If you’re anything like me, you adore the nostalgia of s’mores but maybe don’t always have the perfect campfire night to make them. That’s where this S’mores Stout Milkshake with Chocolate Ganache and Toasted Marshmallows Recipe comes in. It’s like capturing that gooey, chocolatey campfire magic in a creamy, boozy shake. Trust me, it’s a showstopper whether you want to impress friends or just treat yourself after a long day.

What makes this recipe truly stand out is the combination of a rich stout beer blending with vanilla ice cream, layered with luscious chocolate ganache and that unmistakable toasted marshmallow flavor. The balance is just divine, and the best part? You don’t need a backyard fire—just a blender and a little patience. So if you love bold desserts with depth and a twist, this S’mores Stout Milkshake with Chocolate Ganache and Toasted Marshmallows Recipe is totally worth trying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient here plays a special role in creating the velvety, complex flavors of this shake. I like to use high-quality chocolate and fresh stout for the best results. Don’t worry if some ingredients sound fancy—they come together easily and won’t require a trip to a specialty store.

Vanilla ice cream: Choose a creamy, full-fat variety for the best texture and flavor.
Marshmallow cream: This adds that perfect marshmallow sweetness without needing melted marshmallows.
Chocolate ganache: Rich and indulgent—made from high-quality dark chocolate and heavy cream for a silky swirl inside your glass.
Guinness or chocolate/coffee stout: Adds a deep, roasted flavor that complements the sweetness of the s’mores elements. I find Guinness gives a lovely bitterness that balances the shake.
Whipped cream: For topping that cloud of fluffiness on your shake.
Toasted marshmallows: Nothing beats the aroma and taste of freshly toasted marshmallows crowning your shake.
Graham cracker pieces/crumbs: Adds a nice crunch and the classic s’mores base flavor.
High-quality dark chocolate (for ganache): The better your chocolate, the more decadent your ganache will be.
Heavy cream (for ganache): Makes the ganache smooth and glossy.

Variations

I love playing around with this recipe depending on the season or mood—feel free to tweak it to your taste. The great thing about the S’mores Stout Milkshake with Chocolate Ganache and Toasted Marshmallows Recipe is how adaptable it is.

Non-alcoholic version: Swap the stout with coffee or a rich chocolate milk for the same depth without the booze—great if you’re making it for kids or designated drivers.
Vegan option: Use coconut or almond milk ice cream, and find dairy-free chocolate and marshmallow spread to keep all those flavors intact.
Extra chocolatey: Add a tablespoon of chocolate syrup into the blend for a serious chocolate boost. I sometimes do this when I’m craving major indulgence.
Nutty twist: Sprinkle in some crushed toasted nuts like pecans or hazelnuts for added texture and flavor contrast.

How to Make S’mores Stout Milkshake with Chocolate Ganache and Toasted Marshmallows Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Ganache

Start by warming the heavy cream in a small saucepan over low heat until it’s just about to simmer—watch closely! Pour the hot cream over your chopped high-quality dark chocolate in a bowl, and let it sit for a minute to soften the chocolate. Then stir gently until smooth and glossy. You want the ganache to be thick but pourable, so adjust with a bit more cream if needed. This step adds that luscious chocolate swirl to your milkshake glasses, and trust me, it makes all the difference.

Step 2: Toast Your Marshmallows

While the ganache cools, toast your marshmallows carefully over a gas stove, grill, or even with a kitchen torch if you have one. You’re aiming for golden brown with a slight crisp on the outside but still soft inside. This is one of my favorite parts—nothing beats the smell of toasting marshmallows filling the kitchen!

Step 3: Blend the Milkshake

In your blender, combine the vanilla ice cream, marshmallow cream, chocolate ganache (reserve a little for swirling inside the glasses), and your stout beer. Blend until smooth but be careful not to overdo it or you’ll lose that creamy thickness. You want a shake that’s thick enough to hold up your toppings but still perfectly sippable.

Step 4: Assemble and Garnish

Drizzle some of the reserved chocolate ganache inside your glasses for a stunning visual and extra flavor. Pour the milkshake in slowly, then top generously with whipped cream, toasted marshmallows, and a sprinkle of graham cracker crumbs. For that final flourish, add a drizzle of chocolate ganache over the top.

How to Serve S’mores Stout Milkshake with Chocolate Ganache and Toasted Marshmallows Recipe

S'mores Stout Milkshake with Chocolate Ganache and Toasted Marshmallows Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

I like to go big on garnishes here—fresh whipped cream is a must for that creamy contrast, toasted marshmallows on top really nail the campfire vibe, and graham cracker crumbs add the ideal crunchy texture. Plus, a little extra chocolate ganache drizzle never hurts. It’s all about layers of flavor and texture that make each sip a delight.

Side Dishes

This milkshake is dessert enough on its own, but if you want to pair it, I highly recommend something lightly salted like pretzel sticks or a small bowl of mixed nuts. The saltiness balances the sweet and creamy shake perfectly. If you’re serving this at a party, those little bites keep the flavor adventure going without overwhelming your palate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist when serving this S’mores Stout Milkshake with Chocolate Ganache and Toasted Marshmallows Recipe at gatherings, try rim-coating your glasses with melted chocolate and crushed graham crackers. I once made a little “campfire” set-up with skewered marshmallows and straws sticking out of the shakes—it was a real crowd-pleaser! You can even serve in mason jars for a rustic look that complements the s’mores theme beautifully.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers—which I doubt!—cover the milkshake tightly and store it in the fridge for up to one day. Just give it a good stir before drinking because some separation can happen. I usually make shakes fresh, but it’s good to know you have a little wiggle room.

Freezing

Freezing the full milkshake doesn’t work great—ice crystals can ruin that creamy texture. What I do freeze successfully is leftover ganache in a small container; it thaws beautifully, and you can always warm it gently to bring it back to perfect silky consistency.

Reheating

If you’ve stored ganache or warmed up toasted marshmallows, reheat gently over a double boiler or in short bursts in the microwave, stirring often. For the milkshake itself, I recommend making fresh each time for the best taste and texture.

FAQs

Can I use beer other than stout in this recipe?

While stout is preferred for its deep, chocolatey notes, you can experiment with other dark beers like porters or chocolate-flavored ales. Just keep in mind that lighter beers won’t provide the same richness and may affect the overall balance of flavors.
Is the marshmallow cream necessary?

The marshmallow cream provides smooth sweetness and marshmallow flavor without the mess of melting marshmallows directly into the shake. If you don’t have it, melting marshmallows carefully and blending might work, but it can get sticky and tricky.
How do I toast marshmallows indoors safely?

You can toast marshmallows over a gas stove flame using tongs, or use a kitchen torch for precise control. Always practice caution and keep a fire extinguisher nearby. Some ovens also have a broiler setting that works well if you keep an eye on the marshmallows.
Can I prepare parts of this recipe ahead?

Definitely! Prepare your chocolate ganache a day ahead and keep it chilled. Toast marshmallows just before serving to keep that fresh flavor and texture. The milkshake itself is best made just before enjoying.

Final Thoughts

Honestly, the S’mores Stout Milkshake with Chocolate Ganache and Toasted Marshmallows Recipe feels like a little celebration in a glass every time I make it. It combines indulgence with comfort and the nostalgic joy of s’mores in a way that’s just perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you want to treat yourself. I highly recommend giving it a go—you might find it becomes your new favorite dessert indulgence too!