Name: No Bake S’mores Cake Recipe
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 14 h 5 min
Yield: 12
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 oz semi-sweet or milk chocolate; 1½ cups heavy cream; 6 egg whites; 1½ cups granulated sugar; ¾ tsp cream of tartar; 1 tsp pure vanilla extract; 36 graham crackers

This no-bake s'mores cake is a delightful treat that brings the nostalgic flavors of your favorite campfire dessert to the comfort of your own kitchen. With a rich chocolate ganache and a fluffy marshmallow meringue nestled between layers of graham crackers, this dessert is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.

Photos of No Bake S’mores Cake Recipe

This recipe calls for some ingredients that you might not typically carry in your pantry, including cream of tartar and semi-sweet chocolate. The cream of tartar helps to stabilize the egg whites in the marshmallow meringue, ensuring a fluffy, light texture. Semi-sweet chocolate is used to create a rich, decadent ganache, but you could also use milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter taste.

Ingredients for No Bake S'Mores Cake

Semi-sweet or milk chocolate: This forms the base for our ganache, giving the cake its rich, chocolatey flavor.

Heavy cream: Used in the ganache, it adds a creamy, luscious texture.

Egg whites: These are whipped to create the fluffy marshmallow meringue.

Granulated sugar: Sweetens the meringue and balances the rich chocolate.

Cream of tartar: Stabilizes the egg whites in the meringue, ensuring it whips up nicely.

Vanilla extract: Adds depth of flavor to the meringue.

Graham crackers: The classic s'mores ingredient, providing a crunchy contrast to the soft meringue and ganache.

One reader, Emelyne Roe says:

This no-bake s'mores cake recipe is a game-changer! It's incredibly easy to make and tastes absolutely divine. The layers of graham crackers, chocolate ganache, and marshmallow meringue create a heavenly dessert that's perfect for any occasion. Plus, the no-bake aspect makes it a stress-free delight!

Emelyne Roe

Techniques Required for Making No Bake S'mores Cake

How to prepare chocolate ganache: Melt the chocolate by pouring hot cream over it and stirring until completely combined and smooth. Refrigerate the ganache until ready to use.

How to make marshmallow meringue: Whisk egg whites, sugar, and cream of tartar over simmering water until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture has thinned out. Then, beat on high speed until stiff glossy peaks form. Refrigerate a portion for topping.

How to assemble the cake: Layer the graham crackers, marshmallow meringue, and chocolate ganache in a specific order to create the cake. Refrigerate for at least 12 hours before serving.

How to torch the marshmallow meringue: Use a kitchen torch to create peaks and swirls on the marshmallow meringue topping before serving.

How To Make No Bake S’mores Cake

Each delicious bite of no-bake s’mores cake is made with 14 layers of marshmallow meringue, chocolate ganache, and graham crackers. Such a sweet surprise!

Preparation: 1 hour

Cooking: 5 minutes

Chill Time: 13 hours

Total: 14 hours 5 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

12ozsemi-sweet or milk chocolate,finely chopped
1½cupsheavy cream
6egg whites,at room temperature
1½cupsgranulated sugar
¾tspcream of tartar
1tsppure vanilla extract
36graham crackers,(a little over 1 standard box), full-sheet

Instructions

Line a 9×9-inch or 8×8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to lift the cake out (makes cutting and serving possible!). Set aside.

Chocolate Ganache:

Place chopped chocolate in a bowl. Heat the cream in a small saucepan until it begins to gently simmer. (Do not let it come to a rapid boil– that’s too hot!)
Pour over chocolate and let it sit for about 2 to 3 minutes to gently soften the chocolate. Slowly stir until completely combined and chocolate has melted. Cover and refrigerate as you make the meringue. Ganache can be prepared, covered, and refrigerated for up to 3 days before using.

Marshmallow Meringue:

Place egg whites, sugar, and cream of tartar in a heatproof bowl. Set bowl over a saucepan filled with two inches of simmering water. Do not let it touch the water. Whisk constantly for about 4 minutes until sugar is dissolved and the mixture has thinned out.
Add the vanilla extract, then using a handheld or stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment, beat on high speed for about 5 to 6 minutes until stiff glossy peaks form. Remove 1 heaping cup (just eyeball it), cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 2 days. This will be the topping.

To Assemble the Cake:

If the marshmallow meringue and ganache are still slightly warm as you assemble the cake, that’s okay. Spread a super thin layer of marshmallow meringue on the bottom of the pan. Doesn’t need to be even or perfect; it’s just so the graham cracker base has something to stick to. Spread it slowly.
Top with a layer of graham crackers. Breaking them apart might be necessary to evenly arrange them. Top with a layer of marshmallow meringue, then another layer of graham crackers, then a layer of chocolate ganache, then a layer of graham crackers, then another layer of marshmallow meringue. Repeat for a total of 6 layers of graham crackers, 4 layers of marshmallow meringue (including the thin bottom layer), and 3 layers of chocolate ganache. The top layer will be chocolate for now. Layers listed out: super-thin marshmallow meringue, graham crackers, marshmallow meringue, graham crackers, chocolate, graham crackers, marshmallow meringue, graham crackers, chocolate, graham crackers, marshmallow meringue, graham crackers, chocolate.
Cover tightly and refrigerate for at least 12 hours and up to 2 days.
Remove reserved marshmallow meringue from the refrigerator. If it seems deflated, whip it with a fork or whisk a few times.
Remove cake from the refrigerator, then remove from the pan using the overhang on the sides. Peel off the parchment paper (or don’t– if it is possible torching the top without the paper lighting up!) and place onto a heat-proof serving platter or cutting board.
Spread marshmallow meringue on top. Use a spoon to create peaks and swirls. Serve immediately or torch it with a kitchen torch and serve immediately or loosely cover and refrigerate for up to 1 hour before torching/serving.

Recipe Notes

Cover and store leftovers in the refrigerator or freezer for up to 2 days. Topping may begin to wilt.

Nutrition

Calories: 540.01kcal
Fat: 23.89g
Saturated Fat: 12.79g
Trans Fat: 0.02g
Monounsaturated Fat: 6.27g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.06g
Carbohydrates: 75.54g
Fiber: 2.39g
Sugar: 50.96g
Protein: 7.03g
Cholesterol: 47.28mg
Sodium: 248.77mg
Calcium: 106.49mg
Potassium: 252.64mg
Iron: 2.29mg
Vitamin A: 139.00µg
Vitamin C: 0.18mg

Helpful Technique Tip for No Bake S'mores Cake

When making the marshmallow meringue, ensure that your bowl and whisk are completely clean and free of any grease. Even a small amount of fat can prevent the egg whites from whipping up properly. Also, make sure that no yolk gets into the whites as this can also affect the volume of your meringue. For the best results, separate the eggs when they are cold but whip the egg whites at room temperature.

Time-Saving Tips for Making This No Bake Cake

Prepare the ingredients: Gather and measure all the ingredients before starting to make the recipe to streamline the process.

Use store-bought marshmallow fluff: To save time, consider using store-bought marshmallow fluff instead of making the marshmallow meringue from scratch.

Chill the cake in the freezer: Instead of refrigerating the cake for 12 hours, you can speed up the chilling process by placing it in the freezer for a few hours.

Use a kitchen torch: Instead of waiting for the marshmallow meringue to set in the refrigerator, use a kitchen torch to quickly brown the top before serving.

Pre-cut graham crackers: Consider using pre-cut graham crackers to save time on breaking and arranging them in the cake.

Opt for pre-made chocolate ganache: Save time by using pre-made chocolate ganache instead of making it from scratch.

Use a stand mixer: Utilize a stand mixer for whipping the marshmallow meringue to save time and effort compared to using a hand whisk.

Substitute Ingredients For No Bake S’mores Cake Recipe

semi-sweet or milk chocolate - Substitute with dark chocolate: Dark chocolate has a more intense flavor and slightly lower sugar content, which can add depth to the dessert.
heavy cream - Substitute with coconut cream: Coconut cream can provide a rich and creamy texture while adding a hint of coconut flavor to the cake.
egg whites - Substitute with aquafaba: Aquafaba, the liquid from canned chickpeas, can be whipped into stiff peaks similar to egg whites, making it a suitable vegan alternative.
granulated sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can add a natural sweetness and a hint of caramel flavor to the cake, while also providing moisture.
graham crackers - Substitute with digestive biscuits: Digestive biscuits have a similar texture and flavor profile to graham crackers, making them a suitable alternative for the crust of the s'mores cake.

Presentation Tips for a Stunning No Bake S'mores Cake

Elevate the s'mores cake with a chocolate garnish: Shave some chocolate and sprinkle it on top of the cake for an elegant touch. This adds a luxurious and sophisticated element to the presentation.
Garnish with toasted marshmallows: Place a few lightly toasted marshmallows on top of the cake for a visually appealing and inviting presentation. The golden brown color and slight char will add a rustic and charming element to the dish.
Create a graham cracker crumble: Crush some graham crackers and sprinkle the crumble around the edges of the plate. This adds texture and a playful element to the presentation, while also hinting at the delicious flavors within the cake.
Drizzle with chocolate sauce: Use a small spoon to drizzle some chocolate sauce in an artistic pattern on the plate. This not only adds a touch of decadence but also enhances the visual appeal of the dish.
Add a dusting of cocoa powder: Lightly dust the plate with a fine layer of cocoa powder for a professional and polished presentation. The rich, dark color will contrast beautifully with the other elements on the plate.

Essential Tools for Making No Bake S'mores Cake

Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for combining ingredients and mixing the cake batter.
Saucepan: A saucepan is used for heating the cream to make the chocolate ganache and for creating a double boiler to make the marshmallow meringue.
Handheld or stand mixer: A handheld or stand mixer is used to beat the marshmallow meringue until stiff glossy peaks form.
9x9-inch or 8x8-inch square baking pan: This baking pan is used to assemble and set the s'mores cake.
Parchment paper: Parchment paper is used to line the baking pan, allowing for easy removal and serving of the cake.
Kitchen torch: A kitchen torch is used to torch the marshmallow meringue topping for the s'mores cake.

Storing and Freezing No Bake S'mores Cake

Cover and store leftover cake in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I do not recommend freezing this cake because the texture of the marshmallow meringue and chocolate ganache will change.
If you need to prepare the cake ahead of time, I recommend making the chocolate ganache and marshmallow meringue 1-2 days in advance, storing both in the refrigerator until ready to assemble the cake.
You can assemble the cake 1-2 days in advance, cover tightly, and store in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Add the marshmallow meringue topping and torch (if desired) immediately before serving.
If you notice the graham crackers are softening, that's normal from the moisture in the filling. The cake is still safe to eat and tastes incredible even if the graham crackers are a little soft.

Interesting Fact About No Bake S'mores Cake

The s'mores cake recipe is a delicious no-bake dessert that combines the classic flavors of graham crackers, chocolate, and marshmallows into a decadent treat. This cake is perfect for summer gatherings or any time you want to enjoy the flavors of a campfire s'more in cake form. It's a great option for those who want to enjoy s'mores without the need for a campfire. Plus, the no-bake aspect makes it a convenient and easy dessert to prepare.

Is Making No Bake S'mores Cake at Home Cost-Effective?

This no bake s'mores cake recipe is relatively cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, such as chocolate, cream, egg whites, sugar, and graham crackers, are commonly found in most households. The cost of these ingredients, when combined, is reasonable and can serve a family of four at an approximate cost of $15-$20. The decadent and indulgent nature of this dessert justifies the cost, making it a worthwhile treat for special occasions. On a scale of 1-10, this recipe rates a solid 8 for its taste, presentation, and overall satisfaction.

Is This No Bake Cake Healthy or Unhealthy?

This no-bake s'mores cake recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main ingredients - chocolate, heavy cream, sugar, and graham crackers - are all high in calories, fat, and sugar. The marshmallow meringue, made with egg whites and sugar, adds even more sugar to the dish. Consuming excessive amounts of these ingredients can lead to weight gain, increased risk of heart disease, and other health issues.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Use dark chocolate instead of milk or semi-sweet chocolate, as it contains more antioxidants and less sugar
Replace some of the heavy cream with low-fat milk or Greek yogurt to reduce the fat content
Reduce the amount of sugar in the marshmallow meringue or use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup
Opt for whole-wheat graham crackers to increase the fiber content
Serve smaller portions and pair the cake with fresh fruit to balance out the richness

By making these adjustments, you can still enjoy the indulgent flavors of a s'mores cake while minimizing the negative health impacts. However, it's important to remember that even with these modifications, this dessert should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Editor's Opinion on This No Bake S'mores Cake Recipe

The no-bake s'mores cake recipe is a delightful twist on the classic campfire treat. The layers of graham crackers, chocolate ganache, and marshmallow meringue create a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The use of a torch to caramelize the marshmallow topping adds a fun and interactive element to the dessert. However, the recipe's complexity and time-consuming nature may not be suitable for all home cooks. Overall, this indulgent and visually stunning cake is sure to impress at any gathering.

Enhance Your No Bake S’mores Cake Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Grilled Vegetables: Try serving a colorful array of grilled vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus, to complement the rich and decadent s'mores cake.

Bacon-wrapped Dates: For a savory contrast to the sweetness of the s'mores cake, consider serving bacon-wrapped dates stuffed with cheese for a delightful appetizer.

Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad featuring a mix of seasonal fruits like strawberries, blueberries, and kiwi would provide a light and fruity accompaniment to the indulgent s'mores cake.

Similar No Bake Dessert Recipes to Try

Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Marinate the vegetables in a flavorful herb and garlic mixture before threading them onto skewers and grilling to perfection. Serve as a colorful and healthy side dish at your next barbecue.

Braised Beef Short Ribs: Slowly cook beef short ribs in a rich red wine and beef broth mixture until they are fall-off-the-bone tender. Serve with creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting and hearty meal.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: Combine ripe mango, creamy coconut milk, and nutritious chia seeds to create a refreshing and tropical dessert. Top with fresh berries and shredded coconut for added flavor and texture.

Appetizers and Main Dishes to Serve with This No Bake Cake

Appetizers:

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Combine creamy spinach and artichoke with a blend of cheeses for a warm, gooey, and flavorful dip that pairs perfectly with crispy tortilla chips or toasted bread slices.

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and satisfying appetizer by filling mushroom caps with a mixture of seasoned breadcrumbs, cheese, and herbs, then baking until golden and crispy on the outside.

Main Courses:

Chicken Alfredo: Creamy pasta dish with tender chicken and a rich, savory sauce. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special dinner with loved ones.

Beef Stir Fry: A flavorful and colorful dish featuring tender beef, crisp vegetables, and a savory sauce. Quick and easy to make, perfect for a busy weeknight meal.

Why trust this No Bake S’mores Cake Recipe:

This no-bake s'mores cake recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The chocolate ganache is made with high-quality semi-sweet or milk chocolate and rich heavy cream, ensuring a luscious and decadent texture. The marshmallow meringue is carefully crafted with egg whites and granulated sugar, resulting in a fluffy and sweet topping. The use of graham crackers provides a classic s'mores flavor and satisfying crunch. With meticulous instructions and premium ingredients, this recipe promises a delightful and indulgent dessert experience. Trust in the expertise of a culinary genius and elevate your dessert game with this delightful creation.

Want to share your experience making this No Bake S'mores Cake or discuss variations on the recipe? Head over to the Baking and Desserts forum section and join the conversation!

FAQ:

Can I use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet or milk chocolate?

Yes, you can use dark chocolate if you prefer a richer and slightly less sweet flavor in your s'mores cake.

Can I make the marshmallow meringue in advance?

Absolutely! You can make the marshmallow meringue ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before assembling the cake.

Can I substitute the graham crackers with another type of cookie?

While graham crackers are traditional for s'mores, you can definitely get creative and use other cookies like digestive biscuits or even chocolate wafers for a unique twist.

Can I torch the marshmallow meringue if I don't have a kitchen torch?

If you don't have a kitchen torch, you can place the assembled cake under the broiler for a few minutes until the marshmallow meringue is toasted to your liking.

How long can the assembled s'mores cake be refrigerated before serving?

You can refrigerate the assembled s'mores cake for at least 12 hours and up to 2 days before serving. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together for a delicious result.