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This indulgent s'mores mug cake transforms the classic campfire treat into a quick microwave dessert that satisfies sweet cravings in minutes. The gooey chocolate, fluffy cake, and toasted marshmallow create that nostalgic s'mores experience without the bonfire.
I first created this recipe during a rainy evening when my nephew was disappointed about our canceled camping trip. Now it's our special indoor tradition whenever we're craving that campfire feeling without leaving the kitchen.
Ingredients
- Graham crackers: these provide that authentic s'mores flavor and texture both inside the cake and as a crunchy topping
- All purpose flour: creates the cake structure while keeping it tender
- Granulated sugar: adds just enough sweetness without overpowering the chocolate and marshmallow
- Baking powder: gives the cake its rise and fluffiness despite the quick cooking time
- Salt: enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness
- Whole milk: adds richness and moisture to the cake batter
- Large egg: provides structure and helps bind the ingredients together
- Milk chocolate: use quality chocolate bars rather than chips for better melting
- Marshmallow fluff or jumbo marshmallows: fluff spreads more evenly but jumbo marshmallows give that authentic toasted look
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Graham Cracker Base:
- Crush graham crackers thoroughly in a plastic bag using a rolling pin until they become fine crumbs with no large pieces remaining. The finer the texture the better they'll incorporate into your cake batter. Reserve some crumbs for the final topping.
- Create the Cake Batter:
- Whisk together flour, graham cracker crumbs, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a bowl until completely combined. Add milk and egg, whisking until the mixture is smooth with no lumps. The batter should have a pourable consistency. Transfer to a large microwave safe mug, filling no more than halfway to allow room for rising.
- Microwave to Perfection:
- Cook the batter on medium power for exactly 2 minutes. The cake should be set but still slightly moist at the center. Immediately arrange chopped chocolate pieces evenly across the hot cake surface and microwave for another minute until chocolate is completely melted and slightly sinking into the cake.
- Add the Finishing Touches:
- Top the hot cake with marshmallow fluff or jumbo marshmallows, covering the melted chocolate layer. For the authentic s'mores experience, place under a broiler for 30 seconds until golden brown and bubbling. Sprinkle with reserved graham cracker crumbs while still warm for that classic s'mores texture.
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The secret to this recipe is using real graham crackers rather than premade graham cracker crumbs. I discovered this when making it with my nephew who insisted on crushing the crackers himself. The freshly crushed crackers have a more pronounced honey flavor that really makes the dessert taste like authentic s'mores.
Microwave Tips for Perfect Results
Every microwave varies in power, so you might need to adjust cooking times slightly. Start with less time and add more if needed. The cake should be just set but still moist in the center. Overcooking will result in a dry, rubbery texture that ruins the experience. I've found that medium power works better than high power for more even cooking.
Delicious Variations
This basic recipe can be customized in countless ways. Try dark chocolate or white chocolate instead of milk chocolate. Add a tablespoon of peanut butter before the chocolate layer for a Reese's inspired treat. Use chocolate graham crackers for an extra chocolatey experience. During the holidays, try using crushed gingersnap cookies instead of graham crackers and adding a sprinkle of cinnamon to the batter.
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Serving Suggestions
While delicious on its own, this mug cake reaches new heights with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top that melts into the warm cake. For a dinner party dessert, prepare the mugs individually and broil them just before serving for a personalized dessert experience. Serve with small spoons and napkins as the melted marshmallow can get delightfully messy!
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use chocolate chips instead of chopped milk chocolate?
Yes, chocolate chips work perfectly as a substitute for chopped milk chocolate. Use about 2 tablespoons of semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips for the same delicious result.
- → How do I know when the mug cake is fully cooked?
The cake is done when it has risen in the mug and the center appears set but still moist. Cooking times may vary slightly depending on your microwave's power, so start checking at 1 minute 45 seconds.
- → Can I make this without a microwave?
Yes, you can bake this in an oven-safe ramekin at 350°F for approximately 15-18 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- → How can I make this dessert gluten-free?
Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free graham crackers. The rest of the ingredients remain the same for a gluten-free version.
- → Can I prepare the batter ahead of time?
You can mix the dry ingredients ahead of time, but once the wet ingredients are added, it's best to cook immediately as the baking powder will start activating right away.
- → What can I use instead of marshmallow fluff?
Besides jumbo marshmallows, you can use mini marshmallows (about 2 tablespoons) or even a dollop of whipped cream with a drop of vanilla extract for a different but complementary flavor.