Best S’mores Cake Recipe

The Ultimate S’mores Cake Recipe brings together the nostalgic flavors of campfire s’mores with the indulgence of a layered cake.

Each slice offers a symphony of textures: a buttery graham cracker crust, moist chocolate cake, silky ganache, and toasted marshmallow filling.

Designed for both special occasions and casual gatherings, this recipe ensures every bite is both comforting and luxurious.

Whether you’re baking for a party, family dinner, or simply to satisfy a craving, this s’mores cake will be a showstopper that delivers both classic flavor and bakery-style wow-factor.

Ingredients Checklist

Before starting, gather all your ingredients to ensure smooth preparation. This checklist covers everything you need for each delicious layer and topping, including quantities for precision and alternatives for dietary needs.

Graham Cracker Crust

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10 full crackers; gluten-free optional)

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Chocolate Cake

• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour (can use 1-to-1 gluten-free blend)

• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

• 2 cups granulated sugar

• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 2 large eggs, room temperature

• 1/2 cup vegetable oil or melted coconut oil

• 1 cup buttermilk (or 1 cup milk + 1 tablespoon vinegar)

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

• 3/4 cup hot water or coffee (enhances chocolate flavor)

Chocolate Ganache

• 8 ounces semisweet or bittersweet chocolate, finely chopped

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for shine and richness)

Toasted Marshmallow Filling/Frosting

• 1 jar (7 oz) marshmallow fluff or 2 cups mini marshmallows

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar, sifted

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

• 2–3 tablespoons heavy cream or milk

Optional Decorations & Finishing Touches

• Extra mini marshmallows (for torching)

• Graham cracker pieces or crumbs

• Chocolate chunks or shavings

• Flaky sea salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

The Ultimate S’mores Cake Recipe is simple if you break it down into components. Here’s a clear process—follow these steps, and you’ll have bakery-worthy results.

• Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust:

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line three 8-inch cake pans with parchment and lightly grease.

  • In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the texture resembles wet sand.

  • Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of each prepared pan (about 1/2 cup per pan). Bake for 8 minutes. Cool completely before adding cake batter.

• Bake the Chocolate Cake Layers:

  • In a large bowl, whisk flour, cocoa, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

  • In another bowl, whisk eggs, oil, buttermilk, and vanilla until smooth.

  • Gradually add wet ingredients to dry, mixing until just combined. Pour in hot water or coffee, mixing gently; batter will be thin.

  • Divide batter evenly over cooled graham crust in pans. Bake at 350°F for 22–28 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.

  • Cool cakes in pans for 15 minutes, then invert onto racks to cool completely. Wrap in plastic if assembling later.

• Make the Chocolate Ganache:

  • Place chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Heat cream and butter until steaming but not boiling.

  • Pour over chocolate. Let sit for 2 minutes, then stir gently until smooth and glossy.

  • Cool to room temperature. The ganache will thicken as it cools.

• Prepare Marshmallow Frosting:

  • In a stand mixer, beat butter until light and creamy. Add marshmallow fluff, mixing until combined.

  • Gradually add confectioners’ sugar and vanilla. Mix on medium speed.

  • Add heavy cream, 1 tablespoon at a time, until desired consistency is reached—fluffy and spreadable.

  • For an extra toasty flavor, torch 1 cup of mini marshmallows on a lined tray and fold into the frosting once cool (optional).

• Assemble the Cake:

  • If needed, level cakes with a serrated knife.

  • Place one layer, graham side down, on a serving plate. Spread with marshmallow frosting. Pipe a ring of frosting around the edge to contain the ganache, then spoon a layer of ganache inside.

  • Repeat with second cake layer. Top with the third cake, graham side down.

  • Apply a thin crumb coat of marshmallow frosting to the whole cake. Chill 15–30 minutes.

  • Frost cake generously with remaining marshmallow frosting.

  • Pour remaining ganache over the top, letting it drip down the sides. Decorate with torch-toasted marshmallows, graham pieces, and chocolate chunks if desired.

Tips for Perfect Results

Getting the perfect S’mores Cake requires a little attention to detail. These expert tips will help you avoid common mistakes and ensure bakery-level results.

• Use a digital scale for precise measurements, especially for flour and cocoa.

• Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for even mixing.

• Chill cake layers before assembling for easier handling and a neater finish.

• For deeper chocolate flavor, use hot coffee instead of water in the batter.

• If ganache becomes too thick, microwave in 10-second bursts until pourable.

• For marshmallow frosting, add cream slowly to avoid a runny consistency.

• Torch marshmallows in small batches for control and prevent burning.

• To slice neatly, heat your knife under hot water and wipe clean between cuts.

• Make cake layers ahead and freeze for extra convenience and stability during assembly.

Serving Suggestions

Serving your S’mores Cake in creative ways can elevate the dessert experience. Here are suggestions for presentation and perfect pairings.

• Serve slices slightly warmed in the microwave for gooey marshmallow and soft ganache.

• Pair with fresh strawberries or raspberries for a fruity balance to the rich chocolate.

• Add a scoop of vanilla or toasted marshmallow ice cream on the side for extra indulgence.

• Offer alongside hot chocolate, coffee, or a robust red wine for grown-up gatherings.

• Decorate each plate with a drizzle of chocolate syrup and a sprinkle of graham crumbs.

• Serve mini versions in jars for parties or picnics, layering cake, ganache, and frosting.

Final Thoughts

The Ultimate S’mores Cake Recipe transforms a classic fireside treat into a stunning dessert fit for any celebration. With layers of crunchy graham, velvety chocolate, and billowy marshmallow, this cake captures the magic of s’mores in every slice. By following these detailed steps, tips, and serving ideas, you’ll create a cake that not only looks impressive but delivers unmatched flavor and nostalgia. Whether you stick to the recipe or try a few creative twists, this s’mores cake will become a favorite for years to come—delighting both kids and adults with each decadent, toasty bite.