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Easy No-Bake Smores Icebox Cake for a Crowd

no-bake smores icebox cake - featured image

This easy no-bake s’mores icebox cake layers graham crackers, chocolate pudding, marshmallow fluff, and whipped cream for a crowd-pleasing dessert that takes just 15 minutes to assemble. Perfect for potlucks and gatherings, it feeds 12 to 16 people and tastes just like a campfire s’mores without the effort.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 boxes (3.9 ounces each) instant chocolate pudding mix
  • 3 cups cold whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream, cold (optional but recommended)
  • 1 jar (7 ounces) marshmallow fluff or creme
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream, cold
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 box (14.4 ounces) honey graham crackers (about 2 full sleeves)
  • 1 cup mini marshmallows (for topping, optional)
  • 1/2 cup chocolate shavings or mini chocolate chips (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Make the chocolate pudding: In a large bowl, whisk together the instant pudding mix and 3 cups cold milk. Whisk for about 2 minutes until it starts to thicken. If using the heavy cream, add it now and whisk until smooth. Let the pudding sit for 5 minutes to set up slightly.
  2. Prepare the marshmallow layer: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes. Add the marshmallow fluff and vanilla extract, then beat until combined and fluffy.
  3. Whip the cream: In a cold bowl with cold beaters, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together. Start on low speed, then gradually increase to high. Whip until stiff peaks form, about 3 to 5 minutes.
  4. Start layering: Spread a thin layer of chocolate pudding on the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish. Arrange a single layer of graham crackers on top, breaking them as needed to fit.
  5. Add the first filling layer: Spread half of the remaining chocolate pudding over the graham crackers. Then dollop half of the marshmallow mixture on top and spread gently.
  6. Repeat the layers: Add another layer of graham crackers. Spread the remaining chocolate pudding, then the remaining marshmallow mixture. Top with a final layer of graham crackers.
  7. Top with whipped cream: Spread the whipped cream evenly over the top layer of graham crackers, reaching all the way to the edges.
  8. Add the garnishes: Sprinkle mini marshmallows and chocolate shavings over the top.
  9. Chill overnight: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours, preferably overnight.
  10. Serve cold: Cut into squares and serve straight from the fridge. Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts for neat slices.

Notes

The cream cheese is important for structure – don’t skip it. Use instant pudding, not cook-and-serve. Keep all ingredients cold for best results. Chill for at least 8 hours, preferably overnight. For clean slices, use a wet knife and wipe between cuts. Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: no-bake dessert, s'mores, icebox cake, potluck dessert, easy dessert, crowd-pleaser, graham cracker cake, chocolate pudding dessert