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This no-heat s'mores creation turns the traditional campfire snack into a cool, delicious treat that's fantastic for summer parties or whenever you want a prepared-ahead indulgence. The combo of chocolate pudding, whipped marshmallow mixture, and graham crackers builds an amazing frozen sandwich packed with all those s'mores tastes without needing flames.
I whipped up these frozen s'mores during a backyard cookout when it was way too warm to get the fire going. They became such a sensation that my sister's kids now beg for them at every family event, no matter what time of year it is.
Ingredients
- Instant chocolate pudding: Makes that smooth chocolate section that feels like melted candy bars
- Whole milk: Helps the pudding reach just the right thickness
- Cool Whip: Brings airiness to the chocolate and marshmallow sections
- Graham crackers: Supply the traditional s'mores bottom and top layers
- Cream cheese: Keeps the marshmallow part firm and adds a nice flavor twist
- Marshmallow creme: Gets you that true s'mores taste without getting your fingers sticky
- Salt: Cuts through the sweetness and makes all flavors pop
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the pan:
- Cover your 9×13 baking dish with parchment paper so it hangs over the sides. These flaps work as handles to pull out the frozen block later. Push the paper into each corner for level layers.
- Mix the chocolate layer:
- Stir the pudding mix, milk, and 1/2 cup Cool Whip together until perfectly blended. Adding Cool Whip makes the pudding extra smooth and lighter than normal. Beat well to get rid of any clumps.
- Create the first layer:
- Place half your graham crackers in a tight layer on the dish bottom. They should touch each other to make a solid foundation. Pour the chocolate mix over them and spread it flat. Let this chill in the fridge while you make the next part.
- Prepare the marshmallow layer:
- Whip the cream cheese until it's light before mixing in the marshmallow creme. This stops any lumps from forming. Carefully fold in the rest of the Cool Whip to keep it fluffy. Don't forget that tiny bit of salt—it really balances out the sweetness.
- Assemble and freeze:
- Spread your marshmallow mix over the cool chocolate part, being careful not to mix the layers. Top with the leftover graham crackers, pushing down softly. Wrap tightly in foil and freeze at least 6 hours, but overnight works best.
- Slice and serve:
- Lift everything out using those parchment handles. Cut between the crackers with a sharp knife to make neat squares. Clean your knife between cuts for the best-looking pieces.
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That marshmallow creme mixture really makes this dessert stand out. My little girl always wants to clean the bowl after we mix it, so I usually make extra just for her. There's something magical about that creamy, fluffy marshmallow stuff that brings back good times around the campfire.
Personalize Your Treat
What's great about these frozen s'mores is how easy they are to change up. Maybe swap regular graham crackers for chocolate ones to double down on the chocolate flavor. You could mix tiny chocolate chips into the marshmallow section or add some caramel on top before freezing for a tasty twist.
For something more fancy, try adding a bit of coffee powder to the chocolate pudding or a splash of whiskey to the marshmallow mix. These small changes can turn this kid-friendly dessert into something adults will love at dinner parties.
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Tasty Pairings
These frozen goodies taste amazing by themselves, but you can take them up a notch with simple add-ons. Try them next to a small scoop of vanilla ice cream or with warm chocolate sauce drizzled over top for a nice hot-cold combo. When berries are in season, throw on some fresh raspberries or cut strawberries to bring some tartness against the sweet.
When serving at gatherings, stack the squares in a pyramid on a big plate and sprinkle with cocoa powder or crushed graham bits. This makes a wow-worthy dessert display that everyone can grab from easily.
Storage Tips
The instructions mention wrapping each square in plastic for freezer storage, but I've found that laying them in single rows with parchment between them in a sealed container works just as well. This uses fewer bags and makes it simple to grab just one or two when you want them.
Let them sit out about 15 minutes before eating from frozen. They're just right when the inside is still cold but soft enough to bite. If you like them squishier, leave them out around 20 minutes at room temp.
Common Questions
- → How should I store frozen s'mores?
Cover each s'more completely with plastic wrap and put them in a freezer-safe container. They'll stay fresh frozen for up to two months.
- → Can I use a different type of graham cracker?
Definitely. Try chocolate graham crackers instead of regular ones if you want a more chocolatey flavor.
- → How long should frozen s'mores sit before serving?
Let them thaw at room temperature for about 15 minutes if they're completely frozen. This helps them get to the perfect softness.
- → What can I use as a substitute for Cool Whip?
Regular whipped cream works too. Just make sure it's firm enough to hold up when you layer it and freeze it.
- → Can I make the dessert ahead of time?
Absolutely. These icy s'mores are great for making in advance. You can make them, freeze them, and grab them whenever you want within two months.