I’m so excited to share this recipe for Decadent S’mores Cheesecake with you! Every time I whip up this delightful dessert, I can’t help but reminisce about those magical summer nights spent around a cozy campfire, roasting marshmallows and crafting the perfect s’more. You know, the classic combination of graham crackers, gooey marshmallows, and luscious chocolate that’s just irresistible? This cheesecake is like taking that nostalgia and encapsulating it in a creamy, dreamy slice of heaven. I mean, who wouldn’t love a cheesecake that tastes like a campfire treat without leaving the comfort of your kitchen?
What I love most about this recipe is how it transforms the flavors of s’mores into something sophisticated but still downright fun. Plus, it’s super simple to make! Whether you’re entertaining guests or just indulging in a little self-care dessert night, this cheesecake is bound to impress. So, let’s dive into this delicious adventure together!
What’s in Decadent S’mores Cheesecake?
Graham Cracker Crumbs: These little gems serve as the base of our crust, bringing that all-important crunch and sweetness that defines a classic s’more. I like to use crushed store-bought graham crackers for convenience, but if you’re feeling fancy, you can make your own.
Unsalted Butter: Melting this into the crumb mixture helps bind it together, creating a sturdy and flavorful crust. Trust me, unsalted butter is the way to go so you can control the saltiness in your perfect slice.
Granulated Sugar: We use sugar in both the crust and the filling to sweeten things up. It’s the magic ingredient that ensures each bite of cheesecake is as delightful as the last!
Cream Cheese: The star of the show! Make sure it’s softened so that it blends smoothly into the filling. I always opt for full-fat cream cheese for that rich, creamy texture.
Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla brings warmth and depth to the cheesecake filling. I love using pure vanilla extract for the best flavor!
Eggs: These are essential for giving our cheesecake that luscious texture. They help bind everything together and provide the perfect creamy consistency.
Mini Marshmallows: Sweet and pillowy, they’re folded right into the cheesecake batter and sprinkled on top, leading to gooey goodness in every bite!
Semi-sweet Chocolate Chips: A must for that rich chocolate flavor. Feel free to replace them with milk chocolate chips if you prefer a sweeter taste.
Chocolate Bars: I typically use milk or semi-sweet bars, chopped into pieces for easy melting. It really amps up the chocolatey goodness on top of our cheesecake.
Additional Marshmallows: Optional, but I highly recommend using them for garnishing! A little toasted marshmallow on top is just pure bliss.
Is Decadent S’mores Cheesecake Good for You?
Now, as scrumptious as this cheesecake is, I have to keep it real – it’s not exactly a health food! However, every ingredient does have its perks.
Graham Crackers: They add whole grains if you choose those varieties, along with necessary energy for those active days!
Cream Cheese: While it’s a bit indulgent, this creamy delight contains calcium and protein. Moderation is key here, my friends!
Mini Marshmallows: These provide a quick source of energy due to their sugar content, but it’s wise to enjoy them sparingly.
It’s important to note that if you have dietary restrictions, you might want to look for alternatives. Gluten-free graham crackers are widely available, and there are also low-fat cream cheese options if you’re feeling daring!
Ingredients List
– For the Crust:
– 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
– ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
– ¼ cup granulated sugar
– For the Cheesecake Filling:
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– ½ cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup mini marshmallows
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– For the Topping:
– 1 cup mini marshmallows
– 1 cup chocolate bars (milk chocolate or semi-sweet)
– ½ cup graham cracker crumbs
– Optional: additional marshmallows for garnish
This recipe yields about 16 delightful servings—or fewer, if you’re feeling particularly adventurous!
How to Make Decadent S’mores Cheesecake?
1. **Preheat the oven** to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
2. **Make the crust**: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix it all until it’s crumbly! Then firmly press this mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan.
3. **Bake the crust**: Pop that crust into the oven for about 8-10 minutes until it’s slightly golden. Once out, let it cool a bit.
4. **Prepare cheesecake filling**: While the crust is cooling, beat the softened cream cheese in a large mixing bowl until smooth. Gradually mix in sugar and vanilla until combined. Then, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
5. **Add chocolate and marshmallows**: Gently fold in the mini marshmallows and chocolate chips into the filling. It’ll start to look like a deliciously sweet mixture!
6. **Pour filling over crust**: Spread that beautiful cheesecake mixture evenly over the cooled crust.
7. **Bake the cheesecake**: Pop it back in the oven for 30-35 minutes, until the center is set but still jiggles a bit. Keep an eye – overbaking can lead to cracks!
8. **Add toppings**: Remove from the oven and sprinkle those mini marshmallows and chocolate bar pieces on top right away. Then back to the oven for an additional 5 minutes until the marshmallows are golden and the chocolate’s all melty.
9. **Cool and chill**: Let the cheesecake cool at room temperature for a bit before moving it to the fridge. Chill it out for at least 2 hours (or overnight for best results).
10. **Serve**: Finally, slice into squares and sprinkle with any leftover graham cracker crumbs. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even toast some extra marshmallows for garnish!
S’more Adventures Await!
This Decadent S’mores Cheesecake is sure to be a hit at any gathering! Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply enjoying a cozy evening at home, this sweet treat will satisfy everyone’s cravings. And, if you dare to take on the kitchen torch for some toasted marshmallows, consider yourself a dessert superstar!
I hope you give this recipe a try and let me know how it turns out. I’d love to hear your stories and any creative spins you put on it. Enjoy every gooey, chocolatey bite of this s’mores-inspired delight!
