S’mores Cupcakes

S’mores cupcakes are a delightful twist on the classic campfire treat, combining the rich flavors of chocolate cake, fluffy meringue frosting, and crunchy graham crackers in one handheld dessert. Imagine biting into a soft, chocolatey cupcake that gives way to a creamy frosting reminiscent of toasted marshmallows, all while enjoying the sweet crunch of graham cracker crumbs. These cupcakes are not only a feast for the taste buds but also a visual delight, appealing to your love of both baking and nostalgia. They bring the warmth of summer campfires straight to your kitchen, making them the perfect treat for gatherings, celebrations, or a simple late-night snack. Let’s dive deeper into what makes S’mores cupcakes so special and how you can create them at home.

Ingredients about S’mores Cupcakes

To make S’mores cupcakes, you will need the following ingredients:

List of ingredients with measurements

• 1 box chocolate cake mix
• 4 large egg whites
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 3/4 cup semisweet chocolate chips
• 5 graham crackers

Optional ingredient substitutions

If you do not have chocolate cake mix, you can make your cake from scratch using cocoa powder, flour, sugar, baking powder, and eggs. For the frosting, if you want to skip the meringue, you could use store-bought marshmallow fluff for a quick option. Vegan versions of these cupcakes can be made using egg replacer and dairy-free chocolate chips. Adjust the amount of sugar in the frosting if you want a less sweet option, or use dark chocolate chips for more intense chocolate flavor.

How to Make S’mores Cupcakes

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to the temperature listed on the box instructions for the chocolate cake mix. While the oven is heating, line a standard 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners. This will make it easier to remove the cupcakes later and keep them moist.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter

In a medium bowl, prepare the chocolate cake batter according to the instructions on the box. This usually involves mixing the cake mix with the required amount of water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Make sure to beat it well until it’s smooth and free of lumps. Once the batter is ready, carefully divide it among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full. This will give them enough room to rise without overflowing.

Step 3: Bake the Cupcakes

Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake according to the box instructions, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean. This typically takes about 18-20 minutes. Once baked, remove the tin from the oven and let the cupcakes cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 4: Make the Meringue Frosting

While the cupcakes are cooling, you can prepare the meringue frosting. In a small saucepan over medium heat, bring 1/2 cup of water to a simmer. In a medium heatproof bowl, combine the egg whites and granulated sugar. Carefully place this bowl over the saucepan to create a double boiler. Stir constantly for about 5 minutes, or until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture feels warm to the touch. Using oven mitts or a towel, carefully remove the bowl from the saucepan. Beat the egg white mixture on high speed using a handheld mixer or a stand mixer with a whisk attachment until it resembles Marshmallow Fluff and forms soft peaks, which should take about 8 minutes. Stir in the vanilla extract and salt, then transfer the meringue to a piping bag fitted with a large star tip.

Step 5: Melt the Chocolate and Prepare for Topping

In a clean medium heatproof bowl, place the semisweet chocolate chips over the reserved saucepan of simmering water. Stir until the chocolate is melted and smooth, which takes about 4 minutes. Keep the melted chocolate warm until you are ready to use it. While waiting, break 2 graham crackers into 12 1-inch squares for garnish. Place the remaining 3 graham crackers in a resealable plastic bag and crush them into fine crumbs using a rolling pin or your hands.

Step 6: Assemble the Cupcakes

Once the cupcakes are fully cooled, it’s time to assemble them. First, dip the edges of each cupcake in the melted chocolate, allowing the excess to drip off. Then, immediately dip the chocolate-covered edges into the graham cracker crumbs to coat. This not only adds flavor but gives these cupcakes their signature s’mores texture. After you have coated each cupcake, use the piping bag to generously frost the top with the meringue frosting.

Step 7: Broil the Frosting

Arrange the frosted cupcakes on a baking sheet to prepare for broiling. Turn on the broiler and position the rack closest to the heating element. Broil the cupcakes for about 30 seconds or until the frosting is golden brown. Keep a close eye on this step, as it can go from perfectly toasted to burnt very quickly. Once browned, remove the cupcakes from the oven and let them cool slightly. For the final touch, place a reserved graham cracker square on top of each cupcake as a garnish.

How to Serve S’mores Cupcakes

Best ways to serve S’mores Cupcakes

S’mores cupcakes are best served fresh, but they can also be a hit if prepared ahead of time. Present them on a beautiful serving platter or in individual cupcake boxes for a charming display. These cupcakes can be enjoyed as a cozy dessert with a glass of milk or served alongside some hot cocoa for an extra special treat.

Serving suggestions or pairings

You can enhance the experience by serving these cupcakes with some additional toppings like mini marshmallows, chocolate shavings, or drizzle more melted chocolate over them. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast of temperatures and textures. They are perfect for parties, camping trips, birthday celebrations, or even just as a sweet surprise for family and friends.

How to Store S’mores Cupcakes

Proper storage methods

To store your S’mores cupcakes, place them in an airtight container. This will help keep them fresh for a longer period. If you live in a warm or humid environment, it’s best to keep them refrigerated, especially because of the meringue frosting. However, if you plan to eat them within a day or two, a cool, dry place is sufficient.

Tips for reheating or freezing

If you have leftovers and want to enjoy them later, you can freeze the cupcakes before frosting. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. To enjoy frozen cupcakes, let them thaw in the refrigerator and then frost them before serving. If you need to reheat, place a cupcake in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to warm it up slightly without melting the frosting.

Tips to Make S’mores Cupcakes

Common mistakes to avoid

When making S’mores cupcakes, one common mistake is overmixing the batter, which can result in dense cupcakes. Mix just until combined and no longer. Additionally, when making meringue, ensure that your mixing bowl and beaters are clean and free from grease; otherwise, it may not whip properly. Be careful while broiling so that you don’t burn the frosting; this step requires your full attention.

Helpful tips for better results

For the best results, let the cupcakes cool completely before frosting. You can also add a bit of melted chocolate into the cupcake batter for an extra richness. Ensure your egg whites are at room temperature for better volume when whipping them. Lastly, don’t be shy while garnishing; the more graham cracker crumbs and chocolate you use, the more authentic the s’mores flavor will be.

Variation of S’mores Cupcakes

Suggested variations or twists on the recipe

There are many fun variations you can try with S’mores cupcakes. For a richer flavor, try using dark chocolate cake mix instead of the standard chocolate cake mix. You could also experiment with flavored chocolates, such as mint chocolate or peanut butter chocolate. Another twist is to incorporate a layer of chocolate ganache inside the cupcake before frosting or swap out the chocolate chips for white chocolate chips for a contrasting flavor.

Adjustments for dietary preferences

If you are looking for gluten-free options, utilize a gluten-free chocolate cake mix or make your own from scratch with alternative flours. For vegan versions, replace the egg whites with a vegan egg substitute, and use dairy-free chocolate and margarine. You could also use aquafaba (chickpea brine) instead of egg whites for the meringue, which will still give you volume and fluffiness.

FAQs

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

If your cupcakes have sunk in the middle, it may be due to underbaking or too much liquid in the batter. Ensure you check for doneness with a toothpick, and follow the instructions carefully. For meringue issues, if it doesn’t whip up properly, check that your bowl and beaters are clean and dry. Humidity can also affect meringue, so try to make it on a dry day.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, S’mores cupcakes can be made ahead of time. You can bake the cupcakes a day in advance and store them covered at room temperature. Prepare the frosting the day you plan to serve them, as it is best when fresh. The cupcakes are best enjoyed within 2-3 days for optimal flavor and texture.

What can I substitute for ingredients?

For chocolate cake mix, homemade cocoa batter is a great substitute. You can also use apple sauce instead of oil for a healthier option. As mentioned, the egg whites can be replaced with flax eggs or aquafaba for a dairy-free version. If graham crackers are not available, any buttery cracker can work, though the flavor would be different.

By following this guide, you can create delicious S’mores cupcakes that will surely impress family and friends. They are perfect for all occasions, whether it’s a casual snack or a festive gathering. Enjoy baking and indulging in this delightful dessert!

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