Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

You can’t go wrong with pumpkin s’mores cookies. They are soft, sweet, and very more-ish, offering plenty of amazing flavors in every bite! Perfect for fall gatherings, cozy nights in, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, these cookies combine the classic taste of s’mores with the warm essence of pumpkin. The delightful blend of chocolate, marshmallows, and graham crackers makes them irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip these cookies up in no time.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin puree and spices creates a warm, comforting taste that is perfect for any occasion.
• Versatile Treat: Great for parties, holidays, or just as a special treat at home. These cookies will impress everyone!
• Soft and Chewy Texture: Each bite offers a delightful softness paired with gooey marshmallows and rich chocolate.
• Fun to Customize: Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins or adjust the spices to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your delicious pumpkin s’mores cookies, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort while ensuring a fluffy cookie dough.
• Parchment paper: Prevents cookies from sticking to the baking sheet for easy cleanup.
• Cookie scoop: Ensures uniform cookie sizes for even baking.

Ingredients

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

Wet Ingredients

• 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
• 1 Teaspoon food coloring (orange, optional)

Dry Ingredients

• 2 ¼ Cups all-purpose flour
• 1 Teaspoon baking soda
• 1 Teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
• ½ Teaspoon salt

Mix-ins

• 1 Cup chocolate chips
• 1 Cup mini marshmallows
• 8 graham crackers (broken into small pieces)

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 prepare for baking.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

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

Step 3: Add Pumpkin Mixture

Beat in the pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined. If using food coloring, add it at this step.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

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

Step 6: Fold in Mix-ins

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

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: Add Extra Toppings

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

Step 9: Bake Your Cookies

Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 14 minutes or until the edges are golden but the center remains soft.

Step 10: Cool Cookies

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

Step 11: Serve

Serve the pumpkin s’mores cookies at room temperature for everyone to enjoy!

How to Serve Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

Pumpkin s’mores cookies are delightful treats that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just craving something sweet, these cookies can be paired with different accompaniments to enhance the experience.

With Milk

• A classic pairing, milk complements the sweetness of the cookies. Try serving them with cold or warm milk for a comforting treat.

As a Dessert Platter

• Arrange pumpkin s’mores cookies on a dessert platter alongside other fall-themed sweets, like caramel apples and pumpkin pie bars, for an enticing spread.

With Ice Cream

• Top each cookie with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream. The creamy texture contrasts beautifully with the soft cookie.

At a Bonfire

• Serve these cookies at your next bonfire gathering. Their s’mores flavor makes them perfect for an outdoor setting, ideally paired with hot cocoa.

For Afternoon Tea

• Enjoy pumpkin s’mores cookies during afternoon tea. Pair them with spiced chai or herbal tea to complement their flavors.

How to Perfect Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

To achieve the ultimate pumpkin s’mores cookies, consider these helpful tips for baking success:

• Use Fresh Pumpkin Puree: Fresh puree enhances the flavor compared to canned options. It gives a richer taste and moist texture.
• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Mix until just combined to keep the cookies soft and chewy. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
• Keep Ingredients at Room Temperature: Bring butter, eggs, and pumpkin puree to room temperature before mixing for better blending and texture.
• Chill the Dough: If time allows, chilling the dough for 30 minutes helps prevent spreading, resulting in thicker cookies.
• Add Extra Toppings: Pressing additional chocolate chips and marshmallows on top before baking gives each cookie an appealing look and extra flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

Enhance your pumpkin s’mores cookie experience by pairing them with some delicious side dishes. Here are some great options:

1. Spiced Apple Cider: This warm beverage brings cozy fall flavors that perfectly complement the cookies’ sweetness.
2. Cheese Board: A selection of mild cheeses like brie and gouda balances the sweetness of the cookies while providing savory notes.
3. Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel over each cookie or serve it on the side for dipping, adding an extra layer of indulgence.
4. Pecan Pie Bites: These mini treats offer a nutty contrast and pair wonderfully with the soft texture of pumpkin s’mores cookies.
5. Pumpkin Spice Latte: A seasonal favorite that enhances the pumpkin flavor in your dessert while adding warmth and richness.
6. Chocolate Fondue: Set up a chocolate fondue station where guests can dip pieces of cookie into melted chocolate for an interactive treat.
7. Roasted Chestnuts: These provide a crunchy texture that’s enjoyable alongside the soft cookies and give a classic autumn feel.
8. Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes: These sweet bites add variety to your dessert table while still embracing those cozy fall spices.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making pumpkin s’mores cookies can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the baking soda: This ingredient is crucial for helping your cookies rise. If you forget it, your cookies may turn out flat and dense.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can make your cookies tough. Mix until just combined for soft, chewy results.
• Not using room temperature ingredients: Cold butter or eggs can affect how well they incorporate. Always use room temperature items for better texture.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Every oven is different. Always check your cookies a few minutes early to avoid overbaking.
• Forgetting to cool on a wire rack: Leaving cookies on the baking sheet can cause them to become soggy. Cool them on a wire rack to maintain their texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Place parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.

Freezing Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Layer parchment paper between cookies for easy separation.

Reheating Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place cookies on a baking sheet, and heat for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds. Be cautious not to overheat, as they may become tough.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat; cover with a lid and warm for 2-3 minutes for a soft texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about pumpkin s’mores cookies, we’ve got answers!

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes! Fresh pumpkin can be used, but make sure it’s pureed and has the same moisture content as canned pumpkin puree.

How do I know when my pumpkin s’mores cookies are done?

Look for golden edges while ensuring the center still looks soft. They will firm up as they cool.

What if I don’t have pumpkin pie spice?

You can create your own blend using cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. This will give your cookies that warm fall flavor.

Can I customize the mix-ins in my pumpkin s’mores cookies?

Absolutely! Feel free to add nuts, different types of chocolate, or even dried fruit for variety.

Final Thoughts

Pumpkin s’mores cookies are a fantastic blend of flavors that are perfect for any occasion. Their soft texture and sweet taste make them irresistible! You can easily customize these treats by adding your favorite mix-ins or adjusting spices. Give this recipe a try and enjoy every delicious bite!