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
- 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.
- Whip cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until silky smooth. Incorporate marshmallow fluff, blending until fully integrated.
- Whisk heavy cream until stiff peaks form, then gently fold into the cream cheese mixture, creating a light and airy texture.
- Distribute the cheesecake mixture evenly across the chilled graham cracker crust. Transfer to the freezer for 1 hour to solidify.
- 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.
- Cascade the chocolate ganache over the partially frozen cheesecake layer, ensuring complete and even coverage. Optionally, sprinkle with crushed peanuts for added crunch.
- 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