Ultimate Smores Cheesecake Recipe: Easy Indulgent Delight

Posted on August 3, 2025

Ultimate Smores Cheesecake - featured image

There’s something magical about the combination of chocolate, marshmallows, and graham crackers that takes you straight back to summer campfires. The smell of toasted marshmallows wafts through the air as laughter and stories fill the night. Now, imagine transforming that nostalgic experience into a dessert that you can enjoy year-round. That’s where my Ultimate S’mores Cheesecake comes in! This decadent dessert is the perfect blend of creamy cheesecake and classic s’mores flavors, making it an absolute crowd-pleaser.

I first whipped up this s’mores cheesecake recipe for a family gathering, and it disappeared faster than I could slice it! Honestly, I was blown away by how much everyone loved it. The rich, velvety cheesecake filling layered with a crunchy graham cracker crust and topped with toasted marshmallows is pure bliss. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to whip up, making it a perfect choice for both special occasions and casual get-togethers.

This cheesecake is not just about taste; it’s visually stunning too! The golden-brown toasted marshmallows on top give it that classic s’mores vibe, while the chocolate ganache drizzled over the top adds an extra touch of elegance. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a potluck, or just craving something sweet, this Ultimate S’mores Cheesecake is sure to impress. So, let’s dive into why you’ll absolutely love making this dessert!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Ultimate S’mores Cheesecake is more than just a dessert; it’s an experience! Here are a few reasons why you’ll want to make it:

Quick & Easy: With just a few steps and no baking required for the cheesecake filling, this dessert comes together in no time, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute cravings.
Show-Stopping Dessert: This cheesecake isn’t just delicious; it’s a show-stopper that will have your friends and family raving about it long after the last slice is gone.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a summer BBQ, holiday gathering, or cozy dinner, this cheesecake fits right in and adds a touch of sweetness to any event.
Crowd-Pleaser: Kids and adults alike can’t resist the combination of creamy cheesecake with the classic flavors of s’mores.
Unbelievably Delicious: The layers of flavor—from the buttery graham cracker crust to the chocolate ganache—create a dessert that’s simply irresistible.

This isn’t just another cheesecake. It’s your go-to recipe for turning any gathering into a memorable occasion. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll understand why this Ultimate S’mores Cheesecake is bound to become a staple in your dessert repertoire!

Ingredients Needed

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver bold flavors and a satisfying texture without the fuss. You’ll likely have most of these ingredients on hand, making it super easy to whip up when the craving strikes!

For the crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (finely crushed)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
For the cheesecake filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
- ¼ cup heavy cream
For the chocolate ganache:
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup heavy cream
For the topping:
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
- 1 oz chocolate bar, for shaving (optional)

Feel free to customize the ingredients based on your preferences! For a gluten-free option, try using gluten-free graham crackers for the crust. And if you want to make it even more decadent, consider adding some crushed chocolate bars to the filling for an extra chocolatey twist!

Equipment Needed

To create this Ultimate S’mores Cheesecake, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools:

9-inch springform pan: Perfect for easy removal of your cheesecake.
Mixing bowls: For combining your crust and filling ingredients.
Electric mixer or whisk: To mix the cheesecake filling until smooth and creamy.
Rubber spatula: For scraping down the sides of the bowl.
Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to success!
Kitchen torch or broiler: For toasting the marshmallows to perfection.

If you don’t have a springform pan, you can use a regular cake pan, but be sure to line it with parchment paper for easier removal. I’ve tried various mixers, and honestly, an electric mixer saves time and effort!

Preparation Method

Ready to create your Ultimate S’mores Cheesecake? Follow these simple steps:

Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a springform pan. Bake for 8-10 minutes until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let cool.
Make the cheesecake filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract, sour cream, and heavy cream until fully incorporated.
Pour the filling: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust. Smooth the top with a spatula. Gently tap the pan on the counter to release any air bubbles.
Bake the cheesecake: Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly open for about an hour. This helps prevent cracks!
Chill: Once cooled, refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to firm up.
Make the chocolate ganache: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just starts to simmer. Remove from heat, then add the chocolate chips. Let it sit for a few minutes before stirring until smooth.
Assemble the cheesecake: Once the cheesecake has chilled, pour the chocolate ganache over the top and spread evenly. Top with mini marshmallows.
Toast the marshmallows: Use a kitchen torch or broiler to toast the marshmallows until golden brown. Watch closely to prevent burning!
Serve: Remove the sides of the springform pan and garnish with chocolate shavings if desired. Slice and enjoy!

Pro tip: If you find that your cheesecake cracks while baking, don’t worry! A little ganache and marshmallow topping will cover it up beautifully. Just remember to keep an eye on the oven temperature.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here are some tips to ensure your Ultimate S’mores Cheesecake turns out perfectly:

Use room temperature ingredients: This helps the cream cheese blend smoothly, avoiding lumps in your filling.
Don’t overmix: When adding the eggs, mix just until combined to avoid incorporating too much air.
Watch the baking time: Every oven is different—check your cheesecake a few minutes before the recommended time to ensure it doesn’t overbake.
Chill it well: Allowing the cheesecake to chill overnight not only firms it up but also enhances the flavors.
Toast the marshmallows carefully: If using a broiler, keep the oven door slightly open and watch closely. Marshmallows can go from perfectly toasted to burnt in seconds!

By following these tips, you’ll minimize any common mistakes and ensure your cheesecake is a hit every time.

Variations & Adaptations

This recipe is super versatile, so feel free to switch things up! Here are some fun variations you might enjoy:

Peanut Butter S’mores Cheesecake: Add ½ cup of creamy peanut butter to the filling for a nutty twist that pairs beautifully with chocolate.
Fruit-Infused Cheesecake: For a fruity touch, fold in some crushed raspberries or strawberries into the cheesecake filling before baking.
Chocolate Chip Cookie Crust: Swap the graham cracker crust for a cookie crust made from crushed chocolate chip cookies for an extra chocolatey flavor.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free graham crackers or almond flour for the crust to make this dessert suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.

Feel free to get creative and make this Ultimate S’mores Cheesecake your own!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

For the best experience, serve your cheesecake chilled. It’s perfect on its own, but you can also pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence. Here are some serving tips:

Presentation: Consider garnishing each slice with a few extra toasted marshmallows or chocolate shavings for a beautiful presentation.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even more delicious!
Freezing: You can freeze slices of cheesecake for up to 3 months. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil for best results.
Reheating: If you prefer it at room temperature, let it sit out for about 30 minutes before serving.

The flavors of the cheesecake really come alive after a day or two, so don’t be afraid to make it in advance!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

While this Ultimate S’mores Cheesecake is definitely a treat, it does have some nutritional highlights:

Rich in calcium: Thanks to the cream cheese and sour cream, this dessert offers a good source of calcium.
Moderate protein: The cream cheese and eggs contribute protein, making this cheesecake a more satisfying dessert option.
Customizable: You can easily modify the recipe to fit dietary preferences, such as gluten-free or reduced-sugar options.

As with all desserts, moderation is key! Enjoy this cheesecake as an occasional indulgence within a balanced diet.

Conclusion

The Ultimate S’mores Cheesecake is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that brings the joy of s’mores indoors. It’s an easy recipe that guarantees smiles and satisfied taste buds, making it perfect for any occasion. I absolutely love how simple it is to make yet impressive enough to serve to guests.

Don’t hesitate to customize this recipe based on your preferences, whether that means adding a flavor twist or adjusting the toppings. I’d love to hear how yours turns out! Please share your thoughts, comments, or any variations you’ve tried. Let’s make dessert time a little more fun together!

Now, go ahead and make this Ultimate S’mores Cheesecake—you won’t regret it!

FAQs

1. Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?

Absolutely! This cheesecake is perfect for making a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

2. How do I prevent my cheesecake from cracking?

To prevent cracking, avoid overmixing the filling and let the cheesecake cool gradually in the oven after baking.

3. Can I use a different type of chocolate?

Yes! Feel free to use dark chocolate or milk chocolate chips depending on your preference for sweetness.

4. Is there a dairy-free version of this cheesecake?

You can substitute cream cheese and sour cream with dairy-free alternatives like cashew cream or coconut yogurt for a dairy-free option.

5. How long can I store leftovers?

Leftover cheesecake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

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