There’s something magical about the combination of graham crackers, creamy cheesecake, rich chocolate, and fluffy marshmallows. As the sun sets and the stars start to twinkle, these S’mores Cheesecake Bars channel the warmth of a campfire in every decadent bite. One taste will transport you back to childhood nights spent around the fire, reminiscing stories while savoring sweet treats.
Why make this recipe?
These S’mores Cheesecake Bars marry two beloved desserts into one showstopper that’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, looking to impress at a potluck, or simply treating yourself after a long day. They’re easy to make, delightful to share, and even more delightful to devour. Plus, who could resist that gooey marshmallow topping?
How to make S’mores Cheesecake Bars
Get ready to unleash your inner baking enthusiast with these S’mores Cheesecake Bars! The preparation is straightforward, and they will bring smiles to everyone who gets a taste.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups graham crackers, crushed into crumbs
- 1/3 cup butter, melted
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 4 bricks (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 4 eggs
- 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup chopped Hershey’s chocolate bar
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 4 graham crackers, coarsely chopped
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Line a 13×9-inch baking pan with foil, letting the edges hang over the sides for easy removal later.
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 3 tablespoons sugar. Stir until all the crumbs are evenly moistened. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to create a scrumptious crust.
- In a large mixing bowl fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the softened cream cheese, 1 cup sugar, and vanilla until smooth and creamy.
- Sift in the flour and mix well, then add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed just until each is incorporated.
- Gently fold in the semisweet chocolate chips using a rubber spatula.
- Pour the cheesecake batter over the crust evenly and bake for about 30 minutes. The cheesecake should be nearly set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle the chopped Hershey’s chocolate bar, mini marshmallows, and coarsely chopped graham crackers evenly over the surface. Press the toppings down gently into the cheesecake.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the center is just about set.
- Once completed, allow the cheesecake to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours to set fully.
- When ready to enjoy, use the foil handles to lift the cheesecake slab from the pan, cut into bars, and serve!
How to serve S’mores Cheesecake Bars
These scrumptious bars are best served chilled, but for an indulgent twist, try warming them slightly in the microwave to melt the chocolate and marshmallows just a bit. They’re perfect on their own or paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to enhance that s’mores experience.
How to store S’mores Cheesecake Bars
Keep these delightful bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for about a week (though I doubt they’ll last that long!). For longer storage, they can be frozen for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap them well to keep them from drying out.
Tips to make S’mores Cheesecake Bars
- Make sure your cream cheese is really softened; it makes for a smoother batter!
- Don’t skip the step of letting the cheesecake cool completely before refrigerating. This is vital for texture!
- Feel free to add extra chocolate chips or even a drizzle of chocolate sauce on the top before serving for a truly indulgent experience.
Variations
Try swapping out the Hershey’s chocolate bar with another favorite chocolate bar, or even adding peanut butter chips for a nutty twist. You can also experiment with flavored cream cheese or a touch of espresso powder in the batter for a mocha s’mores flavor!
FAQs
-
Can I make these gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free graham crackers and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free. -
Can I use a different type of crust?
Yes! A chocolate cookie crust or an Oreo crust would work beautifully in place of the graham cracker crust. -
How long do these bars take to chill?
It’s best to let them chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, but overnight is even better for the flavors to meld.
Baking these S’mores Cheesecake Bars is not just about creating a dessert; it’s about crafting memories and indulging in a sweet moment of joy. Each bite is a reminder that life is meant to be savored, just like this treat. So gather your friends and family, whip up this delicious dessert, and celebrate the simple pleasures of life with every gooey, chocolatey bite!
S'mores Cheesecake Bars
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Line a 13x9-inch baking pan with foil, letting the edges hang over the sides for easy removal later.
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 3 tablespoons sugar. Stir until all the crumbs are evenly moistened.
- Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to create a scrumptious crust.
- In a large mixing bowl fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the softened cream cheese, 1 cup sugar, and vanilla until smooth and creamy.
- Sift in the flour and mix well, then add the eggs one at a time, mixing on low speed just until each is incorporated.
- Gently fold in the semisweet chocolate chips using a rubber spatula.
- Pour the cheesecake batter over the crust evenly and bake for about 30 minutes. The cheesecake should be nearly set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle the chopped Hershey's chocolate bar, mini marshmallows, and coarsely chopped graham crackers evenly over the surface. Press the toppings down gently into the cheesecake.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the center is just about set.
- Once completed, allow the cheesecake to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours to set fully.
- When ready to enjoy, use the foil handles to lift the cheesecake slab from the pan, cut into bars, and serve!