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As the sun starts to set and the soft glow of evening beckons, I find myself transported back to my childhood—grabbing s’mores by the campfire, the gooey marshmallows melting into the embrace of crunchy graham crackers and rich chocolate. This Peanut Butter S’mores Cake captures that nostalgic charm with a twist, elevating the classic treat into a show-stopping dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.

When a wave of cravings hit, and I’m yearning for something beyond fast food, I often turn to this indulgent cake. Imagine layers of soft, buttery graham cracker cake, filled with pillowy toasted marshmallow cream, and then draped in a decadent chocolate ganache. Each bite is a celebration of flavor, combining the warmth of peanut butter with that quintessential campfire experience.

Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself after a long day, this cake hits all the right notes: it’s impressively easy to make and sure to please both kids and adults alike. Join me as I guide you through the delightful process of baking this irresistible dessert!

Why is Peanut Butter S’mores Cake a must-try?

Decadent Layers: This cake features layers of buttery graham cracker goodness, perfectly balanced with rich peanut butter and melting marshmallow filling.

Nostalgic Delight: Each bite takes you back to cozy campfire nights, blending familiar flavors into an innovative dessert that everyone will adore.

Easily Scalable: Whether you need a small treat for the family or a grand centerpiece for a gathering, this recipe can be adjusted with ease.

Quick Preparation: With straightforward steps, you’ll have this crowd-pleaser ready in no time, saving you from those fast-food cravings.

Perfect for Sharing: Impress friends and family with this stunning dessert at your next event—it’s sure to spark conversations and requests for the recipe!

Peanut Butter S’mores Cake Ingredients

For the Cake Base

Graham crackers – 3 cups finely ground; these create the cake’s signature texture.
Unsalted butter – 3/4 cup, melted; this adds richness to the cake base.
Granulated sugar – 1/2 cup; sweetens the cake perfectly.
Graham cracker crumbs – 1 cup; use finely ground to maintain a consistent texture.
All-purpose flour – 2 cups; this gives the cake structure and stability.
Baking powder – 1 3/4 tsp; ensures your cake rises to perfection.
Baking soda – 3/4 tsp; aids in leavening, creating a light cake.
Ground cinnamon – 1/2 tsp; adds a warm, aromatic flavor to the cake.
Salt – 3/4 tsp; enhances the sweetness of the cake layers.

For the Marshmallow Filling

Unsalted butter – 1 cup, at room temperature; creates a luscious texture in the filling.
Granulated sugar – 1 2/3 cups; sweetens and stabilizes the filling.
Eggs – 4 large; these give structure and moisture to the filling.
Buttermilk – 2 cups, at room temperature; keeps your cake moist and fluffy.
Regular-sized marshmallows – 24; these will be broiled to achieve that toasted flavor.
Powdered sugar – 1 cup, measured and sifted; ensures a smooth buttercream consistency.
Vanilla extract – 1/2 tsp; adds a sweet aroma to the filling.
Marshmallow fluff – 1 jar (200 g); helps create that beloved marshmallow flavor.

For the Chocolate Ganache

Dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips – 1 cup; use high-quality chocolate for rich flavor.
Heavy whipping cream – 3/4 to 1 cup; this creates a silky ganache that’s perfect for drizzling.

For the Peanut Butter Frosting

Unsalted butter – 1 1/2 cups, slightly cold; adds creaminess to the frosting.
Creamy peanut butter – 1 cup; for a rich, nutty flavor that ties the cake together.
Powdered sugar – 5 cups, measured and sifted; sweetens the frosting for that perfect creaminess.
Vanilla extract – 1 tbsp; enhances the peanut butter taste.
Heavy whipping cream – 1/4 cup; helps fluff up the frosting for easy spreading.
Pinch of salt – balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.

Each ingredient in this Peanut Butter S’mores Cake plays a significant role in crafting that nostalgic treat we all love, but in a cake form!

How to Make Peanut Butter S’mores Cake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a half-sheet baking pan with parchment paper and set it aside; this prepares the perfect surface for your delicious graham cracker layer.
Combine graham crackers, melted butter, and sugar in a food processor. Blend until the mixture resembles wet sand—this will create the flavorful base of your cake.
Sprinkle the graham cracker mixture onto the lined baking pan. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes until golden brown, then let cool completely. You can make this ahead and store it in the freezer!
Preheat your oven again, this time to 350°F (175°C). Spray three 8-inch (or four 6-inch) round cake pans with non-stick spray, line with parchment paper, and spray again to prevent sticking.
Process graham crackers in a food processor or blender until finely ground. This will ensure a smooth consistency in your cake.
Mix the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt in a medium bowl. Whisk until well blended; these are the dry ingredients that will make your cake rise beautifully.
Beat the unsalted butter and sugar in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment on medium speed until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition for a rich cake batter.
Combine the dry ingredients with the wet mixture. Alternate adding 1/3 of your dry mix and half of the buttermilk, mixing until fully incorporated. Repeat this step until the batter is smooth and ready.
Scrape down the sides of the bowl and mix on low for another 20-30 seconds. This ensures that everything is well combined and eliminates any lumps.
Divide the batter evenly among your prepared pans and bake for about 25 to 30 minutes. Check with a toothpick; if it comes out with a few moist crumbs, they’re perfect! Cool on a wire rack before transferring to cooling racks.
Broil marshmallows on a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper until golden brown, about 30-60 seconds. Flip them and broil the other side until equally toasted; this will add that irresistible campfire flavor.
Mix the butter and powdered sugar in a stand mixer on low speed until incorporated, then add vanilla. Beat on medium speed for three minutes until fluffy; this will create your delicious marshmallow filling.
Incorporate the marshmallow cream and toasted marshmallows into the mixture and beat for another minute. This fluffy filling can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge.
Heat the heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl for about one minute, then pour over the chocolate chips. Let sit for a couple of minutes before stirring until melted and cooled to room temperature.
Combine slightly cold unsalted butter and creamy peanut butter in a stand mixer, beating on medium-high speed until smooth. This frosting will add that signature peanut butter flavor.
Gradually add the powdered sugar and mix until incorporated. Turn the mixer to high and blend in the vanilla, salt, and heavy whipping cream, whipping until fluffy and creamy—about 4-5 minutes.
Stir the frosting by hand with a wooden spoon to push out any air pockets. This ensures a smooth texture that’s perfect for spreading.
Assemble by placing the first cake layer on a cake board, bottom-side down. Pipe a rim of buttercream around the edge and fill it with about 1 cup of toasted marshmallow filling, topping with graham cracker crumbs and a drizzle of chocolate ganache.
Repeat this for the second cake layer, creating layers of delightful flavor and texture in your dessert.
Add the final cake layer, top side down. Apply a crumb coat of buttercream over the entire cake and then freeze for about 15 minutes; this helps stabilize your cake before the final frosting.
Finish by frosting the cake with the remaining peanut butter frosting and drizzling chocolate ganache over the top for that show-stopping finish!

Optional: Garnish with extra marshmallows or graham cracker crumbs for a delightful presentation.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Peanut Butter S’mores Cake components are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the graham cracker base and marshmallow filling up to 3 days in advance. Simply bake the graham cracker mixture and store it in an airtight container in the freezer; this will keep it fresh and flavorful. For the marshmallow filling, mix it up and refrigerate it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to assemble, just frost with the peanut butter mixture and drizzle on the chocolate ganache—this ensures every bite is as delightful as if you made it fresh that day!

How to Store and Freeze Peanut Butter S’mores Cake

Fridge: Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This keeps it fresh and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Freezer: If you want to enjoy the cake later, freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Ensure it’s well wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: To enjoy a slice, let it thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm gently in the microwave or at room temperature for a few hours before serving.

Leftover Frosting: Any extra peanut butter frosting can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks, ready for your next baking adventure!

Expert Tips for Peanut Butter S’mores Cake

Perfectly Toasted Marshmallows: Broil the marshmallows for only 30-60 seconds to avoid burning. Keep an eye on them as they can quickly turn from toasted to charred!
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and butter are at room temperature before mixing. This helps the batter combine smoothly, giving the Peanut Butter S’mores Cake a lighter texture.
Efficient Layering: Pipe the buttercream around the edge of each layer before filling it with marshmallow. This creates a barrier that keeps the filling contained and adds height to your cake.
Don’t Skip the Crumb Coat: After your first layer of frosting, chill the cake for 15 minutes. This sets the crumbs and makes your final frosting layer beautifully smooth.
Quality Chocolate: Use high-quality dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips for your ganache. The richness enhances the flavor and complements the sweetness of the cake beautifully.

Peanut Butter S’mores Cake Variations

Feel free to enrich this delightful dessert with your own personal twists and flavors!

Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for an equally scrumptious cake that everyone can enjoy.
Nut-Free: Use sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter for those with nut allergies, offering that same creamy goodness without the nuts.
Chocolate Lovers: Fold in mini chocolate chips into the cake batter for added surprise bites of rich flavor throughout the cake.
Dynamic Filling: Swap out the toasted marshmallows in the filling with whipped cream for a lighter alternative that’s equally dreamy and fluffy.
Extra Flavor: Mix in a teaspoon of espresso powder to the cake batter to enhance the chocolate’s depth and add a hint of coffee flavor.
Fruit Twist: Add a layer of fresh raspberries or sliced strawberries between the cake layers for a pop of freshness that beautifully complements the richness.
Spicy Heat: Sprinkle a pinch of cayenne or chili powder into your frosting for an unexpected kick that pairs so well with the sweetness!
Mini Version: Create mini versions of this cake using cupcake pans for a fun party treat that encourages individual servings and creativity.

Embrace these variations, inspiring joy and creativity in the kitchen while crafting your own unique Peanut Butter S’mores Cake masterpiece!

What to Serve with Peanut Butter S’mores Cake?

Creating a delightful meal experience means pairing your dessert with the perfect accompaniments that complement its rich flavors.

Vanilla Ice Cream: This classic pairing provides a creamy contrast, balancing the cake’s sweetness and adding a cool touch to every bite.
Fresh Berries: Strawberries or raspberries offer a tart freshness that cuts through the richness, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that’s sure to impress.
Chocolate Espresso Martini: Sipping on this indulgent cocktail adds a touch of sophistication, with its rich coffee and chocolate notes beautifully enhancing the cake’s flavor.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of freshly whipped cream enhances the dessert’s decadence without overwhelming its flavors, making each bite a delightful experience.
Toasted Coconut: Sprinkling toasted coconut on the side adds a nutty crunch that pairs wonderfully with the peanut butter, echoing the campfire theme of this enticing cake.
Chocolaty Hot Cocoa: A warm mug of rich hot cocoa complements the cake’s chocolate ganache while evoking fond memories of cozy campfire nights.
Peanut Brittle: For an added crunch, pairing a few pieces of peanut brittle on the side accentuates the peanut butter flavor, making it a satisfying texture contrast in every mouthful.
Caramel Drizzle: A light drizzle of warm caramel sauce over the slice amplifies that sweet, nostalgic dessert experience, marrying perfectly with the s’mores theme.

Peanut Butter S’mores Cake Recipe FAQs

How do I know if my graham crackers are fresh enough for the cake?
Absolutely! When selecting graham crackers, look for ones that are free from dark spots or moisture. Fresh graham crackers should be crisp and break easily—avoid any that feel soft or have a stale smell.

What is the best way to store Peanut Butter S’mores Cake?
To keep your cake fresh, store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This not only preserves its flavor but also allows the ingredients to meld beautifully. If you have leftovers, you can freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months; just make sure to wrap it securely to prevent freezer burn!

Can I freeze the Peanut Butter S’mores Cake? If so, how?
Yes, you can! To freeze your cake, first slice it into desired portions. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in an airtight container or resealable freezer bag. This prevents freezer burn and keeps your cake moist. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply let a slice thaw in the fridge overnight and warm it up gently before serving.

What should I do if my marshmallows burn while broiling?
Very! If your marshmallows burn during broiling, don’t worry too much—just scrape off the charred bits and try again. To avoid burning, keep a close eye on them while they broil, turning them after about 30 seconds to achieve an even golden brown.

Are there any allergy considerations I should be aware of for Peanut Butter S’mores Cake?
Definitely! This cake contains peanut butter, which is a common allergy. If you are preparing this for someone with nut allergies, you might consider using sunbutter or a nut-free butter substitute. Additionally, check any packaged products like graham crackers and chocolate chips for potential allergens. Always inform your guests of all ingredients, just to be safe!

Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can! You can prepare the marshmallow filling a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just give it a quick stir before using it to ensure a smooth texture. This can save you time on the day of your cake-making adventure!