Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

If you’re looking for a deliciously cozy treat that perfectly captures the essence of fall, you’ve stumbled upon the right recipe! These Pumpkin S’mores Cookies are not only soft and chewy but also packed with warm spices and sweet chocolatey goodness. They bring together all the delightful flavors of traditional s’mores, with a seasonal twist that makes them the perfect addition to any gathering, be it a family game night or a festive autumn celebration. Trust me, once you take a bite, these cookies will become a favorite in your home!

The best part? You can whip up these pumpkin s’mores cookies on busy weeknights or special occasions without breaking a sweat. So grab your apron and let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, these cookies come together quickly.
• Family-approved: Kids and adults alike will love the gooey marshmallows and rich chocolate in every bite.
• Perfect for sharing: Bake a batch to share with friends or take to gatherings—they’ll disappear in no time!
• Versatile flavors: The pumpkin spice adds warmth while still letting the classic s’mores flavor shine through.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare the dough in advance and bake fresh cookies whenever you need a sweet treat!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make these delightful Pumpkin S’mores Cookies. Most of these items are pantry staples, making it easy to get started anytime!

For the Cookie Dough

• 1 Cup unsalted butter (at room temperature)
• ¾ Cup brown sugar (packed)
• ¼ Cup granulated sugar
• ½ Cup pumpkin puree
• 1 large egg
• 1 Teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Dry Ingredients

• 2 ¼ Cups all-purpose flour
• 1 Teaspoon baking soda
• 1 Teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
• ½ Teaspoon salt

For the Mix-Ins

• 1 Cup chocolate chips
• 1 Cup mini vegan marshmallows
• 8 graham crackers (broken into small pieces)
• 1 Teaspoon food coloring (orange, optional)

Extra:
– Mini vegan marshmallows for topping
– Crushed graham crackers for topping

Variations

Feeling creative? This recipe is quite flexible! Here are some fun variations you can try:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch.
• Switch up the chocolate: Try using white chocolate chips or dark chocolate chunks for different flavor profiles.
• Go gluten-free: Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend to enjoy these cookies without worry.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon for an unexpected kick!

How to Make Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial as it ensures even baking, giving you those perfectly golden edges.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the mixture, resulting in soft cookies that melt in your mouth.

Step 3: Mix in Pumpkin and Egg

Beat in the pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined. If you’re using orange food coloring for added fun, mix it in here too! The pumpkin gives moisture while adding that wonderful autumn flavor.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients separately helps evenly distribute them into your dough.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix until just combined—over mixing can lead to tougher cookies, so be gentle!

Step 6: Fold in Chocolate and Marshmallows

Gently fold in the chocolate chips, mini vegan marshmallows, and graham cracker pieces. This step adds all those delightful textures that make each cookie so special.

Step 7: Scoop onto Baking Sheet

Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto your prepared baking sheet. Space them about 2 inches apart so they have room to spread while baking.

Step 8: Add Toppings

Top each cookie dough ball by pressing in a few extra vegan marshmallows, chocolate chips, or pieces of graham crackers. This little extra touch makes them look even more inviting!

Step 9: Bake Them Up

Bake in your preheated oven for 12 to 14 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they’re ready when the edges are golden but the center remains soft—just perfect!

Step 10: Cool Down

Allow your cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them set up nicely without falling apart.

Step 11: Enjoy!

Serve your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies at room temperature—or warm if you can’t resist! They’re delightful as is but even better shared with friends over coffee or hot cocoa.

Now you have everything you need to create these scrumptious treats! Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

Baking these delightful cookies can be a fun and rewarding experience, and with a few helpful tips, you’ll ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow your butter and egg to come to room temperature. This helps create a smooth batter and results in soft, chewy cookies.

• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Once you add the dry ingredients to the wet, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of the soft, tender texture we want.

• Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to customize your cookies! Adding nuts like walnuts or pecans can give an extra crunch, while dried fruits like cranberries can add a sweet-tart contrast.

• Chill the Dough (Optional): If you have time, chilling the dough for about 30 minutes can help prevent spreading, resulting in thicker cookies that hold their shape better.

• Watch Your Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. Every oven is different, and pulling them out when they’re still soft in the center ensures they’ll finish cooking on the baking sheet.

How to Serve Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

These pumpkin s’mores cookies are not only delicious but also visually appealing! Here are some ideas for how to present them beautifully at your next gathering or cozy night in.

Garnishes

• Sprinkle of Sea Salt: A light sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top adds an enticing contrast to the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
• Drizzle of Chocolate: Melt some dairy-free chocolate and drizzle it over the cooled cookies for an elegant touch that looks as good as it tastes.

Side Dishes

• Warm Apple Cider: This comforting drink pairs wonderfully with pumpkin flavors and brings a touch of fall into your dessert experience.
• Vanilla Coconut Ice Cream: A scoop of this creamy treat complements the warm spices in the cookies perfectly and adds a refreshing element.
• Fruit Salad: A light, refreshing fruit salad balances the richness of the cookies and makes for a great side dish option.
• Spiced Hot Chocolate: Cozy up with a cup of spiced hot chocolate that echoes the warm flavors of your cookies while adding a delightful beverage option to your spread.

With these tips and serving ideas, you’re ready to enjoy a batch of pumpkin s’mores cookies that will surely impress family and friends alike! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Pumpkin S’mores Cookies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious treat any time! You can easily store them or even freeze some for later.

Storing Leftovers

• Keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• For longer freshness, store them in the refrigerator, where they can last up to a week.

Freezing

• Place the baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To enjoy warm cookies again, preheat your oven to 350°F.
• Place the cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Pumpkin S’mores Cookies.

Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree in Pumpkin S’mores Cookies?

It’s best to use plain pumpkin puree for this recipe. Pumpkin pie filling contains added sugars and spices that may alter the texture and flavor of your cookies.

How do I make my Pumpkin S’mores Cookies chewier?

For chewier cookies, try adding an extra tablespoon of butter or substituting brown sugar for some of the granulated sugar. This will enhance their softness!

Can I substitute other kinds of chocolate in Pumpkin S’mores Cookies?

Absolutely! Feel free to use dark chocolate chips, white chocolate chips, or even carob chips if you prefer. Adjust according to your taste preference!

What if I don’t have mini vegan marshmallows?

You can chop regular vegan marshmallows into smaller pieces if you can’t find mini ones. Just ensure they are still suitable for your dietary needs.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these delightful Pumpkin S’mores Cookies! They’re not just a treat; they bring together the comforting flavors of fall while being easy to whip up at any time. Enjoy sharing them with family and friends or savoring a few all by yourself! Happy baking!