Frozen Smores Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Dreamy Frozen Smores Cheesecake Bars Recipe: Summer’s Sweet Joy

Summer’s sweetest indulgence meets a delightful twist with these frozen s’mores cheesecake bars that blend creamy cheesecake goodness with classic campfire charm.

Graham cracker crusts provide a crunchy foundation for layers of rich, velvety filling.

Marshmallow swirls dance through the smooth cheesecake, creating pockets of gooey delight.

Chocolate drizzles add decadent depth to each chilled bite.

The recipe transforms traditional s’mores into an elegant, no-bake dessert that’s perfect for hot afternoons.

Cool, creamy, and utterly irresistible, these bars promise to be the star of any summer gathering.

Prepare to fall in love with a dessert that captures the essence of nostalgic campfire memories.

FAQs

  • Can I use a different type of chocolate for the ganache?

Yes, you can substitute milk chocolate with dark or semi-sweet chocolate based on your preference. Just ensure the chocolate melts smoothly.

  • Is marshmallow fluff necessary for the recipe?

Marshmallow fluff adds signature s’mores flavor, but you can replace it with marshmallow cream or omit it if unavailable.

  • How long can I keep these bars in the freezer?

These frozen s’mores cheesecake bars can be stored in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks without losing quality.

  • Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Replace graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free graham crackers or crushed gluten-free cookies to make the recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.

What Makes Frozen S’mores Cheesecake Bars Special

  • Craft Cheesy Comfort: Dive into a bread experience packed with three different cheeses that transform an ordinary loaf into a mouthwatering sensation for anyone craving rich, savory flavors.
  • Master Simple Baking: Enjoy a straightforward recipe requiring basic mixing techniques and minimal kitchen skills, perfect for beginners wanting to explore homemade bread without complex steps.
  • Versatile Crowd-Pleaser: Create a crowd-favorite dish suitable for multiple occasions like potlucks, game nights, family dinners, or casual gatherings where people love sharing delicious, warm bread.
  • Customize with Herbs: Elevate the recipe by playing with different herb combinations like adding rosemary, experimenting with spice levels, or incorporating additional seasonings to match your taste preferences.

Ingredients For Frozen S’mores Cheesecake Bars

Crust Ingredients:
  • Graham Cracker Crumbs: A classic base that provides a sweet and crunchy foundation for the cheesecake bars.
  • Butter: Helps bind the graham cracker crumbs and creates a rich, smooth crust.
Cheesecake Layer Ingredients:
  • Cream Cheese: The primary component that gives the bars a rich, creamy texture and tangy flavor.
  • Powdered Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a smooth, silky cheesecake filling.
  • Vanilla Extract: Provides a warm, aromatic flavor that enhances the overall taste of the cheesecake.
  • Marshmallow Fluff: Introduces a light, sweet element that complements the cream cheese base.
  • Heavy Cream: Adds lightness and creates a fluffy, airy texture to the cheesecake layer.
Topping Ingredients:
  • Milk Chocolate Chips: Creates a rich, smooth ganache that adds a decadent chocolate layer to the bars.
  • Heavy Cream: Used to melt the chocolate chips and form a glossy ganache topping.
  • Peanuts: Optional garnish that provides a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.

Step-By-Step Frozen Cheesecake Bars Preparation

Step 1: Create the Crunchy Base

Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. Crush graham crackers into fine crumbs and mix with melted butter.

Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the pan’s bottom, creating a solid foundation. Refrigerate for 10 minutes to set the base.

Step 2: Whip the Creamy Cheesecake Filling

In a mixing bowl, blend cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until completely combined.

Gently fold in marshmallow fluff, creating a light and fluffy texture.

Step 3: Prepare the Whipped Cream

Whip heavy cream in a separate bowl until stiff peaks form.

Carefully fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, creating a luxurious and airy filling.

Step 4: Layer the Cheesecake

Spread the creamy cheesecake mixture evenly over the chilled graham cracker crust.

Smooth the top with a spatula and place in the freezer for 1 hour to set.

Step 5: Create Chocolate Ganache

Warm heavy cream in a small saucepan.

Pour the warm cream over milk chocolate chips and let sit for 2 minutes. Stir until the mixture becomes smooth and glossy.

Step 6: Finish and Decorate

Pour the chocolate ganache over the frozen cheesecake layer, ensuring even coverage. Optional: Sprinkle crushed peanuts on top for extra crunch.

Step 7: Final Freeze and Serve

Return the pan to the freezer for an additional 2 hours or until completely firm. Cut into bars and serve directly from the freezer for a cool, creamy treat.

Helpful Advice To Make Perfect S’mores Bars

  • Ensure the cheesecake is completely frozen for clean, precise slices that hold their shape perfectly.
  • Swap peanuts with graham cracker pieces, toasted coconut, or mini marshmallows for extra texture and flavor variety.
  • Line the pan with parchment paper with overhanging edges for easy removal and clean cutting of frozen bars.
  • Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks for quick dessert access.
  • Let bars sit for 5-10 minutes before serving to soften slightly and enhance the creamy cheesecake texture.

Creative Twists To Try With Cheesecake Bars

  • Gluten-Free Graham Cracker Alternative: Replace traditional graham crackers with gluten-free graham crackers or crushed gluten-free cookies to create a celiac-friendly crust.
  • Vegan Marshmallow Cheesecake Version: Substitute dairy cream cheese with cashew-based cream cheese, use coconut whipped cream, and replace marshmallow fluff with vegan marshmallow spread for a plant-based option.
  • Nutty Chocolate Variation: Swap milk chocolate ganache with dark chocolate, add almond butter to the cheesecake layer, and use chopped almonds instead of peanuts for a rich, nutty flavor profile.
  • No-Bake Summer Remix: Transform the recipe into a refrigerated dessert by chilling instead of freezing, and use a lighter whipped cream topping for a refreshing summer treat.

Best Pairings To Enjoy With Cheesecake Bars

  • Pair with Sip-Worthy Companions: Marshmallow Martini pairs delightfully with the cheesecake's sweet marshmallow essence, creating a boozy dessert match made in heaven.
  • Chocolate Lover's Coffee: Brew a rich dark roast coffee that complements the chocolate ganache, cutting through the creamy cheesecake with bold caffeine notes.
  • Cool Down with Milk: Serve classic whole milk alongside these frozen bars, letting the pure dairy flavor balance the intense chocolate and marshmallow richness.
  • Dessert Wine Delight: Select a sweet port wine with caramel undertones that echoes the graham cracker crust and enhances the dessert's decadent profile.

Tips To Store Frozen S’mores Cheesecake Bars

  • Store covered in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking and maintain texture.
  • Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Freeze for maximum 2 months. Label with date for easy tracking.
  • Transfer frozen bars to refrigerator and let defrost slowly for 2-3 hours. Avoid room temperature thawing to prevent bacterial growth.
  • Remove bars 10-15 minutes before serving to soften slightly. This allows chocolate ganache to become creamy and cheesecake layer more smooth.
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Frozen Smores Cheesecake Bars Recipe

Frozen Smores Cheesecake Bars Recipe


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4.7 from 16 reviews

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 9 1x

Description

Indulgent Frozen S’mores Cheesecake Bars blend campfire nostalgia with creamy dessert magic, marrying graham cracker crusts and chocolate layers into a summer sensation. Cool chocolate ganache and toasted marshmallow swirls complete this irresistible treat you’ll crave all season long.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 (8 ounces/226 grams) package cream cheese, softened
  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1 1/2 cups milk chocolate chips
  • 1 cup marshmallow fluff
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream

Binding and Sweetening Ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup (57 grams) melted butter
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Garnish and Optional Topping:

  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (for chocolate ganache)
  • 1/4 cup crushed peanuts (optional)

Instructions

  1. Construct a sturdy base by combining graham cracker crumbs with melted butter, pressing the mixture firmly into a parchment-lined 8×8-inch pan. Refrigerate for 10 minutes to set the foundation.
  2. Whip cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until silky smooth. Incorporate marshmallow fluff, blending until fully integrated.
  3. Whisk heavy cream until stiff peaks form, then gently fold into the cream cheese mixture, creating a light and airy texture.
  4. Distribute the cheesecake mixture evenly across the chilled graham cracker crust. Transfer to the freezer for 1 hour to solidify.
  5. Warm heavy cream in a saucepan until just heated. Pour over milk chocolate chips and allow to rest for 2 minutes. Stir until a glossy, uniform ganache develops.
  6. Cascade the chocolate ganache over the partially frozen cheesecake layer, ensuring complete and even coverage. Optionally, sprinkle with crushed peanuts for added crunch.
  7. Return to the freezer for an additional 2 hours or until completely firm. Slice into individual bars and serve directly from the freezer for optimal texture and flavor.

Notes

  • Customize the crust by substituting graham crackers with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or crushed gluten-free cookies for those with dietary restrictions.
  • Prevent cheesecake layer from becoming icy by ensuring cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing, which creates a smoother, creamier texture.
  • Enhance flavor complexity by adding a pinch of sea salt to the ganache or toasting marshmallow fluff briefly with a kitchen torch for deeper caramelized notes.
  • Make bars ahead of time and store in an airtight container for up to two weeks, allowing convenient make-ahead dessert preparation for busy schedules.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Freezing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 9
  • Calories: 324 kcal
  • Sugar: 28 g
  • Sodium: 126 mg
  • Fat: 23 g
  • Saturated Fat: 13 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.3 g
  • Carbohydrates: 27 g
  • Fiber: 1.2 g
  • Protein: 5 g
  • Cholesterol: 62 mg
Maya Thompson

Maya Thompson

Culinary Content Creator & Nutrition Enthusiast

Expertise

Healthy single-serving recipes, Meal prepping for individuals, Integrating nutrition into everyday cooking, Vegetarian and plant-based cuisine​

Education

The Chef’s Academy at Harrison College
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Focus: Nutrition, meal planning, and culinary techniques for healthy living.


Maya found her passion in the kitchen by mixing good food with good energy. After earning her culinary degree at The Chef’s Academy at Harrison College, she made it her mission to keep cooking simple, wholesome, and packed with flavor.
At Steelhead Diner, Maya shares easy, healthy recipes built for real life. For Maya, great food seems like a celebration of everyday moments, made better one fresh bite at a time.

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