If you’re anything like me and love the nostalgic charm of campfire s’mores, you’re in for a treat! This S’mores Cookie Cups Recipe takes that beloved flavor combo and transforms it into a perfectly portable, indulgent dessert. Imagine crisp graham cracker cookie cups filled with rich Hershey’s chocolate ganache and crowned with a gorgeously toasted homemade marshmallow fluff—without ever needing a campfire. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll be hooked for good.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No Campfire Needed: Enjoy all the gooey goodness of s’mores any time—indoors or out.
- Perfectly Portable: These cookie cups are easy to serve and make a fun, mess-free treat for parties or gatherings.
- Balanced Flavors: The combination of graham cracker cookie, silky ganache, and toasted marshmallow fluff is just right—not too sweet, always delightful.
- Step-by-Step Friendly: I’ll walk you through each step with tips so you can nail it, even if you’ve never made marshmallow fluff before.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe blends pantry staples with a few special touches. The ingredients work beautifully together—the graham cracker crumbs create that crumbly cookie base, and fresh egg whites give the fluff its pillowy texture. When shopping, try to use good quality chocolate and real vanilla extract for the best flavor.
- Unsalted butter: Use room temperature for easy creaming and a tender cookie cup base.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cookie and the marshmallow fluff perfectly.
- Light-brown sugar: Adds a hint of molasses flavor and moisture.
- All-purpose flour: Provides structure for the cookie cups.
- Graham cracker crumbs: This is what makes these cookie cups scream s’mores—fresh crumbs work best.
- Baking soda: Helps the cookie dough rise slightly and become light.
- Sea salt: Balances the sweetness, enhancing all the flavors.
- Vanilla extract: I love to use real vanilla—makes a big difference in taste.
- Large egg: Binds ingredients and provides richness.
- Hershey’s milk chocolate: Chopped finely for smooth, melty ganache filling.
- Heavy whipping cream: Creates a luscious, creamy ganache.
- Water: Needed for the marshmallow syrup to dissolve the sugar.
- Corn syrup or honey: Keeps the marshmallow fluff glossy and stable.
- Egg whites: Beat fresh for that perfect, airy marshmallow fluff.
- Cream of tartar: Stabilizes the egg whites while whipping.
- Clear vanilla extract: Adds flavor to the fluff without coloring it.
Variations
The beauty of this S’mores Cookie Cups Recipe is how easy it is to tweak to your taste or occasion. I love swapping ingredients or adding a little flair to surprise the family—or to accommodate dietary needs.
- Gluten-Free Version: I’ve had great success using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour—just watch your baking time closely as it can vary!
- Vegan Adaptation: For a plant-based twist, replace butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free chocolate and aquafaba whipped instead of egg whites for the fluff—though it takes practice, it’s worth experimenting.
- Flavored Ganache: Sometimes I mix in a bit of espresso powder or orange zest into the ganache to give it a grown-up twist; your guests will love the surprise.
- Miniature Versions: For parties, I’ve made these smaller by using mini muffin tins—easy for guests to grab and graze.
How to Make S’mores Cookie Cups Recipe
Step 1: Mix and Press the Graham Cracker Cookie Cups
Start by creaming the room temperature butter with both granulated and brown sugars until light and fluffy; this usually takes about 3-4 minutes with an electric mixer. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing well. Then blend in the dry ingredients: flour, graham cracker crumbs, baking soda, and sea salt. The dough will be crumbly but should hold together when pressed.
Press this dough firmly into a greased muffin tin—about 2 tablespoons per cup—to form little cookie cups with a small rim. Don’t skimp on firmly pressing; this ensures crisp edges that won’t fall apart later. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 12-15 minutes until golden brown. Let them cool completely before removing.
Step 2: Prepare the Silky Hershey’s Chocolate Ganache
While the cookie cups cool, make the ganache. Heat the heavy cream just until it’s about to simmer (don’t boil!). Pour it over the chopped Hershey’s milk chocolate and let it sit for a minute. Then stir gently until smooth and glossy. I recommend using a nice sharp knife to chop the chocolate finely so it melts evenly and quickly.
Allow the ganache to cool slightly but not set, then spoon or pipe it into your cooled cookie cups, filling each nearly to the top. Pop the trays in the fridge while you prepare the marshmallow fluff.
Step 3: Make the Marshmallow Fluff and Toast
Next, it’s time to create that iconic toasted marshmallow topping. In a small saucepan, combine water, granulated sugar, and corn syrup/honey. Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves, then bring to a boil. Using a candy thermometer, heat the mixture until it reaches 240°F (soft ball stage). While the syrup heats, beat egg whites with cream of tartar until soft peaks form.
With your mixer running on medium speed, slowly pour the hot syrup into the egg whites in a thin stream; continue beating on high speed until stiff, glossy peaks form—this usually takes 5-7 minutes. Add the clear vanilla extract for flavor.
Pipe or spread generous dollops of the fluff atop your ganache-filled cookie cups. Use a kitchen torch to toast the peaks evenly until golden and slightly caramelized. If you don’t have a torch, you can place them under your broiler for a few seconds—watch closely!
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Allow the toasted fluff to set for a few minutes before serving. These cookie cups are best enjoyed the same day but can be stored for a day or two if needed (more on that below!). Grab a friend and prepare for a serious sugar rush that feels like summer camp in each bite.
Pro Tips for Making S’mores Cookie Cups Recipe
- Room Temperature Eggs: Cold eggs can deflate your batter and fluff, so I always set mine out 30 minutes ahead.
- Press Cookie Dough Firmly: You want sturdy cups for the ganache. I press down and smooth with the back of a spoon to avoid cracks.
- Watch Your Candy Thermometer: Candy-making can be tricky; steady heat and patience are key for the marshmallow syrup to hit the perfect soft ball stage.
- Torch Carefully: Toast marshmallow peaks slowly and evenly. Moving too fast or too close can burn the fluff instead of giving that perfect golden glow.
How to Serve S’mores Cookie Cups Recipe
Garnishes
I often sprinkle a pinch of crushed graham crackers or mini chocolate chips on top of the toasted marshmallow fluff for added texture and that extra s’mores vibe. A tiny pinch of flaky sea salt right on top can also deepen the chocolate flavor beautifully—I encourage you to experiment and find your favorite!
Side Dishes
These cookie cups stand out on their own, but I love serving them alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a tall glass of cold milk. For a crowd, a fresh fruit platter with tart options like berries complements the rich sweetness nicely.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, I’ve arranged these cookie cups on wooden boards layered with burlap for a rustic campfire feel. You could pipe each marshmallow peak differently or drizzle extra chocolate ganache over the tops for a decorative touch. Wrapping individual cups in parchment and tying with twine makes them perfect favors or gifts.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I store leftover cookie cups in an airtight container in the fridge. The fluff softens a bit but the texture and flavor hold up well for up to 2 days. Just be sure to keep them covered tightly to prevent drying out.
Freezing
While I don’t usually freeze the finished cookie cups with marshmallow fluff on top, you can freeze the graham cracker cookie cups and ganache separately. Freeze the cups in a single layer, and thaw fully before filling and topping with fluff.
Reheating
If you want that just-made warmth, I gently microwave a cookie cup for 10-15 seconds to soften the ganache before adding fresh marshmallow fluff on top for serving. That quick warmth brings back the melty magic without melting the fluff completely.
FAQs
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Can I make the marshmallow fluff ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the marshmallow fluff a few hours before assembling the cookie cups. Keep it covered tightly in the fridge to prevent drying out, and give it a quick whip before topping the cups for a light and airy texture.
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What’s the best substitute for corn syrup in this recipe?
Honey is a great natural substitute for corn syrup in the marshmallow fluff—it helps keep the syrup smooth and glossy. Just note honey has a distinct flavor that might add a subtle honey taste, which I actually enjoy!
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Can I use a store-bought marshmallow cream instead of making my own fluff?
You could, but homemade marshmallow fluff is lighter, fresher, and toasts beautifully. Store-bought versions tend to be denser and don’t caramelize as well under a torch, so I recommend making the fluff yourself for the best results.
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How do I prevent the cookie cups from cracking?
Press the dough firmly and evenly into the muffin tin to avoid thin spots. Also, don’t overbake—the edges should be golden but not too dark. Let them cool fully in the tin to hold their shape when removing.
Final Thoughts
Honestly, this S’mores Cookie Cups Recipe has become one of my all-time favorites to share with friends and family, especially when I want to wow without the fuss of a fire pit. I love how versatile it is, the memorable layers of texture and flavor, and how every bite feels like a childhood treat with a grown-up twist. Give it a try next time you want to impress or just indulge yourself—you won’t regret it.
PrintS’mores Cookie Cups Recipe
- Prep Time: 40 min
- Cook Time: 25 min
- Total Time: 65 min
- Yield: 10 cookie cups
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in the nostalgic flavors of S’mores transformed into elegant cookie cups. These Graham cracker cookie cups are baked to crispy perfection, filled with a luscious Hershey’s milk chocolate ganache, and topped with fluffy homemade toasted marshmallow cream. Perfect for a cozy treat without the need for a campfire.
Ingredients
Cookie Cups
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light-brown sugar (packed)
- 1/2 cup + 2 Tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 large egg (room temperature)
Chocolate Ganache
- 200 g Hershey’s milk chocolate (chopped)
- 100 ml heavy whipping cream
Marshmallow Fluff
- 1/3 cup water
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup corn syrup or honey
- 3 large egg whites (room temperature)
- 1/2 tsp cream of tartar
- 1 tsp clear vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Cookie Dough: In a mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and light-brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the large egg and vanilla extract, mixing well to combine. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, graham cracker crumbs, baking soda, and sea salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined to form the cookie dough.
- Shape and Bake the Cookie Cups: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a muffin tin. Press the cookie dough evenly into the bottom and up the sides of each muffin cup to create a cup shape. Bake for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden and set. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely in the tin before carefully removing to maintain shape.
- Make the Chocolate Ganache: Place chopped Hershey’s milk chocolate in a heat-proof bowl. In a saucepan, heat the heavy whipping cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate and let it sit for a minute. Stir gently until the chocolate is completely melted and the ganache is smooth. Let it cool slightly to thicken.
- Prepare the Marshmallow Fluff: In a small saucepan, combine water, granulated sugar, and corn syrup or honey. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until sugar dissolves, then bring to a boil without stirring until the mixture reaches 240°F (115°C) on a candy thermometer. While the syrup is heating, beat egg whites and cream of tartar in a stand mixer at high speed until soft peaks form. Slowly pour the hot syrup in a thin stream into the egg whites while continuing to beat. Add vanilla extract and beat until the mixture is thick, glossy, and cooled to room temperature.
- Assemble the S’mores Cookie Cups: Spoon the chocolate ganache into each cooled graham cracker cookie cup, filling them nearly to the top. Using a piping bag or a spoon, top each cup generously with the marshmallow fluff. For the finishing touch, lightly toast the marshmallow fluff with a kitchen torch until golden brown and slightly caramelized, or place under a broiler for a few seconds watching carefully.
- Serve and Enjoy: Allow the S’mores Cookie Cups to set at room temperature or chill briefly before serving. Enjoy the gooey, chocolatey, and marshmallow delight reminiscent of classic campfire treats without the need for an open flame.
Notes
- No campfire needed for these S’mores Cookie Cups! Graham cracker cookie cups filled with a Hershey’s milk chocolate ganache, topped with toasted homemade marshmallow fluff.
- Room temperature ingredients ensure proper mixing and texture in all components.
- Use a candy thermometer for precise marshmallow fluff consistency.
- If you don’t have a kitchen torch, use the oven broiler, but watch carefully to avoid burning.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days for best texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie cup
- Calories: 457
- Sugar: 62 g
- Sodium: 240 mg
- Fat: 19 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 70 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 61 mg