As the crisp autumn air sets in, the scent of warm spices mingling with sweet chocolate and toasted marshmallows brings back memories of campfires and cozy evenings. Enter my Pumpkin S’mores Cookies, a delightful twist on the classic treat that will have you reminiscing while satisfying your sweet tooth. This recipe is not only a fun way to celebrate fall flavors but is also perfect for those seeking a quick and easy dessert that will wow family and friends. With just 20 minutes of prep time and a total of 35 minutes from start to finish, these cookies are a wonderful crowd-pleaser that’s sure to rekindle your love for homemade treats. Are you ready to dive into the delicious world of pumpkin magic? Let's get baking!
Why Are These Cookies a Must-Try?
Irresistible Flavor: Each bite is packed with the warm, spiced goodness of pumpkin, complemented by gooey chocolate and fluffy marshmallows.
Quick and Easy: With just 20 minutes of prep, these cookies fit perfectly into your busy schedule.
Crowd-Pleaser: They’re not just delicious; they’re sure to impress family and friends, making them ideal for gatherings.
Versatile Treat: Customize with optional toppings like extra chocolate chips, marshmallows, or crushed graham crackers for fun variations.
Fall Favorites: Perfect for autumn, these Pumpkin S’mores Cookies evoke nostalgia with every cookie while offering a modern twist on a beloved classic.
Rekindle your love for baked goods and check out more delightful fall dessert recipes to enjoy this season!
Pumpkin S'mores Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookies
- 1 Cup unsalted butter – brings richness and a soft texture to your cookies.
- ¾ Cup brown sugar – adds moisture and a deeper flavor with its molasses content.
- ¼ Cup granulated sugar – for that sweet crispness around the edges.
- ½ Cup pumpkin puree – the star ingredient, providing flavor and moisture.
- 1 large egg – binds everything together for a perfect cookie structure.
- 1 Teaspoon vanilla extract – enhances the sweetness and overall flavor profile.
- 2 ¼ Cups all-purpose flour – the base that gives your cookies structure.
- 1 Teaspoon baking soda – helps your cookies rise and become fluffy.
- 1 Teaspoon pumpkin pie spice – adds that quintessential fall flavor you love!
- ½ Teaspoon salt – balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
For the Mix-Ins
- 1 Cup chocolate chips – provide delightful pockets of melty goodness in every bite.
- 1 Cup mini marshmallows – for that classic s'mores experience - gooey and sweet!
- 8 graham crackers – crushed into pieces to bring the s'mores charm to your recipe.
Optional Add-ins
- 1 Teaspoon orange food coloring – for a vibrant, festive look if desired.
- ½ Cup chocolate chips – sprinkle on top for an extra layer of decadence.
- Mini marshmallows – press some into the tops for a delightful gooey finish.
- Graham crackers, crushed – for additional crunch and flavor on top.
These Pumpkin S’mores Cookies are perfect for autumn celebrations or simply as a cozy treat at home. Enjoy the warm flavors and delightful textures that each bite offers!
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 warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking. This simple step ensures your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies come out perfectly without any hassle during the baking process.
Step 2: Cream the Sugars and Butter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, cream the mixture on medium speed until it’s light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes. This fluffy base is essential for the delightful texture of your cookies.
Step 3: Mix in the Wet Ingredients
Next, beat in the pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract until everything is well blended and creamy. If you’re feeling festive, add in the optional orange food coloring for a vibrant touch. This step infuses your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies with moisture and delightful flavor right from the start.
Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt until thoroughly mixed. This ensures that the baking soda is evenly distributed throughout your dry ingredients, so your cookies rise beautifully with that signature pumpkin spice flavor.
Step 5: Bring It All Together
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Be cautious not to over mix, as this can lead to dense cookies. You want a dough that’s soft and slightly sticky, ready for all the delicious mix-ins that will make these Pumpkin S’mores Cookies truly special.
Step 6: Fold in the Goodies
Now it's time for the fun part! Gently fold in the chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, and pieces of graham crackers into the cookie dough. This combination creates the gooey and crunchy layers that make these cookies reminiscent of classic s’mores.
Step 7: Scoop the Dough
Using a small cookie scoop or a tablespoon, drop rounded portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, ensuring there’s about 2 inches of space between each scoop. This spacing allows the Pumpkin S’mores Cookies to spread evenly while baking and achieve that ideal texture.
Step 8: Add Toppings
For an extra touch of indulgence, press a few additional mini marshmallows, chocolate chips, and graham cracker pieces gently into the tops of each cookie dough ball. This step not only enhances the look of your cookies but guarantees more melty goodness with each bite.
Step 9: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for 12 to 14 minutes. Keep an eye on them; the edges should turn golden brown while the centers remain soft and slightly underbaked. This contrast is key for a delectable Pumpkin S’mores Cookie experience.
Step 10: Cool Down
Once baked, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This lounging time will help them firm up just enough, making it easier to enjoy all that gooey goodness without falling apart.
Step 11: Serve and Enjoy!
When cooled, serve the Pumpkin S’mores Cookies at room temperature for the best flavor. Share them with family and friends, or keep them all to yourself as a cozy treat. Either way, these cookies are a delightful fusion of autumn flavors and s’mores nostalgia!
Make Ahead Options
These Pumpkin S’mores Cookies are a fantastic choice for meal prep and can save you valuable time during busy weeks! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients except for the chocolate chips, marshmallows, and graham crackers. Simply refrigerate the dough in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. When you're ready to bake, fold in the mix-ins and scoop the dough onto a baking sheet. Alternatively, if you're looking to enjoy these cookies even later, you can freeze the unbaked dough balls for up to 3 months; just allow them to freeze on the sheet first before transferring them to a freezer bag. When it's cookie time, bake straight from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time for equally delicious results!
What to Serve with Pumpkin S'mores Cookies
Indulge in a delightful dining experience that perfectly complements the rich flavors of each cookie.
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Warm Apple Cider: The sweetness and warmth of spiced apple cider enhance the fall flavors in your cookies, creating a cozy atmosphere.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla on the side adds a cool contrast, melting harmoniously against the warm cookie.
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Chocolate Milkshake: A rich chocolate milkshake brings out the chocolatey goodness, making for a nostalgic, tasty pairing.
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Pecan Pie Bars: The nutty caramel notes of pecan pie bars add a delightful crunch that balances the softness of the cookies.
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Maple Drizzle: Drizzling a bit of maple syrup over your cookies provides a rich, sweet touch that is utterly mouthwatering.
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Caramel Dipping Sauce: Serve a warm caramel sauce alongside for dipping, enhancing the sweetness and elevating the cookie experience.
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Cheesecake Bites: Mini cheesecake bites paired with the cookies create a wonderful textural contrast, making every bite a little celebration.
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Spiced Pumpkin Latte: This coffee treat brings out the pumpkin flavor, enhancing your cozy fall dessert experience while keeping you warm.
Pumpkin S’mores Cookies: Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative with these cookies and make them your own, exploring different flavors and textures!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend for a delicious, inclusive treat.
- Vegan: Swap the butter with coconut oil and use a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water) in place of the egg. Your cookies will still be delightful!
- Nutty Addition: Fold in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for an added crunch and a boost of flavor. They complement pumpkin perfectly!
- Spicy Kick: Increase the pumpkin pie spice to 1 ½ teaspoons or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a surprising heat that warms you from the inside out.
- Chocolate Lovers: Replace half the chocolate chips with white chocolate chips for a fun taste twist that will have chocoholics rejoicing.
- Dried Fruit: Mix in ½ cup of dried cranberries or raisins instead of chocolate chips for a fruity balance that enhances the warm pumpkin flavor.
- S'mores Supreme: Add crushed graham crackers into the batter, mixing them in with the chocolate chips and marshmallows for an even more pronounced s'mores experience.
- Seasonal Spice: Experiment with seasonal spices by adding a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to give your cookies an extra layer of warmth, perfect for those cool autumn days.
As you explore these variations, don’t forget to reach out for more delightful recipes like pumpkin dessert ideas or check out how to incorporate some delightful fall flavors into your baking this season! Happy baking!
Expert Tips for Perfect Pumpkin S'mores Cookies
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Room Temperature Butter: Ensure your butter is at room temperature for optimal creaming. Cold butter won't blend well, resulting in dense cookies.
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Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of soft, chewy Pumpkin S’mores Cookies.
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Baking Time: Keep an eye on your baking time. The edges should be golden while the center remains soft. This balance gives you that delightful contrast in texture.
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Customize Toppings: Feel free to get creative with your toppings! Add extra chocolate chips or graham cracker pieces for a more indulgent treat.
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Cooling Tips: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them set and stay perfectly soft and chewy.
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. This will maintain their softness and delicious flavor.
Fridge: If you want to extend their freshness, store the Pumpkin S'mores Cookies in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Just ensure they are in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: You can freeze the cookies for up to 3 months. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper.
Reheating: When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for that fresh-baked taste!
Pumpkin S'mores Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! For the best results, use 100% pure pumpkin puree rather than pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices. Look for a vibrant, deep orange color and a smooth texture without any dark spots or excessive water. Canned pumpkin is convenient, but if you’re feeling adventurous, you can roast and puree fresh pumpkin for a more robust flavor!
What’s the best way to store Pumpkin S'mores Cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to 1 week. Just be sure to use a container that seals well to prevent them from drying out.
Can I freeze Pumpkin S'mores Cookies?
Yes, indeed! You can freeze these cookies for up to 3 months. To freeze, let the cookies cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. After that, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
Very! If your cookies spread too much, it could be due to your butter being too soft or warm. Make sure it’s at room temperature but not melted. Additionally, chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before baking can help. If you’re using a kitchen scale, ensure you’re measuring your flour correctly, which will help maintain the right consistency.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Just be sure to check that all your other ingredients, like the chocolate chips and graham crackers, are gluten-free as well. This way, you can still enjoy the delicious flavors of your Pumpkin S'mores Cookies without the gluten!
Are these cookies safe for pets?
Great question! Although the ingredients in Pumpkin S'mores Cookies are safe for humans, be cautious with pets. Chocolate and certain spices, like nutmeg in pumpkin pie spice, can be harmful to dogs and cats. Always keep your baked treats out of reach of your furry friends for their safety.
Irresistible Pumpkin S’mores Cookies for Cozy Fall Treats
Equipment
- mixing bowl
- Electric Mixer
- baking sheet
- parchment paper
- cookie scoop
Ingredients
Cookies
- 1 Cup unsalted butter brings richness and a soft texture
- ¾ Cup brown sugar adds moisture and deeper flavor
- ¼ Cup granulated sugar for sweetness around the edges
- ½ Cup pumpkin puree the star ingredient for flavor and moisture
- 1 large egg binds ingredients together
- 1 Teaspoon vanilla extract enhances sweetness
- 2 ¼ Cups all-purpose flour provides structure
- 1 Teaspoon baking soda helps cookies rise
- 1 Teaspoon pumpkin pie spice adds fall flavor
- ½ Teaspoon salt balances sweetness
Mix-Ins
- 1 Cup chocolate chips for pockets of melty goodness
- 1 Cup mini marshmallows for the classic s'mores experience
- 8 pieces graham crackers crushed for s'mores charm
Optional Add-ins
- 1 Teaspoon orange food coloring for a festive look
- ½ Cup chocolate chips sprinkle on top for decadence
- mini marshmallows for extra gooey finish
- graham crackers for additional crunch
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract until well blended.
- Whisk together the flour, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt in a separate bowl.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, and graham cracker pieces into the dough.
- Drop rounded portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spaced 2 inches apart.
- Press additional mini marshmallows, chocolate chips, and graham cracker pieces on top of each cookie dough ball.
- Bake for 12 to 14 minutes until the edges are golden brown and the centers are soft.
- Cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Serve at room temperature and enjoy!
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