S’mores Hershey Cupcakes

These S’mores Hershey Cupcakes combine the classic flavors of s’mores with the indulgence of chocolate cupcakes, making them the ultimate dessert for any occasion. The combination of a rich, moist chocolate cake, gooey marshmallow filling, and Hershey’s chocolate pieces is guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Ingredients:

For the Cupcakes:

• 1 box chocolate cake mix (or homemade chocolate cake if preferred)
• Ingredients needed for the cake mix (usually eggs, oil, and water, based on package directions)
• 1 cup Hershey’s chocolate chips (for the cupcake batter)

For the Marshmallow Filling:

• 1 1/2 cups mini marshmallows
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Frosting:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1-2 tablespoons heavy cream (as needed to achieve desired consistency)
• 1/4 cup Hershey’s chocolate chips, melted (for drizzling)

For Garnish:

• 1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs
• 6-8 Hershey’s chocolate bars, broken into pieces
• Mini marshmallows (for topping)

Instructions:

Step 1: Make the Cupcakes

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
3. Prepare the chocolate cake mix according to the package instructions (mixing the required eggs, oil, and water).
4. Stir in 1 cup of Hershey’s chocolate chips into the cake batter for extra richness and texture.
5. Spoon the batter into the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
6. Bake according to the package instructions (usually 18-22 minutes), or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Allow the cupcakes to cool completely on a wire rack before adding the marshmallow filling.

Step 2: Make the Marshmallow Filling

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
2. Add the mini marshmallows and stir continuously until they are melted and smooth.
3. Stir in the heavy cream and vanilla extract, continuing to mix until everything is well combined.
4. Once the mixture is smooth, remove it from heat and let it cool slightly.
5. Using a small spoon or piping bag, create a small hole in the center of each cooled cupcake and fill with the marshmallow mixture. You can either pipe the filling in or spoon it directly into the cupcakes.

Step 3: Make the Frosting

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until light and fluffy.
2. Gradually add in the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing well after each addition.
3. Add in the vanilla extract and 1 tablespoon of heavy cream, mixing until smooth. Add more cream if needed to achieve a spreadable consistency.
4. Frost each cupcake with the chocolate frosting using a piping bag or a spatula.

Step 4: Garnish and Assemble

1. Once the cupcakes are frosted, sprinkle the tops with graham cracker crumbs.
2. Break the Hershey’s chocolate bars into pieces and arrange them on top of the cupcakes, placing a few pieces on each one.
3. For an extra touch, toast a mini marshmallow on a skewer and place it on top of each cupcake (you can do this over an open flame or using a kitchen torch for that authentic s’mores effect).

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Once all cupcakes are topped with graham crackers, chocolate, and marshmallows, serve and enjoy your homemade S’mores Hershey Cupcakes.

Tips and Variations:

• Chocolate Cake Mix: If you want to make the cake from scratch, substitute the cake mix with a homemade chocolate cake recipe.
• Extra Gooey: For an even gooier filling, add extra marshmallows or use marshmallow fluff.
• No Toasted Marshmallows: If you don’t have a torch to toast the marshmallows, simply add the mini marshmallows directly to the top of the cupcake and let them melt slightly in the oven for a minute at low heat.
• S’mores with a Twist: You can swap Hershey’s chocolate bars for other chocolate types, like dark chocolate or caramel-filled chocolates.

Why You’ll Love These Cupcakes:

• S’mores Flavor: They have all the delicious elements of a classic s’more—chocolate, marshmallow, and graham crackers—in one delightful cupcake.
• Moist and Chocolatey: The chocolate cake and creamy marshmallow filling create a rich, satisfying bite every time.
• Fun to Make: With the toasted marshmallow topping and Hershey’s chocolate pieces, these cupcakes are fun to assemble and decorate.

These S’mores Hershey Cupcakes are perfect for anyone who loves the nostalgic flavors of s’mores but wants something a little more elevated. They’re great for summer parties, special occasions, or just as a delicious treat for any chocolate lover!