Name: Heavenly Pumpkin S'mores Cookies for Cozy Fall Nights
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 34 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted Butter (softened, at room temperature); 1 cup Brown Sugar (packed); 1 cup Granulated Sugar; 1 cup Pumpkin Puree (100% pure); 1 large Egg (room temperature); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract; 2 cups All-Purpose Flour; 1 teaspoon Baking Soda; 1 teaspoon Pumpkin Pie Spice; 1 teaspoon Salt; 1 cup Chocolate Chips (dark, semi-sweet, or white); 1 cup Mini Marshmallows (consider vegan options); 1 cup Graham Crackers (crushed); a few drops Orange Food Coloring (optional for color)

As the leaves begin to change colors and the air turns crisp, I find myself searching for that perfect treat to encapsulate the essence of fall. That’s when these Pumpkin S’mores Cookies come to life! Combining the warm, comforting flavor of pumpkin with gooey marshmallows and rich chocolate, they’re wonderfully soft and chewy, making them a delightful snack for any autumn gathering. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to whip up, whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting your kitchen journey. Imagine sharing these scrumptious bites with friends over a warm cup of cider—pure bliss, right? Ready to dive into baking these seasonal delights? Let’s get started!

Why Are These Cookies a Must-Try?

Irresistible flavor: The combination of pumpkin and s’mores creates a unique taste that’s perfect for fall. Effortless preparation: These cookies are easy to make, even for beginners, guaranteeing success without stress. Chewy and soft: The texture is just right—light, fluffy, and chewy with crunchy graham cracker bits. Don’t forget to pair them with warm apple cider or Pumpkin Chocolate Chip for a cozy treat! Crowd-pleaser: Whether at a potluck or family gathering, these cookies will win hearts and appetites.

Pumpkin S’mores Cookies Ingredients

Get ready to bake these cozy autumn delights!

For the Batter
Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and helps achieve a tender texture; use room temperature for easy creaming.
Brown Sugar – Adds depth of flavor and moisture; can be replaced with more granulated sugar if desired.
Granulated Sugar – Contributes sweetness and helps create a nice texture.
Pumpkin Puree – Offers moisture and that distinctive pumpkin flavor; make sure to use 100% pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling.
Large Egg – Acts as a binder for the ingredients; ensure it’s at room temperature for better incorporation.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile.
All-Purpose Flour – Provides the structure of the cookies; can be substituted with gluten-free flour if needed.
Baking Soda – A leavening agent that creates lightness in the cookie.
Pumpkin Pie Spice – Imparts warm flavors typical of fall; can be substituted with cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger as desired.
Salt – Balances flavors and enhances sweetness.
For the Mix-ins
Chocolate Chips – Add sweetness and fudgy textures; choose dark, semi-sweet, or white chocolate based on preference.
Mini Marshmallows – Essential for that classic s’mores textural element; consider vegan options for non-melting varieties.
Graham Crackers – Provide crunch and s’mores flavor; crushed graham crackers can be added for extra texture.
Optional Enhancements
Orange Food Coloring – Adds a fun autumnal hue to the cookies but isn’t essential for flavor.

Each ingredient plays a vital role in making these Pumpkin S’mores Cookies the perfect treat to embrace cozy fall nights. Now, let’s get baking!

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

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and make cleanup a breeze. Having your baking sheet ready ensures you can transfer the dough smoothly once mixed. A well-prepared setup sets the stage for your delicious Pumpkin S’mores Cookies.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, combine softened unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat on medium speed for about 3–4 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. This key step creates air pockets that will help your cookies rise beautifully, so look for a pale color and a creamy texture before moving on.

Step 3: Add Pumpkin and Egg
Next, beat in the pumpkin puree, large room-temperature egg, and vanilla extract into the creamed mixture until fully combined. This process might take about 1–2 minutes. The pumpkin adds moisture and flavor to the dough, making your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies irresistibly soft and chewy. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is well incorporated.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients
In another mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, using a spatula to fold gently. Aim for just combined—about 1–2 minutes—to avoid overmixing, which can lead to denser cookies. You’ll know it’s ready when no flour streaks remain visible.

Step 5: Fold in Mix-ins
Carefully fold in the chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, and crushed graham crackers until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. This step adds the delightful textures and flavors associated with s’mores. Take your time to ensure each cookie dough ball is generously packed with those gooey marshmallows and rich chocolate chips for a decadent bite.

Step 6: Shape the Cookies
Using a cookie scoop or rounded tablespoon, drop the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This ensures that your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies have room to spread while baking. The scoops should have a lovely, rounded appearance, and don’t worry if they look a bit rustic—those imperfections add to their charm!

Step 7: Add Extra Toppings
If you like, press additional mini marshmallows, chocolate chips, and graham cracker pieces on top of each cookie dough ball. This not only enhances the s’mores experience but also creates a visually appealing presentation. Get creative and have fun with this step, as it will ensure every bite is bursting with flavor.

Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 14 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown while the centers remain soft. Keep an eye on them—they should appear puffed up and slightly soft when you take them out. This is the perfect balance for your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies, promising a chewy texture.

Step 9: Cool Before Transferring
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This lets them set up slightly and makes them easier to handle. During this time, the cookies will firm up just enough for easy handling while retaining their soft, gooey centers that make them such a delight.

What to Serve with Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

As the warmth of autumn fills the air, pairing these delightful treats with the right foods can create a cozy gathering.

Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: Add a scoop of rich vanilla ice cream on the side for a luscious contrast to the warm cookies. The combination of temperatures and textures is heavenly!
Spiced Apple Cider: Serve these cookies with a steaming mug of spiced apple cider to enhance those comforting fall flavors. Each sip complements the pumpkin’s warmth beautifully.
Gooey Hot Chocolate: Keep the s’mores theme alive by pairing the cookies with a mug of rich hot chocolate topped with marshmallows. It’s a decadent treat that’s hard to resist.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: For a festive touch, enjoy your cookies with a pumpkin spice latte. The coffee notes mingle perfectly with the cookie’s sweet and spicy flavor, creating an autumnal experience.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes: For a savory counterbalance, serve alongside roasted sweet potatoes. Their natural sweetness and hearty texture offer a delightful contrast that rounds out the meal.
Nutty Granola: A light sprinkle of nutty granola with some yogurt can perfectly offset the cookie’s richness, making for a balanced dessert plate.
Cranberry-Orange Relish: This tart relish can add a refreshing palette cleanser to your dessert table, providing a zesty contrast to the sweet, gooey cookies.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the cookies for an indulgent touch that enhances their gooeyness and adds a touch of sophistication.
Pecan Pie Bars: For a dessert spread, pair these cookies with pecan pie bars; the nutty and sweet richness complements the pumpkin flavors splendidly.
Warm Banana Bread: Finally, slice up some warm banana bread to serve alongside. The moistness and flavor of banana beautifully harmonize with your pumpkin s’mores cookies.

Expert Tips for Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

Room Temperature Ingredients: Always use room temperature butter and egg for better emulsion and a fluffier texture in your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies.
Fresh Baking Soda: Ensure your baking soda is fresh; expired baking soda can lead to flat cookies. Check the expiration date before baking!
Don’t Over-Mix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until flour is incorporated. Over-mixing can create dense cookies instead of the soft texture we love.
Careful with Toppings: When adding extra marshmallows and chocolate chips on top, press them gently into the dough to prevent them from burning while baking.
Cool Cookies Properly: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack; they will be delicate and may break if moved too soon.
Customize Your Chocolates: Use a mix of chocolate chips based on your preference—dark, semi-sweet, or white chocolate for delightful variations in flavor in your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies.

Make Ahead Options

These Pumpkin S’mores Cookies are ideal for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cookie dough and refrigerate it up to 3 days in advance. Just scoop the dough onto your baking sheet and cover it tightly with plastic wrap before refrigerating. When you’re ready to bake, simply pop the dough in a preheated oven without needing to thaw it. If you prefer, you can also freeze the dough for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking. Be assured that they will still turn out just as delicious, with their soft, chewy texture and gooey centers, perfect for cozy fall evenings!

How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their soft and chewy texture.

Fridge: For longer freshness, keep your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies in the fridge for up to a week. Just make sure they’re in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out.

Freezer: Freeze baked cookies for up to 4 months. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer bag or container.

Reheating: To enjoy your cookies warm, simply pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, restoring that delectable softness for each bite!

Pumpkin S’mores Cookies Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with these cookies and add your own delightful spin to their scrumptious flavor!

Vegan Swap: Use coconut oil instead of butter and a flax egg in place of the large egg for a plant-based version. The result is just as fluffy and soft, letting everyone enjoy the pumpkin goodness!
Gluten-Free Delight: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring the same comforting texture for those sensitive to gluten. You’ll still get the soft and chewy experience everyone loves!
Flavor Boost: Enhance the pumpkin spice profile by adding a pinch more cinnamon or nutmeg, or even a dash of chili powder for a surprising warm kick. This twist plays up the fall essence beautifully.
Nutty Texture: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch and added flavor. The nuts introduce a new texture that blends wonderfully with the gooey marshmallows.
One-Bowl Wonder: For a simpler cleanup, combine dry and wet ingredients in one bowl, mixing gently until just combined. This approach yields the same tasty cookies with less fuss.
Chocolate Lovers: Substitute half the chocolate chips with your favorite type of chocolate, like white or dark, for a unique twist. It’s an excellent way to indulge your sweet tooth!
Marshmallow Overload: Increase the mini marshmallow amount or use large marshmallows cut into pieces for extra gooeyness. This variation will provide even more of that ooey-gooey texture we crave.
Elevate with Caramel: Drizzle some caramel sauce over the baked cookies once they’ve cooled for an indulgent treat that offers a delightful contrast to the pumpkin flavor.

These ideas will not only personalize your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies but also allow you to experiment with flavors and textures. While you’re enjoying the deliciousness, consider pairing these treats with a warm cup of cider or check out the divine details of Pumpkin Cornbread Cinnamon to complement your fall cravings!

Pumpkin S’mores Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! When shopping for pumpkin puree, opt for 100% pure pumpkin puree rather than pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices. Look for brands that list just “pumpkin” as the only ingredient. For optimum flavor and moisture, use pumpkin that is rich in color and has a smooth consistency; avoid any cans with swelling or dents.

How should I store my cookies to keep them fresh?
To keep your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies fluffy and moist, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep them a bit longer, they can be refrigerated for up to a week. Just be sure the lid is tightly sealed to prevent them from drying out—nobody wants a crunchy cookie when they expect softness!

Can I freeze these cookies?
Certainly! You can freeze your baked Pumpkin S’mores Cookies for up to 4 months. First, allow the cookies to cool completely. Then, lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Once solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply let them thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a quick warm-up.

What if my cookie dough is too sticky?
Very! Dough consistency can vary based on factors like humidity and ingredient temperature. If your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies dough is too sticky to scoop, try chilling it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This not only makes it easier to work with but also enhances the cookies’ texture after baking!

Are there any dietary considerations for pets or allergies?
Absolutely! These Pumpkin S’mores Cookies contain ingredients such as chocolate and marshmallows, which are not safe for dogs. If you have allergies to eggs, gluten, or dairy, there are great alternatives available, such as using flax eggs or aquafaba instead of the egg, gluten-free flour, or dairy-free chocolate chips. Always double-check labels to ensure they meet your dietary needs!

How can I make these cookies so they don’t flatten during baking?
To help your cookies maintain their shape, ensure your butter is perfectly creamed with the sugars until light and fluffy. Additionally, refrigerate your cookie dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This step will solidify the fats in your dough, helping the cookies hold their nice, rounded shape—as a bonus, they’ll also have a softer center when baked!