No Bake Cookie Dough S’mores

These no bake cookie dough smores cheesecakes are pure dessert magic that come together quickly without heating up your kitchen You get layers of sweet graham cracker crumbs creamy marshmallow cheesecake edible cookie dough a rich chocolate ganache and a toasted marshmallow on top Every bite is the best part of summer campfires and birthday parties all piled into a single serving cup that everyone in my house goes wild for

This has become my easy go to dessert whenever friends drop by I started making it for family movie nights and now it is our most requested sweet treat at gatherings

Ingredients

• Graham cracker crumbs: Bring that classic smores flavor Best if you use fresh crisp crackers and pulse them yourself
• Granulated sugar: Adds a little extra sparkle and crunch to the crust
• Butter: Melted butter holds the crust together and gives it richness Try to use good quality unsalted butter if you have it
• Edible chocolate chip cookie dough: Every kids dream layer Edible dough is safe to eat and fun to press into discs Nestle Toll House is reliable for flavor and texture
• Campfire regular marshmallows: Big fluffy marshmallows melt into sweet creamy filling Use ultra fresh mallows so they melt smoothly
• Cream cheese: Room temperature cream cheese makes a smooth tangy base Opt for full fat blocks for the most luxe cheesecake layer
• Confectioners sugar: Dissolves instantly for sweetening the filling No grittiness
• Vanilla extract: A dash lifts up all the flavors Make sure it is real vanilla for the richest taste
• Frozen whipped topping: Makes the filling airy and light Let it thaw in the fridge before folding in
• Semisweet chocolate: For making deep glossy ganache Choose best quality bars you can find and chop them yourself
• Heavy cream: Warm cream is the secret to silky ganache Use fresh heavy cream for best results
• Campfire giant roasters: Huge marshmallows for topping and a perfect dramatic finish Toasting over the stove or a kitchen torch amps up the nostalgia

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Crust:

Mix the graham cracker crumbs and sugar in a medium bowl then pour over the melted butter Stir until every crumb is coated Press about three tablespoons firmly in the bottom of each serving dish This gets the right thickness for supporting all the layers

Shape the Cookie Dough:

Scoop about three tablespoons of edible cookie dough for each serving Roll into a smooth ball flatten into a disc approximately the size of your serving dish and gently press on top of the crust This cookie dough layer should fit just to the edges

Chill the Bases:

Pop the dishes into the fridge This firms up the crust and gives you time to make the fluffiest filling

Melt the Marshmallows:

Place all the regular marshmallows in a large microwave safe bowl Heat on high power for almost a minute watching closely so they do not overflow Stir with a buttered spatula until completely smooth Set aside so it cools slightly without setting up

Make the Cheesecake Filling:

In a big bowl whip the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer for about two minutes You want lots of air for creaminess Beat in the sugar and vanilla until just combined Scoop in the melted marshmallow mixture and beat for another minute Use a rubber spatula to gently fold in all the thawed whipped topping Take care not to crush all the fluffiness

Layer the Cheesecake:

Use a spoon or piping bag to dollop the cheesecake filling on top of the cookie dough in each dish Make sure to smooth the tops Chill again so everything sets up for perfect layers

Make the Ganache:

Put chopped semisweet chocolate into a heatproof bowl In a small pot heat the heavy cream just until it simmers tiny bubbles at the edges Pour the hot cream right over the chocolate Let it sit for five minutes then whisk it together until totally smooth and glossy

Add the Ganache:

Pour or spoon the chocolate ganache gently on top of each cheesecake cup Spread in an even layer Slide the dishes into the fridge and let the ganache set before serving

Toast and Top with Marshmallows:

Toast the giant marshmallows over a flame or under a broiler until golden and gooey just before serving Balance one toasted marshmallow right on top of each cheesecake for the final campfire touch

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My favorite part is sneaking a little extra ganache drizzle on my portion My kids have made toasting the marshmallows together a family tradition and we always compete for the most perfectly golden top

Storage Tips

No bake cheesecakes can be covered and refrigerated for up to three days before serving The cookie dough and crust both keep their texture best when tightly wrapped If you want to make ahead hold off on toasting the marshmallow until right before serving so it stays fresh and soft

Ingredient Substitutions

If you cannot find edible cookie dough try making your own batch with pasteurized flour and no eggs For the whipped topping you can use homemade whipped cream with a bit of sugar instead Gluten free graham crackers swap in easily for anyone allergic My friend once made a version with chocolate cookie crusts and it was every bit as good

Serving Suggestions

Serve these in small wide glasses or clear jam jars for the prettiest layers Let everyone toast their own marshmallow at the table for added fun If you want a dramatic effect use a kitchen torch to toast on the spot Sometimes we serve these at summer birthdays with extra mini chocolate chips sprinkled on top

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Cultural and Family Roots

Smores are a time tested American summer tradition inspired by the treats enjoyed at scout campfires Since the original combination of graham cracker chocolate and marshmallow never fails these cheesecakes pay tribute but are made for any day not just the outdoors We started a family night where everyone builds their own and it feels like a gourmet take on childhood nostalgia

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make these cheesecakes ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them in advance. Assemble all layers except the marshmallow topping and refrigerate. Add the toasted marshmallow just before serving for optimal freshness.

→ Can I use homemade cookie dough instead of store-bought?

Absolutely! Ensure your dough is made with heat-treated flour and no eggs for safe eating. Shape and layer as directed.

→ What is the best way to toast marshmallows for topping?

For best results, use a kitchen torch or carefully toast them under a broiler. Watch closely to avoid burning.

→ Does the dessert need to chill before serving?

Chilling after assembly helps layers set and makes slicing and serving neater, but they can be enjoyed right away if preferred.

→ Can I use different chocolate for the ganache?

Yes, substitute milk or dark chocolate based on preference. Adjust cream as needed for desired consistency.