Stepping into the cozy world of fall, there’s a delightful twist on a classic dessert that’s sure to warm your heart—Pumpkin S’mores Cookies. These soft treats blend the seasonal comfort of pumpkin with the gooey goodness of s’mores, creating a cookie that’s not only easy to whip up but also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for gatherings, family nights, or just a sweet end to your day. Infused with warm spices and melty chocolate, every bite offers an embrace of autumn warmth and nostalgia. Whether you’re nestled by the fireplace or enjoying a backyard bonfire, these cookies will surely elevate your treat game. Are you ready to bake up some seasonal magic?
Why You’ll Crave These Cookies!
Deliciously Unique: These Pumpkin S’mores Cookies bring an innovative twist to traditional cookies, combining fall flavors with the beloved s’mores experience.
Rich Flavor: Each bite melds warm spices with gooey chocolate and fluffy marshmallows, creating a truly indulgent treat.
Easy to Make: Perfect for bakers of all skill levels, you can whip these cookies up in no time — ideal for unexpected gatherings or cozy nights at home.
Versatile Treat: Customize your cookies by swapping chocolate chips with your favorites or adding a sprinkle of sea salt for that extra burst of flavor.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Whether for a potluck or just a family dessert, these cookies will be the star of any table, leaving everyone wanting more! If you’re also loving pumpkin flavors, check out these Pumpkin Pie Tacos.
Pumpkin S’mores Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookie Base
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; soften at room temperature for easy creaming.
• Brown Sugar – Provides depth of flavor and moisture; can be partially replaced with granulated sugar.
• Granulated Sugar – Brings sweetness to the cookies; substitute with more brown sugar for a chewier texture.
• Pumpkin Puree – The key flavor of these Pumpkin S’mores Cookies; use 100% pure without additives for the best results.
• Egg – Binds ingredients and helps them rise; for an egg-free version, consider using a flax egg.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile; optional but adds richness and warmth.
For the Dry Ingredients
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides the structure needed in cookies; gluten-free flour is a suitable substitute.
• Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent for lightness; ensure it’s fresh for optimal results.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice – Infuses traditional autumn flavor; individual spices like cinnamon and nutmeg can be used as alternatives.
• Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
For the S’mores Twist
• Chocolate Chips – Adds sweetness and texture; feel free to swap with butterscotch chips for a different twist.
• Mini Marshmallows – Provides the gooey texture expected in s’mores; you can omit these for a less sticky cookie.
• Graham Crackers – Adds crunch and creates the s’mores effect; can be substituted with almond flour for a gluten-free option.
Optional
• Food Coloring – For aesthetic appeal; adjust the amount based on desired brightness.
These ingredients come together beautifully to create delightful Pumpkin S’mores Cookies, perfect for any autumn occasion!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin S’mores Cookies
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. This is the perfect time to gather your ingredients, including unsalted butter, sugars, and pumpkin puree, so everything is ready for mixing.
Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Use an electric mixer on medium speed to cream them together until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. The sugars should dissolve into the butter completely, creating a smooth, pale-colored base for your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies.
Step 3: Mix in Pumpkin and Egg
Now, it’s time to add in the star ingredients! Incorporate the pumpkin puree, large egg, and vanilla extract into the creamed butter mixture. Mix on low speed until everything is well combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed. You’ll notice a rich, vibrant color forming—a hint of the cozy flavors to come.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt until evenly mixed. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can affect the softness of your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies. Aim for a delightful dough texture.
Step 5: Fold in Sweet Additions
Gently fold in the chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, and crushed graham crackers using a spatula. This step is crucial for ensuring that all the s’mores elements are evenly distributed throughout the cookie dough, enhancing the texture and flavor with every bite. The dough should be slightly sticky yet manageable.
Step 6: Scoop and Shape the Cookies
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Make sure to space them about 2 inches apart, as they will spread while baking. If you desire extra gooeyness, press a few mini marshmallows or a chocolate chip on top of each dough ball for added visual appeal.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place the tray in your preheated oven and bake for 12-14 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges are golden brown while the centers remain soft and slightly puffy. Keep an eye on them as baking times may vary depending on your oven, but no one wants overbaked Pumpkin S’mores Cookies!
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
After baking, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This helps them set, as they can be delicate straight out of the oven. Once cooled slightly, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy the delightful aroma as the warm spices mingle in the air, inviting you to dive into a delicious treat!
Pumpkin S’mores Cookies: Customization Options
Embrace your creativity in the kitchen and tailor these cookies to your taste buds with delightful twists and swaps!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a deliciously safe option without sacrificing flavor.
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Vegan-Friendly: Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) and use vegan butter and marshmallows for a plant-based treat.
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Chocolate Lovers: Swap out semi-sweet chocolate chips for dark chocolate chunks or even white chocolate chips for a creamy variation that everyone will love.
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Nutty Addition: Stir in a handful of chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts for a crunchy, nutty flavor that warms the heart.
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Enhanced Heat: Add a pinch of cayenne or crushed red pepper flakes to the dough for a subtle kick that contrasts beautifully with the sweet components.
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S’mores Inspired: Instead of mini marshmallows, use larger marshmallow halves and more graham cracker pieces to amplify the essence of s’mores in each bite.
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Personal Touch: Mix in a swirl of peanut butter or Nutella into the dough before baking for a delicious aroma that will have your friends and family buzzing!
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Icing Drizzle: For an extra flourish, drizzle a simple icing made from powdered sugar and milk over the cooled cookies for a sweet finishing touch.
If you’re craving more pumpkin goodness, check out these delightful recipes like Pumpkin Spice Gooey or the cozy Spicy Chorizo Pumpkin for a savory twist!
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, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This method keeps the flavors fresh and prevents the dough from spreading too much while baking. Alternatively, you can also freeze the unbaked cookie dough for up to 3 months; just portion it into individual balls and freeze on a baking sheet before transferring to a zip-top bag. When you’re ready to indulge, simply bake straight from frozen, adding an extra 2-3 minutes to the baking time for delicious, freshly baked cookies just like homemade! With these make-ahead tips, you can enjoy these delightful cookies on busy weeknights without any hassle!
What to Serve with Pumpkin S’mores Cookies?
Warm, flavorful, and irresistibly gooey, these cookies are perfect for enhancing your fall gatherings and cozy evenings.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy coldness perfectly balances the warm, soft cookies, creating an unforgettable textural contrast. It’s like a cozy hug in dessert form!
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Hot Apple Cider: A steaming cup of spiced apple cider offers a delightful juxtaposition to the sweet, pumpkin flavors, making it a lovely autumnal pairing.
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Coffee or Espresso: Enjoying a warm cup alongside these cookies enhances the sweet, spiced notes while providing a perfect pick-me-up for your afternoon.
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Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: Drizzling some warm chocolate sauce over your cookies adds an extra layer of indulgence, enhancing the s’mores experience.
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Cheesecake Bars: The rich creaminess of cheesecake bars complements the cookies’ sweetness while providing a luxurious feel to your dessert table.
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Spiced Nut Mix: The crunch and saltiness of spiced nuts add a pleasant texture that contrasts beautifully with the cookies’ softness, creating a well-rounded snack selection.
Pairing these delightful treats with just the right accompaniments will elevate any gathering, turning simple desserts into cherished memories!
Expert Tips for Perfect Pumpkin S’mores Cookies
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and egg are at room temperature for easy mixing, which helps create a light, fluffy cookie texture.
Don’t Over-Mix: After adding dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mix just until combined to keep the Pumpkin S’mores Cookies soft and tender.
Monitor Baking Time: Every oven is different, so check your cookies at 12 minutes. The edges should be golden while the centers remain slightly puffy.
Chill the Dough: For a firmer consistency and to minimize spreading, chill your dough for 30 minutes before baking; this helps keep the cookies thick.
Add Extra Toppings: Don’t hesitate to sprinkle additional chocolate chips or mini marshmallows on top just before baking for extra gooeyness and visual appeal.
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 soft texture.
Fridge: For longer freshness, keep the Pumpkin S’mores Cookies in the refrigerator for up to a week in an airtight container.
Freezer: Freeze baked cookies for up to 4 months; place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
Reheating: To enjoy them warm, reheat cookies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or until just warmed through.
Pumpkin S’mores Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, opt for 100% pure pumpkin puree without additives or preservatives. Look for brands that simply list “pumpkin” as the only ingredient. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even make your own pumpkin puree by roasting fresh pumpkin until soft, then pureeing it in a blender or food processor until smooth.
What’s the best way to store leftover cookies?
Very! To keep your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. Just make sure they are completely cooled before storing to prevent moisture buildup.
Can I freeze the cookie dough for later use?
Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked pumpkin cookie dough for up to a year. To do this, scoop the dough into rounded tablespoons on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze until solid, then transfer the cookie dough balls into a sealed freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to bake, simply let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking!
What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
Very! If your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies spread too much, it may be due to several factors. Start by ensuring your butter isn’t too warm—room temperature is ideal, not melted. Additionally, chilling your cookie dough for about 30 minutes before baking can help maintain their shape. Lastly, double-check that you’ve measured your flour correctly, as too little can lead to spreading.
Are these cookies safe for pets or people with allergies?
Absolutely! This recipe contains common allergens, including egg and gluten from the all-purpose flour, so they may not be suitable for those with allergies. For pets, it’s best to avoid giving cookies made with chocolate, as it can be toxic to dogs. Always consult with your vet if you’re unsure about sharing baked treats with your furry friends.
How can I tell when the cookies are done baking?
Very! As you bake the cookies, keep an eye on them starting around the 12-minute mark. You’re looking for golden edges, while the centers should still appear slightly soft and puffy. They will firm up as they cool. If you want to be extra precise, use a toothpick to check for doneness; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached.
Pumpkin S’mores Cookies: Fall's Coziest Sweet Indulgence
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 softened unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Mix in pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Gradually add to wet mixture until just combined.
- Fold in chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, and crushed graham crackers.
- Scoop rounded portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 12-14 minutes until the edges are golden brown and the centers are soft.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
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