If you’re a fan of gooey, chocolatey desserts that remind you of summer campfires, then you’re in for a treat! These Chocolate Cake Smores Cookies combine the rich, decadent taste of devil’s food cake with the nostalgic flavors of s’mores. With a soft, chewy texture and bursts of melted chocolate and marshmallow, these cookies are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or simply indulging yourself, these cookies will surely satisfy your sweet tooth.
Why It Deserves a Spot
Chocolate Cake Smores Cookies are not just any ordinary cookies; they are a delightful fusion of two beloved treats. The use of a devil’s food cake mix means you can whip them up in no time, making them an ideal choice for busy bakers. The combination of chocolate, marshmallows, and graham crackers evokes a sense of nostalgia while delivering a taste explosion that will leave your friends and family raving. Plus, who can resist the charm of a cookie that tastes like a campfire treat? These cookies are perfect for gatherings, snacks, or as a late-night indulgence.
The Essentials
To make these irresistible Chocolate Cake Smores Cookies, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 (18.25 ounce) box of devil’s food cake mix
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 3 (1.55 ounce) Hershey’s chocolate bars, cut into rectangles
- 1 1/2 cups mini marshmallows
- 1 1/2 cups roughly chopped graham crackers
Equipment at a Glance
- Mixing bowls: For combining your ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure precise measurements.
- Whisk or spatula: For mixing the dough.
- Baking sheet: To place your cookies on while they bake.
- Parchment paper: To prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Cooling rack: To cool the cookies once they come out of the oven.
Method: Chocolate Cake Smores Cookies
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly and come out perfectly soft and chewy.
Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will help prevent the cookies from sticking and make for an easier cleanup.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and eggs. Use a whisk to mix until the ingredients are well combined and smooth.
Step 4: Add the Cake Mix
Gradually add the devil’s food cake mix to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix. The dough will be thick and slightly sticky.
Step 5: Fold in the Goodies
Gently fold in the mini marshmallows and roughly chopped graham crackers into the cookie dough. This will give your cookies that signature s’mores flavor.
Step 6: Scoop the Dough
Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, drop heaping spoonfuls of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving enough space between each cookie for spreading.
Step 7: Add Chocolate Bars
Press a piece of the Hershey’s chocolate bar into the center of each cookie dough mound. This will create a gooey chocolate center as they bake.
Step 8: Bake!
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges of the cookies are set but the centers still look soft. They will continue to cook slightly after being removed from the oven.
Step 9: Cool and Enjoy
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Once cooled, dig in and enjoy your delicious Chocolate Cake Smores Cookies!
Seasonal Serving Ideas
- Summer BBQs: Serve these cookies as a fun dessert option at your next barbecue.
- Camping Trips: Pack them for a tasty treat while enjoying the great outdoors.
- Holiday Parties: These cookies will be a hit at any holiday gathering.
- Movie Nights: Enjoy them as a sweet snack while binge-watching your favorite shows.
Behind the Recipe
The inspiration for these Chocolate Cake Smores Cookies comes from the classic campfire treat: s’mores. By combining the ease of a cake mix with the beloved flavors of chocolate, marshmallows, and graham crackers, this recipe simplifies the s’mores experience. It’s a celebration of childhood memories wrapped up in a delightful cookie form, perfect for both kids and adults alike. Each bite captures the essence of a cozy campfire night, making it a must-try for any dessert lover.
Storing Tips & Timelines
To keep your Chocolate Cake Smores Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to enjoy them longer, you can freeze the cookies. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to three months. Simply thaw them at room temperature for a few hours before enjoying. This way, you can have your favorite cookies ready whenever a chocolate craving strikes!
Common Questions
Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?
Absolutely! While devil’s food cake mix is perfect for these cookies, you can experiment with other flavors like chocolate fudge, vanilla, or even red velvet for a fun twist.
What can I substitute for the butter?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can use coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute. Just ensure it is melted before mixing it with the other ingredients.
Can I add nuts to the cookie dough?
Definitely! Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans can add a nice crunch and additional flavor to your cookies. Just fold them in along with the marshmallows and graham crackers.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies are done when the edges are set, and the centers still look slightly soft. They will continue to firm up as they cool on the baking sheet.
Before You Go
In a world filled with countless cookie recipes, Chocolate Cake Smores Cookies stand out for their unique combination of flavors and textures. They are simple to make, incredibly delicious, and bring a sense of joy with every bite. Whether you’re baking them for yourself or sharing them with loved ones, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your home. So grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to indulge in some chocolatey goodness that you won’t soon forget!
Chocolate Cake Smores Cookies
Equipment
- Mixing Bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk or spatula
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment Paper
- Cooling rack
Ingredients
- 1 box devil's food cake mix 18.25 ounce
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar packed
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter melted (1 stick)
- 3 Hershey's chocolate bars 1.55 ounce each, cut into rectangles
- 1 1/2 cups mini marshmallows
- 1 1/2 cups graham crackers roughly chopped
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking and perfect texture.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine melted unsalted butter, packed light brown sugar, and eggs. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
- Gradually add the devil's food cake mix to the wet ingredients. Mix just until combined; dough will be thick and slightly sticky.
- Gently fold in mini marshmallows and roughly chopped graham crackers to infuse signature s'mores flavor.
- Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop heaping spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart for spreading.
- Press a piece of Hershey's chocolate bar into the center of each cookie dough mound to create a gooey chocolate center.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes until edges are set and centers look soft. Cookies will firm up as they cool.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack. Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Cake Smores Cookies!
Notes
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week for maximum freshness.
- Freeze cookies in a freezer-safe container for up to three months; thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Experiment with different cake mix flavors like chocolate fudge, vanilla, or red velvet for a fun twist.
- Use coconut oil or vegan butter substitutes melted for a dairy-free version.
- Add chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and flavor.
