As the crisp autumn air settles in and leaves begin to crunch underfoot, there’s nothing quite like the comforting scent of freshly baked cookies wafting through the house. One recipe that has quickly become my go-to is the Pumpkin S’mores Cookies. These delightful treats combine the soft, chewy texture of a cookie with the nostalgic flavors of s’mores, complete with warm pumpkin spices. They’re not just a perfect fall dessert; they also whip up in no time, making them a fantastic option for busy weekdays or cozy gatherings with friends. So, why not treat yourself to a batch of these scrumptious cookies? I’m sure the gooey goodness will bring a smile to your face! Curious about how to make your own Pumpkin S’mores Cookies? Keep reading!
Why Are These Cookies a Must-Try?
Fall Flavor Fusion: These Pumpkin S’mores Cookies beautifully marry warm pumpkin spices with classic s’mores elements, creating an irresistible taste experience.
Quick and Easy: Ready in just a few simple steps, they’re perfect for busy days when you crave a homemade treat.
Gooey Goodness: The melty chocolate and marshmallows make each bite a delightful blend of textures, ensuring satisfaction cookie after cookie.
Versatile Treat: Whether you serve them warm with milk or as part of a dessert spread, they’re sure to impress! Don’t forget to check out other favorites like Pumpkin Cream Cold or Chocolate Cranberry Cookies for more delicious options.
Crowd-Pleaser: With this unique twist on a beloved classic, everyone will be reaching for seconds at your next gathering!
Pumpkin S’mores Cookies Ingredients
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For the Cookie Base
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Unsalted Butter – Provides rich flavor and contributes to the cookie’s soft texture; ensure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
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Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and a deeper flavor through caramelization; can be swapped with white sugar, but reduce sweetness.
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Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cookies while helping with browning; you can use just brown sugar if preferred.
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Pumpkin Puree – Responsible for the cookies’ moistness and that delightful pumpkin flavor; ensure it’s 100% pure pumpkin puree and not pie filling.
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Egg – Acts as a binder to keep your cookies together nicely.
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Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavors and adds a touch of sweetness to the mix.
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All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; can substitute with a gluten-free blend if needed.
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Baking Soda – Helps the cookies rise, creating that sought-after lighter texture.
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Pumpkin Pie Spice – Infuses the cookies with autumnal spices like cinnamon and nutmeg; feel free to adjust to taste.
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Salt – Balances out sweetness and is essential for flavor enhancement.
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For the S’mores Elements
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Chocolate Chips – Adds a rich chocolate flavor; feel free to use milk, dark, or white chocolate chips based on your preference.
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Mini Marshmallows – Provide that gooey, chewy texture; consider using non-melting vegan marshmallows for a twist.
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Graham Crackers – Adds crunch and classic s’mores flavor; can be replaced with crushed cookies or omitted entirely.
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Optional Touch
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Orange Food Coloring – A fun addition for a vibrant cookie color; just one or two drops should do!
By gathering these ingredients, you’ll be well on your way to creating delicious Pumpkin S’mores Cookies that are perfect for cozy fall gatherings!
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 it heats, take a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking. This small step ensures easy cleanup and helps maintain the cookie’s soft texture as they bake.
Step 2: Cream the Buttery Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine room temperature unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat them together on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes, until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color. This important creaming step creates the perfect base for your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies.
Step 3: Mix in the Wet Ingredients
Next, add the pumpkin puree, egg, vanilla extract, and optional orange food coloring to the creamed butter and sugars. Mix on low speed until everything is fully incorporated and the mixture appears smooth. Be careful not to overmix, as you want the batter to remain light and airy.
Step 4: Whisk the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Ensure there are no lumps and the spices are evenly distributed. This step is essential for even seasoning and rising, laying the groundwork for the delightful flavors of your pumpkin-flavored cookies.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing gently with a spatula or wooden spoon. Stir until just combined, making sure not to overmix, which could make the cookies tough. You should see traces of flour but no large pockets remaining. Your cookie dough is now ready for the s’mores elements!
Step 6: Fold in Chocolate and S’mores Goodies
Gently fold in the chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, and graham cracker pieces into the cookie dough. Stir until they are evenly dispersed throughout the dough, ensuring each cookie will be filled with delicious s’mores flavors. This step adds the signature gooeyness and crunch to your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies.
Step 7: Shape the Cookies
Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Make sure to leave about 2 inches of space between each dough ball to allow for spreading during baking. The dough should be soft but manageable, creating the perfect shape for your cookies.
Step 8: Add Extra Toppings
Before baking, take a few extra chocolate chips, marshmallows, and graham cracker pieces and gently press them into the tops of each cookie dough ball. This will give your cookies an eye-catching finish and ensure that every bite bursts with flavor. Get creative with the placements to make them visually appealing!
Step 9: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 14 minutes. Keep a close eye on them; the edges should turn golden brown while the centers remain soft and slightly undercooked. This is key for achieving that delightful chewy texture in your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies.
Step 10: Cool and Enjoy
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 to a wire rack. After cooling completely, indulge in the ooey-gooey goodness of your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies, perfect for any fall gathering!
What to Serve with Pumpkin S’mores Cookies
As you cozy up with your freshly baked Pumpkin S’mores Cookies, consider pairing them with delicious sides to enhance your fall feast.
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Warm Milk: The classic pairing brings out the soft, chewy texture of the cookies, making every bite a delightful experience.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop alongside the cookies creates a heavenly contrast of temperatures, complementing the rich, gooey flavors perfectly.
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Spiced Apple Cider: The warm, fragrant spices of apple cider mirror those in the cookies, creating a fall-themed beverage that warms the soul.
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Roasted Pumpkin Seeds: These crunchy bites add a delightful textural contrast, echoing the pumpkin essence in your cookies.
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Candied Pecans: Their sweet, nutty flavor brings another layer of warmth, making them a delightful snack to enjoy between bites of cookies.
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Pumpkin Spice Latte: Treat yourself to this seasonal favorite. The rich coffee and spices echo the flavors in the cookies, making it the perfect cozy companion!
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzle some warm caramel over the cookies or serve as a dip; the sweet richness complements the cookies’ flavors beautifully.
Indulging in these pairings will take your cookies from delightful to extraordinary, leaving everyone asking for more!
Expert Tips for Pumpkin S’mores Cookies
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter and egg are at room temperature for easier mixing, helping to create a creamy, well-blended dough.
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Don’t Overmix: Combine wet and dry ingredients gently. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of the soft, chewy texture you desire.
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Mind the Baking Time: Keep a close eye on the baking time. Remove cookies while the centers are still soft to ensure that delightful chewiness in your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies.
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Toppings Matter: Press additional chocolate chips and marshmallows onto the cookie tops before baking for a beautiful finish and extra gooeyness.
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Proper Cooling: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet briefly before transferring them to a wire rack. This prevents them from breaking apart and retains their perfect soft texture.
Make Ahead Options
These Pumpkin S’mores Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing it and storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This ensures the flavors meld beautifully while maintaining the dough’s quality. Alternatively, you can freeze the dough for up to 3 months; just scoop the dough onto a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed. You’ll enjoy the same delightful gooey texture and warmth as if they were made fresh from scratch!
How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin S’mores Cookies
Room Temperature: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days for optimal freshness.
Fridge: If you want to extend their life, refrigerate the cookies in an airtight container for up to a week. This will help maintain their soft texture.
Freezer: You can freeze the cookies for up to three months. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze solid, then transfer to a freezer bag or container for longer-lasting enjoyment.
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen Pumpkin S’mores Cookies, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight and warm them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to bring back that gooey goodness!
Pumpkin S’mores Cookies Variations
Feel free to get creative with these cookies and customize them to suit your taste!
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Chocolate Twist: Substitute regular chocolate chips with white chocolate or chocolate chunks for a deliciously different flavor. The creamy sweetness of white chocolate adds a whole new level of indulgence!
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Marshmallow-Free: If you’re not in the mood for marshmallows, simply replace them with additional chocolate chips or chunks for extra chocolate goodness. This will still give you that chewy texture while keeping it straightforward and delightful.
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Spice it Up: Adjust the amount of pumpkin pie spice to kick up the flavor, or experiment with individual spices like nutmeg or cardamom. A touch more cinnamon creates a warm, cozy experience that’s perfect for autumn.
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Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans into the dough for an extra crunch that pairs perfectly with the softness of the cookies. The nuts will bring a lovely hint of richness to each bite.
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Gluten-Free Option: Swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free baking blend to make these cookies friendly for everyone. Just be sure to check the consistency of your dough!
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Double the Graham: Use crushed graham crackers in the dough instead of just pieces for a more intense graham flavor throughout. This twist enhances the classic s’mores experience in every bite.
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Pumpkin Spice Drizzle: Consider drizzling a homemade pumpkin spice icing over cooled cookies for an extra sweet finish that beautifully complements the pumpkin flavor. It’s a fun and delicious way to up your cookie game!
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Stuffed Cookies: Create a secret center by placing a chocolate or caramel candy in the middle of the dough ball before baking. This will result in a delightful surprise when you take a bite!
Don’t hesitate to explore these variations as you make your own Pumpkin S’mores Cookies. And for more tasty delights, try your hand at Bake Cookies Cream or the fabulous Chocolate Cranberry Cookies! Happy baking!
Pumpkin S’mores Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my pumpkin puree is good?
Absolutely! You’ll want to make sure your pumpkin puree is 100% pure with no added sugars or spices. Check the label to avoid canned pumpkin pie filling, which can affect the cookies’ flavor. Fresh puree should have a bright, deep orange color without dark spots or a watery texture.
How should I store Pumpkin S’mores Cookies?
For sure! Store your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. If you want to keep them for a bit longer, refrigerate them; they’ll remain fresh for up to a week. Just ensure they are completely cooled before sealing them to avoid moisture buildup!
Can I freeze Pumpkin S’mores Cookies?
Yes, indeed! To freeze, allow the baked cookies to cool completely first. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer bag or container, and they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and warm briefly in the microwave for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.
What can I do if my cookies come out too crumbly?
Oh no! If your cookies turn out crumbly, it might be due to overmixing your dough or too much flour. To troubleshoot, keep the dry ingredients to a minimum and mix just until combined. If you find yourself with a dry dough, try adding a little more pumpkin puree, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency.
Are there any dietary considerations for these cookies?
Indeed! If you have any allergies, these cookies contain gluten (from flour) and dairy (from butter). For gluten-free versions, you can substitute with a gluten-free flour blend. If you’re concerned about dairy, try using vegan butter and non-melting vegan marshmallows. Always double-check all labels to ensure they meet your dietary needs.
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can whip up the cookie dough ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Alternatively, you can also freeze the unbaked dough balls for up to a year. Just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking whenever you need a fresh batch of Pumpkin S’mores Cookies.
Irresistible Pumpkin S’mores Cookies for a Cozy Fall Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Mix in pumpkin puree, egg, vanilla extract, and optional orange food coloring until smooth.
- In another bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Fold in chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, and graham cracker pieces until evenly dispersed.
- Drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space in between.
- Press extra chocolate chips, marshmallows, and graham crackers onto the tops of each cookie ball.
- Bake for 12 to 14 minutes until the edges are golden and the centers are soft.
- Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.