Why You’ll Love This Vegan Smores Cupcakes
Hey baking buddies, if you’re craving a treat that brings the joy of a campfire straight to your kitchen, this vegan smores cupcakes recipe is your new favorite! Picture soft, rich chocolate cupcakes topped with gooey chocolate and toasted marshmallow vibes, all without any animal products. It’s super easy to whip up, even on a busy weeknight, and delivers that classic s’mores flavor we all adore. Let’s dive into why these cupcakes will become your go-to dessert for everything from family gatherings to solo snack times.
First off, the ease of preparation makes this recipe a winner for busy parents and students alike. You’ll only need a few simple steps and basic ingredients to create something magical, cutting down on prep time so you can enjoy more fun moments. Plus, with health benefits like being packed with plant-based goodness, these cupcakes offer fiber and nutrients while skipping dairy and eggs, making them ideal for diet-conscious folks or food enthusiasts exploring vegan options. And the versatility? You can tweak it for gluten-free or low-calorie needs, ensuring everyone at your party feels included!
Don’t forget the distinctive flavor that sets these vegan smores cupcakes apart. The blend of chocolate cupcakes, toasted marshmallow, and a hint of crunch mimics the best campfire memories. Whether you’re a baking enthusiast or a working professional looking for a quick delight, this recipe adapts to your lifestyle. For more ideas on simple baked treats, check out our guide on delicious apple oat muffins that pair perfectly with your coffee breaks.
Key Perks at a Glance
- Ease of preparation: Straightforward steps and minimal ingredients mean you can bake these in under an hour.
- Health benefits: Plant-based and full of fiber, they’re a nutritious twist on traditional desserts.
- Versatility: Easily go gluten-free or adjust for lower calories to fit various dietary preferences.
- Distinctive flavor: That perfect mix of gooey chocolate and toasted marshmallow in every bite!
With around 450 kcal per cupcake, you get a satisfying treat that doesn’t overload on calories, perfect for balancing fun and wellness. Baker friends, once you try this, you’ll see why it’s a hit for newlyweds hosting dinner parties or seniors enjoying a sweet afternoon pick-me-up!
Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Vegan Smores Cupcakes
- Key Perks at a Glance
- Essential Ingredients for Vegan Smores Cupcakes
- Vegan Chocolate Cupcakes Ingredients
- Vegan Chocolate Frosting Ingredients
- Vegan Marshmallow Frosting Ingredients
- How to Prepare the Perfect Vegan Smores Cupcakes: Step-by-Step Guide
- Mixing and Baking the Cupcakes
- Creating the Frostings
- Assembling Your Cupcakes
- Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Vegan Smores Cupcakes
- Mastering Vegan Smores Cupcakes: Advanced Tips and Variations
- How to Store Vegan Smores Cupcakes: Best Practices
- FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Vegan Smores Cupcakes
- How can I make vegan s’mores cupcakes without cream of tartar?
- What size cupcake liners should I use for vegan s’mores cupcakes?
- What piping tip is best for frosting vegan s’mores cupcakes?
- Can I use store-bought vegan marshmallows for vegan s’mores cupcakes?
- How do I store vegan s’mores cupcakes to keep them fresh?
- Vegan Smores Cupcakes
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Last Step:
- Notes
- Nutrition
- Did you make this recipe?
Essential Ingredients for Vegan Smores Cupcakes
Alright, let’s talk about what makes these vegan smores cupcakes so amazing the ingredients! As a home cook, you’ll love how straightforward and accessible everything is. We’ll focus on the exact items needed to create those chocolate cupcakes, frostings, and toppings that bring the s’mores magic to life. Remember, using precise measurements ensures your baking turns out just right every time.
Vegan Chocolate Cupcakes Ingredients
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour or gluten-free flour
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 3/4 cup sugar (coconut organic brown or organic granulated)
- 1/2 teaspoon espresso powder (optional)
- 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup hot brewed coffee or hot water
- 1/2 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/3 cup avocado oil or another neutral vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Vegan Chocolate Frosting Ingredients
- 1/3 cup dark chocolate, chopped
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup vegan butter or shortening
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 2 tablespoons milk (almond or other nut milk)
Vegan Marshmallow Frosting Ingredients
- 240 ml chickpea brine (aquafaba) drained from a can of chickpeas
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
These ingredients cover everything for your vegan smores cupcakes recipe, from the base to the gooey chocolate and toasted marshmallow elements. For special dietary options, you can swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend or use coconut sugar to keep things low-calorie. Baker friends, always double-check your pantry to make these swaps seamless!
How to Prepare the Perfect Vegan Smores Cupcakes: Step-by-Step Guide
Excited to get baking? This step-by-step guide for vegan smores cupcakes with gooey chocolate will walk you through everything, from prepping to assembling. As a busy parent or student, you’ll appreciate how simple it is to follow along and create something delicious. Let’s jump in and make these treats that taste like a campfire adventure!
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with paper liners to get started on your vegan smores cupcakes. Mix the dry ingredients like flour, cocoa powder, sugar, espresso powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt; sift them for a smooth texture and set aside. In another bowl, combine the wet ingredients: hot coffee or water, apple cider vinegar, avocado oil, and vanilla extract, then whisk them together until blended.
Mixing and Baking the Cupcakes
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and whisk just until combined to avoid tough cupcakes. Distribute the batter evenly into 12 cupcake tins and bake for 12 16 minutes, rotating the pan halfway for even cooking. Once done, let them cool completely on a wire rack before moving on patience here makes all the difference!
Creating the Frostings
For the vegan chocolate frosting, melt the dark chocolate and let it cool slightly. Sift the powdered sugar with cocoa powder, then cream the vegan butter for about a minute. Add the sifted mixture on low speed, beat for 30 seconds on medium-high, then mix in the melted chocolate, vanilla, and milk for another 45 seconds. Adjust the consistency as needed; if it’s too runny, chill and re-whip for 10 minutes. Hey baking buddies, this frosting is key for that gooey chocolate layer!
Now for the vegan marshmallow frosting: Simmer the chickpea brine until it’s reduced by half, about 10 minutes, then chill it overnight if you have time for better stability. Whip the aquafaba until foamy, add cream of tartar and beat until it whitens, then incorporate powdered sugar and vanilla, whipping on high for 5 minutes until stiff peaks form. Use it right away to keep it from getting runny.
Assembling Your Cupcakes
To assemble, cut a hole in the center of each cooled cupcake and fill it with vegan chocolate frosting, then replace the top. Pipe more chocolate frosting on top and sprinkle graham cracker crumbs while it’s still wet for that classic crunch. Refrigerate the cupcakes without the marshmallow frosting, and just before serving, pipe on the marshmallow and toast it with a torch if you want that perfect toasted look. For more muffin inspiration, try our blueberry banana muffins recipe for a fruity twist!
Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Vegan Smores Cupcakes
One of the best parts about this vegan smores cupcakes recipe is how easy it is to make it your own! Whether you’re a food enthusiast experimenting with flavors or a diet-conscious individual watching intake, these swaps keep things fun and flexible. Let’s explore some simple changes to fit your needs. For protein boosts, try using chickpea flour or ground flaxseed as an egg substitute, which adds binding and nutrition without altering the taste much.
Switch things up with vegetable and seasoning mods, like replacing cocoa powder with carob for a milder chocolate note, or adding cinnamon to the batter for a warm twist. You can also use dairy-free caramel as a topping instead of marshmallows for variety. These options make your vegan smores cupcakes with toasted marshmallow adaptable for everyone, from travelers packing light snacks to party hosts impressing guests. Remember, a little creativity goes a long way in baking!
Mastering Vegan Smores Cupcakes: Advanced Tips and Variations
Once you’re comfortable with the basics, let’s level up your vegan smores cupcakes! Pro techniques like sifting dry ingredients ensure a moist texture, and always do the toothpick test to prevent overbaking. Experiment with flavors by adding espresso powder for deeper chocolate notes or swapping graham crackers for crushed nuts. For a wow factor, decorate with vegan chocolate ganache drizzles or fun toppings these vegan smores cupcakes with gooey chocolate will steal the show!
Make-ahead options are a game-changer for working professionals; prepare the batter ahead and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Or freeze baked cupcakes for quick treats later. As an external resource, check out this guide on vegan desserts to learn more about their benefits.
How to Store Vegan Smores Cupcakes: Best Practices
Keeping your vegan smores cupcakes fresh is key to enjoying them later, so let’s cover the basics! Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days to keep that gooey chocolate intact. For longer hold, wrap and freeze individual cupcakes for up to 3 months, then thaw overnight. Reheating in the microwave for 15-20 seconds brings back that just-baked feel, perfect for meal prep on busy days.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Vegan Smores Cupcakes
How can I make vegan s’mores cupcakes without cream of tartar?
If you don’t have cream of tartar, you can substitute it with an equal amount of white vinegar or fresh lemon juice. These acids activate the baking soda in the recipe, helping the cupcakes rise properly. Use about 1/2 teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice for every 1/4 teaspoon of cream of tartar called for in the recipe. Add it to the wet ingredients before mixing to ensure even distribution.
What size cupcake liners should I use for vegan s’mores cupcakes?
Standard cupcake liners fit perfectly for vegan s’mores cupcakes. These liners typically measure about 2 to 2.5 inches in diameter at the bottom and hold enough batter for a standard-sized cupcake. Using regular-sized liners ensures consistent baking times and even cooking throughout the cupcakes.
What piping tip is best for frosting vegan s’mores cupcakes?
A large round piping tip, such as a Wilton 1A, works well for applying chocolate frosting on vegan s’mores cupcakes. This tip creates smooth, rounded swirls that resemble traditional s’mores topping. You can also experiment with star tips for additional texture if preferred.
Can I use store-bought vegan marshmallows for vegan s’mores cupcakes?
Yes, many brands offer vegan marshmallows made without gelatin. Using store-bought vegan marshmallows saves time and simplifies preparation. Simply chop or melt them as needed for your topping or filling. Always check ingredient labels to ensure marshmallows are certified vegan.
How do I store vegan s’mores cupcakes to keep them fresh?
Store vegan s’mores cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to five days, but bring them to room temperature before serving for the best texture. Avoid freezing if the cupcakes have marshmallow toppings, as freezing can alter their consistency.

Vegan Smores Cupcakes
🧁 Experience the rich, gooey delight of Vegan S’mores Cupcakes with luscious chocolate and toasted marshmallow frosting.
🔥 This recipe offers a perfect balance of indulgent flavors and vegan-friendly ingredients for a memorable treat everyone will enjoy.
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 cupcakes 1x
Ingredients
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour or gluten-free flour
1/4 cup cocoa powder
3/4 cup sugar (coconut organic brown or organic granulated)
1/2 teaspoon espresso powder (optional)
3/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup hot brewed coffee or hot water
1/2 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1/3 cup avocado oil or another neutral vegetable oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/3 cup dark chocolate, chopped
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1 tablespoon cocoa powder
1/2 cup vegan butter or shortening
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 2 tablespoons milk (almond or other nut milk)
240 ml chickpea brine (aquafaba) drained from a can of chickpeas
1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
1-First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with paper liners to get started on your vegan smores cupcakes. Mix the dry ingredients like flour, cocoa powder, sugar, espresso powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt; sift them for a smooth texture and set aside. In another bowl, combine the wet ingredients: hot coffee or water, apple cider vinegar, avocado oil, and vanilla extract, then whisk them together until blended.
2-Mixing and Baking the Cupcakes: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and whisk just until combined to avoid tough cupcakes. Distribute the batter evenly into 12 cupcake tins and bake for 12 16 minutes, rotating the pan halfway for even cooking. Once done, let them cool completely on a wire rack before moving on patience here makes all the difference!
3-Creating the Frostings: For the vegan chocolate frosting, melt the dark chocolate and let it cool slightly. Sift the powdered sugar with cocoa powder, then cream the vegan butter for about a minute. Add the sifted mixture on low speed, beat for 30 seconds on medium-high, then mix in the melted chocolate, vanilla, and milk for another 45 seconds. Adjust the consistency as needed; if it’s too runny, chill and re-whip for 10 minutes. Hey baking buddies, this frosting is key for that gooey chocolate layer!
4-Now for the vegan marshmallow frosting: Simmer the chickpea brine until it’s reduced by half, about 10 minutes, then chill it overnight if you have time for better stability. Whip the aquafaba until foamy, add cream of tartar and beat until it whitens, then incorporate powdered sugar and vanilla, whipping on high for 5 minutes until stiff peaks form. Use it right away to keep it from getting runny.
5-Assembling Your Cupcakes: To assemble, cut a hole in the center of each cooled cupcake and fill it with vegan chocolate frosting, then replace the top. Pipe more chocolate frosting on top and sprinkle graham cracker crumbs while it’s still wet for that classic crunch. Refrigerate the cupcakes without the marshmallow frosting, and just before serving, pipe on the marshmallow and toast it with a torch if you want that perfect toasted look. For more muffin inspiration, try our blueberry banana muffins recipe for a fruity twist!
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
🌟 Use a large round piping tip (1A) for neat chocolate frosting application.
🔥 Boiling aquafaba improves marshmallow frosting stability but is optional.
⏳ Pipe marshmallow frosting just before serving, as it can become runny if left out.
🟤 Graham cracker crumbs stick best when sprinkled immediately after frosting.
❄️ Store cupcakes without marshmallow frosting for up to 4 days, and add marshmallow frosting shortly before serving for best results.
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
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- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Vegan
- Diet: Vegan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cupcake
- Calories: 450 kcal






