Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

You can’t go wrong with pumpkin s’mores cookies. They’re soft, sweet, and very more-ish, offering plenty of amazing flavors in every bite! Perfect for fall gatherings, cozy nights in, or as a delightful treat for any occasion, these cookies combine the classic flavors of s’mores with the warmth of pumpkin. Enjoy the gooey chocolate and marshmallow goodness that makes each cookie irresistible!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice creates a warm and comforting flavor profile.
• Easy to Make: This recipe requires simple steps and common ingredients, making it accessible even for beginner bakers.
• Perfect for Sharing: With 24 cookies per batch, these treats are great for parties or sharing with friends and family.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the mix-ins like adding nuts or different types of chocolate to match your taste.
• Seasonal Delight: These cookies embody the essence of fall with their pumpkin flavor and cozy spices.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make your baking experience seamless.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Cookie scoop or spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without spilling.
• Electric mixer or whisk: Helps achieve a light and fluffy dough quickly, saving time and effort.
• Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy surface for baking your cookies evenly.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.

Ingredients

To create these delightful pumpkin s’mores cookies, you will need the following ingredients:

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 egg (large)
• 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 Add-ins

• 1 Cup chocolate chips
• 1 Cup mini vegan marshmallows
• 8 graham crackers (broken into small pieces)
• 1 Teaspoon food coloring (orange, optional)
• ½ Cup chocolate chips
• Mini vegan marshmallows
• Graham crackers (crushed)

How to Make Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cookie removal after baking.

Step 2: Cream Together Ingredients

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Step 3: Mix in Pumpkin and Egg

Beat in the pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined. If you choose to use orange food coloring for added visual appeal, incorporate it at this stage.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt until evenly mixed.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix until just combined; be careful not to over mix.

Step 6: Fold in Add-ins

Gently fold in the chocolate chips, mini vegan marshmallows, and broken graham cracker pieces until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 7: Scoop Dough onto Baking Sheet

Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Space them about 2 inches apart.

Step 8: Top with Extra Ingredients

Top each cookie dough ball by pressing in extra vegan marshmallows, chocolate chips, or pieces of graham crackers into each one.

Step 9: Bake Cookies

Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 14 minutes. Look for golden edges while ensuring that the center remains soft.

Step 10: Cool on Baking Sheet

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Let them cool completely before serving.

Step 11: Serve

Serve your delicious pumpkin s’mores cookies at room temperature. Enjoy every bite!

How to Serve Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

Pumpkin s’mores cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging at home, these cookies are sure to please everyone.

Pair with Warm Drinks

• Hot Chocolate: The rich chocolate flavor complements the pumpkin spices perfectly.
• Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai enhance the cozy feel of these cookies.
• Coffee: A cup of coffee balances the sweetness of the cookies beautifully.

Create a Dessert Platter

• Mix with Other Cookies: Include classic chocolate chip or oatmeal raisin cookies for variety.
• Add Fresh Fruit: Serve alongside sliced apples or pears for a refreshing contrast.
• Include Dips: Offer caramel or chocolate sauce for dipping to elevate the experience.

Use as Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Scoop Ice Cream Between Cookies: Choose vanilla or pumpkin-flavored ice cream for a delicious twist.
• Roll Edges in Sprinkles: For added fun, roll the edges of the sandwich in colorful sprinkles.

How to Perfect Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

To ensure your pumpkin s’mores cookies turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This helps create a smooth and well-mixed batter.
• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Gently mix until just combined to maintain a soft texture.
• Chill the Dough If Necessary: If your dough feels too soft, chilling it for 30 minutes can help shape better cookies.
• Rotate Baking Sheets Midway: This ensures even baking and prevents any hot spots in your oven.
• Store Properly: Keep your cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness and chewiness.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

These pumpkin s’mores cookies pair wonderfully with several side dishes that complement their flavors. Here’s a list of great options:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that adds creaminess against the spiced cookie.
2. Caramel Sauce: Drizzle some on top for an indulgent touch that brings out the sweetness.
3. Apple Slices with Cinnamon Sugar: Fresh apples sprinkle with cinnamon add a crisp contrast to your dessert.
4. Cheese Platter: Soft cheeses like brie provide a savory balance to sweet cookies.
5. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a refreshing and healthy option alongside your sweets.
6. Nut Mixes: A bowl of assorted nuts offers crunch and balances the sweetness of the cookies.
7. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy fries seasoned lightly can serve as an unexpected but tasty pairing.
8. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and color to your serving table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When baking pumpkin s’mores cookies, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Overmixing the dough – Mixing the cookie dough too much can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined for soft results.
• Not measuring ingredients correctly – Using too much or too little of an ingredient can alter the texture and taste. Always measure with precision using proper tools.
• Skipping the chilling step – If you choose to chill the dough, skipping this can result in cookies that spread too much. Chilling helps maintain their shape.
• Using stale ingredients – Expired baking powder or old chocolate chips can affect rising and flavor. Check expiration dates before baking.
• Ignoring baking time – Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. Remove them when the edges are golden but the centers remain soft.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Ensure cookies are completely cooled before sealing.

Freezing Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

• Freeze cookies for up to 3 months.
• Use freezer-safe bags or containers, separating layers with parchment paper.

Reheating Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes for that fresh-baked feel.
• Microwave – Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds; be cautious not to overheat.
• Stovetop – Place a cookie in a skillet on low heat, covering it briefly until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about pumpkin s’mores cookies, here are some common questions answered:

Can I use regular marshmallows instead of vegan ones?

You can use regular marshmallows if you prefer; however, vegan marshmallows are a great option for those looking for plant-based ingredients.

How do I make gluten-free pumpkin s’mores cookies?

To make gluten-free pumpkin s’mores cookies, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking.

What can I substitute for pumpkin puree?

You can use applesauce as a substitute, but keep in mind it will change the flavor slightly.

How should I store leftover pumpkin s’mores cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

Final Thoughts

Pumpkin s’mores cookies are a delightful treat that combines classic flavors with a seasonal twist. They are soft, chewy, and perfect for sharing. Feel free to customize them by adding nuts or dried fruits for extra texture and flavor. Give this recipe a try; your taste buds will thank you!