Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

If you’re looking for a delightful twist on classic cookies, look no further than Pumpkin S’mores Cookies! These treats are a fantastic blend of soft, chewy pumpkin goodness with the nostalgic flavors of s’mores. The combination of chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, and graham crackers creates an explosion of flavor in every bite. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, these cookies are sure to be a hit with everyone!

What makes this recipe special is how it captures the essence of fall while still being incredibly easy to make. Plus, they’re great for sharing with friends during cozy evenings or packing for school lunches. Trust me; once you try these Pumpkin S’mores Cookies, they’ll become your new favorite treat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, these cookies come together quickly.
• Family-Friendly: Kids will love helping out in the kitchen—and devouring the finished product!
• Perfectly Seasonal: The pumpkin flavor shines through, making them a must-have for fall festivities.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the dough ahead of time and bake them fresh when you’re ready!
• Deliciously Fun: The combination of chocolate, marshmallows, and graham crackers gives a playful twist to traditional cookies.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be pleased to know that these Pumpkin S’mores Cookies require just a handful of wholesome ingredients. They are all easy to find at your local grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 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
• 2 ¼ Cups all-purpose flour
• 1 Teaspoon baking soda
• 1 Teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
• ½ Teaspoon salt
• 1 Cup chocolate chips
• 1 Cup mini vegan marshmallows
• 8 graham crackers (broken into small pieces)
• 1 Teaspoon food coloring (orange, optional)
• extra chocolate chips, for topping
• extra mini vegan marshmallows, for topping
• crushed graham crackers, for topping

Variations

One of the best things about baking is how flexible recipes can be! Feel free to get creative with these Pumpkin S’mores Cookies:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Change Up the Chocolate: Use white chocolate chips or even caramel bits for a different twist!
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon for an extra kick in flavor.
• Make Them Gluten-Free: Substitute regular flour with gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary needs.

How to Make Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because it ensures that your cookies bake evenly. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper—this will prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze!

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 process incorporates air into the mixture, resulting in soft and light cookies.

Step 3: Mix in Wet Ingredients

Now it’s time to beat in the pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract until everything is well combined. If you’re using orange food coloring for that festive touch, add it here! This step brings all those lovely flavors together.

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 ensure even distribution throughout your cookie dough.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients while mixing until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; we want those cookies to stay tender!

Step 6: Fold in Delicious Add-ins

Gently fold in those irresistible chocolate chips, mini vegan marshmallows, and broken graham cracker pieces. This is where our cookies get their fun texture and taste!

Step 7: Scoop Out Dough onto Baking Sheet

Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto your prepared baking sheet. Make sure they are spaced about two inches apart – they will spread while baking!

Step 8: Add Toppings

Before popping them into the oven, top each cookie dough ball with a few extra marshmallows, chocolate chips, and graham cracker pieces for that extra s’mores charm.

Step 9: Bake Them Up!

Bake your cookies in the preheated oven for about 12 to 14 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want golden edges but soft centers—this contrast is what makes them so delightful!

Step 10: Cooling Time

Once they’re out of the oven, let your cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them set up nicely.

Step 11: Enjoy!

Serve your delicious Pumpkin S’mores Cookies at room temperature. Trust me; they won’t last long once people catch a whiff of that heavenly aroma!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

Baking can be a delightful adventure, and these tips will help ensure your pumpkin s’mores cookies turn out scrumptiously every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing butter and eggs to room temperature helps them mix more evenly, creating a smoother batter that results in tender cookies.

• Don’t overmix the dough: Gently combining your ingredients ensures that the cookies remain soft and chewy rather than tough. Overmixing activates gluten, which can lead to denser cookies.

• Experiment with spices: If you love warm flavors, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra layer of deliciousness. These spices complement the pumpkin perfectly!

• Chill the dough (optional): For thicker cookies, consider refrigerating the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This step helps maintain their shape while baking.

• Keep an eye on baking time: Every oven is different, so watch your cookies closely during the last few minutes of baking. They should be golden around the edges but still soft in the center for that gooey texture we crave!

How to Serve Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

These delightful cookies are perfect for sharing with friends and family! Here are some fun ideas on how to present them.

Garnishes

• Sprinkle with sea salt: A light dusting of flaky sea salt on top of each cookie enhances the sweet and savory flavors, making each bite even more irresistible.
• Drizzle with chocolate: Melt some vegan chocolate and drizzle it over your cookies after they’ve cooled. This adds an elegant touch and extra chocolaty goodness!

Side Dishes

• Pumpkin Spice Latte: Pair these cookies with a warm pumpkin spice latte for a cozy treat that’s perfect for fall afternoons or gatherings.
• Apple Cider: The crisp taste of apple cider complements the warm spices in your cookies beautifully, making it a refreshing side option.
• Vanilla Coconut Ice Cream: For a decadent dessert experience, serve your cookies alongside creamy vanilla coconut ice cream. The cold ice cream balances out the warmth of the freshly baked cookies!
• Hot Chocolate: On chilly days, enjoy these cookies with a cup of rich hot chocolate. The combination is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your sweet tooth!

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’ll be well-equipped to impress everyone with your pumpkin s’mores cookies. Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Pumpkin S’mores Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch ahead of time and have delicious treats ready to enjoy throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• For longer freshness, place a slice of bread in the container; it helps keep the cookies soft.

Freezing

• Allow cookies to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the cookies on a baking sheet and warm for about 5-7 minutes.
• Alternatively, microwave for 10-15 seconds for a quick treat!

FAQs

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

Can I make Pumpkin S’mores Cookies without eggs?

Yes! You can substitute the egg with unsweetened applesauce (1/4 cup) or a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water). This will help bind the ingredients while keeping your cookies delicious!

How do I get my Pumpkin S’mores Cookies to stay soft?

To keep your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies soft, avoid overbaking them; they should come out slightly underdone in the center. Storing them with a slice of bread also helps retain moisture.

What makes these Pumpkin S’mores Cookies so special?

These cookies are special because they combine the cozy flavors of pumpkin with the delightful texture of s’mores. The combination of chocolate, marshmallows, and graham crackers creates an unforgettable treat that’s perfect for fall!

Can I use regular marshmallows instead of vegan ones?

Absolutely! If you prefer regular marshmallows and don’t require vegan options, feel free to substitute them in this recipe. They will add that classic s’mores flavor you love!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Pumpkin S’mores Cookies as much as I do! They are not just delicious; they embody the warm, cozy spirit of fall. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or indulging by yourself, each bite is sure to bring a smile. Happy baking, and don’t forget to savor every delicious moment!