33 Decadent Marshmallow Treat Recipes for Summer BBQs

Sandra Walker

October 6, 2025

Knowing that you’re a fan of marshmallows is the first step to discovering these incredible dessert creations, known as marshmallow cakes. But for those who might be unfamiliar with this delightful treat, let’s start from scratch. Marshmallow cakes are essentially a combination of fluffy white marshmallows and cake, layered together to create a sweet and indulgent experience. Whether you’re in the mood for something simple or elaborate, these desserts are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

And the best part? They’re incredibly easy to make, allowing you to experiment with different flavors and combinations without any hassle. From classic vanilla to rich chocolate, our collection of 17 marshmallow cake recipes has got you covered, no matter what your sweet tooth is craving.

Mississippi Mud Cake

Mississippi Mud Cake

Beneath the surface of this classic dessert lies a rich history and an undeniable allure that has captivated the hearts of many, especially in the southern United States. Every bite of Mississippi mud cake is a masterclass in decadence, with its fluffy texture, gooey marshmallows, and rich, sugary frosting perfectly balanced to create a truly unforgettable experience.

If you have any older southern relatives who have been fortunate enough to try this beloved dessert, you’ve likely heard tales of its incredible taste and charm. In fact, it’s no secret that southern women have long mastered the art of crafting Mississippi mud cake, elevating it to an iconic status in the world of baking.

And if you’re about to take your first bite, don’t worry – being a newcomer has its perks, as you’ll soon discover the joy of experiencing this culinary masterpiece for yourself. I must admit, even as someone who’s already familiar with its delights, I still feel a twinge of envy towards those who get to try it for the very first time.

Marshmallow Chocolate Poke Cake

Marshmallow Chocolate Poke Cake

Known for its decadent taste and moist texture, a well-made poke cake can be truly irresistible. A great example of this is the marshmallow chocolate poke cake, which boasts a unique liquid interior that’s both light and fluffy. The combination of flavors and textures creates an unforgettable experience. To elevate it to the next level, top it with marshmallow whipped cream and a drizzle of rich chocolate ganache.

Not only will this add a touch of elegance, but it will also amplify the indulgent nature of the cake.

Easter Peeps Cake

Easter Peeps Cake

Hot Chocolate Poke Cake

Hot Chocolate Poke Cake

Elevate your dessert game with this moist and juicy poke cake that’s sure to impress. The unique twist comes from covering the cake and filling the holes with buttery, liquified marshmallows, giving it a distinctive texture that’s almost buoyant, unlike anything you’ve tried before. To take it to the next level, top it off with hot chocolate-flavored whipped cream, and add your favorite toppings for an extra touch of sweetness.

Just be aware that this cake is quite rich, so one piece should be enough to satisfy your sweet tooth without feeling guilty about overindulging.

S’mores Icebox Cake

S’mores Icebox Cake

Oozing with the flavors of a traditional campfire treat, this 25-minute layered dessert is a game-changer for s’mores lovers. Unlike its classic counterpart, however, this version is decidedly cooler and much more refreshing. For those who can’t get enough of chocolate, marshmallows, and graham crackers, this recipe is the ultimate solution.

S’mores Ice Cream Cake

S’mores Ice Cream Cake

Zest up your dessert game with this show-stopping s’mores ice cream cake. While traditional s’mores cakes are delicious, sometimes one just isn’t enough. This magnificent creation still boasts the same sensational s’mores flavor we all know and love, but now it’s elevated to a whole new level by incorporating cold, creamy vanilla marshmallow ice cream into the mix.

To add an extra layer of decadence, this cake features not one, but two layers of fluffy chocolate cake, making each bite a rich, fudgy, s’mores-flavored delight.

Lemon Marshmallow Poke Cake

Lemon Marshmallow Poke Cake

Rarely do desserts get as much attention as the rich, decadent chocolate recipes that have dominated this list so far. But those who crave something lighter, brighter, and zestier are in luck! Giving your taste buds a welcome respite from the richness of chocolate is a lemon marshmallow poke cake that’s sure to impress.

This delightful dessert boasts a pillowy soft texture, a spongy crumb, and an abundance of vibrant lemon goodness that will transport you to a sunny spring or summer morning – making it the perfect choice for a brunch gathering.

Whoopie Pie Cake

Whoopie Pie Cake

Many people are familiar with whoopie pies, a classic dessert that has been around for centuries. In essence, they consist of two layers of moist chocolate cake separated by a creamy filling, much like the popular sandwich cookie Ding Dongs but in a larger format. This recipe takes the traditional whoopie pie to new heights by adding a rich and decadent chocolate ganache topping, elevating the treat to an entirely new level of indulgence without sacrificing its signature softness and sponginess.

Peanut Butter Confetti Cake

Peanut Butter Confetti Cake

Key to experiencing the unique charm of peanut butter confetti cake is to try it firsthand – no vivid descriptions can do it justice. The combination of a chewy, fudgy texture and gooey marshmallow bits in every bite creates an irresistible treat that’s elevated by its rich butterscotch notes. The colorful mini marshmallows not only add a fun pop of color to the cake, but they also contribute significantly to its distinctive texture.

With their varied hues, these tiny marshmallows are the source of the ‘confetti’ effect, making this dessert perfect for celebrations like Easter or any other occasion. As a bonus, the simplicity of preparing peanut butter confetti cake makes it an ideal choice for a quick indulgence at any time of day.

Strawberry Upside-Down Cake

Strawberry Upside-Down Cake

Elevate your dessert game with this scrumptious strawberry upside-down cake recipe! It’s a sweet and tangy twist on the classic pineapple upside-down cake. I’m obsessed with strawberries, and this cake perfectly showcases their flavor profile – sweet, tart, and just a hint of tanginess. The best part? This cake requires minimal ingredients to make, using only strawberries, strawberry Jell-O, strawberry cake mix, standard baking ingredients, and (of course) marshmallows!

It’s a light, fluffy, and utterly divine treat that’s perfect for sizzling summer days. Whether you’re a strawberry fan or just looking for a refreshing dessert option, this recipe is sure to impress.

Birthday Cake Marshmallows

Birthday Cake Marshmallows

Vibrant, soft, and springy marshmallow cakes are what these treats actually are. Despite their diminutive size, they pack a punch when it comes to taste and texture. They’re delightfully spongy and have the ability to practically melt in your mouth, making them an absolute delight to devour. The insane level of sweetness and sugary goodness is complemented perfectly by the abundance of colorful sprinkles on top.

If these don’t put you in a festive and party-loving mood, then nothing will quite do.

Strawberry Marshmallow Mousse Cake

Strawberry Marshmallow Mousse Cake

Often, we stumble upon recipes that are too good not to be shared with others. This strawberry marshmallow mousse cake is a perfect example of such a recipe. Not only is it effortless to prepare, but its taste is also nothing short of exceptional. One of the reasons why this cake stands out is that it’s versatile and can be enjoyed on any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a special milestone or just need a sweet treat to brighten up your day, this heavenly dessert has got you covered.

With its abundance of strawberry flavor, it’s no wonder that I consider it one of my all-time favorite summer desserts. Plus, who can resist the allure of strawberries and marshmallows coming together in perfect harmony? That’s why I just had to share this recipe with you!

Ding Dong Cake

Ding Dong Cake

Keen on trying a Ding Dong cake? If so, you’ll appreciate the rich and chocolatey flavor profile, along with its sweet, gooey cream center. One of the notable differences between this cake and traditional Ding Dongs is its lighter and cakier texture. Additionally, the dark chocolate frosting adds an extra layer of indulgence that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.

The Best Vanilla Cake

The Best Vanilla Cake

Everyone will adore this delightful warm vanilla cake, which exudes comfort, sweetness, and a sense of coming home. The combination of its fluffy, moist texture and homemade marshmallow frosting creates an irresistible treat that’s hard to resist. Its simplicity is what makes it truly elegant and divine, while the ease of preparation allows you to indulge in it as often as you like, whether for a casual dessert or a more formal gathering.

This cake embodies the charm of old-fashioned baked goods, making it a must-try for anyone who appreciates traditional desserts.

Fluffernutter Cake

Fluffernutter Cake

Often, we come across words that bring us joy and excitement, and ‘fluffernutter’ is definitely one of them! The mere sound of it rolling off our tongues is enough to put a smile on our faces. But have you ever wondered what this delightful word actually refers to? In the context of this recipe, fluffernutter is described as a peanut butter + marshmallow creme sandwich, which may seem simple but is also a nod to Massachusetts’ official sandwich.

This recipe takes that classic combination and transforms it into a cake, resulting in a light, spongy, and indulgent treat that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. To take it to the next level, be sure to add some broken Reese’s on top – this adds an extra touch of flair to the dish. Additionally, feel free to experiment with the amount of salt you use, as I prefer a slightly heavier hand to balance out the sweetness and bring out the full flavor.

S’mores Mug Cake

S’mores Mug Cake

Need a quick fix of chocolatey goodness? Look no further than this scrumptious s’mores mug cake! It’s ready in just 7 minutes – yes, you read that right, 5 minutes of prep and only 2 minutes in the microwave. To make it, you’ll need just 10 everyday ingredients that are probably already stocked in your pantry. If you’re a fan of over-the-top chocolatey s’mores, this cake is tailor-made for you.

The combination of crunchy graham crackers, creamy marshmallows, and gooey chocolate is absolute perfection. Go ahead and whip up a few batches if you have guests coming over – but be warned, these cakes are so irresistible that you’ll want to keep them all to yourself!

17 Easy Marshmallow Cakes

Here are five mouth-watering marshmallow cake recipes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Ranging from classic poke cakes and refreshing icebox treats to decadent birthday masterpieces, these sweet concoctions have the power to win over even the most discerning palates.

Instructions

Instructions

Zest up your culinary skills by choosing a recipe that suits your taste buds. To streamline the process, list down all the essential ingredients you’ll need for the dish. Then, get creative and bake a mouth-watering marshmallow cake in under 30 minutes!

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