Smores Brownie Cupcakes: 18 Irresistible Sweet Bites

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Smores Brownie Cupcakes are a delightful fusion of flavors, combining the rich taste of brownies with the nostalgic essence of campfire s’mores. These decadent treats feature a buttery graham cracker crust, a rich and fudgy brownie base, and a fluffy toasted meringue topping. Perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth, they are an ideal dessert for gatherings, parties, or just a cozy night in. Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Smores Brownie Cupcakes

There are countless reasons to love these Smores Brownie Cupcakes. First, they offer a unique twist on traditional brownies, making them a fun and exciting dessert. Each bite is a blend of flavors, from the crunchy graham cracker crust to the gooey chocolate brownie filling and the sweet meringue topping. These cupcakes are also perfect for sharing at parties, bringing a taste of campfire magic indoors. With their easy preparation, they are a fantastic option for baking enthusiasts and beginners alike. Plus, they can be customized with various toppings and fillings, ensuring everyone can enjoy their perfect dessert. As a bonus, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly, appealing to a wider audience.

Ingredients for Smores Brownie Cupcakes

Gather these items:

1 1/2 cups (180g) graham cracker crumbs (about 12 full sheets of graham crackers)
1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
6 Tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter, melted
1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter
2 (4-ounce) semi-sweet chocolate bars (228g), coarsely chopped
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
3 large eggs, room temperature
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/2 cup (63g) all-purpose flour
1/4 cup (21g) unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
3 large egg whites, room temperature
3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
1/8 teaspoon cream of tartar
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

How to Make Smores Brownie Cupcakes Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Line a muffin pan with 18 cupcake liners.
Step 2: Make the crust by processing the graham crackers into crumbs. Mix the crumbs with sugar and melted butter. Spoon 1 1/2 tablespoons into each liner and press down firmly to form a crust.
Step 3: For the brownie batter, melt the butter and chocolate in a large bowl, microwaving in 30-second increments, stirring after each. Whisk in the sugar. Let the mixture cool slightly for 5 minutes.
Step 4: Whisk in the eggs, vanilla, flour, cocoa powder, and salt. The batter will be thick. Spoon evenly into each cupcake liner on top of the graham crust.
Step 5: Bake for 25–28 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let the cupcakes cool completely in the pans.
Step 6: For the meringue frosting, whisk egg whites, sugar, and cream of tartar in a heatproof bowl set over simmering water, ensuring the bowl does not touch the water. Whisk until sugar dissolves and the mixture reaches 160°F (71°C).
Step 7: Remove from heat, add vanilla extract, and beat with an electric mixer on high until stiff peaks form, about 5 minutes.
Step 8: Pipe the meringue onto the cooled cupcakes, using a piping tip of your choice. If desired, lightly toast the meringue with a kitchen torch.

Pro Tips for the Best Smores Brownie Cupcakes

Keep these in mind:

Use room temperature ingredients for smoother batter consistency.
Don’t overmix the brownie batter to keep it fudgy.
For an extra touch, drizzle chocolate ganache over the meringue topping.
Be cautious when toasting the meringue to avoid burning.

Best Ways to Serve Smores Brownie Cupcakes

These cupcakes shine when served warm, allowing the marshmallow topping to be extra gooey. Consider pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience. For a fun twist, serve them at your next backyard gathering as campfire brownie cupcakes, bringing the essence of s’mores to your guests.

How to Store and Reheat Smores Brownie Cupcakes

To keep your cupcakes fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to preserve their texture, consider refrigerating them. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before serving. This method keeps the brownie soft and the marshmallow topping delightful.

Frequently Asked Questions About Smores Brownie Cupcakes

What’s the secret to perfect Smores Brownie Cupcakes?

The secret lies in ensuring that the brownie batter is not overmixed and using high-quality chocolate. This guarantees a rich flavor and the perfect texture, making your s’mores inspired dessert cupcakes truly irresistible.

Can I make Smores Brownie Cupcakes ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the cupcakes a day in advance and store them in an airtight container. Just add the meringue topping right before serving for the best texture and flavor.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Smores Brownie Cupcakes?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure your oven is properly preheated and do not open the oven door too frequently while they bake. This prevents temperature fluctuations that could affect the baking process.

Variations of Smores Brownie Cupcakes You Can Try

Experimenting with variations can elevate your baking game. Consider making mini s’mores brownie cupcakes for bite-sized delights or adding a layer of peanut butter for extra richness. You can also try different toppings like crushed graham crackers or a drizzle of caramel for a unique twist on the classic.