Name: Irresistibly Soft Pumpkin S’mores Cookies for Cozy Nights
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 34 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted Butter (Use cold or room temperature for optimal creaming); 1 cup Brown Sugar (Can substitute with white sugar); 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar (Can be reduced for less sweetness); 1 cup Pumpkin Puree (Use 100% pure pumpkin puree); 1 large Egg (Room temperature for best results); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Can substitute with imitation vanilla); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Gluten-free flour can be used as alternative); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda; 1 tablespoon Pumpkin Pie Spice (Can be substituted with cinnamon, nutmeg and ginger); 1/2 teaspoon Salt; 1 cup Chocolate Chips (Any type can be used); 1 cup Mini Marshmallows (Use non-melting marshmallows if desired); 1 cup Graham Crackers (Can be replaced with crushed biscuits); 1 drop Orange Food Coloring (Optional for visual appeal)

As the crispness of fall fills the air, the desire for warm, comfort-filled treats naturally surfaces. That’s where my Pumpkin S’mores Cookies come in—a delightful melding of cozy pumpkin goodness and the nostalgic charm of classic s’mores. This recipe is a game-changer, offering an irresistibly chewy texture that’s perfect for autumn gatherings or a quiet evening at home. Not only are these cookies a quick treat to whip up, but they also bring a fun twist that both kids and adults will love. Just imagine indulging in these soft, sweet bites by the fireplace, surrounded by loved ones. Are you ready to create a new fall favorite? Let’s dive into this cookie adventure!

Why Make Pumpkin S’mores Cookies?

Crave Comfort? These Pumpkin S’mores Cookies are the ultimate fall indulgence, pairing the rich flavor of pumpkin with the gooey delight of s’mores.
Easy to Customize: You can easily swap chocolate chips or adjust the spices to suit your taste!
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Perfect for potlucks and gatherings, they’ll have everyone reaching for seconds.
Shortcut to Happiness: Whip them up in under 30 minutes—ideal for satisfying those cookie cravings on busy days!
Seasonal Sensation: Capture the essence of autumn with every bite, making them a must-have during this cozy season—ideal with a warm drink or served with a scoop of ice cream. You might also enjoy pairing them with a warm Pumpkin Spice Smoothie or serving alongside some delightful Cinnamon Roll Cookies for a mixed platter of seasonal treats!

Pumpkin S’mores Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; use cold or room temperature butter for optimal creaming.
• Brown Sugar – Contributes depth of flavor and moisture; can substitute with white sugar, but will alter taste.
• Granulated Sugar – Provides sweetness and structure; can be reduced for less sweetness.
• Pumpkin Puree – The star ingredient for flavor and moisture; use 100% pure pumpkin puree; avoid pumpkin pie filling.
• Egg – Binds ingredients and adds moisture; ensure it’s at room temperature for best results.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances the cookie’s sweetness and depth; substitute with imitation vanilla if necessary.
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; do not over mix for tender cookies; gluten-free flour can be used as an alternative.
• Baking Soda – Leavening agent that provides lift.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice – Adds warmth and fall flavor; can be substituted with a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
• Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.

For the S’mores Twist
• Chocolate Chips – Adds sweetness and chocolate flavor; any type (dark, white, milk) can be used.
• Mini Marshmallows – Provides gooey texture and sweetness; use non-melting marshmallows if desired.
• Graham Crackers – Adds crunch and classic s’mores flavor; can be omitted or replaced with crushed biscuits.
• Orange Food Coloring (optional) – To enhance visual appeal; not necessary for flavor.

Dive into the delightful world of Pumpkin S’mores Cookies with these ingredient essentials and prepare for an unforgettable baking experience!

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

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. This will prevent your cookies from sticking and make for easy cleanup later. This initial step sets the perfect stage for our delicious Pumpkin S’mores Cookies!

Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, usually about 2-3 minutes. This process will incorporate air, resulting in a beautifully soft texture for your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies.

Step 3: Mix in the Wet Ingredients
Next, add in the pumpkin puree, room temperature egg, and vanilla extract to your creamed mixture. If you’re using orange food coloring for a festive touch, now’s the time to include it! Mix well until all the wet ingredients are fully incorporated, about 1-2 minutes, creating a vibrant and fragrant base for your cookies.

Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. This helps to evenly distribute the leavening agent and spices, ensuring that every bite of your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies is full of flavor. Gradually add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients, mixing just until combined to avoid overworking the dough.

Step 5: Fold in the S’mores Ingredients
Gently fold in the chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, and broken graham crackers using a spatula. Be careful not to overmix; you want the ingredients to be evenly distributed without crushing the cookies’ fluffy structure. This step captures the essence of classic s’mores within your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies.

Step 6: Scoop the Cookie Dough
Using a small scoop or spoon, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced about 2 inches apart. This will give your cookies room to expand while baking, allowing for that perfect soft and gooey center that makes these Pumpkin S’mores Cookies so irresistible.

Step 7: Add Extra Toppings
For an extra treat, press a few more marshmallows and chocolate chips onto the tops of each cookie before baking. This step enhances the visual appeal and guarantees each bite is loaded with gooey goodness. With this delightful addition, your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies will look as tempting as they taste!

Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-14 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges are golden brown and the centers look set yet remain soft. This visual cue is key to achieving that perfect blend of chewy and soft textures in your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies.

Step 9: Cool the Cookies
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. This resting time allows them to firm up slightly while maintaining a deliciously soft center. After this, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely, readying them for indulgence.

Expert Tips for Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

Avoid Overmixing: To keep your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies tender, mix the dough until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and pumpkin puree are at room temperature for a smoother batter and better incorporation.
Perfect Bake Time: For soft, chewy cookies, watch for golden edges while keeping the centers slightly underbaked. They’ll firm up as they cool!
Customize Wisely: Feel free to swap chocolate chips or spices, but maintain the balance of wet and dry ingredients to ensure success with the Pumpkin S’mores Cookies.
Storage Savvy: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for a week to keep them fresh without losing texture.

Pumpkin S’mores Cookies Variations

Feel free to customize your cookies and explore different flavor combinations that will make them uniquely yours!

Chocolate Swap: Replace chocolate chips with dark or white chocolate for a delightful twist on sweetness.
Graham Crackers Alternatives: Substitute crushed ginger snaps or digestive biscuits for a spicy crunch in every bite.
Spice It Up: Adjust the amount of pumpkin pie spice to suit your palate, opting for a stronger cinnamon or nutmeg flavor if preferred.
Nutty Addition: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture and a nutty flavor. They beautifully complement the pumpkin’s sweetness.
Dairy-Free Delight: Use coconut oil instead of butter and dairy-free chocolate chips to create a vegan-friendly treat.
Extra Gooey: Increase the number of mini marshmallows for that extra gooeyness, making each bite a marshmallow paradise.
Oatmeal Twist: Incorporate a cup of quick oats to add chewiness and fiber, giving your cookies a heartier feel.
Seasonal Flavor Boost: Mix in a small amount of maple syrup for a rich, fall-inspired sweetness that enhances the pumpkin flavor.

For even more delicious options, consider pairing these Pumpkin S’mores Cookies with a warm Pumpkin Spice Smoothie or serving them alongside some delightful Cinnamon Roll Cookies. Happy baking!

Make Ahead Options

These Pumpkin S’mores Cookies are a fantastic choice for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and refrigerating it in an airtight container. This ensures that your cookies are just as fresh and delicious when baked. If you want to extend the prep time, freeze the unbaked dough for up to 3 months; simply scoop it onto a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy these sweet treats, bake them straight from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time. Enjoy the convenience of having fresh cookies at your fingertips without the hassle of last-minute baking!

Storage Tips for Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will help keep them soft and chewy, ideal for afternoon snacks or dessert.
Fridge: If you want to extend their freshness, refrigerate the cookies for up to a week in a sealed container. Just allow them to come to room temperature before enjoying!
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze unbaked cookie dough in an airtight container for up to a year. When ready, simply bake straight from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
Reheating: To revive leftover cookies, microwave them for 10-15 seconds for a warm, gooey treat. The Pumpkin S’mores Cookies will regain their delightful soft texture and flavor!

What to Serve with Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

The warmth of fall flavors fills your home as you prepare these delicious cookies, making it the perfect occasion for thoughtful pairings.

Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream perfectly balances the sweet, gooey goodness of the cookies and enhances their fall flavors.
Chai Tea Latte: The spices in chai mirror the warmth of your cookies, creating a cozy moment perfect for any autumn afternoon.
Spiced Apple Cider: Sipping warm spiced apple cider alongside your cookies brings a delightful fruity contrast that will embrace your taste buds.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: A true seasonal match, the creamy coffee and pumpkin flavors meld together for the ultimate fall indulgence.
Chocolate Milk: Treat yourself to a nostalgic pairing; rich chocolate milk enhances the cookie’s chocolate chips, making every bite even more indulgent.
Roasted Nuts: A handful of roasted nuts adds a crunchy texture and savory note, beautifully balancing the sweetness of the cookies.
Fresh Pear Slices: Juicy, crisp pear slices provide a fresh element, cutting through the richness of the Pumpkin S’mores Cookies with a light, refreshing touch.
Ginger Snap Cookies: For a delightful dessert mix, serve these alongside ginger snaps; their spiciness will complement the pumpkin spice beautifully.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over your cookies for an extra layer of rich flavor that will make them positively irresistible.

Pumpkin S’mores Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of pumpkin puree should I use?
For the best flavor in your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies, I recommend using 100% pure pumpkin puree. Avoid pumpkin pie filling as it contains added sugars and spices that might alter the taste of your cookies. Look for brands that specifically say “pure pumpkin” on the label for the freshest flavor!

How should I store the cookies?
Store your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days to maintain their delightful softness. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Just allow them to come back to room temperature before enjoying, so they’re as soft and chewy as when they first came out of the oven!

Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked cookie dough for up to a year. Simply scoop the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer the cookie dough balls to an airtight container or zip-top bag. When you’re ready to bake, just preheat the oven and bake directly from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

What if my cookie dough is too sticky?
If your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies dough turns out too sticky to scoop, it might be due to the pumpkin puree being too wet or not having enough flour. Try chilling the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes; this helps firm it up. If that doesn’t fully resolve it, you can add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a manageable consistency. Just be careful not to overmix, as that can lead to tougher cookies!

Are Pumpkin S’mores Cookies suitable for people with allergies?
These cookies do contain common allergens like gluten (from all-purpose flour), dairy (from butter), and eggs. For a more allergy-friendly version, consider using gluten-free flour, dairy-free butter, and flaxseed meal as an egg substitute (mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water; let it sit until it thickens). Always check ingredient labels to ensure all substitutes are safe for your specific dietary needs.