If you crave the bonfire magic of gooey chocolate, toasted marshmallows, and crisp graham crackers, but can’t get to a campfire, let me introduce you to the joy that is No Bake S’mores Icebox Cake. This treat captures every nostalgic bite of a classic s’more, then transforms it into a cool, creamy, decadent dessert you can make any time of year — without turning on the oven. Every bite is a delightful surprise of crunch, cloudlike cream, and rich chocolate, making it a showstopper for summer cookouts or cozy nights in. Once you try it, this is sure to become your new favorite way to enjoy the legendary s’mores trifecta!
Ingredients You’ll Need
-
Graham Cracker Layer:
- 12 graham crackers broken into squares
Marshmallow Whipped Cream Layer:
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 (7-ounce) jar marshmallow creme
- 1 1/2 cups mini marshmallows
Chocolate Pudding Layer:
- 1 1/2 cups chocolate pudding
Toppings:
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons milk
How to Make No Bake S’mores Icebox Cake
Step 1: Whip the Marshmallow Cream
Start by whipping your chilled heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract in a large bowl. Whip until stiff peaks form — this is what gives your cake that irresistible lightness. Fold in the marshmallow creme gently, making sure it’s evenly combined but keeping the mixture fluffy.
Step 2: Lay the Foundation
Spread a thin, welcoming layer of your marshmallow whipped cream on the bottom of an 8×8-inch dish. This initial layer is your “glue,” helping those graham crackers stick in place and soak up just the right amount of creaminess.
Step 3: Build the Layers
Place a neat layer of graham crackers on top of the cream, breaking pieces as needed to cover the bottom. Then, gently spread one-third of your marshmallow cream over the crackers. Dollop and coax half of the chocolate pudding evenly across, smoothing gently so you don’t disturb your layers. Repeat: graham crackers, cream, pudding, then finish with a final graham cracker layer.
Step 4: Crown and Chill
Swoon-worthy finishing touch — top with every last bit of marshmallow whipped cream. Sprinkle generously with mini marshmallows and chocolate chips. Drizzle milk over the chocolate chips, so they soften just enough for that molten, campfire-inspired bite. Cover and let the No Bake S’mores Icebox Cake chill for at least four hours (or overnight!) to let those flavors mingle and meld.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
When you’re ready to serve, you can optionally toast the mini marshmallows with a kitchen torch for that authentic golden hue and smoky flavor. Just cut into hearty slices and prepare for oohs, aahs, and maybe even a chorus of “can I get the recipe?”
How to Serve No Bake S’mores Icebox Cake
Garnishes
This cake truly shines with a few simple garnishes. A scatter of extra mini marshmallows and a handful of chocolate chips make the top pop with texture and visual appeal. For a showstopping finish, use a handheld kitchen torch or broiler to briefly toast the marshmallows — everyone will rush to the dessert table!
Side Dishes
Pair slices of No Bake S’mores Icebox Cake with small bowls of fresh berries, or a drizzle of raspberry sauce for a tangy contrast. An icy glass of milk or even a mug of cold brew coffee balances that sweet, creamy bite perfectly. Keep sides light and simple to let the cake be the star.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond a basic square! Layer the components in individual mason jars or pretty glasses for a grab-and-go treat at summer parties. Or use round cookie cutters to make elegant single-servings — perfect for birthday dessert tables or picnic baskets. Any way you slice it, you’re bringing s’mores magic to the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap your No Bake S’mores Icebox Cake tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. Pop it in the fridge and it’ll stay delightfully fresh and creamy for up to three days. The layers actually get even more mellow and melded by the next day!
Freezing
Yes, you can freeze this icebox cake! Just cover it well, freeze for up to a month, and let it thaw overnight in the fridge before serving. The texture will be a tad firmer, but every bite will still deliver that dreamy s’mores experience with a cool, summery twist.
Reheating
This isn’t a dessert you need to reheat — in fact, the chilled, creamy layers are precisely what makes No Bake S’mores Icebox Cake such a crowd-pleaser! If you’d like to toast the mini marshmallows for extra flair, do so just before serving with a kitchen torch or under a watchful broiler for a few quick seconds.
FAQs
Can I use Cool Whip instead of homemade whipped cream?
Absolutely! Store-bought whipped topping is a great timesaver if you’re short on time — just swap it in for the homemade cream. The result will still be fluffy, sweet, and totally crave-worthy, though homemade does add a special richness.
Is there a gluten-free version of No Bake S’mores Icebox Cake?
Yes! Simply substitute gluten-free graham crackers to make the entire cake gluten-free. All the other ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so everyone gets to enjoy a piece of the fun.
What’s the best way to cut neat slices?
Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped clean between cuts. This clean slicing helps preserve those beautiful layers and keeps the marshmallow cream from sticking.
Can I add peanut butter or other flavors?
Go for it! Swirl a little peanut butter into the chocolate pudding, or add slices of banana for a fresh twist. There’s plenty of room to customize this cake with your favorite additions.
How far ahead can I make No Bake S’mores Icebox Cake?
You can prep it the night before and leave it to chill until you’re ready to serve. In fact, letting it sit overnight makes the layers even more tender and delicious — perfect for planning ahead for parties!
Final Thoughts
No Bake S’mores Icebox Cake is the kind of dessert that turns any gathering into a celebration, and is guaranteed to spark smiles no matter the season. Once you taste the cool, creamy layers and that instant-campfire s’mores nostalgia, you’ll want to make it again and again. I can’t wait for you to share this with friends and family — there’s just nothing quite like it!
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No Bake S’mores Icebox Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes (includes chilling)
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the irresistible combination of s’mores and icebox cake with this easy no-bake dessert. Layers of graham crackers, marshmallow whipped cream, chocolate pudding, and toppings make this a perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
ScaleGraham Cracker Layer:
- 12 graham crackers broken into squares
Marshmallow Whipped Cream Layer:
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 (7-ounce) jar marshmallow creme
- 1 1/2 cups mini marshmallows
Chocolate Pudding Layer:
- 1 1/2 cups chocolate pudding
Toppings:
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons milk
Instructions
- Prepare Marshmallow Whipped Cream: Whip heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form. Fold in marshmallow creme.
- Layer Ingredients: Spread a thin layer of whipped mixture in dish. Layer graham crackers, cream, pudding, and repeat.
- Top and Chill: Finish with a layer of graham crackers and whipped cream. Add marshmallows, chocolate chips, and milk. Chill for at least 4 hours.
Notes
- For a toasted flavor, torch mini marshmallows before serving.
- Try using chocolate graham crackers for a richer taste.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 190mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
