Name: Decadent S’mores Cheesecake: Your Ultimate Summer Indulgence
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 330 min
Ingredients: 1.5 cups Graham Crackers (Crushed to form crumbs); 0.5 cups Butter (Melted); 16 ounces Cream Cheese (Room temperature); 0.75 cups Granulated Sugar; 0.5 cups Sour Cream; 0.5 cups Heavy Cream; 1 cups Chopped Marshmallows (Folded gently); 8 ounces Chocolate (For ganache); 1 cups Mini Marshmallows (Toasted)

Imagine sinking your fork into a slice of rich, creamy S’mores Cheesecake, where every bite transports you back to carefree summer nights around the campfire. This decadent dessert combines the classic elements of gooey marshmallows, melted chocolate, and a crunchy graham cracker crust, all reimagined in a luscious cheesecake form. Not only does this recipe save you the hassle of grilling outdoors, but it also guarantees that sweet nostalgia will be a hit at any gathering. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply treat yourself, this cheesecake is a delightful way to indulge your sweet tooth without compromising on flavor. Are you ready to whip up this summer’s must-have dessert?

Why is This S’mores Cheesecake a Must-Try?

Irresistible Flavors: The unique blend of creamy cheesecake, rich chocolate, and gooey marshmallows creates a taste explosion that’s simply unforgettable.

Nostalgic Twist: This recipe captures the essence of summer campfires and childhood memories, allowing you to enjoy s’mores in a whole new format.

Easy to Make: With straightforward instructions, you’ll have a stunning dessert that’s perfect for any occasion without the need for an outdoor grill.

Crowd-Pleaser: Impress friends and family at gatherings with this visually striking and decadent dessert, sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.

Make Ahead Convenience: Prepare your cheesecake a day in advance for a hassle-free experience when hosting—simply chill and serve! For variations, don’t miss out on exploring delicious options like Churro Cheesecake Wow or some lighter bites with No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake.

Decadent S’mores Cheesecake Ingredients

For the Crust

Graham Crackers – A crunchy base that adds the perfect sweetness; consider using digestive biscuits for a similar texture.
Butter – This rich binding agent enhances the crust’s flavor; feel free to substitute with coconut oil for a non-dairy option.

For the Filling

Cream Cheese – The star of the filling, creating a smooth, rich texture; ensure it’s at room temperature for optimal blending.
Sour Cream – Adds a delightful tanginess, blending perfectly with the cream cheese; Greek yogurt is a great lighter alternative.
Heavy Cream – Enhances the cheesecakey richness, making every bite indulgent; full-fat coconut cream can be used as a non-dairy substitute.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cheesecake filling beautifully; if desired, brown sugar can add a deeper flavor.
Chopped Marshmallows – Infuses the cheesecake with a nostalgic sweetness; gently fold these in to maintain their fluffy texture.

For the Topping

Chocolate (for Ganache) – This rich topping elevates the cheesecake to a whole new level; dark chocolate offers a more intense flavor.
Mini Marshmallows – Add visual appeal and texture; toast them carefully for that classic s’mores experience, remembering to leave space for expansion when toasting.

Each ingredient forms the foundation of this decadent S’mores Cheesecake, ensuring a memorable dessert for your summer gatherings.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Decadent S’mores Cheesecake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). While the oven warms up, prepare a 9-inch springform pan by lining the bottom with parchment paper. This will make it easier to release the cheesecake later. This step sets the stage for a perfectly baked and luscious Decadent S’mores Cheesecake.

Step 2: Make the Crust
In a bowl, crush enough graham crackers to make about 1 ½ cups of crumbs. Combine the crumbs with melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this buttery mixture firmly into the base of your prepared springform pan, creating an even layer that forms a solid foundation for your cheesecake. Bake the crust for about 10 minutes until slightly golden and fragrant.

Step 3: Prepare Cheesecake Filling
In a large mixing bowl, blend 16 ounces of room-temperature cream cheese with ¾ cup of granulated sugar until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. Add ½ cup of sour cream and ½ cup of heavy cream, beating until well combined. Finally, gently fold in 1 cup of chopped marshmallows, ensuring they are evenly distributed without breaking apart, as these will add delightful pockets of sweetness in your Decadent S’mores Cheesecake.

Step 4: Pour Filling and Bake
Carefully spoon the cheesecake mixture over the warm crust in the springform pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 60 minutes. The cheesecake should be set around the edges but still slightly jiggly in the center—this ensures a creamy texture once chilled, perfect for a Decadent S’mores Cheesecake.

Step 5: Chill Cheesecake
Once baked, turn off the oven and crack the door to let the cheesecake cool gradually for about 30 minutes. After cooling, cover the cheesecake and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. This chilling process enhances the flavors and allows the cheesecake to firm up beautifully, ensuring each slice holds its shape.

Step 6: Add Ganache
To prepare the ganache, gently melt 8 ounces of chocolate in a microwave or over a double boiler, stirring until smooth. Once the cheesecake is completely cool, pour the ganache over the chilled cheesecake, letting it cascade over the edges. Use an offset spatula to spread it evenly across the top.

Step 7: Top with Marshmallows
Sprinkle a layer of mini marshmallows evenly over the ganache. Take care to leave some space between them, as they will expand when toasted. This topping will create a delightful texture contrast and enhance the overall flavor profile of the Decadent S’mores Cheesecake.

Step 8: Toast Marshmallows
Using a kitchen torch, carefully toast the mini marshmallows until golden brown, watching closely to avoid burning. If you don’t have a torch, you can place the cheesecake under the broiler for a minute or two—but keep the oven door cracked open and watch them closely. Once toasted, let the cheesecake cool for a few moments before slicing to serve.

Expert Tips for Decadent S’mores Cheesecake

Chill Properly: Ensure your cheesecake is chilled for at least four hours or overnight. This helps achieve the perfect texture and enhances the rich flavors.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Using room temperature cream cheese and eggs results in a smoother batter, preventing lumps in your Decadent S’mores Cheesecake.
Gentle Mixing: When folding in the chopped marshmallows, do so gently. This keeps their texture intact and adds delightful sweetness throughout the cheesecake.
Avoid Overbaking: Watch your cheesecake closely towards the end of baking. It should be set but still slightly jiggly in the center to maintain that creamy consistency.
Toast with Care: When toasting marshmallows on top, keep an eye on them. They can quickly go from perfect to burnt—stay close and take them off as soon as they’re golden brown!

Variations & Substitutions for Decadent S’mores Cheesecake

Feel free to get creative with this recipe; exciting twists await your taste buds!

Dairy-Free: Substitute cream cheese with vegan cream cheese and use coconut cream in place of heavy cream for a delightful non-dairy dessert.
If you’re looking for a rich indulgence without the dairy, this twist still celebrates those luscious s’mores flavors.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free graham crackers or almond flour for the crust. This ensures everyone can enjoy this decadent treat!
The satisfying crunch won’t be lost in the gluten-free transition, allowing you to savor your cheesecake guilt-free.
Nutty Delight: Incorporate crushed nuts like pecans or almonds into the crust for an added layer of texture and flavor.
This option not only makes the crust more interesting but also enhances the nuttiness that complements the chocolate beautifully.
Minty Twist: Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the cheesecake filling; it pairs surprisingly well with chocolate!
This refreshing addition transforms your s’mores experience into a festive treat that’s perfect for summer gatherings.
Fruit Infusion: Swirl in some raspberry or strawberry puree into the cheesecake mixture or add berries on top before serving.
This fruity variation adds a pop of color and a tangy flavor that balances the richness of the cheesecake nicely.
Layered Cheesecake: Create a layered effect by preparing a chocolate cheesecake layer underneath the traditional filling for an indulgent surprise.
This visually delightful option not only looks stunning but creates a decadent bite with each slice.
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne pepper into your filling or ganache for a surprising heat that complements the sweetness.
This bold choice can elevate the S’mores Cheesecake to a sophisticated dessert, perfect for adventurous eaters!

For more dessert variations, consider trying out an amazing Churro Cheesecake Wow or delight in the simplicity of No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Bites. Enjoy experimenting and discovering your favorite flavors!

What to Serve with Decadent S’mores Cheesecake

Create a memorable meal by pairing your indulgent dessert with delightful sides and drinks that enhance its rich flavors.

Whipped Cream: This fluffy topping adds lightness, perfectly balancing the dense richness of the cheesecake. A simple garnish elevates its presentation.
Fresh Berries: Sweet strawberries or tart raspberries bring a refreshing contrast that cuts through the cheesecake’s creaminess, offering a burst of fruity flavor.
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling extra chocolate sauce enhances the decadence and creates a beautiful contrast against the creamy cheesecake surface. You can easily make it at home!
Coffee or Espresso: A warm cup of coffee or espresso will provide a comforting contrast to the cool dessert while enhancing the chocolate flavors. It’s a classic pairing that caters to chocolate lovers!
Toasted Coconut Flakes: Adding a sprinkle of toasted coconut provides both texture and a tropical flavor that rounds out the rich, marshmallowy notes. Each bite becomes a mini vacation!
Mint Tea: Serve refreshing mint tea alongside cheesecake for a soothing finish to your meal. The herbal notes cleanse the palate beautifully.
Chocolate Frosted Brownies: For those truly indulgent occasions, a small slice of chocolate frosted brownies will complement the dessert’s flavor profile and bring extra richness.
Lemon Sorbet: A scoop of tangy lemon sorbet offers a palate-cleansing contrast to the sweet cheesecake, making for an invigorating burst of flavor.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy and classic, a scoop of vanilla ice cream is a delightful accompaniment that melts into the cheesecake, adding a soft texture and additional sweetness.

By carefully selecting these pairings, you’ll create an unforgettable dining experience centered around the irresistible Decadent S’mores Cheesecake.

Make Ahead Options

Busy home cooks will love how easy it is to prepare this Decadent S’mores Cheesecake ahead of time! You can make the cheesecake base up to 24 hours in advance, allowing it to chill overnight for optimal texture and flavor. Simply bake and cool the cheesecake as instructed, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. For added convenience, you can also prepare the ganache and spread it over the cheesecake up to 3 days before serving. When ready to enjoy, toast the mini marshmallows right before serving for that fresh, campfire flavor. This way, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing dessert ready to impress with minimal last-minute fuss!

How to Store and Freeze S’mores Cheesecake

Fridge: Store the Decadent S’mores Cheesecake in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Make sure it’s fully chilled before covering to avoid condensation.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Thawing: To enjoy, transfer the cheesecake from the freezer to the fridge a day before serving to allow it to thaw gently without compromising texture.
Reheating: There’s no need to reheat this dessert; simply slice and serve chilled, perhaps with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat!

Decadent S’mores Cheesecake Recipe FAQs

What’s the best way to select ripe ingredients for this cheesecake?
Absolutely! When choosing your ingredients, especially for the cream cheese and sour cream, always opt for brands with fresh expiration dates and a smooth texture. For the marshmallows, look for those that are soft and fluffy, without any dark spots or signs of hardening that come from age.

How should I store leftover S’mores Cheesecake?
To keep your Decadent S’mores Cheesecake fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays good for up to 5 days. For the best flavor and texture, ensure it’s fully cooled before covering to avoid condensation inside the container.

Can I freeze S’mores Cheesecake?
Very! To freeze your cheesecake, first let it cool completely. Wrap the cheesecake tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil. It can then be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, transfer it to the refrigerator a day in advance to thaw slowly.

What should I do if my cheesecake cracks while baking?
It’s common for cheesecakes to crack, but don’t worry! If this happens, you can cover the cracks with ganache or a sprinkle of mini marshmallows once cooled and toasted. To minimize cracking in the future, ensure your cheesecake doesn’t overbake; it should be set around the edges but still slightly jiggly in the center when done.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Yes, indeed! This Decadent S’mores Cheesecake contains gluten from the graham crackers and dairy from the cream cheese and heavy cream. If you have dietary restrictions, you can substitute gluten-free graham crackers and use non-dairy cream cheese and coconut cream to make it suitable for those with lactose intolerance or gluten sensitivities.