As the leaves turn golden and the air grows crisp, there’s nothing quite like a warm cookie to celebrate the essence of fall. Enter the Pumpkin S’mores Cookies, where the comforting flavors of pumpkin and sweet chocolate unite in a soft, chewy treat. Not only are these cookies easy to whip up in your kitchen, but they also bring an irresistible twist to your seasonal baking with the delightful addition of gooey marshmallows and crunchy graham crackers. Perfect for both festive gatherings and cozy nights in, these cookies will quickly become a favorite go-to whenever you’re craving a sweet escape. Are you ready to elevate your fall baking game?
Why Are Pumpkin S’mores Cookies a Must-Try?
Fall Flavor Explosion: These cookies are a delightful ode to autumn, bringing pumpkin pie spice into a chewy treat that’s perfect for the season.
Unique Blend: The combination of gooey marshmallows and crunchy graham crackers creates a fantastic texture, reminiscent of traditional s’mores but with a cozy twist.
Quick and Easy: Whipping up a batch is a breeze, making them an ideal choice for baking beginners and seasoned chefs alike!
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for family gatherings or cozy nights at home, these cookies are sure to impress your guests and family. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an ultimate experience!
Delicious Variations: Feel free to switch up the ingredients! Try adding extra chocolate chips or flavored variations to keep things exciting.
Explore this seasonal delight and watch them disappear faster than you can bake!
Pumpkin S’mores Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookie Base
• Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and contributes to the cookie’s soft texture; use softened for easy blending.
• Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and depth of flavor, but you can swap it with granulated sugar for a lighter taste.
• Granulated Sugar – Enhances sweetness and helps achieve the perfect chewy texture.
• Pumpkin Puree – Gives these cookies their signature flavor and moisture; ensure it’s 100% pure and not pie filling.
• Large Egg – Acts as a binder for structure; make sure it’s at room temperature for better mixing.
• Vanilla Extract – Boosts flavor; imitation vanilla can be a substitute, but we recommend using real for the best results.
• All-Purpose Flour – The backbone of the cookie, providing essential structure; a gluten-free blend is a great alternative if needed.
• Baking Soda – Helps the cookies rise for that delightful fluffy texture; ensure it’s fresh for maximum effectiveness.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice – Infuses warm fall flavors; individual spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger can be used instead.
• Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances the overall flavor profile.
For the S’mores Goodness
• Chocolate Chips – Provides pockets of melted chocolate; any type works, whether you prefer milk, dark, or white chocolate.
• Mini Marshmallows – Adds that chewy, s’mores-like texture; opt for vegan varieties for a dairy-free treat.
• Graham Crackers – Contributes crunch and classic s’mores flavor; crushed cereal can be a fun alternative.
• Orange Food Coloring (optional) – Use for a vibrant color that mirrors the festive fall season.
Dive into the delightful world of Pumpkin S’mores Cookies with this essential ingredient list, and prepare to indulge in the cozy flavors of fall!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin S’mores Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This will ensure your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies bake evenly and come out easily, ready for a delicious treat.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, combine softened unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat them together until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This process incorporates air, giving your cookies that lovely, soft texture.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Next, carefully beat in the pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract until fully blended. If you’re feeling festive and want to elevate the color, add a few drops of orange food coloring at this stage. The resulting batter will be smooth and aromatic, capturing the essence of fall.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt until well combined. This step is crucial for evenly distributing the baking soda and spices, ensuring that every bite of your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies is flavorful and fluffy.
Step 5: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing; this keeps your cookies tender and soft. You want to see a cohesive dough forming without any dry pockets, creating a rich foundation for your cookies.
Step 6: Fold in Chocolate and Marshmallows
Now, fold in the chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, and dig pieces of graham crackers gently into the dough. This will infuse your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies with pockets of gooey goodness, ensuring each cookie is a wonderful blend of flavors and textures.
Step 7: Portion the Dough
Using a cookie scoop, drop generous portions of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This spacing allows your cookies to spread without merging, ensuring each one bakes into its own delightful shape.
Step 8: Top the Cookies
For an extra treat, press a few additional chocolate chips and marshmallows into the top of each dough ball. This not only makes them look irresistible but also provides that iconic s’mores topping that makes these cookies truly special.
Step 9: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-14 minutes. Keep an eye on them; the edges should turn golden brown while the centers remain soft and slightly underbaked for that chewy texture that characterizes your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies.
Step 10: Cool and Transfer
Once baked, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before gently transferring them to a wire rack. This step is important to avoid breaking them while they’re still warm. Allow them to cool completely and enjoy these festive treats!
What to Serve with Pumpkin S’mores Cookies
As autumn settles in, nothing complements the cozy flavors of these cookies better than warm, comforting sides and drinks.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream brings out the sweetness and enhances the s’mores experience. The contrast of warm cookies and cold ice cream is truly heavenly.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: This classic fall beverage pairs beautifully with your cookies, creating a festive and aromatic combination. Sip on this while enjoying your treats for a seasonal bliss.
Coffee with Cream: A rich cup of coffee offsets the sweetness of the cookies while accentuating pumpkin flavors. The creamy texture perfectly rounds out your snack.
Spiced Apple Cider: Warm spiced apple cider envelops you with comfort and cozy vibes, making it a fantastic pairing for your cookies. The flavors harmonize, elevating your fall snacking.
Cranberry Sauce: A dollop of homemade cranberry sauce adds a tart, refreshing element against the cookies’ sweetness, balancing the flavors beautifully.
Cheesecake Bars: Creamy cheesecake bars bring a tangy contrast to the sweetness of the cookies, creating an indulgent dessert spread for gatherings.
Raspberry Sorbet: This fruity, refreshing sorbet offers a palate-cleansing burst of flavor that pairs surprisingly well with the sweet pumpkin cookies.
Milk: An old favorite, a glass of cold milk complements the chewy cookies wonderfully, ensuring a nostalgic treat everyone loves.
Nutty Trail Mix: For a crunchy contrast, a mix of nuts and dried fruits provides an enjoyable texture and a dash of savory notes among the sweetness.
Indulge in these pairing ideas and create unforgettable moments this fall!
Expert Tips for Pumpkin S’mores Cookies
• Butter Softening: Ensure the butter is at room temperature for easier creaming, which contributes to a light and fluffy texture in your cookies.
• Avoid Overmixing: Gently mix the dough to retain the cookies’ tender texture. Overmixing can lead to tougher cookies that lose their softness.
• Marshmallow Selection: For the best results, use non-melting or vegan marshmallows to prevent them from disappearing into the dough while baking!
• Cooling Time: Allow cookies to cool briefly on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack; this helps maintain their shape and prevents breaking.
• Prep in Advance: Prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. This chilling step enhances flavor and texture for your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies!
How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin S’mores Cookies
Room Temperature: Store your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days to keep them soft and chewy.
Fridge: If you want to extend their freshness, refrigerate the cookies for up to a week in a sealed container, but allow them to come to room temperature before enjoying.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 4 months.
Unbaked Dough: You can freeze the unbaked dough for up to a year. Scoop and place the dough balls on a baking sheet to freeze, then store in a zip-top bag when solid.
Make Ahead Options
These Pumpkin S’mores Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply scoop it onto a baking sheet, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. This not only saves time but also enhances the flavors as they meld together. Additionally, you can pre-mix the dry ingredients (flour, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt) and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, let the dough sit at room temperature for a few minutes, then follow through with the final steps of adding chocolate chips and marshmallows before baking. This way, you’ll enjoy the same delicious results with minimal effort!
Pumpkin S’mores Cookies Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to mix things up and get creative with your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies for a tailored treat bursting with flavor and texture!
Graham Cracker Swap: Replace graham crackers with crushed nuts for a delightful crunch and a nutty flavor twist. Pecans or walnuts can elevate the taste beautifully.
Marshmallow Replacement: Substitute mini marshmallows with extra chocolate chips if you prefer a more chocolatey cookie. This change keeps the softness yet intensifies the sweet experience.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for a delicious treat that everyone can enjoy. You won’t lose the soft texture, and it will still taste amazing!
Pumpkin Pie Spice Alternative: If you don’t have pumpkin pie spice, mix together individual spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger for a lovely homemade blend. Your cookies will retain the warm autumn essence.
Flavorful Chocolate Chips: Try using flavored chocolate chips, such as butterscotch or peanut butter, for a unique twist that takes these cookies to the next level. Each bite will surprise and delight your taste buds!
You can also explore making these scrumptious cookies alongside other delightful treats, such as Cinnamon Bun Cookies or Chocolate Blossom Cookies to see what flavor combinations spark joy in your kitchen!
Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper to the batter for an unexpected spicy edge. This fiery addition brings warmth to the sweetness and mimics the coziness of fall!
Vegan Delight: To make these cookies vegan, substitute the egg with a flax egg and use vegan butter and marshmallows, ensuring everyone can join in on the sweet celebration.
Embrace your inner chef and enjoy these variations as you craft the perfect fall cookie experience!
Pumpkin S’mores Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe pumpkin for the puree?
Absolutely! When selecting pumpkin for puree, look for a pumpkin that feels heavy for its size and has a smooth, blemish-free skin. The stem should be firm and intact, and the pumpkin should produce a hollow sound when tapped. If you’re using canned pumpkin, ensure it is labeled as 100% pure pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling, which contains additional ingredients.
How do I store Pumpkin S’mores Cookies?
For optimal freshness, store your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them in a sealed container for up to a week. Just be sure to allow them to come to room temperature before enjoying their soft, chewy delight!
Can I freeze Pumpkin S’mores Cookies?
Yes! You can freeze your baked Pumpkin S’mores Cookies for up to 4 months. To do this, allow them to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper. To enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature or warm them up in the oven for a few minutes.
What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
Very often, if your cookies spread too much, it could be due to the butter being too warm or the dough being overly mixed. To troubleshoot, make sure the butter is softened but slightly chilled, not melted. Additionally, it can help to chill the dough for 30 minutes before scooping onto the baking sheet. This will keep your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies from spreading too much while baking.
Are there any allergy considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re making these cookies for someone with dietary restrictions, check for potential allergens. Common concerns include gluten (if using all-purpose flour), dairy (from butter and chocolate), and egg. You can easily make these cookies gluten-free by using a suitable flour blend and opt for dairy-free alternatives such as vegan butter and chocolate chips. Always read ingredient labels carefully to avoid cross-contamination for those with severe allergies.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, indeed! You can prepare the Pumpkin S’mores cookie dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Simply scoop the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and cover it with plastic wrap. This chilling step helps enhance the flavors and the final texture of your cookies, allowing for a more enjoyable treat when baked!
Pumpkin S’mores Cookies: Your Cozy Fall Treat Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together softened unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract until fully blended. Add orange food coloring if desired.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, and graham cracker pieces.
- Using a cookie scoop, drop portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart.
- Press additional chocolate chips and marshmallows on top of the dough balls before baking.
- Bake for 12-14 minutes, until edges are golden while centers remain soft and slightly underbaked.
- Cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.