I’ve always believed that the best desserts tell a story, and my S’mores Cheesecake captures pure campfire magic in every bite. The combination of creamy chocolate filling, toasted marshmallows, and that classic graham cracker crust brings back memories without having to build a fire. It’s indulgent yet familiar, sophisticated yet playful. And while it looks like something that might require advanced baking skills, I promise you’ll be surprised at how simple it is to create this showstopper at home. Ready to discover the secret to making this nostalgic treat?
Why You’ll Love this S’mores Cheesecake
While classic cheesecake is always a crowd-pleaser, this s’mores version takes the beloved dessert to new, campfire-inspired heights.
I’m absolutely smitten with how the buttery graham cracker crust mimics that essential s’mores base, while the creamy filling gets transformed with pockets of melted chocolate and gooey marshmallows.
Can you imagine serving this at your next gathering? The familiar campfire flavors in sophisticated form. Perfect for those who can’t decide between childhood nostalgia and grown-up indulgence.
Rich, yet playful. Impressive, yet approachable.
The beauty? Room temperature ingredients guarantee success.
What Ingredients are in S’mores Cheesecake?
This decadent s’mores cheesecake brings together all the classic campfire flavors you love in a sophisticated, creamy dessert that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
- 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ⅓ cup sugar (for crust)
- 6 tablespoons butter, melted
- 32 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar (for filling)
- ⅔ cup sour cream
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips
How to Make this S’mores Cheesecake
Step 1: Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust
Mix 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs with ⅓ cup sugar and 6 tablespoons of melted butter until well combined.
Press this mixture firmly into the bottom and slightly up the sides of a 9-inch springform pan to create that classic s’mores foundation.
Step 2: Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 325°F and give it plenty of time to reach temperature.
A properly heated oven is one of those non-negotiables when it comes to cheesecake success—too hot or too cool and you’re asking for trouble.
Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling
Beat 32 ounces of softened cream cheese and 1 cup sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
This usually takes about 3-4 minutes, and you’ll want to scrape down the sides of the bowl occasionally for even mixing.
Step 4: Add Remaining Wet Ingredients
Incorporate ⅔ cup sour cream and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract into your cream cheese mixture, blending until just combined.
The sour cream adds that subtle tang that balances all the sweetness—truly a game-changer.
Step 5: Add Eggs Carefully
Add 4 large eggs one at a time, mixing gently after each addition.
This is where restraint matters—overmixing at this stage introduces air bubbles that can lead to cracks later on.
Step 6: Fold in the S’mores Components
Gently fold in 1 cup mini marshmallows and ½ cup mini chocolate chips, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
These little pockets of melty goodness are what make every bite a delightful surprise.
Step 7: Prepare a Water Bath and Bake
Pour the filling into your graham cracker crust, then place the springform pan in a larger roasting pan filled with about an inch of hot water.
For consistently perfect results, invest in a high-quality premium springform pan set that prevents water from seeping into your cheesecake during baking.
Bake until the center is almost set but still slightly jiggly, about 60-70 minutes.
Step 8: Cool Properly
Turn off the oven, crack the door open slightly, and let the cheesecake cool gradually for about an hour before removing.
This slow cooling process is another secret to crack-free cheesecakes that deserve their spot on the dessert table.
What to Serve with S’mores Cheesecake
This decadent dessert deserves some thoughtful companions to round out your sweet experience. A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream alongside a warm slice creates that perfect hot-and-cold contrast we all secretly crave.
For drinks, a rich coffee or espresso cuts through the sweetness beautifully, while a glass of cold milk feels nostalgically right with anything s’mores-inspired.
Want to dress it up? Drizzle some warm chocolate sauce or homemade caramel over the top just before serving.
For balance, consider a small bowl of fresh raspberries or sliced strawberries on the side—their tartness provides a revitalizing counterpoint to the cheesecake’s richness.
This showstopper works beautifully as an after-dinner treat or weekend afternoon indulgence when you’re feeling particularly dessert-worthy.
S’mores Cheesecake Substitutions and Variations
- Seasonal Twists: Add pumpkin puree and spice in fall, crushed peppermint during holidays, or fresh berries in summer.
- Finishing Touches: Top with toasted marshmallows (use your broiler for 30 seconds!), chocolate ganache drizzle, or crushed graham crackers for that authentic s’mores look.
- Boozy Version: Add 2 tablespoons of Bailey’s or Kahlúa to the batter for an adults-only treat.
Leftovers and Storage for this S’mores Cheesecake
This decadent cheesecake keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 5 days when stored in an airtight container.
For best results, slice it first, then place pieces in individual containers to grab whenever a sweet craving hits.
Want to extend the enjoyment? This cheesecake freezes remarkably well for up to 3 months.
Just wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
To refresh, let refrigerated slices stand at room temperature for 20-30 minutes before serving.
The flavors actually develop overnight, making day-two cheesecake even more delicious than fresh-baked!
Pro tip: Store marshmallow toppings separately if possible to prevent them from becoming sticky in the refrigerator.
Final Thoughts
This S’mores Cheesecake captures everything magical about childhood campfires in a sophisticated dessert that anyone can master.
The combination of graham cracker crust, creamy filling studded with melty chocolate chips, and those pillowy marshmallows creates a nostalgic treat that satisfies grown-up tastes.
It’s perfect for summer gatherings when you want the s’mores experience without the sticky fingers, or during cold months when you’re craving those warm weather memories.
Whether served for a special birthday celebration or as the grand finale to a dinner party, this cheesecake brings people together around a shared love of classic flavors transformed into something wonderfully new.