Name: Pumpkin S'mores Cookies: Your New Favorite Fall Treat
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 34 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted Butter (Room temperature); 1 cup Brown Sugar; 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar; 1 cup Pumpkin Puree (Ensure it's pure, not pie filling); 1 large Egg (Can be replaced with a flax egg); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Almond extract can be an alternative); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Gluten-free blend can be used); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda; 2 teaspoons Pumpkin Pie Spice (Can substitute with cinnamon and nutmeg); 1/2 teaspoon Salt (Omit if using salted butter); 1 cup Chocolate Chips (Dark chocolate can be used); 1 cup Mini Marshmallows (Vegan options available); 1 cup Graham Crackers (Crushed nuts can replace this for gluten-free); 1 drop Orange Food Coloring (Optional for festive color)

As the leaves turn and the air gets crisper, I find myself craving the cozy tastes of fall. That’s where these Pumpkin S’mores Cookies come in—a delightful blend of soft, chewy goodness and the warm essence of pumpkin spice. Perfect for pumpkin lovers like me, these cookies offer a fun twist on the classic s’mores you know and love, transforming them into a sweet treat that’s ideal for any autumn gathering. With quick prep and an inviting aroma that fills your kitchen, you’ll be whipping up these cookies repeatedly throughout the season! Are you ready to elevate your cookie game and indulge in this seasonal delight?

Why Are These Cookies So Irresistible?

Unforgettable Flavor: The blend of pumpkin puree and s’mores elements creates a deliciously unique taste that dances on your palate.

Perfectly Chewy Texture: Each bite features a soft, chewy consistency with just the right amount of crispness on the edges.

Simple Preparation: With just a few quick steps, these cookies can be in the oven in no time, making them a convenient choice for busy schedules.

Endless Versatility: Feel free to switch up the chocolate chips for white chocolate or try different spices for a personal twist!

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether for a cozy night in or a festive gathering, they appeal to all ages and are sure to be a hit! Enjoy them warm, perhaps alongside a serving of Moist Pumpkin Bread or your favorite fall drink for the perfect fall treat!

Pumpkin S’mores Cookies Ingredients

• For the Cookies

Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; make sure it’s at room temperature for easy creaming.
Brown Sugar – Brings depth of flavor and moisture; can be swapped with granulated sugar if necessary.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens your cookies; consider coconut sugar for a less refined alternative.
Pumpkin Puree – Essential for flavor and moisture in these Pumpkin S’mores Cookies; ensure it is pure, not pie filling.
Egg – Binds all ingredients together; replace with a flax egg for a vegan version.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavors beautifully; almond extract can be an alternative for a different taste.
All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; a gluten-free blend can be used for those needing a gluten-free option.
Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent for lightness; do not substitute without adjusting other ingredients.
Pumpkin Pie Spice – Adds warm, inviting spices; you can substitute with a mix of cinnamon and nutmeg if desired.
Salt – Balances the sweetness of the cookies; omit if using salted butter.

• For the Mixing

Chocolate Chips – Adds a sweet and creamy element; dark chocolate can be used for a richer flavor profile.
Mini Marshmallows – Brings gooey texture; if preferred, look for vegan options.
Graham Crackers – Adds a lovely crunch; crushed nuts can replace this for a gluten-free version.

• For the Fun Twist

Orange Food Coloring (Optional) – Adds a festive autumn color; use sparingly for effect.

These ingredients blend together to create a cookie that not only warms your heart but also fills your home with that unmistakable scent of fall!

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 your oven warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies don’t stick. The parchment will help in achieving a nice, even bake, allowing the edges to crisp while keeping the centers soft and chewy.

Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, combine room-temperature unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, cream these ingredients together on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This will incorporate air into your dough for a tender cookie texture, essential for those delightful Pumpkin S’mores Cookies.

Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients
Next, beat in the pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture. Continue mixing until fully combined, about another minute. If you choose to add orange food coloring for a festive touch, incorporate it now. The batter will start to take on a rich color and creamy consistency, signaling you’re ready for the dry ingredients.

Step 4: Whisk the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. This step helps evenly distribute the leavening agent and spices throughout the dough. After whisking, slowly mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined—a few flour streaks are okay, as overmixing can result in tough cookies.

Step 5: Fold in the Extras
Gently fold in the chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, and graham cracker pieces into your cookie dough. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to ensure everything is evenly distributed without overworking the dough. The gooey marshmallows and chunks of chocolate will create delicious pockets of flavor in your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies.

Step 6: Scoop the Dough
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded tablespoons of the cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This will allow for spreading during baking. If you’d like, you can press a few extra chocolate chips and marshmallows on top for an indulgent look.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-14 minutes. Keep an eye on them; the cookies will be done when the edges are lightly golden, but the centers should still look soft. This ensures they remain chewy and delicious, characteristic of perfect Pumpkin S’mores Cookies.

Step 8: Cool Down
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This allows them to set before transferring them to a wire rack. They’ll be soft and delicate, so give them a little time to firm up before indulging in your delightful Pumpkin S’mores Cookies!

What to Serve with Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

As the cozy smells of baking fill your kitchen, it’s the perfect time to create a lovely meal around these chewy delights.

Warm Apple Cider: The comforting spices in warm apple cider beautifully complement the pumpkin flavor. It’s like sipping a hug from autumn!
Ice Cream Sundae: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a creamy contrast to the cookies’ texture, plus it creates a heavenly s’mores-inspired treat when paired together.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: The classic fall drink enhances the pumpkin notes in the cookies while providing a delicious caffeine boost for cozy gatherings.
Caramel Dipping Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel on your cookies adds a rich, sweet touch that perfectly balances the soft and chewy texture.
Nutty Trail Mix: A crunchy trail mix with pumpkin seeds and nuts adds texture contrast, making for an appealing snack alongside your cookies.
Maple Glazed Cinnamon Rolls: Soft, gooey cinnamon rolls with a maple glaze bring warmth and sweetness complemented by the flavors of your cookies.
Chocolate Milkshake: A creamy chocolate milkshake turns this treat into a playful dessert experience, inviting everyone, young and old, to indulge!
Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes enhances the overall meal experience while bringing warmth and hearty flavors to the table.

Expert Tips for Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

Room Temperature Butter: Ensures easy creaming with sugars, creating the desired fluffy texture. Cold butter can lead to dense cookies.
Don’t Overmix: After adding dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing develops gluten, making your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies tough instead of tender.
Chill Dough If Needed: If the dough feels too soft, chilling it for 30 minutes can help with shaping. Warm dough spreads too much when baking.
Quality Ingredients Matter: Use high-quality chocolate chips and pure pumpkin puree for the best flavor. Avoid pumpkin pie filling as it alters the taste.
Experiment with Spices: Adjust the spice blend to suit your taste; feel free to add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg for a little extra warmth.

Pumpkin S’mores Cookies: Fun Variations Await!

Feel free to personalize these delightful cookies with your favorite twists and substitutions!

Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil or dairy-free butter in place of unsalted butter for a vegan-friendly treat.
Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to cater to gluten sensitivities without compromising taste.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the batter for a surprising kick that complements the sweetness of the cookie.
Nutty Delight: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor; they pair wonderfully with the other ingredients.
Chocolate Swap: Trade chocolate chips for caramel bits or butterscotch chips for a different flavor sensation and a bit of gooeyness.
Marshmallow Magic: Try using toasted coconut flakes instead of mini marshmallows for a tropical twist that still brings delightful texture.
Seasonal Spice: Adjust the pumpkin pie spice to include ground ginger and cloves for an even richer autumnal flavor.
Crispy Treats: Replace graham crackers with crushed pretzels for a sweet-salty combination that adds an exciting crunch.

Experimenting with these variations will not only make your cookies uniquely yours but will also keep everyone guessing what delicious surprise is in each bite! And, if you love the cozy flavors of pumpkin, why not also make a batch of Moist Pumpkin Bread to pair alongside your delightful cookies? Enjoy your baking adventure!

How to Make Pumpkin S’mores Cookies Ahead of Time

These Pumpkin S’mores Cookies are an ideal choice for meal prep! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix the ingredients and store the dough in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This helps maintain their delicious texture and flavor. If you’re looking to prep even further ahead, you can freeze the unbaked dough for up to 3 months; just scoop the dough onto a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, simply place the frozen dough on a baking sheet and add a few extra minutes to the bake time. This way, you can enjoy fresh and chewy pumpkin cookies with minimal effort amidst your busy week!

How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

Room Temperature: Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their soft and chewy texture.

Fridge: For freshness, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to a week. This helps preserve moisture when the weather is warmer.

Freezer: To enjoy your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies later, freeze them individually wrapped in plastic wrap or in a freezer-safe bag for up to 4 months.

Reheating: When ready to eat, thaw frozen cookies overnight in the fridge, then warm in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to revive their chewy goodness.

Pumpkin S’mores Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of pumpkin puree should I use?
Absolutely! Always opt for 100% pure pumpkin puree rather than pumpkin pie filling, as the latter contains added sugars and spices that could alter the flavor of your cookies. Look for labels that clearly state “pure pumpkin” for the best results.

How should I store Pumpkin S’mores Cookies?
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to a week, which helps maintain their soft and chewy texture, especially if you live in a warmer climate.

Can I freeze Pumpkin S’mores Cookies?
Yes, you can! The best way to freeze them is to wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 4 months. To enjoy, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge, then warm them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to bring back that delightful chewiness.

What should I do if my cookies turn out too hard or dry?
Very! If your cookies become too hard, it often means they were overbaked or overmixed. To prevent this, keep an eye on them while baking; they should be golden on the edges but soft in the center. If you find your dough excessively dry, consider adding a little milk or another egg to restore moisture—just remember not to overmix after adding wet ingredients.

Can I modify the recipe for dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! You can easily make these cookies vegan by substituting the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water, let it sit for 5 minutes). You can also use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version and opt for vegan marshmallows and dairy-free chocolate chips if you have specific dietary needs. Enjoy experimenting with these adaptations!

Are there any concerns for allergies?
Very! Always keep allergies in mind. Check that all your ingredients are safe for anyone consuming the cookies. For nut allergies, make sure your graham crackers are nut-free or consider replacing them with a crushed cookie alternative. Additionally, verify that your chocolate chips and marshmallows are free from allergens like dairy or soy if those are issues for anyone.