
S’mores lasagna is the showstopping dessert my family craves every summer. It lands somewhere between a no-bake cake and a classic campfire treat, loaded with every dreamy layer — crunchy graham, creamy chocolate, clouds of whipped topping, and a toasted marshmallow finish. A little time in the fridge brings those flavors together so you get a cool slice that is equal parts nostalgia and pure indulgence.
I made this once for my daughter’s birthday camping sleepover and the kids scraped every last crumb from the pan. Now it is a summer tradition for us and has even turned a few adults into s’mores lovers.
- Graham cracker crumbs: Essential for that classic s’mores foundation Look for fresh crackers without a stale scent for best flavor
- Butter: Adds richness and helps solidify the crust Use real dairy butter for a melt-in-your-mouth base
- Sugar: Sweetens the graham crust and balances marshmallow and chocolate flavors Choose granulated sugar for even blending
- Cream cheese: Softens and adds tangy creaminess to the second layer Shop for blocks not the whipped kind which can be too airy
- Powdered sugar: Dissolves easily into the cream cheese for smoothness Sift to prevent lumps
- Cool Whip: Provides a light airy texture throughout and keeps the dessert stable Use thawed Cool Whip for easy spreading
- Instant chocolate pudding: Gives the main chocolate punch Opt for a trusted brand with rich cocoa flavor
- Milk: Whisks with pudding to create a thick and luscious chocolate layer Whole or two percent milk offers the best texture
- Miniature marshmallows: Offer toastability and fun factor Use a fresh bag for fluffiest results
- Hershey candy bar squares: Deliver that authentic s’mores chocolate finish Break them apart right before serving for clean edges
- Chocolate syrup: For drizzling across the top right before serving Choose a thick syrup for dramatic effect
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First Layer
- Press and Chill the Graham Crust Combine graham cracker crumbs melted butter and sugar in a bowl Stir until everything is evenly moistened Transfer to a nine by thirteen pan and use the bottom of a glass to press the mixture down into a compact even layer Chill for at least two hours so the crust sets and does not crumble when layered
- Second Layer
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture Beat softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until you have a very smooth mixture No lumps should remain Fold in Cool Whip gently to keep it light and airy Spread this evenly over the cold graham crust making sure to reach all the way to the edges Chill again for fifteen minutes to help it set
- Third Layer
- Make the Chocolate Pudding Whisk instant chocolate pudding mix with cold milk in a large bowl Do this steadily until it just starts to thicken to avoid any lumps Immediately spread this new chocolate layer over the cream cheese layer again getting the corners nicely covered Return to the fridge for fifteen minutes to allow the pudding to fully firm up
- Fourth Layer
- Add Whipped Topping Marshmallows and Chill Spread Cool Whip across the entire dessert creating soft peaks Sprinkle with extra graham cracker crumbs Distribute miniature marshmallows generously over the top Chill until ready to serve for at least two more hours or overnight
- Toast and Finish
- When you are ready to serve use a kitchen torch to brown the top marshmallows evenly until golden If you do not have a torch toast them under the broiler then cool and transfer Place Hershey squares sporadically on top and drizzle with chocolate syrup right before slicing

Fluffy marshmallows are my personal favorite part I love how they get just golden and gooey on top My kids always argue over who gets the Hershey bar piece with the most melted chocolate
Storage Tips
S’mores lasagna keeps best chilled You can store it covered in the refrigerator for up to five days If making ahead wait to toast the marshmallows and add chocolate drizzle until right before serving so the topping stays fresh For longer storage freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and foil then thaw in the fridge for a cool summer treat
Ingredient Swaps
If you are out of graham crackers try digestive biscuits or shortbread for the crust For chocolate pudding you can use homemade mousse or a different flavor like white chocolate if you are feeling adventurous Swap in homemade whipped cream for Cool Whip if you want a richer version though you will lose a bit of that airy texture
Serve It Up
Cut the lasagna into squares using a clean hot knife for the neatest slices Serve cold for classic s’mores effect or let sit a few minutes at room temperature for extra gooey marshmallows This is the perfect picnic dessert but also feels special around a fire pit or on any family celebration table

A Bit of S'mores Nostalgia
S’mores were first mentioned in a 1920s Girl Scout guidebook and that old campfire treat inspired generations The lasagna form gives you the best of childhood nostalgia in a dish you can assemble in your own kitchen I started making this for big family barbecues after one rainy camping trip where everyone wanted s’mores but no bonfire Would not trade those sticky chocolate memories for anything
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I toast the marshmallows on top?
Use a kitchen torch to gently brown the marshmallows after assembling. Alternatively, broil them on a baking sheet, watching closely to avoid burning, then transfer to the dessert.
- → Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, this layered dish is best made several hours ahead or even a day early to let flavors meld and layers set.
- → What can I use instead of Cool Whip?
Stabilized whipped cream can be substituted if you prefer a homemade touch with a natural flavor profile.
- → Is there a way to crush graham crackers without a food processor?
Place crackers in a sealed plastic bag and roll with a rolling pin until you reach a fine crumb texture.
- → Do I have to toast the marshmallows?
Toasting brings out a classic s’mores flavor, but the dish can be served with untoasted marshmallows for convenience.