The Ultimate S’mores Brownie Cupcakes Recipe

If you’ve ever wished you could bring the magic of a crackling campfire to your kitchen, The Ultimate S’mores Brownie Cupcakes are the answer. Imagine plush brownies resting on a buttery graham cracker crust, all crowned with a swirl of airy, toasted meringue. Each bite is the perfect mix of crunchy, gooey, and chocolatey goodness—it’s an irresistible twist on the classic treat that brings back cozy childhood nostalgia. Whether you’re gearing up for a special occasion or simply want to delight your sweet tooth, these cupcakes are every s’mores lover’s dream come true.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Everything in this lineup serves a purpose, from the rich chocolate to the fluffy homemade meringue. The blend of pantry basics and a few decadent touches means The Ultimate S’mores Brownie Cupcakes taste as good as they look—and every ingredient plays a starring role.

• Graham cracker crumbs (1 3/4 cups): The key to an irresistibly crunchy and authentic s’mores base.
• Granulated sugar (1/4 cup + 3/4 cup): Sweetens both the crust and brownie layers for just-right flavor.
• Unsalted butter, melted (7 TBSP): Helps bind the graham cracker crumbs together for a solid crust.
• Salted butter (1 stick/1/2 cup): Adds a hint of saltiness to balance the brownie’s richness.
• Bittersweet chocolate, chopped (7 ounces, 70% cocoa): Delivers deep chocolate flavor—choose high quality for the best results.
• Eggs, medium (3, room temperature): Give your brownies structure and a fudgy bite.
• Vanilla extract (1 1/2 tsp + 1/2 tsp): Adds warmth and rounds out the chocolate and meringue flavors.
• All-purpose flour (1/2 cup + 2 TBSP): Provides the body for the brownie cupcakes without making them cakey.
• Dutch process cocoa powder, sifted (1/4 cup): Creates a rich, dark color and enhances chocolate intensity.
• Egg whites (2 large, room temperature): The secret to that tall, fluffy meringue topping.
• Light brown sugar (1/2 cup): Gives the meringue a subtle caramel note and deep color.
• Cream of tartar (1/4 tsp): Stabilizes the meringue for gorgeous, glossy swirls.
• Melted semi-sweet chocolate & salted caramel (for drizzling, optional): Adds a decadent finishing touch—totally irresistible.

How to Make The Ultimate S’mores Brownie Cupcakes

Step 1: Prep Your Muffin Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F and line a standard 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners. This not only makes cleanup a breeze but ensures each portion is perfectly shaped and super easy to share or transport.

Step 2: Make the Graham Cracker Crust

Use a food processor to turn those graham crackers into fine crumbs. Add in the first portion of granulated sugar and your melted butter, then pulse to combine. Scoop 1–2 tablespoons of the mix into each liner and press down firmly—no loose crumbs allowed! This layer will crisp up beautifully in the oven.

Step 3: Prepare the Brownie Batter

Set up a double boiler and melt the bittersweet chocolate with the salted butter—keep the heat gentle so nothing scorches. Once everything is melted and smooth, whisk in the second portion of granulated sugar and vanilla. Let the mix cool slightly before adding the eggs one at a time, followed by the flour and cocoa powder. Stir until just combined for ultimate fudginess, then fill the muffin cups almost to the top.

Step 4: Bake the Brownie Cupcakes

Slide the pan onto the center rack and bake for 23–25 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when a toothpick in the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs. Don’t worry if the tops crack—that rustic look just adds to their charm! Let them cool completely before you add any frosting.

Step 5: Whip up the Brown Sugar Meringue

For that classic s’mores marshmallow effect, make your meringue from scratch. Whisk together the egg whites, brown sugar, and cream of tartar in a metal bowl placed over simmering water, making sure the bowl doesn’t touch the water. Once the sugar fully dissolves and the mixture feels warm, move it to your mixer and whip to glossy, stiff peaks. Add vanilla in the final whisk for an aromatic finish.

Step 6: Frost and Finish with Flair

Transfer your billowy meringue to a piping bag with a star tip and swirl it high on each cupcake—don’t be shy with the height! If you want the full campfire effect, give the tops a quick toast with a kitchen torch. For added indulgence, drizzle with melted chocolate or a ribbon of salted caramel. The Ultimate S’mores Brownie Cupcakes are now ready for their big reveal!

How to Serve The Ultimate S’mores Brownie Cupcakes

Garnishes

Go all out with extras: a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers, a tiny chocolate square, or even a mini marshmallow perched on top. These little finishing touches make each cupcake look as good as it tastes and set the tone for fun, festive snacking.

Side Dishes

Pair The Ultimate S’mores Brownie Cupcakes with something creamy, like vanilla ice cream or a cool glass of milk. The silky coldness alongside the cupcakes creates a nostalgic dessert vibe that’s hard to resist.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack them on a wooden board surrounded by fairy lights for a fireside feel at home. Or, serve each cupcake in a mini mason jar for a quirky picnic treat. For parties, arrange in a circle for a “campfire” centerpiece, and watch everyone reach in for seconds!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have extras (lucky you!), store the cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If it’s warm in your kitchen, pop them in the fridge for longer freshness, though they’re best enjoyed within 48 hours for maximum marshmallowy goodness.

Freezing

Want to stash some for later? Freeze unfrosted brownie cupcakes in a single layer. When ready to eat, thaw at room temp and whip up fresh meringue just before serving—the topping doesn’t freeze as well, so always add it at the last minute for the best texture.

Reheating

Pop the cupcakes (without meringue) in a 300-degree oven for about 5 minutes to revive that fresh-baked warmth. If you’ve already frosted them, let them come to room temperature naturally—microwaving meringue can make it weep.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought brownie mix for The Ultimate S’mores Brownie Cupcakes?

Absolutely! If you’re short on time, a high-quality brownie mix will do the trick. Still, homemade offers that deep, rich flavor and fudgy bite that really takes these cupcakes over the top.

What if I don’t have a kitchen torch for the meringue?

No torch? No problem! You can place the frosted cupcakes briefly under your oven’s broiler—but watch them closely. They brown quickly, and you want golden peaks, not burnt ones.

How do I make the graham cracker crust stick together?

It’s all about tightly packing the crumb mixture into the liner. Press down firmly with a spoon or even the bottom of a small glass. More pressure equals less crumbling!

Can I make The Ultimate S’mores Brownie Cupcakes gluten-free?

Yes! Swap the regular graham crackers and flour for certified gluten-free versions. The texture will still be lovely, and everyone can join in the s’mores fun.

Do I need to double the meringue for tall swirls?

If you’re planning dramatic, bakery-style peaks, doubling the meringue recipe ensures every cupcake is crowned generously. If you like just a modest topping, the original amount will cover it.

Final Thoughts

Sharing The Ultimate S’mores Brownie Cupcakes is like sending a little love—and a lot of chocolatey fun—straight from your kitchen. Gather up your favorite people, bring out the cupcakes, and make some sweet memories. Trust me, you’ll want to make these again and again!

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