Description
This decadent S’mores Cheesecake combines a buttery graham cracker crust with a creamy, fluffy marshmallow-infused cream cheese filling, topped with rich chocolate ganache and toasted mini marshmallows. Perfect for dessert lovers craving the nostalgic flavors of classic s’mores in a luscious cheesecake form.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 200g), finely crushed
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (85g), melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (50g)
- Pinch of salt
Cheesecake Filling
- 24 oz cream cheese (680g), full-fat, softened
- 1 cup marshmallow fluff (about 120g)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar (150g)
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream (120g)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (60ml)
Ganache and Topping
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (170g)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (120ml)
- 1 tablespoon salted butter (14g)
- 3 cups mini marshmallows (150g)
Instructions
- Prepare Oven and Pan: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper to ensure an easy release after baking.
- Make Crust Mixture: In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and a pinch of salt. Stir in the melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand, ensuring even moisture throughout.
- Form and Bake Crust: Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom and about 1 inch up the sides of the springform pan. Bake for 8-10 minutes until lightly golden. Remove and let cool while preparing the filling.
- Reduce Oven Temperature: Lower oven to 325°F (163°C) for baking the cheesecake filling.
- Beat Cream Cheese and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with 3/4 cup sugar until smooth and creamy, eliminating lumps for an even texture.
- Add Marshmallow Fluff and Vanilla: Blend in the marshmallow fluff and vanilla extract, mixing on low speed until fully incorporated for a light marshmallow flavor.
- Add Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing briefly after each addition just until combined to avoid over-beating which can cause cracks.
- Fold in Creams: Gently fold in the sour cream and 1/4 cup heavy cream by hand until the batter is silky smooth and lump-free, preserving airiness.
- Pour Filling into Crust: Pour the batter over the cooled crust and gently tap the pan to release trapped air bubbles for a smooth surface.
- Bake Cheesecake: Place the springform pan on a baking sheet and bake at 325°F for 60-70 minutes. The edges should be set, and the center should still wobble slightly when gently shaken.
- Cool in Oven: Turn off the oven, crack the door open, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 1 hour to prevent cracking.
- Chill Cheesecake: Remove the cheesecake, run a knife around the edges to loosen it, cool to room temperature, then chill uncovered in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight for best texture.
- Make Ganache: Heat 1/2 cup heavy cream and 1 tablespoon salted butter in a small saucepan until steaming. Pour over the semi-sweet chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. Let sit for 2 minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy.
- Apply Ganache: Spread the ganache evenly over the chilled cheesecake. Refrigerate for 15 minutes to allow it to set and firm up.
- Add and Toast Marshmallows: Arrange mini marshmallows in a thick layer over the ganache. Use a kitchen torch or place under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, watching closely until golden brown and toasted without burning.
- Cool and Serve: Let the cheesecake cool for 10 minutes before unmolding. Slice using a hot, wet knife for clean edges and serve.
Notes
- Room temperature eggs and cream cheese ensure a smoother batter and prevent lumps.
- To prevent cracks in the cheesecake, avoid over-mixing and do not open the oven door while baking.
- Use a water bath if preferred for even baking and preventing cracks.
- If you don’t have a kitchen torch, broil the marshmallows very closely and watch carefully to avoid burning.
- For a firmer crust edge, bake the crust slightly longer but avoid burning.
- Slice the cheesecake with a knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry for smooth, clean slices.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: S'mores cheesecake, graham cracker crust, marshmallow cheesecake, chocolate ganache cheesecake, toasted marshmallow dessert
