Mini S’mores Cheesecakes with Toasted Marshmallow Meringue Recipe

If you’ve ever wished to capture the magic of a campfire treat in a petite, elegant dessert, then these Mini S’mores Cheesecakes with Toasted Marshmallow Meringue are about to become your new obsession. Imagine a buttery graham cracker crust hugging a luscious, creamy cheesecake filling, topped with a rich layer of chocolate ganache, and crowned with fluffy, toasted marshmallow meringue that’s perfectly golden and irresistibly light. Each bite delivers all the nostalgic flavors of s’mores with a sophisticated twist that’s ideal for any occasion where you want to impress while indulging.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple yet essential ingredients is your first step to cheesecake bliss. Each plays a critical role, from creating that classic graham crust to building the creamy filling and finishing with the perfect toasted meringue topping.

• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs: This forms the crunchy, buttery base that gives your cheesecakes their signature s’mores texture.
• 4 tbsp melted butter: Helps bind the crumbs while adding richness and flavor.
• Pinch of salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
• ½ cup chocolate chips: For the luscious chocolate ganache glaze that deepens the dessert’s richness.
• ¼ cup heavy cream: Used to melt with the chocolate, creating a smooth, glossy ganache.
• 12 oz cream cheese, softened: The star ingredient—providing that smooth, tangy, and creamy cheesecake body.
• ⅓ cup sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake filling just enough to complement but not overpower.
• 1 large egg: Binds the filling together for a perfectly set texture.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds warm, aromatic depth to the creamy filling.
• 2 egg whites: For the marshmallow meringue topping—giving those light, fluffy peaks.
• ½ cup sugar: Sweetens and stabilizes the meringue to keep it glossy and stiff.
• Pinch of cream of tartar: Helps the meringue achieve stiff peaks and hold its shape during toasting.

How to Make Mini S’mores Cheesecakes with Toasted Marshmallow Meringue

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C) and lining a muffin tin with cupcake liners for easy handling. Combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and a pinch of salt in a bowl—this trio creates the perfect base that’s both buttery and crisp. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of each liner, ensuring a sturdy foundation to hold all that creamy goodness. Pop these crusts in the oven for about 5 minutes to set them just right before the filling goes in.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

While the crusts bake, whisk together the softened cream cheese and sugar until you get a perfectly smooth and creamy texture—no lumps here! Beat in the egg and vanilla extract gently to combine everything without overmixing, which keeps the filling silky and tender. Once the crusts have had their moment in the oven, pour this luscious cheesecake mixture over each crust-lined liner. Return the tray to the oven and bake for 15 to 17 minutes until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle—this guarantees a creamy outcome after chilling.

Step 3: Chill and Prepare the Chocolate Ganache

Once baked, let the cheesecakes cool completely in the pan before chilling them in the fridge for at least an hour. Meanwhile, focus on that dreamy chocolate ganache that will top these beauties. Warm the heavy cream until it’s just about to simmer, then pour it over the chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. Give it a few minutes to melt, then stir gently until you have a glossy, smooth ganache. Spoon this rich chocolate layer over each chilled cheesecake—this adds that deep chocolate flavor that makes these mini delights unforgettable.

Step 4: Whip and Toast the Marshmallow Meringue

For the crowning glory of your Mini S’mores Cheesecakes with Toasted Marshmallow Meringue, whisk the egg whites, sugar, and cream of tartar together over simmering water until warm and the sugar has fully dissolved—this step gives you a stable meringue base. Transfer the mixture to a stand mixer and beat until stiff, glossy peaks form. Using a piping bag or a spoon, generously top each cheesecake with the meringue, shaping it into soft peaks and cuddly clouds. Finally, toast the meringue with a kitchen torch until it turns a beautiful golden brown—the perfect finishing touch that’s both dramatic and delicious.

How to Serve Mini S’mores Cheesecakes with Toasted Marshmallow Meringue

Garnishes

While the toasted marshmallow meringue is the star garnish itself, feel free to sprinkle a few mini chocolate chips or crushed graham crackers on top for additional texture and eye appeal. A tiny drizzle of chocolate sauce or a dusting of cocoa powder can add finesse and a touch of decadence for special occasions.

Side Dishes

These mini cheesecakes are rich and satisfying on their own, but they pair beautifully with fresh berries to cut through the sweetness. A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a light raspberry sorbet also offers a refreshing companion that rounds out the dessert experience splendidly.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve these adorable delights in clear mini mason jars for a rustic campfire vibe, or arrange them on a wooden board with marshmallow sticks and chocolate chunks for an inviting s’mores-themed dessert spread. You can also use colorful cupcake liners to match any party theme or season, making them as festive as they are delicious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover Mini S’mores Cheesecakes with Toasted Marshmallow Meringue in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps maintain the creamy texture of the cheesecake and keeps the meringue fresh without becoming overly sticky or soggy.

Freezing

These cheesecakes can be frozen, but it’s best to skip the meringue topping before freezing, as it doesn’t freeze well. Freeze the cheesecakes without ganache and meringue in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then add fresh ganache and meringue before serving for the best results.

Reheating

If you want to enjoy them slightly warm, briefly warm the cheesecakes without topping in the microwave for about 10 seconds. Avoid heating the marshmallow meringue, as it is best enjoyed fresh and lightly toasted.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cookie for the crust?

Absolutely! While graham cracker crumbs are classic for s’mores, you can substitute with digestive biscuits, shortbread, or even chocolate cookies for a different twist. Just keep the crumbs finely ground and adjust the butter as needed to hold the crust together.

Is it safe to use raw egg whites in the meringue?

This recipe uses a method called Swiss meringue, where egg whites and sugar are gently heated over simmering water to dissolve sugar and slightly cook the eggs, which reduces concerns about raw egg whites. For extra caution, use pasteurized egg whites available at most grocery stores.

Can I make these Mini S’mores Cheesecakes with Toasted Marshmallow Meringue dairy-free?

It’s possible with some substitutions, like using dairy-free cream cheese and coconut cream for the ganache. However, meringue requires egg whites, so it won’t be vegan unless you explore aquafaba as a plant-based alternative, which will change the texture somewhat.

How do I prevent the meringue from weeping or collapsing?

Ensuring you properly whip the meringue to stiff peaks and use cream of tartar helps stabilize it. Toast the meringue just before serving instead of in advance, and avoid storing cheesecakes with meringue for too long to keep it fluffy and stable.

Can these be made without a kitchen torch?

Yes! If you don’t have a kitchen torch, place the cheesecakes under a broiler for 30 seconds to 1 minute, watching very closely so the meringue browns without burning. Alternatively, you can serve the meringue as is for a soft, marshmallowy topping.

Final Thoughts

Trust me, once you try these Mini S’mores Cheesecakes with Toasted Marshmallow Meringue, you’ll want to make them again and again. They bring campfire nostalgia into a perfectly portioned dessert that looks stunning and tastes like pure joy. Whether for a casual get-together or a special celebration, these will wow your guests and satisfy every sweet craving with their creamy, chocolatey, and toasty goodness. Go ahead—treat yourself and someone you love to this charming, delicious indulgence!