Craving a decadent dessert that combines the beloved flavors of a fireside classic with the creamy indulgence of cheesecake? Look no further than this Smores Cheesecake recipe. Perfect for any occasion, this dessert is a delightful fusion of rich cheesecake, gooey marshmallows, and luscious chocolate nestled in a buttery graham cracker crust.
As a seasoned food blogger, I understand the allure of a show-stopping dessert that’s both easy to make and irresistibly delicious. This Smores Cheesecake offers a no-bake option, making it a hassle-free treat that’s sure to impress your guests. Whether you’re planning a party or a cozy night in, these individual mason jar cheesecakes are a delightful twist on the classic campfire treat.
Indulge in the best of both worlds with this Smores Cheesecake recipe that promises a symphony of flavors and textures in every bite. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without heating up the kitchen, this dessert is a must-try for any cheesecake lover.
Ingredients
Smores Cheesecake combines the classic flavors of a campfire treat with a creamy cheesecake twist. Below are the simple ingredients needed to create this decadent dessert.
For the Graham Cracker Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/3 cup melted butter
For the Cheesecake Filling
- 24 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 cups mini marshmallows
Necessary Equipment
For preparing this delicious Smores Cheesecake, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools to make the process smooth and efficient.
- 9-inch Springform Pan: This pan is crucial for baking the cheesecake, ensuring easy removal without damaging the delicate dessert.
- Mixing Bowls: Prepare the crust and cheesecake batter in these versatile bowls for easy mixing and combining of ingredients.
- Electric Mixer: A hand or stand mixer will help you achieve a smooth and creamy cheesecake filling without any lumps.
- Aluminum Foil: Wrapping the springform pan in foil prevents any water from leaking into the cheesecake while baking in a water bath.
- Spatula: Use a spatula to scrape down the sides of the mixing bowl and fold in ingredients gently for a well-mixed batter.
Preparing the Cheesecake
I’m excited to guide you through the process of preparing this indulgent Smores Cheesecake. Let’s dive into making the irresistible layers that will create a symphony of flavors in every bite.
Making the Crust
To start off our Smores Cheesecake masterpiece, we’ll first need to create a delicious graham cracker crust. This sweet and buttery base will perfectly complement the creamy filling.
- Preheat your oven to 325°F.
- In a large bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Press this mixture evenly into a lightly greased 10-inch springform pan.
- Sprinkle 2 cups of mini marshmallows over the crust and drizzle warmed hot fudge sauce on top. Set this aside while you prepare the cheesecake filling.
Preparing the Cheesecake Filling
The heart of our Smores Cheesecake lies in the creamy and decadent filling. Let’s ensure it’s perfectly blended and smooth for a delightful treat.
- Reduce the oven temperature to 300°F.
- Begin by melting the chocolate in a heatproof bowl set over simmering water until smooth. Set it aside to cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
- Add sugar, cocoa powder, vanilla, and salt to the cream cheese, mixing until well combined.
- Beat in the heavy cream and the melted, cooled chocolate.
- Gently stir in the eggs until just combined with a silicone spatula.
- Pour this rich and velvety batter over the prepared crust in the springform pan.
Assembling the Layers
Now that we have our crust and filling ready, it’s time to bring them together in a harmonious layering process. This final step will create a visually appealing and scrumptious dessert.
- Place the cheesecake-filled springform pan inside a roasting pan.
- Fill the roasting pan with hot water, reaching halfway up the sides of the cheesecake pan, ensuring a moist baking environment.
- Bake the cheesecake for about an hour or until the edges are set, and the center is slightly jiggly.
- Let the cheesecake cool before refrigerating it to set.
- Once chilled, slice and serve this luscious Smores Cheesecake to captivate your taste buds with each delightful bite.
Baking Instructions
Baking the Cheesecake
- Prepare the Water Bath: Before baking the cheesecake, ensure to set up a water bath. Place a baking pan filled with hot water on the lower rack of the oven. The water bath helps to create steam in the oven, keeping the cheesecake moist as it bakes.
- Bake the Cheesecake: Once the water bath is ready, carefully place the prepared cheesecake in the center of the oven. Bake the cheesecake at 325°F for about 60-75 minutes. The edges should be set, while the center may still be slightly jiggly.
- Cool the Cheesecake: After baking, turn off the oven and let the cheesecake rest in the oven for an additional hour. This gradual cooling process helps prevent cracks on the surface of the cheesecake.
- Adding the Toppings: Once the cheesecake has cooled for an hour, it’s time to add the final touch. Spread a generous layer of warmed hot fudge sauce over the top of the cheesecake. Then, arrange halved marshmallows on top of the fudge in a single layer.
- Toasting the Marshmallows: Turn on the broiler in the oven and carefully place the cheesecake underneath for about 30-35 seconds. Watch closely as the marshmallows toast quickly. Remove the cheesecake once the marshmallows are lightly browned and toasted.
- Final Chill: To complete the cheesecake, cover it loosely with foil and refrigerate for at least 4 hours. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together and the cheesecake to set perfectly before serving.
Decorating the Cheesecake
Finishing Touches for Presentation
- Spread the chocolate ganache topping evenly over the cooled cheesecake surface using an offset spatula.
- Decorate with additional marshmallows, graham cracker segments, and broken milk chocolate bars for a delightful presentation.
- For an extra touch, pipe rosettes of Swiss meringue and top with graham cracker segments and chocolate bars. Remember not to refrigerate the cake after decorating with Swiss meringue to prevent weeping. Enjoy your beautifully decorated Smores Cheesecake within three days of baking.
Storing and Freezing Instructions
How to Store the Cheesecake
After indulging in a slice of this decadent Smores Cheesecake, proper storage is key to maintaining its freshness. I recommend keeping the cheesecake in an airtight container in the fridge. This way, the delicious flavors will stay intact for up to 5 days. Pro tip: Before diving into a slice, a quick 10-15 seconds in the microwave will give you that melty marshmallow goodness!
Conclusion
Creating a Smores Cheesecake is a delightful way to indulge in the perfect blend of flavors. The rich chocolate filling, gooey marshmallows, and sweet graham cracker crust come together to create a decadent dessert that is sure to impress. By following the simple steps outlined in this recipe, you can easily whip up a show-stopping treat that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this Smores Cheesecake recipe is a must-try for any dessert lover. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to savor every delicious bite of this heavenly creation. Treat yourself and your loved ones to a slice of Smores Cheesecake goodness and enjoy the sweet satisfaction of a dessert well-made.
