Name: Pumpkin S'mores Cookies for the Ultimate Cozy Fall Indulgence
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Ingredients: 0.5 cups Unsalted Butter (softened, at room temperature); 0.75 cups Brown Sugar; 0.25 cups Granulated Sugar; 1 cups Pumpkin Puree (100% pure); 1 large Egg; 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract; 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (gluten-free blends acceptable); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda; 1 teaspoon Pumpkin Pie Spice (can substitute with cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger); 1 teaspoon Salt; 1 cups Chocolate Chips (dark, milk, or white); 1 cups Mini Marshmallows (consider vegan); 1 cups Graham Crackers (broken into pieces); 1 drops Orange Food Coloring (for visual appeal)

As the leaves start to crunch beneath our feet, there’s something undeniably magical about transitioning to cozy baking sessions. This is why I’m excited to share my Pumpkin S’mores Cookies, a delightful fusion of seasonal flavors that perfectly capture the essence of fall. These soft, chewy cookies are a crowd-pleaser—ideal for both baking novices and seasoned pros. With their easy-to-follow recipe, you’ll have a warm batch ready to share or savor solo. Plus, they’re great for meal prep or school lunches, bringing joy in every bite. Ready to fill your kitchen with the mouthwatering aroma of pumpkin and gooey marshmallows? Let’s dive into these delicious treats together!

Why are Pumpkin S’mores Cookies a must-try?

Cozy Comfort: These Pumpkin S’mores Cookies bring the warm, inviting flavors of fall into every bite, perfect for those crisp autumn days.
Effortless Baking: With a straightforward recipe, even beginner bakers can whip up these treats without a hitch.
Crowd Favorite: Their delightful mix of gooey marshmallows and rich pumpkin flavor makes them a hit at gatherings or family dinners.
Versatile Delights: Feel free to customize with different chocolate types or add some crunchy nuts for a personal twist!
Quick to Make: In about 30 minutes from prep to plate, you can indulge in cookie heaven—perfect for those busy weeknights.

Pumpkin S’mores Cookies Ingredients

For the Batter

Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and moisture; remember to use room temperature for easy creaming.
Brown Sugar – Adds depth of flavor and moisture; can be swapped for more granulated sugar if desired.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cookies and helps form a tender crumb.
Pumpkin Puree – Essential for flavor and moisture; always use 100% pure pumpkin puree, not pie filling.
Egg – Binds the ingredients and helps with leavening; use a large egg for the best results.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances all the flavors in these delightful cookies.
All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; gluten-free blends are an acceptable substitute.
Baking Soda – A leavening agent to help the cookies rise and become perfectly soft.
Pumpkin Pie Spice – Adds warm, autumnal flavors typical of fall; can be substituted with cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger as needed.
Salt – Balances flavors; enhances sweetness beautifully.

For the S’mores Filling

Chocolate Chips – Offers sweetness and texture; use dark, milk, or white chocolate as per your preference.
Mini Marshmallows – Provide a lovely chewy texture and classic s’mores flavor; consider vegan marshmallows to prevent melting.
Graham Crackers – Adds delightful crunch; broken into pieces to incorporate texture; can substitute with crushed cookies if desired.

Optional Ingredients

Orange Food Coloring – For visual appeal; use sparingly if you want a pop of color in your cookies.

These Pumpkin S’mores Cookies are not just cookies; they are an experience wrapped in the comforting flavors of fall!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). As your oven warms up, line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and ensure they bake evenly. The aroma of spices will hint at the cozy flavors to come!

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, cream together ½ cup of softened unsalted butter, ¾ cup of brown sugar, and ¼ cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. You want it to be pale in color and airy. This step is crucial for that perfect texture in your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies.

Step 3: Incorporate the Wet Ingredients
Next, add in 1 cup of pumpkin puree, 1 large egg, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the creamed butter and sugars. Mix until fully incorporated and smooth. If you choose to use orange food coloring for extra vibrancy, stir it in now for a delightful pop!

Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice, and a pinch of salt. Ensure these dry ingredients are well-mixed to distribute the leavening agent and spices evenly, contributing to the delightful flavor and rise of your cookies.

Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Carefully blend the dry mixture with the wet ingredients, using a spatula or wooden spoon. Stir just until combined, being cautious not to overmix. The dough should be slightly sticky, and that’s exactly what you want for these Pumpkin S’mores Cookies!

Step 6: Fold in S’mores Ingredients
Gently fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips, 1 cup of mini marshmallows, and 1 cup of broken graham cracker pieces into the dough. This adds that signature s’mores texture and flavor. Be sure to distribute the mix-ins evenly without overworking the dough.

Step 7: Shape the Cookies
Using a cookie scoop or a rounded tablespoon, drop portions of the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each ball. For an extra special touch, press additional chocolate chips, marshmallows, and graham cracker pieces on top of each mound before baking.

Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 12-14 minutes. The edges should turn golden brown while the centers remain soft and puffy. This contrast in texture is what makes your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies utterly delicious!

Step 9: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. This will allow the cookies to set slightly. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely, where they’ll develop their perfect chewy texture.

Expert Tips for Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

Room Temperature Butter: Ensure your unsalted butter is softened before creaming; it makes for a lighter, fluffier dough in your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies.
Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined to maintain that soft, chewy texture—overmixing can lead to dense cookies.
Mini Marshmallow Secrets: For best results, add mini marshmallows immediately before baking; this preserves their gooeyness and prevents excessive melting.
Perfect Cookie Size: Use a cookie scoop for uniform cookies; this ensures even baking and a lovely, round shape that’s great for presentation.
Cooling Time Counts: Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a rack; this helps them firm up and retain their shape.

Make Ahead Options

These delightful 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; simply mix all the ingredients, and store the dough in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, allow the dough to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before scooping and shaping. If you want to prep even further, you can also measure out the dry ingredients and keep them in a separate container for up to 3 days. This way, you can enjoy freshly baked cookies with minimal effort on a hectic day—just bake for 12-14 minutes until golden, and savor the cozy, sweet pumpkin goodness!

How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

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

Fridge: For longer freshness, keep cookies in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent drying out.

Freezer: To freeze, place cooled cookies in a single layer in a container or freezer bag, sealing tightly. They can be stored for up to 4 months; thaw overnight in the fridge.

Reheating: Warm cookies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to restore that gooey goodness; enjoy them fresh, just like the day you baked them!

Pumpkin S’mores Cookies Variations

Feel free to get creative and make these Pumpkin S’mores Cookies your own with these delightful variations!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies accessible for everyone.
Nutty Twist: Add ½ cup of crushed pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch and rich nutty flavor that complements the pumpkin.
Spicy Kick: Mix in ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper for a surprising heat that balances the sweetness beautifully. Perfect for those who enjoy a little spice!
Chocolate Lovers’ Delight: Swap chocolate chips for peanut butter chips, or use a mix of both for an irresistible combination that amplifies the indulgence.
Coconut Cravings: Incorporate ½ cup of shredded coconut for a tropical twist that enhances the texture and offers a sweet chewiness.
Dried Fruit Fusion: Fold in ½ cup of dried cranberries or cherries, adding a tart flavor that contrasts nicely with the sweet pumpkin and marshmallows.
S’mores Upgrade: Mix in extra crushed graham cracker pieces to the dough for an added crunch and s’mores experience in every bite.
Vegan Version: Replace butter with coconut oil and use flax eggs instead of regular eggs to make a scrumptious vegan treat that everyone will love!

Explore these options alongside your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies; it’s a joyous way to celebrate fall flavors and make this recipe uniquely yours. If you’re looking for more plant-based options, don’t forget to check out our delicious vegan dessert ideas!

What to Serve with Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

As the delightful aroma of your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies wafts through the air, consider these crowd-pleasing pairings to create a cozy dessert spread.

Warm Apple Cider: An autumn staple, this spiced drink complements the pumpkin flavors and enhances the warm, cozy feeling of fall.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla on the side balances the cookies’ chewy texture, making every bite an indulgent delight.
Chocolate Ganache: Drizzle over the top for an extra layer of rich chocolate that enhances the cookie experience, creating a gourmet treat.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: A perfect pairing that boosts the fall vibes—enjoy this warm beverage alongside your cookies to elevate the flavors.
Fresh Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of whipped cream provides a lovely contrast to the rich cookie, bringing a lightness to the dessert.
Pecan Pie Bars: Their nutty crunch and sweet filling is a classic fall dessert that mirrors the pumpkin flavors, making them a stellar option for any gathering.
Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai tea beautifully complement the pumpkin spice in your cookies, creating a comforting, soothing experience that warms the soul.
Marshmallow Fluff Dip: This fun, gooey dip echoes the s’mores theme and adds a playful element to your fall dessert spread, inviting everyone to indulge.

Pumpkin S’mores Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe pumpkins for my Pumpkin S’mores Cookies?
When selecting pumpkin puree, look for 100% pure pumpkin without any additives. Check the can for quality; the puree should be thick and smooth, indicating a higher amount of pumpkin flesh. If using fresh pumpkins, choose ones that are firm, heavy for their size, and have a rich color. Avoid pumpkins with dark spots or blemishes.

What’s the best way to store my Pumpkin S’mores Cookies?
Absolutely! Once your cookies have cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer freshness, you can refrigerate them in a well-sealed container for about one week. If you want to keep them for extended periods, follow the freezing instructions below!

How can I freeze Pumpkin S’mores Cookies properly?
Very! To freeze your cookies, first ensure they are completely cooled. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1 hour until firm. Then, transfer the cookies to a freezer bag or airtight container, sealing tightly. They will keep well for up to 4 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then warm them slightly in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to reclaim their fresh-baked taste.

What should I do if my cookies turn out too dry?
If your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies come out dry, it might be due to overmixing the dough or too much flour. Make sure to spoon and level your flour instead of scooping directly from the bag. For next time, aim for soft dough and avoid mixing past just combined. If you want an extra moisture boost, you can add a bit more pumpkin puree or an additional egg yolk to the batter.

Can I make these cookies vegan?
Yes, you can easily modify this recipe to make it vegan! Substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, let sit until thickened) and use a plant-based butter option. Additionally, swap regular chocolate chips and mini marshmallows for vegan versions. You’ll still enjoy the wonderful flavors without compromising on dietary needs!

Can I alter the mix-ins for different flavors?
Of course! The fun part about baking is making it your own. You can swap chocolate chips for butterscotch or peanut butter chips, or add chopped nuts for a little crunch. Dried fruits like cranberries also make a delightful addition. Just remember to not overfill the dough with mix-ins—keep it balanced for a delightful cookie experience!