S’mores Cakes for Gifting

Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare mini cake pans or cupcake molds with non-stick spray.
Step 2: In a large bowl, sift together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Step 3: Add buttermilk, vegetable oil, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until combined.
Step 4: Gradually add hot water and mix until the batter is smooth.
Step 5: Pour batter into prepared pans and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely.
Step 6: Slice cakes in half horizontally if needed to create layers.
Step 7: Spread marshmallow fluff between cake layers to form the filling.
Step 8: Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form. Frost the top of each mini cake.
Step 9: For ganache, heat cream until just boiling, then pour over chocolate chips. Stir until smooth and let cool slightly.
Step 10: Drizzle ganache over the frosted cakes, allowing it to drip down the sides.
Step 11: Decorate with mini marshmallows, crushed graham crackers, whole graham squares, and a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream if gifting fresh.
Step 12: Finish with a drizzle of chocolate syrup and gently chill before packaging.

Storage and Reheating Tips:
Store S’mores Cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Bring to room temperature before serving. For gifting, wrap tightly in cake boxes or clear containers and keep chilled during transport. These cakes are best enjoyed fresh but can be frozen (without toppings) for up to 2 weeks.