If you’re looking to capture the magic of the holidays in a single bite, you absolutely must try s Chocolate-Stuffed Marshmallow Cupcakes. These delightful little cakes bring chocolatey goodness and gooey marshmallow centers together in the most festive way. Imagine a fluffy chocolate cupcake hiding a melted marshmallow surprise, topped with clouds of marshmallow filling and luscious chocolate frosting. Each cupcake is rich, nostalgic, and absolutely irresistible—a treat that’s as perfect for Christmas parties as it is for cozy nights at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of s Chocolate-Stuffed Marshmallow Cupcakes is that every ingredient works hard to make these cupcakes unforgettable. From the cake base to the marshmallow filling and decadent frosting, each component is essential for the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and visual appeal.
- Chocolate cake mix: Use your favorite boxed mix for ease, or homemade batter for a personal touch. This is your cupcake foundation.
- Mini marshmallows: These melt into gooey pockets inside the cupcakes. Large marshmallows (cut in half) work as well for even bigger surprises.
- Chocolate chips (optional): Toss these in the center for an extra boost of melty chocolate decadence.
- Marshmallow fluff/creme: The secret weapon for the irresistible creamy filling—sweet and sticky perfection.
- Butter (softened): Brings richness and smoothness to both the marshmallow filling and chocolate frosting.
- Powdered sugar: Essential for sweetening and thickening the frostings until they’re just right.
- Vanilla extract: A splash of this rounds out the flavors and enhances the cupcake’s aroma.
- Unsalted butter (for chocolate frosting): Ensure your chocolate frosting is as rich and creamy as possible.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: Delivers deep chocolate flavor and a beautiful color contrast with the marshmallow filling.
- Salt: Just a pinch keeps the sweetness perfectly balanced in the frosting.
- Heavy cream: Makes your chocolate frosting ultra-light, fluffy, and easy to pipe or spread.
How to Make s Chocolate-Stuffed Marshmallow Cupcakes
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a muffin tin with cupcake liners. This little bit of prep instantly makes you feel like you’re about to create something truly special. Lining the pan ensures easy cupcake removal and helps keep everything tidy.
Step 2: Mix Up Your Cupcake Batter
Prepare your chocolate cake mix according to the package instructions (or mix up your favorite homemade recipe—make it your own!). Spoon the batter into each cupcake liner, filling each about two-thirds of the way. This leaves just enough space for your marshmallow-stuffed surprise.
Step 3: Add Marshmallows and Chocolate Chips
Gently press 1–2 mini marshmallows (or half of a large marshmallow) and a few chocolate chips (if you’d like extra gooeyness) into the center of each filled cupcake liner. The marshmallows will melt into sweet, gooey goodness as the cupcakes bake, creating an unmistakable “wow” factor in every bite.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Slide your prepared tin into the oven and bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the tops are set and spring back lightly when touched. Transfer the cupcakes to a cooling rack and let them cool completely before moving on to the next step—this helps the marshmallow filling firm up and prevents melting your frosting!
Step 5: Make the Marshmallow Filling
While your cupcakes are cooling, mix together your marshmallow fluff/creme and softened butter, beating until it’s light and fluffy. Stir in powdered sugar and vanilla extract to taste. This creamy mixture becomes the hidden cloud of sweetness inside each cupcake.
Step 6: Fill the Cupcakes
Transfer the marshmallow filling to a piping bag fitted with a round tip. Insert the tip into the center of each cooled cupcake and gently squeeze until the filling starts to ooze out the top. The cupcakes will look tempting already, but just wait—we’re not done yet!
Step 7: Make the Chocolate Frosting
Beat the softened butter in a large bowl until creamy, then gradually mix in the powdered sugar, cocoa powder, salt, and vanilla extract. Add heavy cream slowly, beating until your chocolate frosting is ultra-smooth, fluffy, and absolutely dreamy. If it’s too thick, splash in a little more cream.
Step 8: Frost and Decorate
Pipe or generously spread the chocolate frosting over each filled cupcake. The final touch—add a drizzle of melted chocolate, a sprinkle of mini marshmallows, or a dusting of cocoa powder to channel the holiday spirit! Now your s Chocolate-Stuffed Marshmallow Cupcakes look as stunning as they taste.
How to Serve s Chocolate-Stuffed Marshmallow Cupcakes
Garnishes
To make your s Chocolate-Stuffed Marshmallow Cupcakes absolutely irresistible, add a handful of mini marshmallows on top, a drizzle of melted chocolate, or even festive sprinkles. For a snowy effect, a light dusting of powdered sugar or cocoa powder works wonders. Garnishes aren’t just decoration—they elevate each bite!
Side Dishes
Pair these cupcakes with a mug of hot cocoa, a tall glass of cold milk, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate dessert experience. If you’re serving them at a party, a platter of fresh berries or a fruit salad will balance the cupcake’s richness and add color to your dessert table.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange your s Chocolate-Stuffed Marshmallow Cupcakes on a tiered stand for a showstopping centerpiece, or nestle them in holiday-themed cupcake wrappers. For a lovely gift, place each cupcake in a clear cellophane bag, tie it with festive ribbon, and add a personalized tag. They’re guaranteed to impress!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. After that, pop them in the fridge to keep the marshmallow filling fresh. Just make sure they’re completely cooled before storing so the frosting and filling stay light and fluffy.
Freezing
s Chocolate-Stuffed Marshmallow Cupcakes freeze like a dream! Simply place them (unfrosted or fully frosted) in a sturdy, freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper. They’ll keep well for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating
To recapture a bit of that just-baked magic, let your cupcakes come to room temperature or warm them in the microwave for about 10 seconds. The marshmallow center will become perfectly gooey again, just like fresh from the oven!
FAQs
Can I use homemade chocolate cupcake batter instead of boxed mix?
Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite homemade chocolate cupcake recipe for s Chocolate-Stuffed Marshmallow Cupcakes. Homemade batter adds a wonderful personal touch and allows you to control the sweetness and chocolate intensity.
What type of marshmallows work best for stuffing?
Mini marshmallows melt evenly and fill the center beautifully, but if all you have are large marshmallows, just cut them in half or quarters. Both options guarantee a gooey surprise with every bite.
Can I make s Chocolate-Stuffed Marshmallow Cupcakes in advance?
Yes, these cupcakes are super convenient to make ahead! You can bake and fill them a day or two in advance. Just frost on the day of serving, or store frosted cupcakes in the refrigerator until ready.
How do I avoid the marshmallow filling leaking out?
Let the cupcakes cool completely before filling them, and go easy when piping the marshmallow fluff inside. If you overfill, a little may escape—embrace the ooze, it just adds to their homemade charm!
Are s Chocolate-Stuffed Marshmallow Cupcakes suitable for freezing with frosting?
Definitely! Frosted or unfrosted, these cupcakes freeze beautifully. Just be sure to use parchment paper between layers in your container to prevent sticking, and let them thaw in the fridge before enjoying.
Final Thoughts
Bring extra joy and chocolate to your next celebration with s Chocolate-Stuffed Marshmallow Cupcakes. Whether made for a holiday gathering or just to treat yourself, they’re sure to become a go-to favorite. Give them a try and create some epic memories, one gooey, marshmallow-filled bite at a time!