With a hint of history and a dash of nostalgia, S’mores Cheesecake Bars invite us to reimagine a campfire classic from the comfort of our kitchens. You can skip the campfire, as these decadent bars blend the creamy richness of cheesecake with crunchy graham crackers, gooey marshmallows, and luscious chocolate—all in one delightful bite. What I love most is how quick and easy they are to make, making them a perfect crowd-pleaser for any gathering or a cozy sweet escape for a quiet night in. Plus, these bars are customizable; whether you prefer dark chocolate or want to give it a gluten-free twist, the options are endless. Ready to indulge your sweet tooth and impress your friends? Let’s dive into making these heavenly S’mores Cheesecake Bars!
Why Should You Make These Bars?
Simplicity: With no campfire needed, these S’mores Cheesecake Bars come together in a snap, requiring minimal baking skills.
Rich Flavor: The harmonious blend of cream cheese, chocolate, and marshmallows creates a taste explosion that will leave everyone wanting more.
Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite ingredients, like dark chocolate or a gluten-free crust, making this recipe versatile for all dietary needs.
Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for parties or cozy nights in, they’re a surefire hit that will wow your guests.
Make-Ahead Friendly: These bars can be prepared in advance and stored, making them an ideal sweet treat for busy bakers. If you love indulging in other cheesecake treats, you’ll also enjoy these Blueberry Cheesecake Bars for a fruity twist!
S’mores Cheesecake Bars Ingredients
For the Crust
• Graham Cracker Crumbs – Essential for that crunchy base; consider gluten-free options if needed.
• Unsalted Butter – Binds the crust; can substitute with regular butter if desired.
For the Cheesecake Filling
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the filling; brown sugar can be used for a deeper flavor profile.
• Cream Cheese – Creates the creamy texture; low-fat cream cheese is a lighter alternative.
• Eggs – Provides richness and structure; stick with whole eggs for the best results.
• Vanilla Extract – A flavor enhancer; feel free to use almond extract for a unique twist.
For the S’mores Elements
• Mini Marshmallows – Adds gooey sweetness, or chop regular marshmallows for a similar effect.
• Milk Chocolate Chips – Brings richness; substitute with dark or white chocolate to suit your taste.
• Marshmallow Cream – Optional topping for extra indulgence.
For Garnish
• Additional Graham Cracker Crumbs – Sprinkle on top for a beautiful finish and added texture.
Dive into creating these delightful S’mores Cheesecake Bars, where all your favorite campfire flavors come together for a heavenly experience!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for S’mores Cheesecake Bars
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). While it warms up, line a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper, allowing some paper to hang over the sides for easy removal later. This step ensures your S’mores Cheesecake Bars come out perfectly without sticking and makes for simple slicing once they’re set.
Step 2: Make the Graham Cracker Crust
In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted unsalted butter until fully blended. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish using the back of a measuring cup or your fingers, creating an even layer. This crust will provide a delicious base for the rich layers that follow, so make sure it’s compact.
Step 3: Bake the Crust
Place the crust in the preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes or until it turns slightly golden. Keep an eye on it; you want it to hold its shape while still being just right. Once done, take it out and allow it to cool at room temperature while you prepare the cheesecake filling.
Step 4: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until it’s smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. Gradually add the granulated sugar, beating until well combined. This process brings out the creamy texture needed for your S’mores Cheesecake Bars, ensuring there are no lumps.
Step 5: Incorporate Eggs and Flavor
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to incorporate them thoroughly into the creamy mixture. Finally, stir in the vanilla extract gently; this enhances the flavor profile and rounds out the sweetness, marrying beautifully with the upcoming layers of marshmallows and chocolate.
Step 6: Blend in the S’mores Essentials
Fold in the mini marshmallows and milk chocolate chips using a spatula, allowing these delicious elements to spread evenly throughout the filling. Be gentle to maintain the fluffiness of the mixture. This step is what truly brings the S’mores Cheesecake Bars to life, capturing that beloved campfire essence.
Step 7: Assemble the Bars
Carefully spread the cheesecake mixture over the cooled graham cracker crust, smoothing it into an even layer with a spatula. Make sure to fill the corners and edges to prevent any crust from peeking through. This layer is rich and creamy, ready to transform into an indulgent treat once baked.
Step 8: Bake the Cheesecake Bars
Bake the assembled S’mores Cheesecake Bars in the oven for 30–35 minutes or until the center is set but still slightly jiggles. You want a slight wobble to indicate that they are perfectly creamy. The edges will look firm and golden, creating the perfect texture contrast.
Step 9: Cool and Set
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let your bars cool at room temperature for about one hour. This cooling period allows them to firm up and makes slicing easier. Afterward, transfer them to the refrigerator and chill for at least two hours to fully set, enhancing the flavors.
Step 10: Top and Serve
Before cutting the bars into squares, you can add a layer of marshmallow cream on top if desired for extra sweetness. Use a spatula to spread it evenly. Once topped, slice into squares using a sharp knife, wiping the blade between cuts for neat edges, and serve them chilled for the best taste!
S’mores Cheesecake Bars Variations
Feel free to get creative with these S’mores Cheesecake Bars and transform them into your own personalized masterpiece!
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Dairy-Free: Swap cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream for a deliciously creamy result. Enjoy a guilt-free treat without sacrificing flavor!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free alternatives or crushed nuts to make these bars accessible to everyone. This variation means no one has to miss out on the fun!
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Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the crust for that extra crunch and nutty flavor. The blend of textures will take your bars to a new level of delight!
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Fruity Twist: Layer fresh fruit, like sliced strawberries or raspberries, into the cheesecake mixture for a refreshing burst of flavor. The pairing of creamy cheesecake with fruity sweetness is simply divine!
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Minty Fresh: Incorporate mint chocolate chips instead of regular chocolate for a refreshing, cool effect. It’s a delightful surprise that adds a seasonal twist to your bars.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the filling to create a delightful spicy kick that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness. This unexpected twist will excite your taste buds!
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Decadent Toppings: Drizzle with caramel sauce or sprinkle with sea salt before serving for a rich, indulgent finish. Toppings like these elevate your dessert to restaurant-quality status!
For more exciting desserts, be sure to check out these delectable options: Cheesecake Stuffed Chocolate, or indulge in our delightful Oreo Cheesecake Cookies for a tasty twist!
Expert Tips for S’mores Cheesecake Bars
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Fresh Ingredients Matter: Always use fresh cream cheese and eggs to ensure the best flavor and texture in your S’mores Cheesecake Bars. This will enhance the creaminess and overall quality.
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Cooling is Key: Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature before slicing. This helps maintain their structure and prevents them from falling apart.
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Use an Electric Mixer: For a super smooth cheesecake filling, an electric mixer is your best friend. It minimizes lumps and ensures a velvety texture throughout the bars.
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Perfectly Set Center: When baking, the center of the bars should be set yet slightly jiggly. Overbaking can lead to a dry texture, so keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time.
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Creative Garnishing: For a beautiful presentation, consider garnishing your S’mores Cheesecake Bars with whipped cream, a drizzle of chocolate, or mini toasted marshmallows. This adds visual appeal and enhances the overall dessert experience.
What to Serve with S’mores Cheesecake Bars
Indulging in these dreamy treats opens a world of delightful pairings to elevate your dessert experience to a whole new level.
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Fresh Berries: Their tartness contrasts beautifully with the richness of the cheesecake bar, adding a refreshing burst of flavor.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds creamy fluffiness and makes each bite even more decadent. Perfect for those who crave extra indulgence!
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Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce enhances the luxurious taste, creating a chocolate lover’s dream with every mouthful.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Serving these bars alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream provides a delightful creaminess, balancing out the sweetness of the bars.
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Coffee: The robust flavors of coffee create a wonderful contrast, making for a balanced treat that perfects your dessert routine.
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Mint Tea: A soothing herbal mint tea cleanses the palate and lends a refreshing finish to the sweet flavors of the S’mores Cheesecake Bars. Adding a twist of lemon could bring more brightness!
Storage Tips for S’mores Cheesecake Bars
Fridge: Keep your S’mores Cheesecake Bars stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days, ensuring they stay fresh and delicious.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw your S’mores Cheesecake Bars in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight for the best texture.
Reheating: If you prefer them warm, microwave individual squares for about 10-15 seconds, but be careful not to overheat, as it may alter the creamy texture!
Make Ahead Options
These S’mores Cheesecake Bars are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the graham cracker crust and cheesecake filling up to 24 hours in advance by following the initial steps, allowing the mixture to chill overnight in the refrigerator. To maintain that rich, creamy quality, ensure everything is correctly sealed in airtight containers. The assembled bars can also be refrigerated for up to 3 days before serving. When you’re ready to impress family or friends, simply bake them as directed and let them cool; they’ll be just as delicious and decadent, making you the star of any gathering with minimal effort!
S’mores Cheesecake Bars Recipe FAQs
What type of graham cracker crumbs should I use?
You can use regular graham cracker crumbs, which provide a great crunch, but if you’re looking for a gluten-free option, simply substitute with gluten-free graham cracker crumbs. Both will give your crust that delightful texture we love!
How should I store leftover S’mores Cheesecake Bars?
Store your delicious S’mores Cheesecake Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. This will keep them fresh and ready for your next sweet craving. Just be sure to let them cool completely before storing to maintain their amazing texture!
Can I freeze S’mores Cheesecake Bars?
Absolutely! You can freeze these bars by wrapping individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll stay good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge again, thaw them in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight for the best results.
What if my cheesecake bars are too soft when baked?
If the bars are too soft in the center, they may need a little more time in the oven. Keep an eye on them; the key is to look for a set center that still jiggles slightly. If they’re overly soft, bake for an additional 5 minutes, but remember to check frequently to avoid overbaking!
Can I make these cheesecake bars without eggs?
While eggs provide essential structure and richness to the cheesecake, you can explore substitutes like flax eggs or applesauce for a vegan approach. However, the texture and flavor profile may differ slightly, so keep that in mind when making your delicious S’mores Cheesecake Bars!
S’mores Cheesecake Bars: Indulgent Treat for Sweet Lovers
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- Combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted unsalted butter in a mixing bowl until blended. Press into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Bake the crust for about 10 minutes until slightly golden. Cool at room temperature while preparing the filling.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the granulated sugar, blending well.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
- Fold in mini marshmallows and milk chocolate chips gently.
- Spread the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust, smoothing out evenly.
- Bake the cheesecake bars for 30–35 minutes until the center is set but jiggles slightly.
- Cool at room temperature for about one hour, then chill in the refrigerator for at least two hours.
- Spread marshmallow cream on top if desired, then slice into squares and serve chilled.