As the leaves begin to dance in hues of orange and gold, my kitchen transforms into a haven of warmth and spice, where the aroma of freshly baked Pumpkin S’mores Cookies fills the air. These delightful treats bring together the soft, rich essence of pumpkin with the sweet, gooey charm of s’mores, making them an irresistible addition to any fall gathering. Not only are they incredibly easy to whip up, but they also promise to wrap you in a cozy embrace with every bite—perfect for satisfying those sweet cravings without the fuss of fast food. So, are you ready to indulge in this seasonal delight that might just become your new favorite cookie?
Why are Pumpkin S’mores Cookies a must-try?
Irresistible Flavor: These cookies bring together the warm, spiced notes of pumpkin and the nostalgic sweetness of s’mores, creating a taste sensation that embodies fall.
Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you’ll have these delightful treats out of the oven in no time, impressing friends and family effortlessly.
Perfect for Sharing: Whether you’re hosting a gathering or treating your loved ones, these cookies are a crowd-pleaser that pairs well with warm drinks like cider or coffee.
Versatile Variations: Feel free to experiment by swapping in white chocolate or adding a sprinkle of sea salt for a unique twist—your cookie creativity knows no bounds!
Ultimate Comfort: With their soft, chewy texture and gooey marshmallow pockets, these cookies provide the ultimate comfort experience that’ll leave you wanting more.
Don’t forget to check out our Pumpkin Pie Tacos for another delicious way to celebrate the season!
Pumpkin S’mores Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; make sure it’s softened at room temperature for easy creaming.
• Brown Sugar – Provides depth of flavor and moisture; can be partially replaced with granulated sugar for a different texture.
• Granulated Sugar – A key source of sweetness and structural integrity; substitute with more brown sugar if you prefer chewier cookies.
• Pumpkin Puree – The star ingredient that offers that seasonal flavor; use 100% pure without additives for best results.
• Egg – Binds everything together and helps the cookies rise; for an egg-free version, opt for a flax egg.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor profile; optional, but highly recommended for a richer taste.
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to your cookies; gluten-free flour can be a great substitute if needed.
• Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent to keep the cookies light; ensure it’s fresh for optimal results.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice – Delivers traditional fall flavors; individual spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger can be used as alternatives.
• Salt – Balances out the sweetness in the cookies.
For the Mix-ins
• Chocolate Chips – Infuses sweetness and texture; feel free to use any chocolate type, or even butterscotch chips for a twist.
• Mini Marshmallows – Adds gooey goodness; you can omit them for a less sticky cookie or replace with chocolate chunks instead.
• Graham Crackers – Essential for that s’mores texture; substitute with almond flour for a gluten-free option.
• Food Coloring (Optional) – For aesthetic appeal; tweak the quantity based on your desired brightness.
With these ingredients, you’re well on your way to baking up a batch of delightful Pumpkin S’mores Cookies that will captivate your taste buds and warm your heart!
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 the oven warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking. This step prepares your workspace for the soon-to-be-baked Pumpkin S’mores Cookies, ensuring they come out perfectly golden and easy to transfer.
Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, cream the mixture together on medium speed until it becomes light and fluffy, usually around 2-3 minutes. This process incorporates air, which results in a soft and chewy texture for your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies.
Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients
Next, mix in the pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract into the creamed mixture. Blend well until everything is fully incorporated, achieving a smooth texture. If you wish to add a pop of color, this is the perfect time to include a few drops of food coloring. The mixture should now have a rich, reminiscent pumpkin hue.
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 your wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this will ensure your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies remain tender and soft without unwanted toughness.
Step 5: Fold in the Mix-ins
Gently fold in the chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, and crushed graham crackers into the dough. This step adds that delightful s’mores experience we all love. Make sure every bite of dough is studded with these sweet goodies, ensuring a gooey and textural surprise in each Pumpkin S’mores Cookie.
Step 6: Shape the Cookies
Using a cookie scoop or two spoons, drop rounded tablespoons of the cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. If desired, press a few additional marshmallows or chocolate chips on top of the dough for an extra touch of sweetness. The cookies will spread slightly as they bake, so proper spacing is essential.
Step 7: Bake Until Golden
Pop your baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 12-14 minutes. You’ll know the cookies are ready when the edges are golden, and the centers still look soft and slightly underbaked. Keeping an eye on them will ensure they achieve that perfect balance of crisp and chewy in your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This resting time lets them firm up slightly, making them easier to transfer. Then, carefully move them to a wire rack to cool completely. With that lovely aroma filling your kitchen, your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies will be ready to delight friends and family!
How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin S’mores Cookies
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Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep them in a cool, dry place to preserve their soft texture and delicious flavors.
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Fridge: If you’d like to extend their freshness, place the cookies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. This keeps them moist and flavorful, perfect for grabbing a quick sweet treat!
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unbaked dough for up to a year or baked cookies for up to 4 months. Place them in freezer-safe bags, pressing out excess air. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking or enjoying.
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Reheating: For warm, gooey goodness, microwave frozen cookies for about 15-20 seconds. Enjoy them warm, bringing back that fresh-baked charm to your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies!
Make Ahead Options
These Pumpkin S’mores Cookies are fantastic for meal prep! You can mix the dough and refrigerate it up to 24 hours in advance, which keeps the flavors rich and allows the spices to marinate beautifully. To maintain quality, store the dough in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. You can also freeze unbaked cookie dough for up to 3 months; just scoop the dough onto a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag. When ready to bake, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll enjoy homemade cookies with minimal effort on busy days!
Pumpkin S’mores Cookies Variations
Feel free to sprinkle some creativity into your batch of Pumpkin S’mores Cookies, transforming them into your perfect treat!
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Chocolate Swap: Replace chocolate chips with white chocolate or peanut butter chips for a different flavor twist. The subtle sweetness of white chocolate pairs wonderfully with pumpkin.
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Unexpected Saltiness: Add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top before baking. The contrast between sweet and salty will elevate your cookie experience to new heights.
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Spice It Up: Swap pumpkin pie spice for a combination of ground cinnamon and nutmeg. It’ll give your cookies a warmer, cozier vibe perfect for crisp fall days.
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Nutty Crunch: Mix in some chopped pecans or walnuts for added texture and nutty flavor. This will give your cookies a delightful crunch that complements the soft, gooey inside.
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Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute coconut oil for butter and use dairy-free chocolate chips. Perfect for those with dairy restrictions, it keeps the cookies deliciously rich and satisfying.
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Double the Pumpkin: For an extra boost of pumpkin flavor, include an additional 1/4 cup of pumpkin puree. This enhances the moistness and gives a more pronounced pumpkin taste.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chipotle powder to the batter for a warm, spicy twist. This unexpected heat works beautifully with the sweetness of the cookies.
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Graham Cracker Alternative: Swap out traditional graham crackers for crushed vanilla wafers or digestive biscuits for a fun texture twist. This will still provide that essential s’mores experience.
And while you’re exploring cookie variations, don’t miss the chance to try our delicious Spicy Chorizo Pumpkin Soup or check out some scrumptious Pumpkin Pie Tacos for a seasonal feast!
What to Serve with Pumpkin S’mores Cookies
There’s nothing quite like the cozy warmth of baked goods paired with comforting sides, especially when it comes to these delightful cookies.
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Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream provides a refreshing contrast to the sweet, spiced cookies, making every bite feel indulgent.
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Spiced Apple Cider: Warm your spirits with a mug of spiced apple cider. Its fruity, aromatic notes perfectly enhance the fall flavors of the cookies.
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Chocolate Milk: Rich, velvety chocolate milk is a nostalgic pairing, transforming snack time into a delightful treat for both kids and adults alike.
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Pumpkin Spice Latte: Sip on a pumpkin spice latte for a comforting and fragrant experience that bridges the flavors of the cookies with the season’s favorite drink.
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Salted Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm salted caramel over the cookies creates a luscious sweetness and an unexpected flavor twist that will wow your taste buds.
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Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai tea complement the cookies, enhancing their flavors and delivering a cozy experience perfect for crisp autumn days.
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Toasted Marshmallow Milkshake: For an indulgent treat, blend up a toasted marshmallow milkshake. The flavors align beautifully with the s’mores theme in the cookies.
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Hazelnut Coffee: Pair with a cup of rich hazelnut coffee. This nutty beverage perfectly balances the sweetness of the cookies, creating a harmonious experience.
Indulge in these pairings for a delightful fall-inspired feast that celebrates the warmth and flavors of the season!
Expert Tips for Pumpkin S’mores Cookies
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Room Temperature Butter: Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for easier creaming, contributing to a fluffier texture in your cookies.
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Avoid Over-Mixing: After combining wet and dry ingredients, mix gently until just combined. Over-mixing can lead to tough cookies.
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Cool on Baking Sheet: Allow the cookies to rest on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps maintain their soft and chewy texture.
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Fresh Baking Soda: Always use fresh baking soda for optimal rise. If it’s been sitting in your pantry for a while, consider replacing it for the best results in your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies.
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Customize Mix-Ins: Don’t hesitate to swap chocolate chips with white chocolate or add in butterscotch chips for a unique flavor twist.
Pumpkin S’mores Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe pumpkins for my Pumpkin S’mores Cookies?
Absolutely! Look for pumpkins that are firm, with a hard skin and a rich orange color. They should feel heavy for their size and have no dark spots or blemishes. For baking, sugar pumpkins or pie pumpkins are the best choices due to their sweeter and finer-textured flesh.
What is the best way to store Pumpkin S’mores Cookies?
I recommend storing your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. For longer-lasting freshness, you can place them in the refrigerator where they will keep well for up to a week. Just be sure to give them a moment at room temperature before indulging for the best texture!
Can I freeze Pumpkin S’mores Cookies?
Yes, you can! Freeze unbaked dough for up to a year by scooping it onto a baking sheet to freeze individually and then transferring them to freezer-safe bags once solid. For baked cookies, they can be kept fresh in the freezer for up to 4 months. To enjoy, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or microwave them for 15-20 seconds until warm and gooey again.
What should I do if my cookies are too dry?
If you find your cookies turning out dry, it could be due to over-mixing the dough or baking too long. Make sure to mix just until combined after adding the dry ingredients, and keep a close eye on the baking time. You want the edges to be golden, but the centers should remain soft and slightly underbaked to ensure a chewy texture.
Are there any dietary considerations for Pumpkin S’mores Cookies?
Very! These cookies can easily cater to different dietary needs. For a dairy-free option, use vegan butter and ensure the chocolate chips and mini marshmallows are dairy-free. If you’re accommodating grain-free diets, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Just remember, always check ingredient labels for any allergens specific to your needs!
Pumpkin S'mores Cookies: Irresistibly Soft Fall Delights
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 softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Gradually mix this into the wet ingredients until combined.
- Fold in chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, and crushed graham crackers.
- Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 12-14 minutes until edges are golden and centers are slightly underbaked.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
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