As the leaves turn golden and a crisp chill fills the air, there’s nothing quite like the cozy aroma of freshly baked cookies to embrace the season. This is exactly what you’ll experience with my Pumpkin S’mores Cookies—an irresistible fall dessert that brings together the warmth of pumpkin, the gooey delight of marshmallows, and the crunch of graham crackers, all in a perfectly chewy cookie. Easy to make and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, these cookies are ideal for snuggling up with a warm beverage or sharing at gatherings with family and friends. Plus, you can effortlessly customize them with your favorite ingredients for a fun twist! Ready to bake your new autumn favorite? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Why Are Pumpkin S’mores Cookies Irresistible?
Comforting Warmth: These cookies capture the essence of fall, melding pumpkin with s’mores for a delightful twist.
Chewy & Crunchy: Enjoy a harmonious blend of soft marshmallows and crispy graham crackers, making each bite irresistible.
Customizable: Tailor the recipe to your taste by swapping in peanut butter chips or dried cranberries for a personal touch.
Time-Saving Delight: This easy-to-follow recipe can be whipped up in no time, perfect for last-minute gatherings or cozy evenings.
Crowd-Pleaser: Serve them warm alongside a hot beverage, and watch everyone come back for seconds! If you’re also in the mood for more cookie adventures, check out my Cinnamon Roll Cookies for another delicious treat!
Pumpkin S’mores Cookies Ingredients
• To create these delightful pumpkin s’mores cookies, gather these essential ingredients.
For the Cookie Base
- Unsalted Butter – This adds richness and moisture; using unsalted allows better control of the overall saltiness.
- Brown Sugar – It brings depth and moisture, though it can be swapped with white sugar for a lighter version.
- Granulated Sugar – Provides sweetness; if reducing sugar, balance with other sweet components to maintain flavor.
- Pumpkin Puree – Supplies a soft texture and unmistakable pumpkin flavor; choose 100% pure for the best results.
- Egg – Acts as a binder for your cookies; consider a flax egg for a vegan alternative.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavors; optional if you prefer an unflavored cookie.
- All-Purpose Flour – Gives structure to the cookies; you can use a gluten-free all-purpose blend for a gluten-free option.
- Baking Soda – This is your leavening agent; avoid substituting with baking powder due to different reaction properties.
- Pumpkin Pie Spice – Infuses those warm, earthy flavors; you can mix individual spices like cinnamon and nutmeg as a substitute.
- Salt – Balances out sweetness; feel free to omit it for low-sodium diets.
For the Delicious Add-Ins
- Chocolate Chips – Adds richness and sweetness; choose white or dark chocolate based on your preference for a twist.
- Mini Marshmallows – Offers a chewy texture; switch to non-melting vegan marshmallows if desired.
- Graham Crackers – Provides a satisfying crunch; can be replaced with crushed cookies or skipped if you prefer.
- Orange Food Coloring (optional) – For those who want a pop of color; not needed for flavor or texture.
These ingredients together create a cookie experience bursting with warmth for any autumn gathering or cozy night in!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin S’mores Cookies
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare your baking sheet. Line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup. This step is crucial for the perfect baking environment, as preheating will help the cookies rise evenly and develop a golden color.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, combine softened unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed until it becomes light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This incorporates air into the dough, giving your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies a delightful texture.
Step 3: Add Pumpkin, Egg, and Vanilla
Next, mix in the pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract until fully combined. The batter will be slightly thicker; don’t worry, that’s exactly what you’re aiming for! If you’re using orange food coloring, add it at this stage to make your cookies visually pop and represent the vibrant fall season.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to dense cookies. This blend of flavors is what makes your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies truly delicious.
Step 5: Fold in the Goodies
Now, gently fold in the chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, and graham cracker pieces. The aim here is to evenly distribute these delightful add-ins throughout the dough, ensuring that every cookie is packed with that signature s’mores goodness. You should see a beautiful swirl of flavors throughout the mixture.
Step 6: Scoop and Shape the Dough
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about two inches apart. This allows room for the cookies to spread as they bake. To add extra flair, gently press a few additional marshmallows, chocolate chips, and graham cracker pieces on top of each dough ball.
Step 7: Bake for Perfection
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-14 minutes. Keep an eye on the cookies; they should look golden around the edges while the centers remain soft and slightly puffy. This is the sweet spot for chewy Pumpkin S’mores Cookies that everyone will adore.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
After baking, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This allows them to set slightly without losing that melty goodness. Afterward, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once they’re set, dive in and enjoy these delightful Pumpkin S’mores Cookies warm for a cozy fall treat!
Pumpkin S’mores Cookies Variations
Customize your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies and take them on delicious flavor journeys with these fun twists!
- Nutty Surprise: Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch and rich flavor.
- Cranberry Burst: Toss in dried cranberries for a tart contrast that beautifully complements the sweetness.
- Peanut Butter Bliss: Swap semi-sweet chocolate chips for peanut butter chips to introduce an exciting twist.
- Vegan Delight: Replace the egg with a flax egg and use non-melting vegan marshmallows for a delightful dairy-free option.
- Gluten-Free Alternative: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring every last bite is gluten-free.
- Spice It Up: Enhance the warm spices by adding a dash of cayenne or ginger for a subtle kick of heat.
- Chocolate Lovers: Use dark chocolate or white chocolate chips for a different richness and flavor depth.
- S’mores Inspired: Layer crushed graham crackers on top of the dough before baking for an extra crunch reminiscent of classic s’mores.
Feel free to explore these variations to make the recipe truly your own! If you’re curious about other sweet treats, why not bake up a batch of my delightful Pumpkin French Toast or indulge in some Cinnamon Roll Cookies? The possibilities are endless!
How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin S’mores Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them soft and chewy.
Fridge: For extended freshness, refrigerate cookies in an airtight container for up to a week; this helps maintain their delightful texture and flavor.
Freezer: Freeze cookies individually wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.
Reheating: To bring cookies back to their gooey goodness, microwave them for 10-15 seconds, or warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes. Enjoy your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies!
Make Ahead Options
These Pumpkin S’mores Cookies are a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance, simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate it to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can pre-measure and mix the dry ingredients (flour, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt) up to 3 days ahead of time and store them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, just combine the wet and dry ingredients, fold in your chocolate chips and marshmallows, and scoop onto your baking sheet. This way, you can enjoy warm, decadent cookies in no time, making your busy weeknights a little sweeter!
What to Serve with Pumpkin S’mores Cookies
Indulge in fall’s cozy embrace with delightful pairings that enhance the magic of these cookies, perfect for any gathering.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy and cool, it perfectly balances the warmth of the cookies, creating a delightful contrast in both texture and temperature.
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Chai Tea Latte: Spiced and aromatic, a comforting cup of chai enhances the pumpkin flavors, making each sip a cozy experience on chilly evenings.
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Hot Chocolate: Rich and velvety, hot chocolate topped with whipped cream complements the s’mores element with its own chocolaty goodness.
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Apple Cider: The tart sweetness of warm apple cider pairs beautifully with the spiced cookies, adding a refreshing autumnal twist to your dessert table.
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Caramel Drizzle: A simple drizzle of warm caramel sauce elevates the flavor profile, adding a sweet, gooey touch that enhances the cookies’ indulgent nature.
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Roasted Nuts: Crunchy, savory roasted nuts provide a wonderful textural contrast, rounding out the dessert with an earthy nod to fall.
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Pumpkin Spice Latte: This seasonal favorite reaffirms the pumpkin theme while adding a rich, coffee essence — ideal for pairing with your cookies.
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Dark Chocolate Dipped Pretzels: The crunch of pretzels coated in rich chocolate provides a satisfying salty-sweet treat that pairs wonderfully with the cookies’ sweetness.
Expert Tips for Pumpkin S’mores Cookies
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Avoid Overmixing: Once you add the dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense cookies instead of fluffy Pumpkin S’mores Cookies.
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Cool Before Transferring: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. They are delicate right out of the oven and need time to set without falling apart.
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Perfectly Soft Centers: Bake until the edges are golden but the centers still look soft. This ensures that glorious chewy texture we all love.
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Customize Your Mix-ins: Feel free to swap chocolate chips for peanut butter chips or add nuts for extra crunch. Personal touches make your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies truly unique.
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Storage Solutions: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They stay fresh and delicious for your enjoyment!
Pumpkin S’mores Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my pumpkin puree is fresh?
Absolutely! Always select 100% pure pumpkin puree for the best flavor and texture. Look for cans with no added sugar or spices. If using fresh pumpkin, it should be firm, with no dark spots or soft areas. A ripe pumpkin will yield smooth puree once cooked and blended.
What is the best way to store leftover cookies?
To keep your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies soft, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them fresh for a bit longer, refrigerate them; they’ll last about a week that way!
Can I freeze Pumpkin S’mores Cookies?
Yes, you can! To freeze, wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes or microwave for 10-15 seconds for that fresh-baked taste.
What should I do if my cookies turn out too dry?
If your cookies are dry, it could be due to overmixing or baking them for too long. Make sure to mix until just combined and check for doneness around the 12-minute mark. If they feel dry, you can adjust future batches by adding an additional egg or a tablespoon of milk to keep the moisture.
Are Pumpkin S’mores Cookies suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Definitely! You can make these cookies gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Many brands work well as a one-for-one substitute. Just ensure that your chocolate chips and other add-ins are also gluten-free!
Can my pets eat these cookies?
No, Pumpkin S’mores Cookies are not suitable for pets. Ingredients like chocolate and some sweeteners can be harmful to pets. Always make sure to keep your baked goodies out of reach of furry friends and stick to treats specifically made for them!
These FAQs help guide you through making and enjoying your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies even more. Happy baking!
Dreamy Pumpkin S’mores Cookies to Cozy Up Your Fall
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine softened unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Beat until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Mix in pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract until fully combined. Add orange food coloring if desired.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Gradually add to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined.
- Fold in chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, and graham cracker pieces until evenly distributed.
- Drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about two inches apart. Press additional marshmallows, chocolate chips, and graham cracker pieces on top if desired.
- Bake for 12-14 minutes until golden around the edges and soft in the center.
- Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely and enjoy warm.
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