Looking for a summer treat with all the nostalgia of campfire s’mores—but in irresistible, frosty form? Frozen S’mores deliver everything you love: layers of chocolate, fluffy marshmallow, and crunchy graham crackers, all tied together in a cool, creamy sandwich you’ll want to keep stashed in your freezer all season long!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Campfire Classic, No Fire Needed: Capture the gooey, chocolatey joy of traditional s’mores without having to strike a single match!
- Frozen and Fun: Cool, creamy layers make these the ultimate solution for hot-weather cravings and summer parties.
- Easy to Make Ahead: Prep them in advance and keep your freezer stocked for spontaneous treats or last-minute guests.
- Kid and Adult Approved: With all the familiar flavors of s’mores—plus a surprise creamy twist—these sandwiches enchant snackers of any age.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Frozen S’mores lies in their simplicity—each ingredient is chosen for maximum texture and big, classic flavor. A handful of pantry staples transform into a treat that’s nothing short of magical.
- Instant chocolate pudding mix (5.9 oz box): Creates a rich, silky chocolate layer that freezes beautifully.
- Whole milk: Blends with the pudding for that decadent, creamy consistency—lower fat milks just won’t be as luscious.
- Cool Whip, thawed and divided: Adds that signature fluffy, cloud-like texture to both chocolate and marshmallow layers.
- Graham crackers: The golden sandwich “bread” with nostalgic crunch and honey flavor in each bite.
- Cream cheese, softened: Gives the marshmallow layer a subtle tang, balancing all the sweetness.
- Marshmallow creme: Delivers gooey, sticky marshmallow flavor—no toasting necessary.
- Pinch of salt: Just a touch to amplify both the chocolate and marshmallow layers, making everything pop!
Variations
The best part about Frozen S’mores is how wildly customizable they are! There’s so much room to play with flavors and swaps to suit your tastes, dietary needs, or whatever you have on hand.
- Chocolate Overload: Use chocolate graham crackers or spread a layer of melted chocolate on the graham crackers for extra decadence.
- Peanut Butter Swirl: Add a layer of creamy peanut butter between the pudding and marshmallow for a dream team flavor combo.
- Gluten-Free: Swap regular graham crackers for your favorite gluten-free variety—no one will notice the difference!
- Dairy-Free: Use plant-based pudding, whipped topping, and cream cheese alternatives to make a vegan-friendly version.
How to Make Frozen S’mores
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving enough extra on the sides for easy lifting later. This simple prep step makes removing—and slicing—your Frozen S’mores a breeze after freezing.
Step 2: Make the Chocolate Layer
In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix, whole milk, and 1/2 cup of Cool Whip until velvety smooth. This creates the creamy, chocolatey goodness that anchors your s’mores layers.
Step 3: Assemble the Base
Arrange half of the graham cracker squares snugly across the bottom of your prepared dish. Pour the chocolate pudding mixture over them, using a spatula to smooth it into an even, tempting layer. Let this chill while you prep the next step—it firms up the base, which means neater sandwiches later.
Step 4: Make the Marshmallow Layer
Beat together the softened cream cheese and marshmallow creme until light and fluffy—no lumps allowed! Gently fold in the remaining 2 cups of Cool Whip and a pinch of salt, creating a dreamy mixture that balances out the chocolate richness.
Step 5: Layer and Freeze
Carefully spread your marshmallow mixture over the chilled chocolate layer. Lay the rest of the graham crackers on top, pressing them lightly to set the sandwich in place. Cover the dish with foil and freeze for at least 6 hours, until set and sliceable (the hardest part is waiting!).
Step 6: Slice and Serve
When the time comes to indulge, use the overhanging parchment to lift the slab onto a cutting board. Slice along the graham cracker lines to create perfect squares. Trim away any excess filling—and snack on the trimmings, chef’s treat! Let them soften for about 10-15 minutes at room temp, then dig in.
Pro Tips for Making Frozen S’mores
- Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Let your cream cheese fully soften before mixing so your marshmallow filling is extra smooth and lump-free.
- Sharp Knife for Clean Cuts: Run your knife under hot water before slicing the Frozen S’mores for tidy, bakery-worthy squares.
- Even Graham Cracker Layers: Try to align your top and bottom crackers for perfectly portioned sandwiches—little details make all the difference.
- The Perfect Chill: Six hours in the freezer creates that magical texture—firm, but still creamy when sliced. Don’t shortcut the chilling time!
How to Serve Frozen S’mores
Garnishes
Dress up your Frozen S’mores with a drizzle of melted chocolate, a handful of mini chocolate chips, or a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers on top right before serving. For a whimsical touch, try a fluffy dollop of whipped cream or a few toasted marshmallows (if you have a kitchen torch handy!).
Side Dishes
Since these s’mores skew sweet, keep things simple and light on the side: offer bowls of fresh berries or sliced banana, or serve with ice-cold lemonade for the ultimate summer snack pairing. If you’re feeling playful, add a platter of cut fruit or salty snacks for contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut your Frozen S’mores into bite-sized cubes and serve them on skewers for a party-friendly, hands-off treat. Stack them tall on a cake stand, or wrap each square in parchment and twine for a nostalgic, picnic-ready dessert. Let your creativity (and sweet tooth!) lead the way.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap individual Frozen S’mores tightly in plastic wrap or parchment, then pop them into an airtight freezer container. This keeps them ultra-fresh, prevents freezer burn, and makes for grab-and-go snacking!
Freezing
Frozen S’mores store beautifully for up to two months in your freezer. Just be sure to keep them well-wrapped and sealed—no one likes mystery freezer flavors mingling with their marshmallow creaminess.
Reheating
Technically, you won’t “reheat” these, but letting them stand at room temperature for about 10–15 minutes ensures the layers soften to just the right biteable consistency before serving. Enjoy straight from frozen for extra-firm sandwiches, or let them soften a bit for a creamier treat.
FAQs
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Can I make Frozen S’mores without Cool Whip?
Absolutely! Swap in any stabilized whipped topping, or try homemade whipped cream with a spoonful of powdered sugar beaten in for structure. Just note that homemade versions may freeze a bit harder and thaw a touch softer, but the flavor is delicious.
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Do I have to use whole milk for the pudding layer?
Whole milk gives the silkiest, richest chocolate layer, but you can use 2% if needed—the final texture will just be a little less creamy. Non-dairy alternatives work too, though your pudding may set slightly softer.
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How long should I freeze Frozen S’mores before serving?
Shoot for at least 6 hours, but overnight is even better for perfect slicing and layering. If you’re in a hurry, check that the middle is firm before attempting to cut into squares.
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Why are my graham crackers soggy?
Some softening is normal, but starting with very fresh, crisp graham crackers—and making sure the pudding layer is set before assembling—helps maintain their classic crunch. If you love an ultra-crispy texture, consider giving the top layer a quick toast under a broiler before freezing (just watch carefully!).
Final Thoughts
Frozen S’mores are pure summer fun—easy enough for a weekday craving and festive enough for a backyard bash. Go ahead and treat yourself (and everyone you love) to these irresistible, chilly sandwiches—you won’t regret it, and you might just create a new favorite tradition!
PrintFrozen S’mores Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Freezing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Frozen S’mores are a delightful twist on the classic campfire treat. Layers of chocolate pudding, marshmallow cream, and graham crackers come together in a frozen dessert that’s perfect for hot summer days.
Ingredients
For Chocolate Pudding Layer:
- 1 (5.9-ounce) box instant chocolate pudding
- 2 1/2 cups whole milk
- 2 1/2 cups Cool Whip, defrosted and divided
For Marshmallow Cream Layer:
- 5 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
- 7 ounces marshmallow creme
- Pinch of salt
Other Ingredients:
- 12 graham crackers, broken in half and divided
Instructions
- Prepare the Chocolate Pudding Layer: Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper. Whisk together the pudding mix, milk, and 1/2 cup Cool Whip until smooth. Lay half of the graham crackers on the bottom of the dish. Spread the pudding mix over the crackers and chill.
- Make the Marshmallow Cream Layer: In a bowl, beat the cream cheese and marshmallow creme until smooth. Fold in 2 cups Cool Whip and a pinch of salt. Spread this mixture over the chocolate layer.
- Freeze the Dessert: Top with remaining graham crackers, cover with foil, and freeze for at least 6 hours. Cut into squares using the graham crackers as a guide.
- Serve and Store: Enjoy immediately or store in the freezer. Let soften at room temperature before serving if frozen.
Notes
- For a chocolate variation, consider adding melted chocolate to the graham crackers or using chocolate graham crackers.
- To store, wrap each s’more sandwich in plastic wrap and place in a freezer container for up to 2 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 21g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 25mg