Toasted S’mores Layer Cake
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If you’re looking to impress your friends or just want to treat yourself, this Ultimate Toasted S’mores Layer Cake is a total game-changer. I love making this cake when I’m craving a sweet, nostalgic treat that’s a bit more indulgent. It’s a dreamy combination of rich chocolate cake layers, velvety dark chocolate ganache, and that irresistible toasted marshmallow frosting that takes it over the top. The graham cracker crumbs adds the perfect crunch that makes each bite a bit like having a campfire s’more without the mess!
Why You’ll Love Toasted S’mores Layer Cake
- Decadent Layers: The rich chocolate cake paired with creamy dark chocolate ganache creates a dessert that’s both indulgent and satisfying.
- Toasted Marshmallow Frosting: The toasted marshmallow frosting adds a nostalgic, campfire-like flavor that’s both sweet and fluffy.
- Graham Cracker Crunch: The graham cracker crumbs add a delightful crunch, giving you that classic s’mores texture in every bite.
- Impressive Presentation: This cake not only tastes amazing but looks stunning, making it perfect for special occasions or a show-stopping dessert.
- Comforting and Fun: It combines the comfort of chocolate cake with the fun of s’mores, making it a unique and enjoyable treat for all ages.
Ingredients Needed To Make Toasted S’mores Layer Cake
Make sure you scroll down to the recipe card to see the full list of ingredients needed for this recipe.
- Gluten Free Flour
- Cocoa Powder
- Sugar
- Baking Powder
- Baking Soda
- Dairy Free Unsweetened Greek Yogurt
- Kosher Salt
- Vegetable Oil
- Espresso Powder
- Freshly Brewed Coffee
- Eggs
- Vanilla Extract
- Egg Whites
- Cream of Tartar
- Granulated Sugar
- Toasted Marshmallow Flavoring
- Dairy Free Dark Chocolate
- Dairy Free Heavy Cream
- Gluten Free Graham Crackers
Substitutions + Alternatives
Can I use All-Purpose Flour?
Yes, All-Purpose Flour can be used. Use the same amount that is listed in the ingredients, but swap with all purpose.
Can I use regular dairy?
Feel free to make this recipe your own. I use dairy-free products, but feel welcome to choose your preferred dairy option without any recipe adjustments. Unless specified otherwise, you have the flexibility to use the dairy products of your choice for the recipe.
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Oven Temperatures
Oven temperatures can vary significantly from one oven to another. To achieve consistent results, it’s crucial to know the exact temperature inside your oven. The safest and most accurate way to determine this is by using an oven thermometer. This simple tool can help you avoid underbaking or overbaking your treats.
How To Make Toasted S’mores Layer Cake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease two 8-inch cake pans.
- In a bowl, beat eggs and sugar on high for 3 minutes until fluffy.
- Mix in vanilla, oil, yogurt, and espresso powder.
- Add dry ingredients and mix gently. Then stir in coffee.
- Divide the batter between the two pans and bake for 35-45 minutes. Cool completely.
- For the frosting, set up a double boiler with boiling water. Whisk egg whites, sugar, and cream of tartar in a glass bowl over the pot until frothy, about 5 minutes.
- Transfer to a bowl and mix in toasted marshmallow flavoring. Whip until thick and fluffy, about 5 minutes.
- For the ganache, melt the chocolate in the microwave, stirring every 15-20 seconds. Stir in cream until smooth.
- Assemble the cake: Place graham cracker crumbs and half of the ganache on the first cake layer. Add some frosting. Top with the second cake layer, remaining crumbs, and ganache.
- Cover with the toasted marshmallow frosting. Optional: Use a kitchen torch to lightly toast the frosting. Enjoy!
Commonly Asked Questions
Can I use regular graham crackers?
Yes! I use gluten-free graham crackers, but regular will work just fine for this recipe.
How do I store leftovers of this S’mores Layer Cake?
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. Make sure the cake is completely cooled before storing to avoid sogginess.
Can I freeze this S’mores Layer Cake?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cake layers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before frosting and serving.
What if I don’t have a kitchen torch for toasting the frosting?
If you don’t have a kitchen torch, you can place the frosted cake under the broiler in your oven for a few minutes to achieve a similar toasted effect. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
Can I make the frosting ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the frosting ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before using, allow it to come to room temperature and re-whip if necessary to regain its texture.
What can I use instead of toasted marshmallow flavoring?
If you don’t have toasted marshmallow flavoring, you can use vanilla extract or another flavoring of your choice. The flavor will be different but still delicious.
How can I tell when this S’mores Layer Cake is done baking?
The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. The cake should also be slightly springy to the touch.
Ultimate Toasted S’mores Layer Cake
Equipment
- 2 8" cake pans
- Double boiler
- Mixer
Ingredients
Gluten Free Chocolate Cake
- 2 cups 1.1 Gluten Free Flour
- 1 cup cocoa powder
- 2 cups sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 2 tsp baking soda
- 5 oz Dairy Free unsweetened Greek yogurt
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 tsp espresso powder
- 1 cup freshly brewed coffee
- 2 eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
Toasted Marshmallow Frosting
- 4 egg whites
- ½ tsp cream of tartar
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp toasted marshmallow flavoring
Dark Chocolate Ganache
- 1 ½ cups Dairy Free dark chocolate ganache
- ½ cup Dairy Free heavy cream
S'mores Cake
- 1 cup Gluten Free graham crackers, crushed
Instructions
Chocolate Cake
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray 2 8" cake pans with nonstick baking spray and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl add eggs and sugar and beat on high for 3 minutes.
- Add the vanilla, oil, yogurt, and espresso powder and mix to combine.
- Add in the dry ingredients and gently mix to combine. Don't over mix. Add the coffee and mix.
- Divide the batter between the two cake pans. Bake for 35-45 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Allow to fully cool
Toasted Marshmallow Frosting
- Create a double boiler by bringing a pot of water to a boil.
- Place egg whites, sugar, and cream of tarter into a glass bowl and fit over the top of the pot, making sure the water never touches the bottom.
- Continually whisk the mixture until it becomes frothy, 5 minutes.
- Pour the mixture into a bowl and add the toasted marshmallow flavoring. Mix on high for approximately 5 minutes or until the mixture becomes thick and holds its shape.
Dark Chocolate Ganache
- Melt the chocolate in the microwave. Work in 15-20 second intervals, stirring between heating, until chocolate is fully melted. Be careful not to over heat.
- Stir in the cream until smooth.
S'mores Cake
- Place half of the graham cracker crumbs on the first layer of cake.
- Drizzle half of the chocolate ganache over the crumbs. Top with some of the marshmallow frosting.
- Add the second layer of cake. Top with the remaining graham cracker crumbs and chocolate ganache.
- Cover the cake in the toasted marshmallow frosting.
- If desired, you can use a kitchen torch to toast the outside of the frosting.
- Enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition
If you’re craving a decadent dessert that’s a total crowd-pleaser, this Ultimate Toasted S’mores Cake is it. I love how the combination of dark chocolate ganache and toasted marshmallow frosting makes every bite a sweet, nostalgic treat. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just a fun weekend bake, this cake never disappoints. Enjoy the gooey goodness and the delightful crunch of graham crackers—it’s pure dessert bliss!
It was so delicious my kids loved it!
Love this! So happy you guys enjoyed it!
Made this for book club. 6 ladies and not a crumb left. I must admit I used King Arthur gluten free chocolate cake mix as I was pressed for time. Otherwise I followed exactly.
Love hearing this!!
What can I use instead of the marshmallow flavoring? Pressed for time and can’t find the flavoring anywhere
Vanilla is a good replacement
I am SO excited for this cake.
We are doing a camping themed birthday party and I love baking. My question is: Do you think this could handle sitting out of a fridge over night?
We are camping on a Friday night (it’s coastal so not too hot) and then I would serve it on a Saturday afternoon. I just want to make sure its not a fridge needed creation?
Hi Kate: Yes, the cake itself, YES. For the frosting, I recommend using 2-3 tubs of marshmallow fluff instead of meringue frosting, as meringue can melt. The marshmallow fluff is a great substitute—sticky but delicious. Use two spoons and a spatula to spread it evenly over the cake. Enjoy!