Heavenly S’mores Cheesecake Recipe: Campfire Magic on a Plate

Craving a decadent summer campfire classic with a cheesecake twist?

This irresistible s’mores cheesecake blends gooey marshmallow, rich chocolate, and creamy filling into a dessert that sparks pure joy.

Graham cracker crusts create a nostalgic foundation for each indulgent slice.

Chocolate ganache drizzles across the top, adding luxurious depth to every bite.

Layers of chocolate and marshmallow weave through silky cream cheese, promising a delightful sensory experience.

Toasted marshmallow peaks crown this showstopping dessert, inviting you to savor each incredible forkful.

Make this recipe and watch everyone’s eyes light up with sweet anticipation.

FAQs

  • Is this cheesecake difficult to make?

Not at all! While it looks impressive, the recipe is straightforward and can be made by bakers with basic skills. The steps are clear, and each stage is simple to follow.

  • Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the entire cheesecake a day or two before serving. It actually benefits from chilling overnight, which helps the flavors develop and the texture set perfectly.

  • Do I need special equipment to make this recipe?

You’ll need a springform pan, electric mixer, and optional kitchen torch. If you don’t have a torch, you can broil the marshmallow frosting briefly in the oven, watching carefully to prevent burning.

Smores Cheesecake Recipe with Campfire Vibes

  • Craft a Showstopper Dessert: This s'mores cheesecake transforms classic campfire treats into an elegant, impressive dessert that will wow guests at any gathering.
  • Master Delicious Complexity: While the recipe involves multiple steps, each stage builds incredible flavor layers, making it a rewarding cooking experience for passionate home bakers.
  • Customize Your Creation: Easily adapt the recipe by adjusting toasting levels, adding extra chocolate, or experimenting with different garnish combinations to make the dessert uniquely yours.
  • Celebrate Sweet Memories: Capture the nostalgic essence of traditional s'mores by reimagining the beloved treat in a rich, creamy cheesecake format that connects childhood memories with sophisticated baking.

Ingredients for Smores Cheesecake That Impresses

For the Crust:
  • Graham Cracker Crumbs: The base that provides a classic s'mores flavor and crunchy texture.
  • Sugar: Adds sweetness to the crust.
  • Butter: Helps bind the crust ingredients and creates a rich foundation.
For the Cheesecake Filling:
  • Cream Cheese: The primary component that gives the cheesecake its creamy and smooth texture.
  • Sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake filling.
  • Cocoa Powder: Adds a rich chocolate flavor to the cheesecake.
  • Eggs: Provide structure and help bind the cheesecake filling.
  • Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
  • Melted Chocolate: Adds depth and intense chocolate taste.
For the Topping and Garnish:
  • Heavy Cream, Chocolate Chips: Create a smooth and glossy ganache layer.
  • Marshmallow Fluff, Butter: Form the base of the fluffy marshmallow frosting.
  • Powdered Sugar: Provides sweetness and helps thicken the frosting.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds flavor to the marshmallow frosting.
  • Milk: Adjusts the consistency of the frosting.
  • Mini Marshmallows, Graham Cracker Pieces, Chocolate Squares: Optional garnishes that complete the s'mores theme.

How to Make Smores Cheesecake With Ease

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

Warm up your oven to 350°F. Grease a springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Create the Graham Cracker Crust

Grab your graham crackers and crush them into fine crumbs. Mix with sugar and melted butter until the mixture looks like wet sand.

Press the crumb mixture firmly into the pan’s bottom, creating a solid base.

Step 3: Bake the Crust

Pop the crust into the oven and bake for 8-10 minutes.

Remove and let it cool completely, allowing the crust to set and become crisp.

Step 4: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

In a large mixing bowl, whip the cream cheese until it becomes silky smooth.

Add in:
  • Sugar
  • Cocoa powder

Mix until everything is well combined and creates a creamy texture.

Step 5: Incorporate Eggs and Chocolate

Gently add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition.

Stir in vanilla extract and melted chocolate. Blend until the mixture is perfectly smooth and glossy.

Step 6: Bake the Cheesecake

Pour the filling over the cooled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 40-45 minutes until the center is set but still slightly wobbly.

Step 7: Chill the Cheesecake

Allow the cheesecake to cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to firm up.

Step 8: Create Chocolate Ganache

Heat heavy cream in a saucepan until it starts to simmer.

Pour over chocolate chips in a bowl. Let sit for 2 minutes, then whisk until glossy and smooth.

Step 9: Apply Ganache Layer

Pour the ganache over the chilled cheesecake, spreading evenly to the edges. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to set.

Step 10: Whip Marshmallow Frosting

In a bowl, beat marshmallow fluff and butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until fluffy.

Stir in vanilla extract and add milk as needed to reach a spreadable consistency.

Step 11: Finish with Marshmallow Topping

Spread or pipe the marshmallow frosting over the ganache layer.

Step 12: Toast the Marshmallow

Use a kitchen torch to lightly toast the marshmallow frosting, creating that classic campfire s’mores look.

Step 13: Decorate and Serve

Garnish with mini marshmallows, crushed graham crackers, and chocolate squares for the ultimate s’mores cheesecake experience.

Tips for Perfectly Creamy Smores Cheesecake Every Time

  • Wrap the springform pan with aluminum foil to create a water bath, ensuring even baking and preventing cracks in the cheesecake.
  • Let the hot cream sit on chocolate chips for exactly 2 minutes before whisking to achieve a perfectly glossy and smooth ganache texture.
  • Use a kitchen torch at a low, steady angle to get an even golden-brown color without burning the marshmallow frosting.
  • Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld and achieve a firm, creamy consistency.
  • Remove the cheesecake from the refrigerator 15-20 minutes before serving to enhance its flavor and soften the texture slightly.

Fun Twists on Smores Cheesecake Recipes

  • Campfire Classic: Skip the torch and roast marshmallows over an open flame before topping the cheesecake for authentic outdoor flavor.
  • Chocolate Lover's Dream: Replace regular chocolate with dark chocolate chips for a richer, more intense chocolate experience.
  • Nutty Adventure: Sprinkle chopped toasted almonds or pecans between ganache and marshmallow layers for added crunch and depth.
  • Seasonal Spin: Add seasonal berries like raspberries or strawberries around the edges for a fresh, fruity complement to the rich chocolate and marshmallow flavors.

Pairings That Complete Smores Cheesecake Experience

  • Indulgent Drink Pairing: Rich espresso martini perfectly complements the decadent chocolate and marshmallow layers, cutting through the creamy cheesecake with a bold, sophisticated flavor.
  • Flavor-Boosting Wine Selection: Choose a sweet late-harvest Zinfandel that matches the dessert's intense sweetness, enhancing the chocolate and graham cracker notes with its fruity undertones.
  • Comfort Beverage Match: Warm milk with a hint of cinnamon creates a nostalgic companion to the s'mores cheesecake, mirroring the classic campfire treat's cozy essence.
  • Refreshing Contrast Drink: Cold milk or chocolate milk provides a classic, simple pairing that balances the rich, creamy texture of the cheesecake while echoing its chocolatey character.

Proper Storage for Smores Cheesecake Treats

  • Seal the cheesecake in an airtight container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap. Keep refrigerated for up to 5 days. The cold temperature helps maintain its creamy texture and prevents bacterial growth.
  • Wrap the cheesecake completely in plastic wrap, then add a layer of aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 1 month. Place in the refrigerator overnight to thaw slowly and preserve its original texture.
  • Cut cheesecake into portions, wrap each slice separately in plastic wrap, then store in a freezer-safe container. This method allows easy single-serving defrosting without compromising the entire dessert.
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Smores Cheesecake Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 40 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Rich chocolate graham cracker crust cradles classic s’mores cheesecake, merging campfire nostalgia with creamy indulgence. Marshmallow-topped layers and chocolate drizzle promise a delightful dessert that brings summer memories right to your plate.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 16 ounces (454 grams) cream cheese
  • 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1 cup marshmallow fluff
  • 2 large eggs

Baking and Binding Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/3 cup cocoa powder
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream

Flavoring and Liquid Ingredients:

  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (for cheesecake)
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (for frosting)
  • 12 tablespoons milk
  • Optional Decorations:
  • Mini marshmallows
  • Graham cracker pieces
  • Chocolate squares

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven to 350F (175C) and ready a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper and light greasing.
  2. Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until uniformly moistened and cohesive.
  3. Press the crumb mixture compactly into the pan’s bottom, creating an even base layer. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then allow to cool completely.
  4. Using an electric mixer, whip cream cheese until ultra-smooth and velvety.
  5. Incorporate sugar and cocoa powder into the cream cheese, blending until fully integrated.
  6. Add eggs individually, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Blend in vanilla extract and melted chocolate until the batter becomes silky and uniform.
  7. Transfer cheesecake batter onto the cooled crust, carefully smoothing the surface for an even finish.
  8. Bake 40-45 minutes until the center sets but retains a slight wobble. Remove and allow to cool entirely at room temperature.
  9. Refrigerate the cheesecake for minimum 4 hours or preferably overnight to firm completely.
  10. Create ganache by heating cream until it reaches a gentle simmer, then pour over chocolate chips. Allow to rest 2 minutes, then whisk until glossy and smooth.
  11. Drizzle ganache over chilled cheesecake, ensuring complete and even coverage. Refrigerate 30 minutes for setting.
  12. Whip marshmallow fluff and butter together until light and fluffy.
  13. Gradually fold in powdered sugar, adding milk incrementally to achieve ideal spreading consistency.
  14. Incorporate vanilla extract into the frosting mixture.
  15. Apply marshmallow frosting atop the ganache layer, using a kitchen torch to lightly caramelize the surface.
  16. Embellish with miniature marshmallows, crushed graham crackers, and chocolate pieces for authentic s’mores presentation.

Notes

  • Toast marshmallow frosting carefully to avoid burning, using a kitchen torch at a low, steady angle for even golden-brown color.
  • Prevent cheesecake cracking by baking in a water bath and allowing gradual cooling at room temperature before refrigerating.
  • For gluten-free adaptation, substitute graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free cookie crumbs or almond meal to maintain similar texture and flavor profile.
  • Enhance make-ahead convenience by preparing cheesecake layers separately and assembling just before serving to maintain optimal texture and freshness.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 55 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 371 kcal
  • Sugar: 33 g
  • Sodium: 155 mg
  • Fat: 25 g
  • Saturated Fat: 15 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.3 g
  • Carbohydrates: 29 g
  • Fiber: 1.5 g
  • Protein: 5 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg
Ethan Caldwell

Ethan Caldwell

Founder & Culinary Innovator

Expertise

Farm-to-table cooking, Seasonal recipe creation, Culinary storytelling, Food photography and styling​

Education

The Chef’s Academy (Indianapolis, IN)

  • Program: Associate Degree in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Focused on sustainable cooking practices, regional American cuisine, and recipe development.​

Ethan didn’t just fall in love with food, he grew into it, surrounded by fields, farmers’ markets, and family meals that told a story.
After sharpening his skills at The Chef’s Academy, he took his passion straight into the farm-to-table movement, working side-by-side with local growers and seasonal flavors.
He believes every recipe should feel like a walk through a summer market: colorful, fresh, and full of possibility.
Outside the kitchen, Ethan’s idea of a perfect day is hiking mountain trails, digging into heirloom vegetables, and hosting casual dinners where seconds are always encouraged.

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