As the leaves begin to turn and the air fills with the comforting scent of autumn, I can’t help but get excited about cozy baking sessions. That’s when I whip up these Pumpkin S’mores Cookies—my secret weapon for fall gatherings and sweet cravings alike! With the perfect marriage of soft pumpkin goodness and gooey s’mores flavors, these cookies are a delightful twist on traditional treats. Not only are they a breeze to make, but they’re also versatile enough to impress any crowd, from family to friends. The chewy texture combined with hints of warm spices wraps you in a comforting embrace, making them an instant classic. What’s your favorite way to celebrate the flavors of fall? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Why Make Pumpkin S’mores Cookies?
Comforting Flavor: These cookies blend the sweet essence of pumpkin with the nostalgic taste of s’mores, making them an irresistible fall treat.
Easy to Bake: No fuss involved! The straightforward recipe requires basic ingredients and minimal effort, perfect for bakers of all levels.
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Ideal for autumn gatherings, they promise to wow your family and friends with their unique twist on a classic cookie.
Versatile Options: Feel free to adapt! Swap chocolate chips for butterscotch or include crushed nuts for a personal touch.
Texture Harmony: With a soft, chewy center and crispy edges, these cookies achieve the ultimate balance in texture that you’ll love.
Ready for another fall-inspired creation? Check out these delicious Pumpkin Cupcakes Maple for a delightful twist!
Pumpkin S’mores Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
- Brown Sugar – Provides chewy texture and caramel notes; dark brown sugar enhances flavor even further.
- Granulated Sugar – Contributes sweetness and helps the cookies spread perfectly in the oven.
- Pumpkin Puree – Infuses moisture and that signature pumpkin flavor; use pure pumpkin puree, not pie filling!
- Large Egg – Acts as a binding agent while adding moisture and structure to the dough.
- Vanilla Extract – Elevates overall flavor, adding a warm, sweet aroma to the cookies.
- All-Purpose Flour – Offers structure; be careful not to overmix to maintain the cookies’ tenderness.
- Baking Soda – Assists in rising, ensuring a light and fluffy texture.
- Pumpkin Pie Spice – This essential mix adds a warm, autumnal flavor; substitute with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg if needed.
- Salt – Balances sweetness and highlights all flavors beautifully.
For the S’mores Elements
- Chocolate Chips – Provides gooey sweetness; feel free to choose your favorite type—semi-sweet, milk, or white chocolate!
- Mini Marshmallows – Adds that classic s’mores texture; opt for vegan marshmallows if you want them to hold shape.
- Graham Crackers – Introduces a delightful crunch and is key to achieving that s’mores theme.
Optional Add-Ins
- Orange Food Coloring – Just for visual flair; enhances the vibrant pumpkin color if you desire.
Let’s get started on making these delightful Pumpkin S’mores Cookies that will surely become a fall favorite!
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 the oven warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup. This is a simple but crucial step for your delicious Pumpkin S’mores Cookies, as it sets the stage for perfectly baked treats.
Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Beat them together with a hand mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This process aerates the dough, ensuring your cookies will have a delightful texture and rich flavor.
Step 3: Mix in Pumpkin and Eggs
Next, add in the pumpkin puree, large egg, and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture. If you’re using orange food coloring for extra visual appeal, add it here as well. Beat everything together until smooth and well-combined, typically 1-2 minutes. You’ll see a beautifully combined mixture that embodies the autumn spirit.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients while mixing on low speed. Do this just until everything is combined; avoid overmixing to keep your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies tender and soft.
Step 5: Fold in S’mores Elements
Gently fold in the chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, and crushed graham crackers using a spatula. This step will ensure every bite of your cookies is packed with the gooeyness of s’mores and the warmth of pumpkin. Aim for a well-distributed mix that avoids breaking the marshmallows too much.
Step 6: Scoop the Dough
Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. For an extra touch, top each mound with a few additional marshmallows, chocolate chips, and graham cracker pieces. This creates a visually appealing and flavor-packed cookie.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-14 minutes. Look for the edges to turn golden brown, while the centers remain soft and slightly puffy. This will ensure your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies are chewy and deliciously satisfying.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This step is important, as the cookies will be fragile right out of the oven. Allow them to cool completely before serving, and savor the delightful aroma of autumn that fills your kitchen.
What to Serve with Pumpkin S’mores Cookies?
As the sweet aroma of freshly baked cookies fills your home, why not complement these delightful Pumpkin S’mores Cookies with some comforting side dishes and treats?
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a deliciously cool contrast to the warm cookies. The combination enhances the overall indulgence, making each bite even more heavenly.
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Hot Chocolate: A steaming mug of rich hot chocolate draped with fluffy marshmallows reflects the cozy warmth of fall. It’s the perfect drink to dip your cookies into!
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Chai Tea: Infused with warm spices that mirror the flavors in the cookies, chai tea perfectly complements the pumpkin and s’mores elements for a soothing afternoon treat.
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Apple Cinnamon Crisp: This warm dessert mirrors the fall flavors and provides a delightful crunch alongside the chewy cookies. The contrast of textures will be a hit at any gathering.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel over your cookies for an extra layer of sweetness. The salty, buttery flavor pairs wonderfully with the creamy pumpkin and rich chocolate.
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Pumpkin Spice Latte: Keep the festive vibes going with a classic pumpkin spice latte. Its rich, spiced notes complement the cookies while keeping you warm on chilly autumn days.
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Ginger Snap Cookies: For a spicy twist, serve your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies alongside ginger snaps. The combination of flavors creates a sweet and spicy experience that celebrates the season in every bite.
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Spiced Apple Cider: A warm cup of spiced apple cider brings the essence of fall alive, providing a fruity backdrop that balances the sweetness of the cookies.
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Chocolate Dipped Pretzels: The saltiness of pretzels paired with the sweetness of chocolate offers an intriguing contrast. It makes for a fun and shareable snack to enjoy with loved ones.
Make Ahead Options
These Pumpkin S’mores Cookies are a fantastic option for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by simply mixing the ingredients as instructed and storing the dough in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If you’re looking to extend the freshness, you can freeze the unbaked cookie dough for up to 3 months—just scoop the dough onto a baking sheet, freeze until firm, and then transfer to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw; just bake straight from the freezer, adding an extra minute or two to the cook time. This way, you’ll enjoy the same rich flavors and soft, chewy texture, making those busy weeknights a little sweeter!
Storage Tips for Pumpkin S’mores Cookies
Room Temperature: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, ensuring they stay soft and chewy.
Fridge: For longer storage, refrigerate the cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week without compromising flavor or texture.
Freezer: Freeze either unbaked dough or baked cookies in a sealed freezer bag for up to 3 months. For baked cookies, just reheat in the microwave or oven for a warm treat.
Reheating: To enjoy your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies warm, microwave them for about 10-15 seconds or pop them back in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until heated through.
Pumpkin S’mores Cookies: Customization Ideas
Get ready to make these Pumpkin S’mores Cookies your own with simple add-ins and swaps that will tantalize your taste buds!
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Chocolate Variation: Substitute half of the chocolate chips with white chocolate or butterscotch chips for a delightful twist. This small change can significantly enhance the flavor profile, giving you a decadent treat to savor.
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Marshmallow-Free Option: Omit the marshmallows entirely and add extra chocolate chips instead. This creates a less sticky texture while still delivering the sweet chocolatey goodness that s’mores are known for.
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Gluten-Free Delight: Use spelt flour or gluten-free flour to cater to your gluten-free friends while keeping the flavors intact. This ensures everyone can join in on the deliciousness of fall.
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Nuts Please: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans for an exciting crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft cookie texture. These nuts can complement the pumpkin flavor exceptionally well.
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Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or extra pumpkin pie spice for a warm kick that beautifully balances the sweetness of the cookies. You can customize the heat level to suit your preferences!
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Category Swap: Transform these cookies into Pumpkin S’mores Bars by spreading the dough in a baking dish instead of scooping out individual cookies. Bar cookies are thicker and can be cut into squares, perfect for gatherings.
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Flavor Fusion: Mix in toasted coconut for a tropical twist that adds a chewy texture and a hint of nuttiness. It brings a surprising layer of flavor that keeps everyone guessing.
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Fruity Addition: Incorporate finely chopped dried cranberries or raisins for a hint of tartness that complements the pumpkin and chocolate. This touch of fruit adds a nice contrast in flavor and texture.
If you’re still searching for more pumpkin delights, try these delightful Pumpkin Cheesecake Muffins that offer an irresistible creamy filling that complements the flavors of your cookies!
Expert Tips for Pumpkin S’mores Cookies
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Butter Temperature: Ensure your unsalted butter is at room temperature; this helps create a light and fluffy dough for perfect Pumpkin S’mores Cookies.
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Don’t Overmix: Mix the wet and dry ingredients just until combined; overmixing can lead to dense cookies. Keep that tender texture intact!
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Marshmallow Choices: For a chewy marshmallow texture, opt for non-melting vegan marshmallows; they hold up better during baking.
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Cool Time: Allow cookies to cool briefly on the baking sheet, as they may be delicate right out of the oven. This helps them firm up nicely.
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Variations Allowed: Feel free to swap chocolate chips for butterscotch or omit marshmallows for a simpler treat—make these cookies your own!
Pumpkin S’mores Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! When choosing pumpkin puree, look for 100% pure pumpkin, which has a rich and natural flavor. Avoid pumpkin pie filling, as it contains added sugars and spices that can alter your cookie’s taste! If you’re feeling adventurous, try roasting and pureeing a fresh pumpkin for an even more delightful flavor.
What is the best way to store Pumpkin S’mores Cookies?
To maintain their deliciousness, store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them for about a week. Just make sure the container is well-sealed to prevent them from drying out!
Can I freeze Pumpkin S’mores Cookies?
Definitely! To freeze baked cookies, allow them to cool completely, then place them in a single layer in an airtight freezer bag. You can freeze them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warm and gooey again.
What should I do if my cookies are too chewy or dry?
Very! If you find your cookies a bit too chewy, it might be due to overmixing or baking them for too long. To remedy this, reduce the mixing time when incorporating dry ingredients, and be sure to take them out of the oven while they still appear slightly underbaked. If they dry out, try adding a small slice of bread in the container to reintroduce moisture!
Are there any dietary considerations for these cookies?
Absolutely! If you’re making these cookies for someone with allergies, be mindful of the ingredients. You can use gluten-free flour for those with gluten sensitivities, and opt for vegan marshmallows if you’re catering to a vegan audience. Always check the labels of your chocolate chips as well, as some contain dairy or other allergens.
How long can I keep the unbaked dough in the freezer?
You can freeze your unbaked cookie dough for up to 3 months! Just scoop the dough into mounds on a baking sheet, freeze them until solid, then transfer them to an airtight bag or container. You can bake them straight from the freezer; just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time to ensure they’re perfectly cooked!
Pumpkin S'mores Cookies: Your New Fall Favorite Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Mix in the pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract. Add orange food coloring if using, and beat until smooth, about 1-2 minutes.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Gradually add to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, and crushed graham crackers gently with a spatula.
- Scoop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart, adding additional toppings if desired.
- Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are golden brown and centers are puffy. Allow to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
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