If you adore the nostalgic flavors of campfire s’mores but want to enjoy them in a smooth, indulgent form, this S’mores Cheesecake Bars Recipe is an absolute must-try. Imagine a buttery graham cracker crust supporting a luscious, creamy cheesecake layer, crowned with melty chocolate chips and toasted marshmallows that bring all the warm, gooey goodness of traditional s’mores into a delightful bar form. It’s the perfect dessert to impress friends and family or to satisfy your sweet tooth with a fun twist on a classic favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this dessert are wonderfully simple, yet each one plays a crucial role in delivering the perfect balance of flavor and texture in your S’mores Cheesecake Bars Recipe. From the crisp graham cracker base to the creamy cheesecake filling and the gooey topping, every element is essential for that authentic campfire treat sensation.
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs: Provides the signature crunch and honeyed flavor of the crust.
- 1/3 cup melted butter: Binds the crumb crust together and adds richness.
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened: Creates the creamy texture that cheesecake is known for.
- 1/2 cup sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake filling perfectly without overpowering.
- 2 eggs: Help set the cheesecake layer while keeping it tender.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor and adds a warm, aromatic note.
- 1 cup chocolate chips: Melts into lovely pockets of chocolatey goodness atop the cheesecake.
- 2 cups mini marshmallows: Toasted to perfection, they create the classic s’mores topping thrill.
How to Make S’mores Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F and lining a 9×9 pan with parchment paper or greasing it lightly. Mix the graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter until the crumbs are evenly coated. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your pan to form the crust. This base will provide that perfect crisp foundation for the creamy layers to come.
Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract. Your batter should be velvety and lump-free, ready to pour over the crust.
Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake Bars
Pour the cheesecake filling evenly over your graham cracker crust in the pan. Transfer it to the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center barely jiggles when you shake the pan gently. This careful bake ensures that the cheesecake remains creamy yet firm enough to slice.
Step 4: Add the Toppings and Toast
Once the cheesecake is baked, remove it from the oven and immediately sprinkle the chocolate chips and mini marshmallows evenly over the top. Place the pan under the broiler for a few minutes—just until the marshmallows turn golden brown and start to melt. Watch closely here to avoid burning; this step delivers that irresistible toasted marshmallow finish.
How to Serve S’mores Cheesecake Bars Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your S’mores Cheesecake Bars Recipe with a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an elegant touch. A few extra mini marshmallows toasted on top right before serving also add a fun, theatrical flair that amps up the campfire vibe.
Side Dishes
Pair these bars with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the richness. For an indulgent contrast, serve alongside a hot cup of coffee or creamy milk, which complements the flavors perfectly and rounds out the dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting the cheesecake into bite-sized squares and arranging them on a wooden serving board with a few extra chocolate chunks and graham crackers scattered around. You can also serve them in little dessert cups layered with chocolate ganache or marshmallow fluff to create individual s’mores-inspired parfaits that look stunning at any gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover S’mores Cheesecake Bars Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Keeping them chilled maintains the cheesecake’s creamy texture and keeps the marshmallows soft and fresh.
Freezing
If you want to make these bars ahead of time or save extras for later, they freeze beautifully. Wrap the fully cooled bars tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to two months without losing flavor or texture.
Reheating
Before serving frozen bars, allow them to thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Bring to room temperature for best flavor or warm them slightly in the microwave for about 10 to 15 seconds if you prefer a softer marshmallow texture and gooey chocolate again.
FAQs
Can I use different types of chocolate for this recipe?
Absolutely! While classic semi-sweet chocolate chips work wonderfully, feel free to experiment with milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate chips to tailor the bars to your taste preferences.
Is it necessary to broil the marshmallows on top?
Broiling the marshmallows adds that signature toasted flavor and a lovely color, but if you don’t have access to a broiler, you can use a kitchen torch or even place the bars under a hot oven grill for a bit longer to achieve similar results.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the graham cracker crumbs with your favorite gluten-free graham style crumbs or crushed gluten-free cookies. Just make sure your other ingredients do not contain gluten.
What’s the best way to cut these bars neatly?
The key is to chill the cheesecake bars thoroughly for at least two hours after baking. Use a sharp knife warmed under hot water and wiped dry to slice cleanly without cracking or smudging the topping.
Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
Definitely! Just double all the ingredients and bake in a 9×13 pan instead. You might need to extend the baking time slightly; keep an eye on the cheesecake’s texture to ensure it’s perfectly set.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about this S’mores Cheesecake Bars Recipe that brings the magic of campfire nights right into your kitchen. It’s easy to make but feels special enough for celebrations or simply indulging in a cozy dessert. I hope you enjoy making these bars as much as I enjoy sharing them — go ahead and treat yourself to a slice of this dreamy s’mores-inspired delight!
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S’mores Cheesecake Bars Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 bars
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these creamy S’mores Cheesecake Bars featuring a buttery graham cracker crust, a smooth cheesecake layer, and a luscious topping of melted chocolate chips and toasted mini marshmallows, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth with a campfire-inspired treat.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup melted butter
Cheesecake Layer
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Topping
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Make the Crust: Combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter in a bowl, mixing thoroughly. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract together until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Bake the Cheesecake Layer: Pour the cheesecake filling over the crust in the pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the center is almost set but still slightly jiggly.
- Add Toppings: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and immediately sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the top, followed by the mini marshmallows.
- Broil the Topping: Set your oven to broil and place the pan under the broiler for a short time, just until the marshmallows are golden brown and toasted, watching closely to avoid burning.
- Chill and Serve: Allow the bars to cool to room temperature, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to set before slicing into 12 squares and serving.
Notes
- Be careful during broiling as marshmallows can burn quickly; watch them closely.
- Chill the bars for at least 2 hours to ensure they set properly before slicing.
- Use full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest texture.
- Store leftover bars covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
