No-Bake S’mores Lasagna: An Irresistible Layered Dessert Recipe
Prepare to be enchanted by this incredible no-bake S’mores lasagna, a dessert masterpiece featuring four divine layers: a rich cheesecake, creamy chocolate pudding, and a luscious marshmallow fluff topping, all resting on a perfectly buttery graham cracker crust. This show-stopping treat brings the beloved flavors of a campfire S’more right to your table, without ever needing to light a fire or turn on an oven. It’s the ultimate hassle-free indulgence, perfect for any occasion where you want to impress with minimal effort.
Why This S’mores Lasagna Recipe Works Miracles
This S’mores lasagna is truly destined to be the star dessert at any gathering, and I don’t say that lightly! The harmonious combination of a rich, creamy cheesecake layer, decadent chocolate pudding, and a light-as-air marshmallow fluff topping, all built upon a crisp, buttery graham cracker crust, truly solidifies its place as a top-tier sweet treat. It’s a symphony of textures and flavors that captivates from the first bite.
What makes this no-bake S’mores dessert particularly special is its perfect balance: it’s incredibly dreamy and light, yet simultaneously rich and utterly delicious. Even my husband, who isn’t usually a big fan of sweets, declared this the best dessert I’ve ever made – and that’s high praise! This delightful creation arrives just in time for summer parties, family barbecues, and potlucks, making it an absolute jackpot for anyone seeking an easy yet impressive dessert. I honestly didn’t think any S’mores-inspired treat could surpass my S’mores Icebox Cake, but these two are definitely vying for the coveted top spot in our household. Its simplicity combined with its complex flavor profile makes it a winner every time.
Essential Ingredients for Your S’mores Lasagna
To create this sensational no-bake S’mores lasagna, you’ll need a few key ingredients, easily found at any grocery store. For precise measurements and detailed instructions, be sure to check out the printable recipe card located at the end of this post. Gather your ingredients, and let’s get ready to build some delicious layers!
Ingredient Information & Smart Substitution Suggestions
Here’s a deeper dive into the ingredients that make this S’mores lasagna truly special, along with some helpful tips and substitution ideas:
CRUST – A classic graham cracker crust forms the perfect foundation for any dessert lasagna, especially one with a S’mores theme. The slightly sweet, crunchy texture of graham crackers perfectly complements the creamy layers above. If you’re feeling adventurous or prefer a different flavor profile, you could certainly substitute with an Oreo crust, similar to what we use in our popular Chocolate Lasagna. However, for an authentic S’mores experience, graham crackers are truly ideal, providing that familiar, comforting taste.
LAYERS – Beyond the delightful crust and topping, this dessert features two main, luscious layers: a rich cheesecake layer and a smooth chocolate pudding layer. For the chocolate pudding, we highly recommend using instant chocolate pudding mix. It sets quickly and reliably, which is crucial for the layering process. We advise against using “cook and serve” pudding, as it typically requires cooking and cooling, which would complicate the no-bake aspect and might not achieve the desired consistency when chilled. To ensure the easiest assembly and perfectly defined layers, we strongly suggest placing the dessert in the freezer between each layer. I personally find that freezing it while I prepare the ingredients for the next layer is just enough time to firm it up, making it significantly easier to spread the subsequent layer without it mixing with the one below. This simple trick ensures a beautiful, clean presentation.
TOPPING – The crowning glory of this dessert is the dreamy marshmallow fluff topping, which delivers that iconic S’mores sweetness. If marshmallow fluff isn’t available or you prefer an alternative, you can easily substitute with a generous layer of Cool Whip, then sprinkle miniature marshmallows on top for a similar visual and textural appeal. For an extra touch of “campfire” authenticity, you can even use a kitchen torch to lightly toast the mini marshmallows or the marshmallow fluff topping itself, creating beautiful golden-brown peaks.
How to Assemble Your No-Bake S’mores Lasagna
These step-by-step photos and detailed instructions are designed to help you visualize each stage of making this delicious recipe. For a convenient printable version of this recipe, complete with all measurements and instructions, simply Jump to Recipe at the bottom of the page.
Crafting the Perfect Graham Cracker Crust
- To begin, take your graham crackers and process them in a food processor until they are transformed into fine, uniform crumbs. This ensures a smooth and cohesive crust.
- In a mixing bowl, pour the melted butter over the graham cracker crumbs. Stir thoroughly with a rubber spatula until the crumbs are completely combined and evenly moistened. The mixture should resemble wet sand.
- Transfer the buttery graham cracker crumbs into a 13×9 baking dish. Using the bottom of a glass or your fingers, press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the dish to form a compact crust. Place the dish into the freezer while you prepare the next layer; this initial chill helps the crust set.
Building the Decadent Filling Layers
Creating the Creamy Cheesecake Layer
- In a large mixing bowl, using a hand mixer on medium speed, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth and wonderfully creamy. Gradually add the granulated sugar and milk, continuing to mix until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Gently fold the Cool Whip into the cream cheese mixture using a rubber spatula. Use a light hand to preserve the airy texture of the Cool Whip, ensuring the cheesecake layer remains delightfully light and smooth.
- Retrieve the pan from the freezer. Using an icing spatula or the back of a spoon, carefully spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled graham cracker crust. Return the pan to the freezer immediately to allow this layer to firm up.
Preparing the Rich Chocolate Pudding Layer
- In another large bowl, combine the instant chocolate pudding mixes with the cold milk. Beat on medium speed with your mixer until the pudding begins to thicken considerably. It should be thick enough to hold soft peaks.
- Remove the pan from the freezer once more. Carefully spread the thickened chocolate pudding mixture over the cream cheese layer using an icing spatula. Take your time to create a smooth, even layer. Place the pan back into the freezer to chill and set properly before moving on to the final topping.
The Dreamy Marshmallow Topping
- In a clean large bowl, use your mixer on medium speed to beat together the marshmallow fluff and Cool Whip until they are thoroughly combined and create a light, airy, and uniform topping.
- Take the dessert pan out of the freezer. Spread the marshmallow topping generously over the set chocolate pudding layer using an icing spatula. For an appealing presentation, you can use the spatula to gently lift and create little swirls and peaks in the topping. Return the pan to the freezer for a final chill.
PRO TIP for Toasted Marshmallow Perfection – If you desire a beautifully toasted marshmallow topping (just like a real S’more!), leave the dessert in the freezer for at least a couple of hours after applying the topping. Marshmallow fluff can melt very quickly when heated, so ensuring the dessert is thoroughly frozen will help prevent the underlying layers from warming up too much. Once frozen, remove it from the freezer and, holding a kitchen torch a few inches from the surface, move it back and forth over the marshmallow peaks to achieve a lovely golden-brown, caramelized finish. Be quick and keep the torch moving to avoid burning.
Adding the Iconic S’mores Garnish
- To complete your S’mores masterpiece, crumble 2-3 sheets of graham crackers over the marshmallow topping. Break Hershey’s chocolate bars into individual sections and gently press them into the topping. Finally, generously sprinkle a couple of handfuls of mini marshmallows over the entire dessert. These additions not only make it visually appealing but also add delightful texture and authentic S’mores flavor.
- If you opted not to torch the entire marshmallow fluff layer, you can now use a kitchen torch to lightly toast the mini marshmallows you just sprinkled on top. Be careful not to hold the torch too close to the Hershey bars, as you don’t want them to completely melt. A slight softening of the chocolate is actually desirable, as it makes them easier and more enjoyable to eat when serving.
- For an extra touch of decadence, drizzle chocolate syrup generously over the garnished S’mores lasagna just before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips for S’mores Lasagna
To maintain its freshness and deliciousness, store any leftover S’mores lasagna tightly covered with an airtight lid or wrapped securely with plastic wrap. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, ensuring you can enjoy this delightful treat for a few days after making it. Proper storage helps prevent it from drying out or absorbing other refrigerator odors.
Absolutely! This S’mores lasagna is a fantastic make-ahead dessert, making it perfect for entertaining or when you need to prepare something in advance. You can assemble the entire dessert one or two days ahead of time. Simply cover it well with plastic wrap or an airtight lid and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. This allows the layers to fully set and the flavors to meld beautifully, often making it even more delicious.
Yes, this dessert freezes exceptionally well, allowing you to enjoy it much later! You can freeze S’mores lasagna for up to 4 months. For best results, first, cut the lasagna into individual serving-size pieces. Line a plate or small baking sheet with waxed paper and arrange the cut pieces on top, ensuring they are not touching each other. Freeze for 3-4 hours, or until the pieces are completely solid. Once frozen, wrap each individual piece tightly with plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. Store the wrapped pieces in a freezer bag or an airtight container. To thaw, simply remove the desired frozen piece from the freezer and unwrap it while it’s still frozen (this prevents the plastic wrap from sticking to the softened dessert). You can thaw it in the refrigerator for a few hours or at room temperature for about 30-60 minutes, depending on your preference. The texture and taste will remain wonderfully intact.
Serving Suggestions for Your S’mores Lasagna
This magnificent S’mores lasagna is best served chilled to allow its layers to hold their shape and flavors to truly shine. For an impressive presentation, generously garnish each slice with a scattering of mini marshmallows, shards of chopped Hershey’s chocolate bars, extra crumbled graham crackers, and a final elegant drizzle of chocolate sauce. These additions not only make it visually appealing but also amplify the classic S’mores experience. As mentioned earlier, if marshmallow fluff isn’t available, you can effortlessly top the lasagna with a layer of creamy Cool Whip or even your own homemade stabilized whipped cream. Either option yields a delectable result, so feel free to choose what works best for you!
A little forewarning: this delightful dessert can be wonderfully messy to slice and serve, but rest assured, the incredible flavor absolutely makes up for any gooeyness! To achieve cleaner slices, a handy trick is to pop the entire pan into the freezer for approximately 30 minutes before you plan to cut into it. This quick chill firms up the layers just enough for neat, distinct servings. Pair this dessert with a cold glass of milk, a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream, or a warm cup of coffee for an unforgettable treat. Enjoy every blissful, layered bite!
More Irresistible Dessert Lasagna Recipes to Explore
If you’ve fallen in love with the ease and deliciousness of this S’mores lasagna, you’ll be thrilled to discover a whole world of other dessert lasagna creations! These layered no-bake treats are perfect for any occasion and offer a variety of flavors. Be sure to try some of our other popular recipes:
- Classic Chocolate Lasagna
- Refreshing Strawberry Lasagna
- Cool Mint Chocolate Lasagna
- Decadent Chocolate Peanut Butter Lasagna
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S’mores Lasagna
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
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Ingredients
Crust
- 3 sleeves graham crackers 14.4 ounce box, 2.5 cups crumbs, 404g
- ¾ cup unsalted butter melted. 12 tablespoons or 6 ounces
Cheesecake Layer
- 8 ounces cream cheese softened at room temp
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 Tablespoons milk
- 8 ounces Cool Whip
Pudding Layer
- 7.8 ounces instant chocolate pudding mix two 3.4 ounce boxes
- 2 ¾ cup milk 22 ounces
Marshmallow Topping
- 7 ounces marshmallow fluff
- 8 ounces Cool Whip
Garnish
- 2 Hershey’s chocolate bars
- 3 sheets graham crackers 1.5 oz, 42g
- 1 cup mini marshmallows 1.75 oz, 50g
- chocolate sauce for drizzling
Things You’ll Need
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Food processor
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13×9 baking dish
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Rubber spatula
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Hand mixer
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Kitchen torch optional for browning the topping
Before You Begin
- We highly recommend placing the dessert into the freezer in between layers. I place mine in after each layer, and it’s in there long enough for me to mix up the next layer’s ingredients. This makes it easier to spread!
- Instead of the marshmallow fluff topping, you can spread with Cool whip and add a layer of miniature marshmallows.
- If you don’t have a food processor, you can put the graham crackers into a gallon zipper bag and smash them with a rolling pin. You can also buy graham cracker crumbs.
Instructions
Make the Crust
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Run graham crackers through a food processor until they are fine crumbs.3 sleeves graham crackers
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Stir in the melted butter with a rubber spatula until completely combined and moistened.¾ cup unsalted butter
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Dump crumbs into a 13×9 baking dish and press evenly into the bottom. Place dessert in freezer.
Make the Cheesecake
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In a large bowl with mixer on medium speed, beat the cream cheese until creamy. Add in sugar and milk and mix until completely combined.8 ounces cream cheese, ¼ cup granulated sugar, 2 Tablespoons milk
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Using a rubber spatula, fold Cool whip into the cream cheese mixture.8 ounces Cool Whip
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Remove pan from freezer and use an icing spatula to spread cream cheese mixture over the crust. Place pan back into the freezer.
Make the Pudding
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To a large bowl, add the pudding mixes and milk. Beat on medium speed until it starts to thicken.7.8 ounces instant chocolate pudding mix, 2 ¾ cup milk
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Remove pan from freezer and use an icing spatula to spread pudding over the crust. Place pan back into the freezer.
Make the Topping
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In a large bowl with mixer at medium speed beat together Marshmallow Fluff and Cool Whip until well combined.7 ounces marshmallow fluff, 8 ounces Cool Whip
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Remove pan from freezer and use an icing spatula to spread topping over the crust. Use icing spatula to lift little swirls of topping. Place pan back into the freezer.
TIP: If you want to roast the topping with a torch, leave the dessert in the freezer for a couple hours. Because marshmallow fluff can melt quickly, it’s best for the topping to be frozen. Remove from freezer and holding torch fairly close the the topping, move back and forth over the peaks to brown it.
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For garnish, crumble 2-3 graham cracker sheets and sprinkle over browned topping. Break Hershey bar into sections and gently press into topping. Sprinkle with a couple handfuls of mini marshmallows.2 Hershey’s chocolate bars, 3 sheets graham crackers, 1 cup mini marshmallows
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To toast the marshmallows, use a kitchen torch. Be aware that you don’t want to melt the chocolate bars, bar they will soften a little as you toast the marshmallows. This is good! It makes them easier to eat.
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Drizzle with chocolate syrup.
Expert Tips & FAQs
- Please note that the garnish measurements are estimated and garnishing is completely optional. You can use as little or as much as you want.
- If you find the crust hard to cut, you can loosen it by putting some hot tap water into a baking sheet then placing the dessert dish into that for a minute or so.
- Store the dessert lasagna covered with an air-tight lid or tightly wrapped with plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- You can freeze this dessert for up to 4 months. Line a plate or small baking sheet with waxed paper. Cut into serving-size pieces. Place pieces onto waxed paper, making sure they are not touching each other. Freeze for 3-4 hours, or until solid. Wrap each individual frozen piece with plastic wrap. Store wrapped pieces in a freezer bag or container. To thaw, remove the frozen piece from the freezer and remove the plastic wrap while still frozen. This will keep the wrap from sticking to the thawed dessert. Thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature.
Nutrition
The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.