
This Perfect S'mores Cheesecake blends rich, creamy cheesecake with classic flavors of graham crackers, chocolate, and marshmallows. The graham cracker crust provides that familiar crunchy base we all love, while the marshmallow-filled cheesecake creates a light, fluffy texture that melts in your mouth. Topped with velvety chocolate ganache and toasted marshmallows, this dessert brings campfire memories to your kitchen table without the bugs and smoke.
I made this for my sister's birthday last month and the cake disappeared in minutes. My brother-in-law, who claims to dislike cheesecake, ate two slices and asked for the recipe. That's how irresistible this combination of flavors truly is.
Ingredients
- Graham Cracker Crust: Graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, unsalted butter.
- Marshmallow Cheesecake Filling: Cream cheese, granulated sugar, sour cream, vanilla extract, salt, large eggs, mini marshmallows, mini chocolate chips.
- Ganache Topping: Chocolate chips, heavy cream.
- Toasted Marshmallow Topping: Jumbo marshmallows.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust:
- Preheat oven to 325°F. Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into a springform pan and prebake for 8-10 minutes.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling:
- Beat cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add sugar, then mix in sour cream, vanilla, and salt. Add eggs one at a time, followed by marshmallows and chocolate chips.
- Bake the Cheesecake:
- Pour filling over the crust. Bake for 60-70 minutes until set. Cool gradually before refrigerating overnight.
- Prepare the Ganache:
- Heat heavy cream, pour over chocolate chips, and whisk until smooth. Spread over chilled cheesecake.
- Final Touches:
- Arrange marshmallows on top and toast using a kitchen torch or broiler.

The Perfect Blend of Textures
This cheesecake is truly a symphony of textures that keeps each bite interesting. The contrasting elements – from the crunchy graham base to the creamy filling, gooey marshmallows, and silky ganache – create a dessert experience that's impossible to forget.
Beyond the Campfire
While traditional s'mores are delightful, transforming those flavors into a sophisticated dessert brings a whole new dimension to the classic combination.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with vanilla bean ice cream or aged bourbon for a refined dessert experience.
Seasonal Variations
Add cinnamon to the crust for fall, peppermint extract for winter, or fresh berries for summer.

After making this cheesecake dozens of times, I've come to believe it's not just a dessert but a conversation starter. The familiar flavors transformed into something new get people reminiscing about camping memories and childhood treats. That's the real magic of cooking – creating not just food, but moments that bring people together around the table.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make this cheesecake without a springform pan?
- While a springform pan is ideal, you can use a deep 9-inch cake pan lined with parchment paper with extra hanging over the sides to help lift the cheesecake out after chilling. Just be aware it won't be as easy to remove cleanly.
- → How can I prevent my cheesecake from cracking?
- Avoid overmixing the batter after adding the eggs, make sure all ingredients are at room temperature, and follow the slow cooling process in the turned-off oven. The good news is that even if cracks form, they'll be covered by the ganache and marshmallows.
- → Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
- Yes, you can make the cheesecake portion up to 3 days ahead. Add the ganache and marshmallows the day you plan to serve it for the best presentation and texture contrast.
- → I don't have a kitchen torch. What's the best way to toast the marshmallows?
- You can place the marshmallow-topped cheesecake under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, watching very carefully to prevent burning. Position the rack in the middle of the oven rather than too close to the broiler element.
- → How should I store leftover cheesecake?
- Store leftover cheesecake in the refrigerator, covered loosely with foil (to avoid squishing the marshmallows) for up to 5 days. The toasted marshmallows will soften over time but will still taste delicious.