As the crisp autumn air begins to whisper of cozy evenings ahead, it’s time to indulge in a treat that embodies the spirit of the season: Pumpkin S’mores Cookies. This delightful recipe combines the heartwarming flavors of pumpkin, gooey marshmallows, and rich chocolate, offering a sweet yet nostalgic escape from the everyday routine. Not only do these cookies come together in just 35 minutes—perfect for when you crave something homemade—but they also deliver a comforting twist on the classic campfire favorite. With each bite, you’ll experience the warmth of fall wrapped in a soft, chewy cookie that feels like a hug from the inside out. Ready to ignite those baking vibes and fill your kitchen with irresistible aromas? Let’s get started!
Why are Pumpkin S’mores Cookies a must-try?
Unique flavor combination: The blend of rich pumpkin and classic s’mores ingredients creates a taste that’s both comforting and adventurous.
Quick to make: In just 35 minutes, you can whip up a batch that’s perfect for sharing or satisfying your own cravings.
Chewy goodness: Each cookie boasts a soft, chewy texture, thanks to the marshmallows and chocolate that melt into each bite.
Autumnal appeal: These cookies capture the essence of fall, making them a delightful treat for seasonal gatherings or cozy nights in.
Crowd-pleaser: Everyone—from kids to adults—will adore this fun twist on a beloved dessert, turning any occasion into a celebration of flavor!
Pumpkin S’mores Cookies Ingredients
• Get ready to create a seasonal delight!
For the Cookie Base
- Unsalted butter – use softened for a creamy texture that blends seamlessly.
- Brown sugar – adds moisture and a rich flavor essential for sweetness.
- Granulated sugar – balances the earthiness of pumpkin with some brightness.
- Pumpkin puree – the star of the show, bringing moistness and fall flavor into every bite.
- Large egg – binds the ingredients together and contributes to texture.
- Vanilla extract – a splash of warmth that enhances the overall flavor profile.
For the Dry Ingredients
- All-purpose flour – provides the structure; make sure to measure correctly for perfect cookies.
- Baking soda – gives lift, ensuring delightful chewiness.
- Pumpkin pie spice – adds a cozy aroma that screams autumn.
- Salt – a pinch elevates the flavors, contrasting the sweetness beautifully.
For the Delicious Fillings
- Chocolate chips – use semi-sweet or milk chocolate for that melty goodness.
- Mini marshmallows – these create pockets of gooey delight in each cookie.
- Graham cracker pieces – add crunch and a nod to classic s’mores in every bite.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin S'mores Cookies
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms, line a baking sheet with parchment paper, ensuring that your future Pumpkin S'mores Cookies won’t stick. This simple step sets the stage for flawlessly baked treats, making cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Cream the Sugars and Butter
In a spacious mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter, 1 cup of brown sugar, and ½ cup of granulated sugar. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer at medium speed for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color. This vital step will create the perfect foundation for your cookies.
Step 3: Mix in the Pumpkin and Egg
Next, incorporate 1 cup of pumpkin puree, 1 large egg, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract into the creamed mixture. Blend at low speed until everything is well combined and smooth, which should take about 1-2 minutes. You'll notice a lovely orange hue—an exciting sign of the flavors to come in your Pumpkin S'mores Cookies.
Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 2 teaspoons of pumpkin pie spice, and ½ teaspoon of salt. This dry mixture adds essential structure and flavor to your cookies. Be sure to mix thoroughly until evenly blended, creating the perfect balance of sweetness and warmth.
Step 5: Merge Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently with a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. This process should take no longer than a minute—be careful not to over-mix! A few flour streaks are okay, as this ensures your Pumpkin S'mores Cookies maintain a soft, chewy texture.
Step 6: Fold in the Goodies
Now it’s time to add the fun! Fold 1 cup of chocolate chips, 1 cup of mini marshmallows, and 1 cup of graham cracker pieces into the dough. Gently mix until evenly distributed, enjoying the delightful textures and aromas that fill your kitchen with the essence of s'mores and fall.
Step 7: Scoop the Dough
Using a small cookie scoop, drop rounded dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This spacing allows your Pumpkin S'mores Cookies to spread slightly as they bake, ensuring a perfect shape and texture.
Step 8: Add Toppings
For that extra touch of indulgence, press a few mini marshmallows, chocolate chips, or graham cracker crumbs on top of each dough ball. This delightful addition not only enhances the flavor but also creates a beautiful visual appeal for your s'mores-inspired cookies.
Step 9: Bake to Perfection
Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and allow the cookies to bake for 12 to 14 minutes. Keep a close eye out for the edges turning golden while the centers remain soft. This is when you know your Pumpkin S'mores Cookies are perfectly baked—golden brown but still gooey!
Step 10: Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then, gently transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This final cooling period helps them firm up a bit while retaining their soft, chewy center, ready to be enjoyed by all!
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 by following these steps: after mixing all the ingredients, simply cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it into an airtight container. To maintain quality, keep the dough refrigerated and let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before using your cookie scoop to drop the dough onto the baking sheet. This ensures a lovely texture after baking. Bake them fresh when you're ready to indulge, and you’ll have delicious, home-baked cookies with minimal effort—perfect for busy weeknights or surprise guests!
How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin S’mores Cookies
Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their chewy texture and flavor.
Fridge: For longer freshness, keep the cookies in the fridge in an airtight container for up to a week. This will help them stay moist.
Freezer: Freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy your frozen Pumpkin S’mores Cookies, reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.
Expert Tips for Pumpkin S'mores Cookies
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and egg are at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother dough texture.
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Don’t Over-Mix: To keep your Pumpkin S'mores Cookies chewy, mix until just combined. Over-mixing can result in tough cookies.
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Avoid Burnt Edges: Check the cookies at the 12-minute mark to prevent over-baking. The centers should be soft—trust they'll firm up as they cool!
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Customize Fillings: Feel free to swap in different types of chocolate or use flavored marshmallows for a fun twist on your Pumpkin S'mores Cookies!
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Proper Cooling: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet to firm up, ensuring they don’t fall apart when moving them to a wire rack.
What to Serve with Pumpkin S’mores Cookies
Elevate your cozy gatherings with delightful pairings that enhance the sweet experience of these irresistible cookies.
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Hot Cocoa: The creamy warmth of hot cocoa is a classic choice, perfectly complementing the flavors of pumpkin and chocolate.
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Spiced Chai Latte: This aromatic blend brings warmth and spiciness that echoes the pumpkin pie spice in the cookies, creating a sensory delight.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side adds a cool, creamy contrast to the warm, chewy cookies, making every bite euphoric.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzling caramel sauce over the cookies introduces a gooey sweetness that elevates their indulgent appeal. It’s an extra layer of heaven!
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Apple Cider: A warm mug of apple cider enhances the autumnal vibe and pairs beautifully with the pumpkin flavors.
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Pecan Pie: Serve slices of pecan pie for a truly festive dessert table. Its nutty crunch complements the soft, chewy texture of the cookies.
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Coffee: A robust cup of coffee balances the sweetness, creating a delightful contrast that’s perfect for any time of day.
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Pumpkin Spice Latte: Celebrate the season with your favorite pumpkin spice latte for a charmingly cohesive treat intended to uplift your spirits.
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Cheese Board: A selection of creamy cheeses with dried fruits provides a savory balance, making for a sophisticated pairing that's perfect for gatherings.
Pumpkin S’mores Cookies Variations
Feel free to make these cookies your own with these delightful twists and substitutions!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a delicious cookie that everyone can enjoy.
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Vegan: Replace the butter with coconut oil and use flax eggs in place of the egg for a plant-based version that’s equally satisfying.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dough for a subtle heat that beautifully complements the sweetness.
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Nutty Addition: Stir in ½ cup of chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch and nutty flavor that enhances each bite.
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Chocolate Swap: Experiment with white chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a sweet contrast to the pumpkin flavor.
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S’mores Inspired: Top the cookies with crushed graham crackers before baking to intensify the s’mores experience in each delightful bite.
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Dried Fruit: Fold in ½ cup of dried cranberries or chopped raisins for a sweet and chewy surprise amidst the rich flavors.
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Zesty Twist: Add the zest of one orange to the dough for a refreshing brightness that perfectly offsets the warm spices.
Pumpkin S’mores Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! When choosing pumpkin puree, look for a brand that lists "100% pure pumpkin" without added sugars or spices for the best flavor. Avoid brands that are labeled as "pumpkin pie filling," as these include additional ingredients that could alter your cookie texture and taste.
How should I store leftover Pumpkin S’mores Cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days—this helps maintain their delightful chewiness. For longer-lasting cookies, store them in the fridge for up to a week. Just be sure to let them come back to room temperature before indulging!
Can I freeze Pumpkin S’mores Cookies?
Yes, you can! To freeze your cookies, start by laying them out in a single layer on a baking sheet. Place the sheet in the freezer until the cookies are firm, around 1-2 hours. Once solid, transfer them into a zip-top bag, removing as much air as possible. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy, reheat either in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.
What should I do if my cookies come out flat?
Very good question! Flat cookies can result from several issues, like over-mixing the dough or not measuring your flour correctly. Make sure to spoon and level your flour instead of scooping directly from the bag, which can compact it. If your butter was too soft or melted, it could also affect the texture. If that happens, next time try using butter that’s softened but firm to the touch.
Are Pumpkin S’mores Cookies suitable for pets?
Not really! While the cookie ingredients are safe for humans, they aren't suitable for pets. Specifically, chocolate can be toxic to dogs and cats, while sugar can contribute to health issues. Always keep these delicious treats out of reach of your furry friends to ensure their safety.
Irresistibly Easy Pumpkin S'mores Cookies You’ll Love
Equipment
- mixing bowl
- baking sheet
- hand mixer
- spatula
- cookie scoop
Ingredients
For the Cookie Base
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup pumpkin puree the star of the show
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour make sure to measure correctly
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- ½ teaspoon salt
For the Delicious Fillings
- 1 cup chocolate chips semi-sweet or milk chocolate
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1 cup graham cracker pieces
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream together unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar for about 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy.
- Mix in pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Whisk together flour, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt in a separate bowl.
- Gradually combine the dry ingredients with the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined.
- Fold in chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, and graham cracker pieces.
- Scoop rounded dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Press a few extra mini marshmallows, chocolate chips, or graham cracker crumbs on top of each dough ball.
- Bake for 12 to 14 minutes until the edges are golden and centers remain soft.
- Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
