Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

If you’re looking for a cozy treat that combines the best of fall flavors with a nostalgic twist, then these Pumpkin S’mores Cookies are just what you need! Imagine biting into a soft, sweet cookie that tastes like your favorite campfire treat, but with the warm, comforting essence of pumpkin. These cookies are perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, and they always bring smiles to faces.

Baking these cookies not only fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma but also creates moments of joy as you share them with friends and loved ones. So gather your ingredients and let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you’ll have these cookies whipped up in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike adore these treats, making them a hit at any gathering.
• Versatile Flavors: Enjoy the unique combination of chocolate, marshmallows, and pumpkin spice in every bite.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Halloween or just a cozy afternoon snack, these cookies fit right in.
• Make Ahead Convenience: Bake a batch ahead of time and store them for quick snacks throughout the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have at home or can easily find at your local grocery store. Let’s gather everything you need to make those delicious Pumpkin S’mores Cookies!

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)

Enjoy making this delightful treat; let’s get started on how to make these Pumpkin S’mores Cookies!

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations to try out:

• Add nuts: Throw in some chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
• Change the chocolate: Use white chocolate chips for a different flavor profile.
• Switch up the graham crackers: Try using cinnamon graham crackers for an added spice kick.
• Mix in seasonal spices: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves for even more warmth.

How to Make Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial because it ensures that your cookies bake evenly and come out perfectly soft.

Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step is key because it incorporates air into the mixture, resulting in lighter cookies.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Beat in the pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined. If you’re using orange food coloring for that festive look, add it now! The pumpkin puree adds moisture and flavor while keeping our cookies soft.

Step 4: Whisk Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. This helps distribute the leavening agent evenly throughout your dough so that every cookie rises just right.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined—be careful not to over mix! Over mixing can lead to tough cookies instead of soft ones.

Step 6: Fold in Mix-ins

Gently fold in the chocolate chips, mini vegan marshmallows, and graham cracker pieces. This is where we bring all those delightful textures together!

Step 7: Scoop Your Dough

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 into each one. These toppings will melt beautifully during baking!

Step 9: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for about 12 to 14 minutes until the edges are golden but still soft in the center. Keep an eye on them; every oven is different!

Step 10: Cool Down

Allow your cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps them set up nicely while retaining their softness.

Step 11: Enjoy!

Serve your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies at room temperature. Gather around with family or friends and enjoy this delicious treat together!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

Making these delightful cookies is a breeze, but with a few handy tips, you can ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Use room temperature butter: This helps in achieving a light and fluffy texture when creaming the butter with sugars, making your cookies soft and chewy.

• Don’t overmix the dough: Mixing just until combined prevents the gluten from developing too much, which can lead to tough cookies instead of the soft ones we desire.

• Adjust baking time as needed: Ovens vary in temperature; keep an eye on your cookies. They should be golden around the edges but still soft in the middle, so check them a minute or two early if you’re unsure.

• Experiment with mix-ins: Feel free to add other ingredients like chopped nuts or different types of chocolate chips. This can give your cookies a unique twist and enhance their flavor profile.

• Store properly: To maintain freshness, store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. You can also freeze them for longer storage; just make sure to let them cool completely first!

How to Serve Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

These pumpkin s’mores cookies are not only delicious but also fun to present! Here are some creative ideas for serving them that will impress family and friends alike.

Garnishes

• Drizzle of melted chocolate: A light drizzle of melted chocolate on top adds a touch of elegance and extra sweetness.

• Sprinkle of cinnamon sugar: A mixture of cinnamon and granulated sugar sprinkled over the warm cookies enhances their fall flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Pumpkin Spice Latte: This classic beverage pairs wonderfully with your cookies, complementing their flavors while providing a cozy drink option for chilly days.

• Apple slices with caramel dip: The crispness of apples dipped in sweet caramel contrasts nicely with the soft texture of the cookies and offers a refreshing side.

• Vanilla almond milk: A glass of this creamy drink balances out the sweetness of the cookies and provides a lovely vegan-friendly option.

• Hot cocoa: For those cold evenings, serving these cookies alongside rich hot cocoa makes for a delightful treat that everyone will love.

Serving these delicious pumpkin s’mores cookies in fun and thoughtful ways will surely make your gatherings memorable! Enjoy each bite as you sink into the cozy flavors of autumn.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Pumpkin S’mores Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch ahead of time to enjoy throughout the week, making them an excellent treat for busy days or last-minute gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• For longer freshness, keep them in the fridge for up to 10 days.

Freezing

• Allow cookies to cool completely before freezing.
• Place cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To enjoy warm cookies, reheat them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.
• Alternatively, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about these delicious cookies!

Can I use pumpkin puree instead of canned pumpkin for Pumpkin S’mores Cookies?

Absolutely! Fresh pumpkin puree works just as well as canned. Just make sure it’s well-drained to avoid excess moisture.

How do I make Pumpkin S’mores Cookies without using eggs?

You can replace the egg with a flaxseed meal mixture by combining 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water. Allow it to sit for a few minutes until it thickens!

What makes these Pumpkin S’mores Cookies so special?

The combination of pumpkin puree and s’mores ingredients creates a delightful balance of flavors and textures that truly captures the essence of fall.

Can I customize the chocolate used in Pumpkin S’mores Cookies?

Definitely! Feel free to use dark chocolate or even white chocolate chips if you prefer. The options are endless!

Are these Pumpkin S’mores Cookies suitable for vegans?

Yes! By using vegan butter, mini vegan marshmallows, and ensuring your chocolate chips are dairy-free, these cookies can easily be made vegan-friendly.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am about making these Pumpkin S’mores Cookies! They’re not just deliciously soft and scrumptious; they’re also a wonderful way to celebrate fall flavors. Whether you’re sharing them with family or enjoying them solo, each bite is bound to bring warmth and joy. Happy baking, and don’t forget to let me know how yours turn out!