Name: Pumpkin S'mores Cookies: Your Fall Dessert Dream Come True
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 34 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted Butter (Room temperature); 1 cup Brown Sugar (Packed); 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar (Substitute with coconut sugar for richer flavor); 1 cup Pumpkin Puree (100% pure, not pie filling); 1 large Egg (For binding); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Can be swapped with maple extract); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Avoid whole wheat flour); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda (Leavening agent); 2 teaspoons Pumpkin Pie Spice (Can replace with individual spices); 1/2 teaspoon Salt (Balances sweetness); 1 cup Chocolate Chips (Use white or dark for variation); 1 cup Mini Marshmallows (Consider vegan marshmallows for a non-melting option); 1 cup Graham Crackers (Crushed); 1 teaspoon Orange Food Coloring (Optional)

Fall whispers its arrival through the warm aroma of baking spices filling the air, and I can’t help but feel a lilting joy as I mix up a batch of Pumpkin S’mores Cookies. These little gems are a delightful twist on traditional s’mores, bringing together the soft, chewy essence of pumpkin, chocolate, and fluffy marshmallows in perfect harmony. Ideal for cozy gatherings or a sweet afternoon treat, they’re incredibly easy to whip up and are sure to enchant your loved ones. Whether you’re craving a comforting dessert or looking to showcase autumn’s best flavors, these cookies will be a crowd-pleaser! Ready to dive into this delicious adventure and fill your kitchen with the essence of fall? Let’s get started!

Why Are Pumpkin S’mores Cookies Irresistible?

Uniquely Flavorful: These Pumpkin S’mores Cookies combine autumnal charm with a delightful blend of spices and chocolate, creating a memorable dessert that’s perfect for any seasonal gathering.

Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you’ll whip up a batch of joy in no time, making them a go-to choice for both beginners and seasoned bakers alike.

Soft and Chewy Texture: The cookies offer a satisfying bite with each gooey chocolate chip and marshmallow, reminiscent of warm pumpkin muffins but in cookie form.

Versatile Serving Options: Pair them with vanilla ice cream or a steaming mug of hot cocoa for an extra cozy treat!

Perfect for Sharing: Whether at a family get-together or a festive fall party, these cookies are sure to be crowd-pleasers, enchanting both kids and adults alike.

Make sure you check out how to store these cookies for later indulgence!

Pumpkin S’mores Cookies Ingredients

For the Batter

Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and helps create a soft texture; ensure it’s at room temperature for easy creaming.
Brown Sugar – Provides moisture and depth of flavor; pack it for the best results.
Granulated Sugar – Balances sweetness; substitute with coconut sugar for a richer flavor.
Pumpkin Puree – The key flavoring agent; make sure it’s 100% pure, not pie filling.
Egg – Binds the ingredients together and aids in leavening; a large egg works best.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances sweetness and flavor; can be swapped with maple extract for a unique twist.
All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; avoid whole wheat flour for a lighter texture.
Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent, giving the cookies their soft texture.
Pumpkin Pie Spice – Infuses the cookies with warm, earthy flavors; can replace with individual spices like cinnamon and nutmeg if desired.
Salt – Balances sweetness and is essential for flavor development.

For the Mix-ins

Chocolate Chips – Adds delightful sweetness; use white or dark chocolate chips for variation.
Mini Marshmallows – Offers a chewy texture; consider vegan marshmallows for a non-melting option.
Graham Crackers – Introduces crunch and classic s’mores flavor; crush them before adding for more uniform distribution.

For the Visual Touch

Orange Food Coloring (optional) – Adds a whimsical flair; use sparingly to avoid overpowering the cookies.

Now that you have the perfect ingredients right in front of you, it’s time to start mixing and baking those heavenly Pumpkin S’mores Cookies!

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, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies from sticking. This quick step ensures even baking and easy cleanup, paving the way for delightful cookies.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, add room temperature unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream the mixture on medium speed until it becomes light and fluffy, typically about 3-4 minutes. This step creates a delightful base for your cookies, incorporating air for that soft texture.

Step 3: Incorporate Wet Ingredients
Next, beat in the pumpkin puree, large egg, and vanilla extract until everything is well combined. If you’re opting for orange food coloring, add it here, ensuring it blends seamlessly into your wet mixture. The pumpkin adds a festive flavor, making your cookies both moist and flavorful.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Gradually mix this dry ingredient blend into your wet batter, folding gently until just incorporated. This will help maintain the light and fluffy texture essential for the Pumpkin S’mores Cookies.

Step 5: Add Mix-Ins
Now it’s time to gently fold in the chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, and crushed graham crackers, ensuring everything is evenly distributed throughout the dough. Be careful not to overmix at this stage to keep your cookies light and chewy. The mixture should look colorful and inviting!

Step 6: Shape the Cookie Dough
Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to drop rounded portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. The spacing is crucial to prevent your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies from merging as they spread while baking. Each mound of dough should look rich and full.

Step 7: Add Extra Toppings
For an extra touch, place a few additional chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, and broken pieces of graham crackers on top of each dough ball before baking. This not only makes the cookies visually appealing but also enhances the delicious s’mores experience with each bite.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Bake in your preheated oven for 12 to 14 minutes or until the edges are golden and the centers appear set. The Pumpkin S’mores Cookies will continue to cook slightly once removed, giving you that perfect chewy texture. Keep an eye on them for that ideal golden hue.

Step 9: Cool and Serve
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This cooling time prevents breakage and ensures they hold their shape beautifully. Once cooled, your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies are ready to be enjoyed with family and friends!

What to Serve with Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

Fall days are best savored with warm treats, and pairing these delicious cookies with the right accompaniments elevates the experience to something truly memorable.

Vanilla Ice Cream: A delightful scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a rich, cool contrast to the warm, chewy cookies. This combo is a match made in heaven!
Hot Chocolate: A steaming mug of hot chocolate, perhaps with a sprinkle of cinnamon, enhances the cozy atmosphere. The sweetness of the drink pairs perfectly with the cookie’s rich flavors.
Spiced Apple Cider: The warm, aromatic spices in apple cider complement the pumpkin and chocolate beautifully. Enjoying this duo is like a hug in a mug!
Cream Cheese Frosting: A dollop of creamy frosting on top of each cookie adds decadence and a tangy twist, transforming your cookies into mini desserts.
Chai Tea: A cup of chai tea with its warming spices will enhance the fall vibe while contrasting the cookie’s sweet richness.
Cheesecake Dip: A lightly sweetened cheesecake dip served alongside the cookies creates a fun, interactive dessert experience that everyone will love to dive into!
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over the cookies brings a luxurious, sweet layer that enhances every bite, making them absolutely irresistible.
Pecan Pie Bars: If you’re feeling extra indulgent, serving these nostalgic bars alongside your cookies adds a classic fall touch that guests will adore.
Cozy Beverage Options: Try pairing with an autumn-inspired latte, like pumpkin spice or maple, for a delightful dessert brunch experience that warms the soul.
Fruit Salad: A light, fresh fruit salad offers a bright contrast to the cookies and can cleanse the palate nicely amidst the indulgent flavors.

Storage Tips for Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

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

Fridge: For longer freshness, keep your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies in the refrigerator for up to a week; just make sure they’re covered well to prevent drying out.

Freezer: Freeze unbaked cookie dough portions for up to a year or baked cookies for up to 4 months. Just thaw before baking or enjoying!

Reheating: To enjoy warm cookies, microwave for 10-15 seconds or pop them in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until heated through.

Expert Tips for Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

Room Temperature Butter: Ensure the butter is at room temperature for optimal creaming, which is key to achieving the right texture in your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies.
Gentle Mixing: Fold in mix-ins gently to maintain the light and chewy texture—overmixing can lead to dense cookies.
Cool Before Moving: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes to set; this helps prevent them from breaking when transferring.
Uniform Dough Balls: Use a cookie scoop for even-sized dough balls—this ensures consistent baking and perfect results every time.
Topping Galore: Don’t shy away from adding extra toppings before baking; more chocolate chips and marshmallows make for an irresistible cookie experience.

Pumpkin S’mores Cookies Variations

Get ready to personalize these delightful cookies with a range of scrumptious options that’ll make them your very own!

Dairy-Free: Replace butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free chocolate chips for a vegan twist.
Nutty Addition: Stir in chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch that complements the chewy texture.
Cinnamon Sugar Topping: Sprinkle a mix of cinnamon and sugar on top before baking to add a delightful sweet and spicy crust.
Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blend for a similar texture that everyone can enjoy.
Pumpkin Pie Spice Boost: Increase the pumpkin pie spice to two teaspoons for a bolder flavor that enchants autumn lovers.
Fruity Twist: Add dried cranberries or chopped apples to the dough for a surprise fruity flavor that complements the pumpkin.
Marshmallow Swirl: Instead of adding mini marshmallows into the dough, create a marshmallow swirl by placing marshmallow fluff in the center of each dough ball before baking.

Experimenting with these variations will not only keep your baking fun, but they’ll also offer unique layers of flavor to your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies. For even more delightful recipes, consider crafting some homemade apple cider or enjoying these cookies with a warm mug of spiced hot chocolate!

Make Ahead Options

These Pumpkin S’mores Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix all the ingredients as per the recipe, then cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. If you’d like, you can also scoop the dough into individual cookie balls and place them on a lined baking sheet, covering them and refrigerating overnight. When you’re ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from chilled dough. This method ensures your cookies stay just as delicious and soft as if they were freshly made, giving you that warm, autumnal treat whenever you crave it! Plus, they’ll keep beautifully for up to 3 days in an airtight container at room temperature, or you can freeze the baked cookies for up to 4 months for anytime indulgence.

Pumpkin S’mores Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of pumpkin puree should I use?
Absolutely! Make sure to use 100% pure pumpkin puree and not pumpkin pie filling, as the latter contains added sugar and spices that can alter the taste and texture of your cookies.

How should I store leftover Pumpkin S’mores Cookies?
These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their soft and chewy texture. If kept in the refrigerator, they can last up to a week. Just ensure they’re well-covered to prevent them from drying out!

Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, you can freeze both the unbaked dough and the baked cookies! For unbaked dough, scoop individual portions onto a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They will last for up to a year in the freezer. For baked cookies, store them in an airtight container for up to 4 months. Just thaw or reheat when you’re ready to enjoy!

What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies spread too much, it could be due to overly warm butter or not enough flour in the dough. To fix this for future batches, ensure your butter is at room temperature, not melted. You can also refrigerate your dough for about 30 minutes before baking to help them keep their shape.

Are these cookies safe for my pets?
No, it’s best to avoid giving these cookies to your pets. The ingredients like chocolate and sugar can be harmful to dogs and cats. It’s always a good idea to stick to treats specifically made for them!

Can I make substitutions for dietary restrictions?
Certainly! If you need to make these cookies gluten-free, you can replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. For a vegan option, substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use dairy-free chocolate and marshmallows. This will ensure you still enjoy the wonderful flavors of Pumpkin S’mores Cookies while accommodating dietary needs.