitutions you can consider:

• Graham Crackers: If you’re gluten-free, try using gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or crushed gluten-free cookies.
• Sugar: For a less sweet version, substitute part of the granulated sugar with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.
• Butter: If you want a dairy-free option, use a plant-based butter substitute.
• Chocolate: Milk chocolate can be used instead of semi-sweet chocolate for a sweeter taste. Dark chocolate is also a great alternative for those who enjoy richer flavors.

How to Make S’mores Brownie Cupcakes

Making S’mores Brownie Cupcakes is a fun and rewarding process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you bring these treats to life.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Your Pans

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. While the oven is heating, get two muffin pans ready. Line one 12-count muffin pan with cupcake liners, and prepare a second 12-count muffin pan with 6 additional liners. This will ensure that you have enough space for all your cupcakes.

Step 2: Make the Graham Cracker Crust

To create the crust, put the graham crackers into a food processor and pulse them until they turn into crumbs. In a medium bowl, combine the crumbs with 1/4 cup of granulated sugar and melted butter. Stir until everything is well mixed. Now, spoon about 1 and 1/2 tablespoons of this mixture into each cupcake liner. Press down firmly to form a solid base. Set these prepared crusts aside for now.

Step 3: Prepare the Brownie Batter

For the brownie layer, melt the remaining 1/2 cup of unsalted butter and the chopped semi-sweet chocolate together. You can do this in a microwave or a heatproof bowl over simmering water. Once melted, remove it from heat and whisk in 1 cup of granulated sugar. Let the mixture cool for about 5 minutes. Next, add in the eggs one by one and whisk in the vanilla extract, followed by the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Mix until just combined. This chocolatey brownie batter will be spooned into the crusts.

Step 4: Bake the Brownie Cups

Carefully spoon the brownie batter into the cupcake liners over the graham cracker crusts, filling them about three-quarters full. Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for 25-28 minutes. You will know they are ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Once baked, take them out and allow the cupcake pans to cool completely.

Step 5: Make the Meringue

For the fluffy meringue topping, place 3 large egg whites, 3/4 cup of granulated sugar, and 1/8 teaspoon of cream of tartar in a heatproof bowl that fits over a pot of simmering water. Whisk this mixture constantly until the sugar dissolves. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes. Once ready, remove it from the heat and add in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Use an electric mixer to beat the meringue on high speed for about 5 minutes, or until stiff peaks form.

Step 6: Assemble and Toast the Cupcakes

Once both the cupcakes and meringue have cooled down, it’s time to assemble. Use a piping bag to pipe the meringue onto each cooled brownie cupcake. If you like, toast the meringue lightly using a kitchen torch. This gives it a beautiful toasted finish.

Step 7: Enjoy Your S’mores Brownie Cupcakes

Once you’ve completed all the steps, your S’mores Brownie Cupcakes are ready to serve. These cupcakes are best enjoyed fresh, but the combination of flavors will still be delicious even after a day.

How to Serve S’mores Brownie Cupcakes

S’mores Brownie Cupcakes can be served in a variety of ways. They are perfect for sharing or as a delightful end to a meal.

Best Ways to Serve S’mores Brownie Cupcakes

These cupcake delights can stand alone as a sweet dessert. However, they can also be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side to balance the rich chocolate flavor. Drizzling some chocolate sauce or caramel sauce over the meringue can elevate the flavor profile even further.

Serving Suggestions or Pairings

To add a special touch, consider serving these cupcakes with a dollop of whipped cream or fresh fruit. Berries, like strawberries or raspberries, complement the chocolate and add a refreshing contrast. For a fun twist, pair your cupcakes with a cold glass of milk, hot chocolate, or even a creamy coffee drink.

How to Store S’mores Brownie Cupcakes

If you find you have leftovers, it’s essential to store your S’mores Brownie Cupcakes properly to maintain their freshness.

Proper Storage Methods

Place any leftover cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature. If you live in a warm climate or if it contains meringue, it’s better to store them in the refrigerator, where they can stay fresh for 1-2 days. This will help keep the meringue fluffy and prevent it from weeping due to humidity.

Tips for Reheating or Freezing

If you need to reheat your cupcakes, a few seconds in the microwave should do the trick without affecting the taste too much. However, if you want to enjoy them at a later date, freezing is also an option. Wrap each individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can stay frozen for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying.

Tips to Make S’mores Brownie Cupcakes

Baking is fun, but it’s also important to avoid common mistakes to ensure your cupcakes come out perfectly. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One common mistake is overbaking the brownie cupcakes, which can lead to a dry texture. Make sure to keep a close watch on them near the end of the baking time. Also, be careful not to overmix your brownie batter, as this can lead to a tough cupcake. Mix until just combined for the fudgiest results.

Helpful Tips for Better Results

Using room temperature eggs is crucial, as they incorporate better into the batter. It’s also a good idea to let your melted chocolate and butter mixture cool slightly before adding the eggs; this prevents them from cooking. Additionally, using a kitchen torch to toast the meringue gives it a beautiful finish, so don’t skip this step if you have the opportunity!

Variation of S’mores Brownie Cupcakes

While the classic version of S’mores Brownie Cupcakes is delicious, there is plenty of room for creativity.

Suggested Variations or Twists on the Recipe

Feel free to try different types of chocolate in your brownie base, such as dark chocolate or even mint chocolate for a refreshing twist. You could also add mini chocolate chips or chunks to the brownie batter for an extra burst of chocolate in every bite. For a more pronounced S’mores flavor, you can fold in some mini marshmallows into the brownie batter, giving you an ooey-gooey surprise.

Adjustments for Dietary Preferences

For those who are following a vegan lifestyle, you can create vegan brownie cupcakes by replacing eggs with flaxseed or applesauce and using a dairy-free butter substitute. Also, ensure that your chocolate and graham crackers are vegan-friendly. Gluten-free options can be achieved by using gluten-free flour for the brownie mix and gluten-free graham crackers.

FAQs

Baking often raises many questions, and S’mores Brownie Cupcakes are no exception. Here are some common questions and their answers.

What can I do if the dish isn’t turning out right?

If your cupcakes are turning out too dry, you may have overbaked them or used too much flour. Make sure to measure accurately and check for doneness a few minutes before the baking time is up. If the meringue weeps or doesn’t hold its shape, it could be due to under-beating the egg whites or inappropriate storage. Be sure to beat until stiff peaks form and store properly.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, S’mores Brownie Cupcakes can be made a day ahead of time. Just keep them in an airtight container. However, for the best flavor and texture, it’s preferable to add the meringue topping just before serving. This ensures that the meringue stays fluffy and maintains its appealing look.

What can I substitute for ingredients?

There are many potential substitutes for this recipe. As mentioned, you can use gluten-free graham crackers for a gluten-sensitive version. If you want to reduce sugar, consider natural sweeteners and using dark chocolate can cut down on the sweetness while adding depth to the flavor. Always feel free to experiment within your dietary needs and preferences!

S’mores Brownie Cupcakes are truly a delightful treat that’s easy to make and a joy to eat. With their combination of rich brownie, crunchy graham cracker base, and fluffy toasted meringue, these cupcakes will undoubtedly become a favorite for any gathering. Enjoy crafting them, sharing them, or savoring them all by yourself!

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