Did you know that combining pumpkin and s’mores can create a cookie that makes you feel wrapped in a cozy blanket of fall flavors? Imagine sinking your teeth into a soft, pillowy cookie, where gooey marshmallows, rich chocolate chips, and the essence of pumpkin come together in perfect harmony. Let me introduce you to my latest obsession: Pumpkin S’mores Cookies. They’re not just any cookie; they’re easy to make and bring an irresistible sweetness to any gathering, making them perfect for warm afternoons and festive celebrations alike.
What I love about these cookies is how quickly they come together—perfect for those moments when a sweet craving strikes! Plus, they’re a surefire crowd-pleaser, ensuring your family and friends will be asking for seconds. The warm spices paired with the classic s’mores ingredients create a delightful twist that celebrates the best of both worlds. So, are you ready to indulge in these delicious treats? Let’s dive into the recipe that’s sure to become a new fall favorite!
Why Are Pumpkin S’mores Cookies a Must-Try?
Indulgent flavors: The combination of pumpkin and s’mores creates a delightful treat that will make your taste buds dance.
Quick and easy: These cookies come together in no time, perfect for those spontaneous baking moments.
Gooey texture: With gooey marshmallows and chocolate, each bite is a comforting hug of flavor.
Versatile: Great for any occasion, these cookies will shine during fall gatherings or cozy evenings at home.
Crowd-pleaser: Friends and family will be clamoring for more, making it a guaranteed hit at your next get-together.
If you're looking for more festive ideas, don't miss these Christmas Cornflake Wreath Cookies to spread the cheer!
Pumpkin S'mores Cookies Ingredients
• For the Cookie Base
- Unsalted Butter – Use at room temperature for easy mixing.
- Brown Sugar – Packed for rich sweetness and moisture.
- Granulated Sugar – Adds a bit of crispness to the cookie's texture.
- Pumpkin Puree – Go for 100% pure pumpkin for authentic flavor; skip the pie filling.
- Egg – Use a large egg as a binder for best results.
- Vanilla Extract – Always choose pure vanilla to enhance the cookie’s flavor.
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides essential structure for these pumpkin s'mores cookies.
- Baking Soda – Helps the cookies rise and stay fluffy.
- Pumpkin Pie Spice – Infuses the warm essence of fall; can swap with cinnamon or nutmeg.
- Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
• For the Mix-Ins
- Chocolate Chips – Choose dark, semi-sweet, or white to complement the s'mores theme.
- Mini Marshmallows – Opt for non-melting vegan options for a gooey texture.
- Graham Crackers – Break into small pieces for that classic s'mores crunch.
• For Optional Color
- Orange Food Coloring (Optional) – Add just a touch for a vibrant fall look; use sparingly.
These ingredients come together to create the ultimate autumn cookie experience, marrying the beloved tastes of pumpkin and s'mores into one indulgent treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions for Pumpkin S'mores Cookies
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step is crucial, as it ensures that your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick to the pan. While the oven is heating, you can prepare your cookie dough. Take a moment to gather all your ingredients, so you'll have everything ready at your fingertips for a smooth baking experience.
Step 2
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar using an electric mixer. Beat on medium speed until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which should take about 3-5 minutes. This process incorporates air into the butter, leading to a delightful texture in your Pumpkin S'mores Cookies. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure all the ingredients are well combined.
Step 3
Add the pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture. If you're using orange food coloring, add it at this stage as well. Mix everything together until well combined, ensuring the wet ingredients are fully incorporated. The pumpkin will add moisture and flavor, while the egg acts as a binder to hold everything together, creating a smooth and cohesive batter.
Step 4
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt until evenly combined. This step ensures that the leavening agent and spices are evenly distributed, preventing clumps in your dough. Once mixed, gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to dense cookies.
Step 5
Gently fold in the chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, and graham cracker pieces into the cookie dough. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to ensure that the mix-ins are evenly distributed throughout the dough without breaking the marshmallows, which gives your Pumpkin S'mores Cookies all the gooey and crunchy goodness they need. You should see a delightful array of colors and textures as you combine these elements.
Step 6
Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, drop rounded portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This space allows the cookies to spread while baking without merging into one another. Each cookie will form a little mound, waiting to puff up and develop that deliciously soft center while baking.
Step 7
Before placing the baking sheet in the oven, take a moment to sprinkle additional chocolate chips, marshmallows, and graham cracker pieces on top of each cookie dough ball. This visual appeal adds an extra touch to your Pumpkin S'mores Cookies and ensures everyone gets a taste of the delightful toppings.
Step 8
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12 to 14 minutes. Keep an eye on them; the edges should be golden brown, while the centers will still appear soft. If you want softer cookies, consider underbaking them slightly as they will firm up while cooling. The heavenly aroma of pumpkin and s'mores will fill your kitchen!
Step 9
Once they’re done baking, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This initial cooling period makes them easier to handle, as they can be delicate right out of the oven. After a few minutes, use a spatula to carefully transfer the cookies to a wire rack, where they will cool completely and achieve that perfect chewy texture. Enjoy your delightful Pumpkin S'mores Cookies!
What to Serve with Pumpkin S'mores Cookies?
Create the perfect autumn dessert experience that tantalizes your taste buds and warms your heart.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream paired with warm cookies creates a delightful contrast of textures.
- Hot Chocolate: Rich and cozy hot chocolate enhances the s’mores theme, adding warmth to your chilly fall evenings.
- Fall Fruit Salad: A medley of apples, pears, and pomegranate drizzled with honey brings a refreshing brightness alongside sweet cookies.
- Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Chips: Crunchy and sweet, these chips are fantastic for dipping into melted marshmallow or enjoying with cookies.
- Pumpkin Spice Latte: Cozy, spiced, and comforting, this drink beautifully complements the pumpkin flavors in your cookies.
- Chai Tea: The aromatic spices in chai create a soothing beverage that pairs perfectly with the sweet, earthy notes of your cookies.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel over your cookies for an extra layer of decadence that echoes the flavors of fall.
- Spiced Apple Cider: Warm apple cider infused with spices brings seasonal cheer, enhancing the holiday vibe when serving cookies.
- Chocolate Milk: A childhood favorite, chocolate milk can evoke nostalgia while perfectly pairing with the indulgent flavors of the cookies.
- Nutella Dippers: Provide small bowls of Nutella for dipping your cookies, introducing a rich chocolatey twist that everyone will love.
How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin S'mores Cookies
Room Temperature: Keep freshly baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their soft texture.
Fridge: If you prefer, store cookies in the fridge for up to 1 week; just ensure they’re in a sealed container to prevent any drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unbaked dough in portions for up to 1 year, or freeze baked cookies for up to 4 months. Wrap them tightly to avoid freezer burn.
Reheating: To enjoy warm, gooey Pumpkin S'mores Cookies, reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.
Pumpkin S’mores Cookies Variations
Embrace the opportunity to customize your cookies and enhance their delightful flavors!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend for a celiac-friendly treat.
- Vegan: Use vegan butter, flax eggs, and dairy-free chocolate to keep these indulgent cookies plant-based and scrumptious.
- Nutty Twist: Add ½ cup of chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch and a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with pumpkin.
- Spiced Up: For a spicy kick, mix in a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or cinnamon extract to bring warmth to each bite.
- Chunky Chocolate: Swap chocolate chips for dark chocolate chunks for a richer, more decadent experience with every nibble.
- No Marshmallows: Omit mini marshmallows and throw in more graham cracker pieces for a crunchier cookie alternative.
- Maple Sweetened: Replace sugars with pure maple syrup for a natural sweetness and a touch of maple flavor, ideal for fall.
- Coconut Flakes: Stir in sweetened or unsweetened shredded coconut for a tropical twist that adds texture and a hint of sweetness.
With these simple adjustments, you can create a version of Pumpkin S’mores Cookies that perfectly suits your taste and dietary preferences!
Make Ahead Options
These Pumpkin S'mores Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic weeks! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing everything together and storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This helps maintain the cookies' texture and flavor. To ensure the best results, avoid adding the marshmallows and chocolate chips until you're ready to bake, as these can become less appealing when stored. When you're ready to enjoy warm, soft cookies, simply scoop the dough onto a baking sheet and bake as directed, resulting in fresh, delicious treats with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for the Best Pumpkin S’mores Cookies
- Avoid Melting Marshmallows: Use vegan mini marshmallows that won't dissolve in the dough, keeping their chewy texture intact.
- Watch the Baking Time: For softer cookies, underbake them slightly; they should look golden at the edges while remaining soft in the center.
- Cool Before Transferring: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes to prevent them from breaking when moved.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix the wet and dry ingredients just until combined. Overmixing can lead to denser cookies.
- Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to experiment with different chocolate chips or omit marshmallows for a less gooey version of these Pumpkin S’mores Cookies.
Pumpkin S'mores Cookies Recipe FAQs
What type of pumpkin puree should I use?
Absolutely! For the best results in your Pumpkin S'mores Cookies, make sure to use 100% pure pumpkin puree rather than pumpkin pie filling. The latter contains added sugars and spices that can affect the texture and flavor of your cookies. Look for cans labeled as “pure pumpkin” in the baking aisle for the most authentic taste.
How should I store leftover cookies?
Very! To keep your Pumpkin S'mores Cookies fresh and soft, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, feel free to refrigerate them for up to a week. Just ensure the container is tightly sealed to prevent them from drying out!
Can I freeze the dough or baked cookies?
Definitely! You can freeze unbaked Pumpkin S'mores Cookies dough by scooping the portions onto a baking sheet and placing it in the freezer until the dough is firm. Once frozen, transfer the dough balls into a resealable plastic bag or an airtight container and freeze for up to a year! For baked cookies, you can store them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly and freeze for up to 4 months. To enjoy, just heat them in the microwave or oven to bring back that fresh-baked taste.
What should I do if my cookies turn out too dry?
If your Pumpkin S'mores Cookies end up feeling dry, it’s likely due to overbaking. Make sure to keep an eye on them while they're in the oven; they should be slightly soft in the center and golden at the edges. For your next batch, consider reducing the baking time by a minute or two, and always allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack, as they will continue to cook slightly.
Are these cookies safe for people with nut allergies?
Great question! If you're concerned about nut allergies, be sure to check your ingredient labels for any hidden nut-based ingredients, such as the chocolate chips. Most of the ingredients in Pumpkin S'mores Cookies are nut-free, but cross-contamination is always a possibility. Always opt for brands that specifically label their products as nut-free to be on the safe side!
Soft and Indulgent Pumpkin S'mores Cookies You'll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar using an electric mixer.
- Add the pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt.
- Gently fold in the chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, and graham cracker pieces into the cookie dough.
- Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, drop rounded portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Before placing the baking sheet in the oven, sprinkle additional chocolate chips, marshmallows, and graham cracker pieces on top.
- Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12 to 14 minutes.
- Once they’re done baking, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes.
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