As the crisp autumn air settles in, I can’t help but crave all the warm, cozy flavors of fall—especially when they come wrapped in gooey, sweet s’mores! That’s why I’m so excited to share my Pumpkin S’mores Cookies with you. These delightful treats blend soft, chewy pumpkin cookies with the irresistible goodness of chocolate, mini marshmallows, and graham crackers, creating a perfect fusion of classic flavors and seasonal flair. Not only are they easy to whip up, making them ideal for impromptu gatherings, but they also capture that nostalgic essence of childhood s’mores with a fantastic pumpkin twist. Are you ready to indulge in the ultimate fall treat? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Why are Pumpkin S’mores Cookies a fall favorite?
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of pumpkin, chocolate, and marshmallows creates a mouthwatering experience that is quintessentially fall.
Easy to Make: The step-by-step instructions guide you effortlessly through the process, even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen!
Perfectly Chewy: Enjoy soft, chewy cookies that melt in your mouth, with a texture reminiscent of fluffy muffin tops.
Versatile Variations: Swap out chocolate chips for white chocolate or mix in different types of flour for a unique twist every time. Pair them with a glass of milk or even a scoop of ice cream for a decadent treat!
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: These cookies are sure to be a hit at gatherings, making them a delightful addition to any fall celebration. You may also want to explore Raspberry Cookies Sweet or Cinnamon Bun Cookies for more festive ideas!
Pumpkin S’mores Cookies Ingredients
Here are all the essentials you’ll need to create these delightful Pumpkin S’mores Cookies.
For the Cookie Base
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
• Brown Sugar – Provides deep flavor and moisture to keep the cookies chewy.
• Granulated Sugar – Enhances sweetness, ensuring a light and fluffy texture.
• Pumpkin Puree – The star ingredient delivering that warm, cozy pumpkin flavor; opt for pure pumpkin, not pie filling.
• Large Egg – Binds everything together, helping the cookies rise beautifully.
• Vanilla Extract – Infuses sweetness and depth to elevate the flavor profile.
• All-Purpose Flour – Creates structure and helps the cookies hold their shape.
• Baking Soda – Essential for that perfect rise, contributing to a soft, chewy texture.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice – Adds warm, earthy spices for that quintessential fall flavor.
• Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors in the cookie.
For the Sweet Additions
• Chocolate Chips – For a rich, sweet touch; feel free to use semi-sweet, dark, or white chocolate variants.
• Mini Marshmallows – Lend gooeyness and a delightful chew to each bite.
• Graham Crackers – Bring a crunchy texture reminiscent of classic s’mores, making these cookies truly special.
• Orange Food Coloring (optional) – Add a vibrant hue, enhancing that pumpkin passion.
Each ingredient plays a crucial role in crafting these mouthwatering Pumpkin S’mores Cookies, making them the perfect treat to savor this season!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin S’mores Cookies
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy clean-up. This setup is crucial for baking your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies to perfection, keeping them soft and chewy while they bake.
Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, combine softened unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat these ingredients together on medium speed until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and pale, which should take about 2-3 minutes. This step helps to incorporate air, giving your cookies a delightful texture.
Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients
Now, it’s time to add the pumpkin puree, large egg, and vanilla extract to the creamy mixture. Beat the ingredients on medium-low speed until they are fully mixed, approximately 1-2 minutes. If you want a more vibrant color, feel free to add a few drops of orange food coloring at this stage.
Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing at low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to maintain the soft texture of your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies.
Step 5: Fold in Sweet Additions
Gently fold in the chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, and crushed graham crackers using a spatula. This will create pockets of sweetness and delightful textures throughout the cookie dough. The mix should be thick enough to hold its shape when scooped onto the baking sheet.
Step 6: Form the Cookies
Using a cookie scoop or rounded tablespoon, drop mounds of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Lightly press a few extra chocolate chips, marshmallows, and graham cracker pieces on top for a beautiful presentation.
Step 7: Bake Until Golden
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 12-14 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown while the centers remain soft. Keep an eye on them—overbaking can lead to a firmer texture that strays from the chewy goodness of Pumpkin S’mores Cookies.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This step is vital, as the cookies will be delicate at first. After cooling, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely, allowing their flavors to meld together beautifully.
Make Ahead Options
These Pumpkin S’mores Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic weeks! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap to keep the dough fresh and prevent it from drying out. If you prefer, you can freeze the unbaked dough for up to 3 months—just scoop mounds onto a baking sheet, flash freeze, and then transfer to a Ziplock bag. When ready to bake, simply pop them in the oven without thawing, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time for that warm, chewy cookie experience. These make-ahead options ensure you’ll enjoy equally delicious Pumpkin S’mores Cookies with minimal effort when the craving strikes!
Pumpkin S’mores Cookies Variations
Feel free to customize your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies with these fun, mouthwatering suggestions!
White Chocolate Swirl: Instead of chocolate chips, use white chocolate chips for a sweeter twist that complements the pumpkin beautifully.
Marshmallow Lovers: Omit the mini marshmallows and add an extra scoop of chocolate chips. The result is a richer cookie that still delivers on decadence.
Whole Wheat Boost: Swap half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. It adds a nutty flavor while increasing fiber content for a healthier treat.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dough for a warm, spicy surprise that enhances the fall flavors.
Nutty Crunch: Fold in some chopped walnuts or pecans to add texture and a delightful crunch to your cookies.
Pumpkin Spice Oomph: Increase the pumpkin pie spice to enhance those fall flavors even more, making every bite taste like autumn.
Chocolate Ganache Drizzle: After baking, drizzle melted chocolate ganache on top for an indulgent finish that takes your cookies to another level.
S’mores Style: For a traditional s’mores experience, layer the baked cookies with a piece of chocolate and a roasted marshmallow for that campfire essence.
These variations not only invite you to play with flavors and textures but also might spark ideas for your next dessert gathering! Feeling adventurous? Pair these cookies with a scrumptious side of Pistachio Cream Cookies or try the delightful Samoa Cookies Homemade for a fun dessert spread!
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 maintain their softness.
Fridge: For longer freshness, refrigerate the cookies in an airtight container for up to a week. This helps preserve their chewy texture.
Freezer: Freeze baked cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 4 months. For unbaked dough, it can be frozen for up to a year—just scoop and freeze!
Reheating: To enjoy warm cookies again, microwave for about 10-15 seconds or warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes. Enjoy your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies fresh!
What to Serve with Pumpkin S’mores Cookies
These delightful cookies are perfect for creating a cozy, heartwarming meal that brings the flavors of fall right to your table.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The smooth, buttery texture of mashed potatoes provides a comforting contrast to the chewy cookies, making each bite blissfully decadent.
Warm Apple Cider: Sweet and spiced, this drink enhances the pumpkin flavors and sets the perfect autumnal mood for an unforgettable experience.
Chocolate Milkshake: The rich, chocolatey goodness complements the cookies beautifully, creating a sweet pairing that evokes feelings of nostalgia.
Cinnamon Whipped Cream: A dollop of this velvety topping on each cookie adds an extra layer of indulgence, enhancing both texture and flavor.
Sliced Pear Salad: Fresh, crisp pears with mixed greens provide a refreshing crunch and a light contrast to the sweet richness of the cookies.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: Embrace the seasonal flavor with this warm drink, amplifying the pumpkin elements and making for a cozy treat combo.
Butter Pecan Ice Cream: Serve a scoop alongside the cookies for a luscious dessert, complementing the flavors while adding creamy richness to each bite.
Nuts & Dried Fruits Platter: A mix of crunchy nuts and chewy dried fruits creates a delightful textural balance, perfect for nibbling as a side.
Chai Tea: This spiced tea brings warmth and aromatic comfort, enhancing the cozy atmosphere while harmonizing with the flavors of your cookies.
Pumpkin Cake: For truly festive vibes, a slice of moist pumpkin cake harmonizes with the cookies, bringing a double dose of seasonal joy to the table.
Expert Tips for Pumpkin S’mores Cookies
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature for smoother mixing, which aids in achieving that perfect soft texture in your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies.
Don’t Overmix: Gently combine your ingredients; overmixing can lead to tougher cookies. Your dough should be just blended for that delightful chewiness.
Uniform Sizing: Use a cookie scoop to ensure all cookies bake evenly. This helps every bite of your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies be consistently delicious!
Cooling Time: Allow cookies to cool briefly on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack. This prevents them from breaking and enhances their texture.
Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to swap chocolate chips for white chocolate or even add nuts for a crunch. Each variation makes your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies uniquely yours!
Pumpkin S’mores Cookies Recipe FAQs
What type of pumpkin puree should I use for Pumpkin S’mores Cookies?
Absolutely, you want to make sure to use 100% pure pumpkin puree, not canned pumpkin pie filling. The latter contains added sugars and spices that can alter the flavor of your cookies. Look for options without any additives, and you’ll have the perfect base for these fall treats!
How should I store leftover Pumpkin S’mores Cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for about 2-3 days. If you want to extend their life, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. This helps to maintain their lovely soft and chewy texture while allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Can I freeze the dough for Pumpkin S’mores Cookies?
Definitely! Freezing the unbaked dough is super easy. Simply scoop the dough into rounded tablespoons and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze until solid, then transfer the cookie dough balls to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be kept for up to a year. When you’re ready to bake, just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from frozen.
Why are my Pumpkin S’mores Cookies flat?
If your cookies turn out flat, it might be due to a few reasons. First, ensure that your butter is properly creamed; it should be light and fluffy. Also, check that your baking soda is fresh, as it’s essential for helping the cookies rise. Lastly, if you overmix the dough, it can cause the cookies to spread too much—gently fold your ingredients together!
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Very much! To make gluten-free Pumpkin S’mores Cookies, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. I’m a fan of using a one-to-one gluten-free flour mix, which usually behaves similarly to regular flour. This way, you can enjoy these tasty cookies without missing out, no matter your dietary needs.
Are Pumpkin S’mores Cookies safe for my pet?
It’s best to avoid giving these cookies to your pets. While pumpkin itself is safe for many pets, the sugars and chocolate can be harmful. Keep those delicious Pumpkin S’mores Cookies just for you and your loved ones; they’re too good to share with our furry friends!
Pumpkin S’mores Cookies: Chewy Fall Treats You'll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream the softened unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light, fluffy, and pale.
- Add the pumpkin puree, large egg, and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Gradually add to the wet ingredients.
- Fold in chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, and graham crackers.
- Drop mounds of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Press extra toppings on top.
- Bake for 12-14 minutes, until golden brown on the edges and soft in the center.
- Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.