Galentine's S'mores Cake
Highlighted under: Holiday Treat Recipes
I absolutely adore Galentine's Day, and what better way to celebrate than with a decadent Galentine's S'mores Cake? This recipe combines the nostalgia of summer campfires with the charm of a chocolate cake, making it perfect for sharing with my closest friends. The layers of graham cracker, chocolate, and marshmallow fluff harmonize beautifully, creating a rich treat that everyone will love. Whether it’s for a cozy gathering or a fun brunch, this cake is bound to impress and satisfy sweet cravings!
When I first made this Galentine's S'mores Cake, I was blown away by how well the flavors blended together. The layers of chocolate cake paired with the marshmallow frosting and graham cracker crust create a unique combination that brings back fond memories of bonfires and roasting marshmallows. It's truly a delightful treat!
One tip I discovered while making this cake is to lightly toast the marshmallow frosting with a kitchen torch for that authentic s'mores experience. It elevates the cake, adding a smoky flavor and a beautiful finish that everyone will admire. Trust me, this cake will be the star of your Galentine's Day celebration!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Decadent layers that combine a classic dessert with a twist
- Toasted marshmallow frosting that adds a delightful flavor
- Perfect for sharing with friends during Galentine's celebrations
Key Techniques for a Perfect Cake
When making the cake batter, ensure that all your ingredients are at room temperature, especially the eggs and buttermilk. This helps in achieving a smooth and uniform batter. Mixing the dry ingredients first before adding wet ingredients allows for even distribution of the leaveners and cocoa powder, preventing clumping and ensuring a light cake texture.
Don't skip the step of boiling the water before mixing it into the batter. This not only helps to dissolve the cocoa powder, making it less gritty, but also activates the baking soda, resulting in a richer chocolate flavor and a tender crumb. The batter will appear thin, but that’s perfectly normal for a moist cake.
Tips for Creamy Marshmallow Frosting
To achieve that perfect fluffy consistency in your marshmallow frosting, it's essential to beat the softened butter correctly. Start by mixing on low speed to avoid splattering, then gradually increase to medium-high until it's creamy and pale, about 3-5 minutes. This aeration gives the frosting a lightness that complements the rich cake.
If your frosting is too thick, don’t hesitate to add an additional tablespoon of heavy cream. Conversely, if it's too runny, a bit more powdered sugar can help firm it up. Remember, a well-balanced frosting will beautifully coat the layers and provide the quintessential gooey experience you expect from s'mores.
Ingredients
Gather the ingredients before you start baking to ensure a smooth process!
Cake Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
Frosting Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups mini marshmallows
- Graham cracker crumbs for decoration
Make sure everything is measured accurately and at room temperature for the best results!
Instructions
Follow these steps carefully to achieve a perfect cake!
Prepare the Cake Batter
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix well. In another bowl, whisk together buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla.
Bake the Cake
Divide the batter evenly between two greased and floured 9-inch round cake pans. Bake for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
Make the Frosting
While the cakes are cooling, prepare the marshmallow frosting. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and mix well.
Assemble the Cake
Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving platter. Spread a generous amount of marshmallow frosting on top, and place the second layer on top. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting.
Serve and Enjoy
For a finishing touch, use a kitchen torch to lightly toast the frosting. Slice and serve your Galentine's S'mores Cake to your friends, and enjoy the sweet celebration!
Enjoy each layer of flavor that brings happiness to your Galentine's gathering!
Pro Tips
- For added flavor, consider incorporating chocolate chips into the cake batter or adding a layer of fudge between the cake layers.
Storing and Make-Ahead Options
You can prepare the cake layers a day in advance. Once cooled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them at room temperature. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld together. If you're planning to frost the cake later, keep the layers unwrapped to avoid moisture buildup, which can make the cakes overly soggy.
The marshmallow frosting can also be made ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. When ready to use, let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to soften, then re-whip briefly to restore its fluffy texture before frosting your cake.
Serving Suggestions
For an impressive presentation, consider garnishing the cake with chocolate shavings or small chocolate squares around the base. This adds an extra touch of decadence and mirrors the chocolatey goodness inside. If you're feeling adventurous, a drizzle of chocolate ganache can take this cake over the top.
Pair this delightful cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the richness. Alternatively, a simple serving of hot chocolate or coffee can enhance the s'mores experience, making it a great post-brunch treat or a cozy dessert for a gathering.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of frosting?
Absolutely! You can use chocolate ganache or any preferred frosting if you're not a fan of marshmallow.
→ How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the cakes a day in advance and frost them the next day.
→ What can I substitute for buttermilk?
You can make your own buttermilk by mixing 1/2 cup of milk with 1/2 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice.
Galentine's S'mores Cake
I absolutely adore Galentine's Day, and what better way to celebrate than with a decadent Galentine's S'mores Cake? This recipe combines the nostalgia of summer campfires with the charm of a chocolate cake, making it perfect for sharing with my closest friends. The layers of graham cracker, chocolate, and marshmallow fluff harmonize beautifully, creating a rich treat that everyone will love. Whether it’s for a cozy gathering or a fun brunch, this cake is bound to impress and satisfy sweet cravings!
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Holiday Treat Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
Cake Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup boiling water
Frosting Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups mini marshmallows
- Graham cracker crumbs for decoration
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix well. In another bowl, whisk together buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla. Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients and mix until well combined. Stir in the boiling water until the batter is smooth.
Divide the batter evenly between two greased and floured 9-inch round cake pans. Bake for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
While the cakes are cooling, prepare the marshmallow frosting. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and mix well. Pour in the heavy cream and vanilla extract, and continue beating until fluffy. Fold in the mini marshmallows.
Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving platter. Spread a generous amount of marshmallow frosting on top, and place the second layer on top. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting. Sprinkle the graham cracker crumbs on top for decoration.
For a finishing touch, use a kitchen torch to lightly toast the frosting. Slice and serve your Galentine's S'mores Cake to your friends, and enjoy the sweet celebration!
Extra Tips
- For added flavor, consider incorporating chocolate chips into the cake batter or adding a layer of fudge between the cake layers.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g