Name: Soft and Chewy Pumpkin S'mores Cookies for Cozy Fall Treats
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 39 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted Butter (Provides richness and moisture; substitute with margarine for a dairy-free option.); 1 cup Brown Sugar (Offers depth of flavor and moisture; can be replaced with coconut sugar for a less refined alternative.); 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar (Adds sweetness and light texture; use less or omit for a lower sugar version.); 1 cup Pumpkin Puree (Must be 100% pure; do not use pumpkin pie filling.); 1 large Egg (Replace with a flax egg for a vegan option.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Optional, but try almond extract for a unique twist.); 2 cups All-purpose Flour (Swap with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option.); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda (Essential for achieving the perfect cookie texture.); 1 tablespoon Pumpkin Pie Spice (Can substitute with cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.); 1/2 teaspoon Salt (It's crucial not to omit.); 1 cup Chocolate Chips (Feel free to swap for white chocolate or omit for a lower-sugar cookie.); 1 cup Mini Marshmallows (Consider using vegan marshmallows.); 1 cup Graham Crackers (Omit or substitute with gluten-free options.); 1 teaspoon Orange Food Coloring (Not necessary, skip if desired for a more natural look.)

As the air turns crisp and leaves start to turn, there’s nothing quite like the cozy aroma of home-baked treats wafting through the kitchen. That’s where my Pumpkin S’mores Cookies come in—an indulgent fusion of fall flavors and childhood nostalgia that will have you swooning at first bite. These soft cookies, packed with pumpkin, rich chocolate, and gooey marshmallows, make the perfect treat for any gathering or a sweet escape from the ordinary. Not only are they easy to whip up, but their delightful chewiness will have your friends and family reaching for seconds. Why not impress your loved ones with a delicious twist on a classic dessert? I can’t wait for you to try these! What’s your favorite cookie to bake in the fall?

Why are Pumpkin S’mores Cookies a must-try?

Soft and Chewy: These cookies boast an irresistible texture that perfectly balances softness and chewiness. Irresistible Flavors: Each bite is a heavenly combination of warming pumpkin, rich chocolate, and gooey marshmallow that captures the spirit of fall. Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip these up in no time! Versatile Treat: Serve them warm with a glass of milk or as part of a dessert spread alongside delightful options like Pumpkin Sugar Cookies or Sweet Sourdough Pumpkin Bread. Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for parties, gatherings, or cozy nights in, these cookies ensure that no one leaves without a satisfied smile!

Pumpkin S’mores Cookies Ingredients

Explore the delicious components that make these cookies a fall favorite!

For the Cookie Dough

Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and moisture; substitute with margarine for a dairy-free option.
Brown Sugar – Offers depth of flavor and moisture; can be replaced with coconut sugar for a less refined alternative.
Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and light texture; use less or omit for a lower sugar version.
Pumpkin Puree – Adds moisture and that beloved pumpkin flavor; must be 100% pure; do not use pumpkin pie filling.
Egg – Binds ingredients and adds moisture; replace with a flax egg for a vegan option.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor; optional, but try almond extract for a unique twist.
All-purpose Flour – Provides structure; swap with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option.
Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent, essential for achieving the perfect cookie texture.
Pumpkin Pie Spice – Infuses warm flavors reminiscent of fall; can substitute with cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger if you like.
Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavors; it’s crucial not to omit.

For the Mix-ins

Chocolate Chips – Adds sweetness and richness; feel free to swap for white chocolate or omit for a lower-sugar cookie.
Mini Marshmallows – Contributes chewy texture and sweetness; consider using vegan marshmallows to prevent melting.
Graham Crackers – Delivers crunch and classic s’mores flavor; omit or substitute with gluten-free options for a tailored treat.

Optional Enhancements

Orange Food Coloring – Enhances the cookie color; not necessary, skip if desired for a more natural look.

And there you have it—the tasty ingredients that come together to make these Pumpkin S’mores Cookies a truly delightful fall treat!

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 for easy cleanup. The parchment will help keep your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies from sticking and ensure they come off the baking sheet effortlessly. Make sure the oven is fully heated before you start baking for even results.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, combine softened unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream the mixture on medium speed until it’s light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes. This step is crucial as it incorporates air, resulting in a lighter texture for your cookies.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Next, mix in the pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract into your creamed mixture. If you wish to add orange food coloring, now is the time to include it. Beat the ingredients together until well blended, ensuring a smooth consistency that helps the flavors marry beautifully in your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; this will keep your cookies soft and chewy, the hallmark of great Pumpkin S’mores Cookies.

Step 5: Fold in Mix-ins
Gently fold in the chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, and pieces of graham crackers into the dough using a spatula. This step adds delightful texture and flavor to your cookies, giving them that s’mores essence. Aim for an even distribution without overworking the dough to ensure each cookie is packed with goodness.

Step 6: Scoop the Dough
Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, drop balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing each one about 2 inches apart. For an extra touch, sprinkle a few additional mini marshmallows, chocolate chips, and graham cracker bits on top of each dough ball. This enhances the look and flavor of your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-14 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. The centers should remain soft, as they will firm up while cooling. Keep a close eye on them, as you want to catch that perfect moment where they’re still chewy and moist.

Step 8: Cool Down
Once baked, let your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This resting time allows them to set and makes transferring them to a wire rack easier without falling apart. After they’ve cooled a little, move them to the rack to cool completely, enhancing their chewy texture.

What to Serve with Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

Indulging in these warm, cozy cookies can lead to delightful ideas for a full fall-inspired meal!

Creamy Pumpkin Soup: The velvety texture and spices of pumpkin soup create a complementary warm starter that’s perfect for fall.
Apple Cider: A chilled or warm glass of apple cider enhances the flavors of the cookies and brings a refreshing balance to sweetness.
Ice Cream Sundae: Vanilla or caramel ice cream drizzled with chocolate sauce pairs perfectly with the gooey marshmallow of the cookies, adding a cool contrast.
Cheese Platter: Soft cheeses, such as Brie, with a touch of honey would make a delightful contrast for a cozy dessert experience.

Feel free to host a delightful gathering where your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies become the star of the show—encouraging laughter, warmth, and cherished moments around the table!

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 keep them soft and chewy.

Fridge: If you want them to last a bit longer, refrigerate the cookies in an airtight container for up to a week.

Freezer: Freeze baked cookies for up to 4 months. Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separated by parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Dough Storage: The cookie dough can be frozen for up to a year. Scoop the dough into balls, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Expert Tips for Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

Don’t Overmix: Be careful not to overmix the dough; this can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined for that soft, chewy texture you desire.
Marshmallow Choice: Use vegan mini marshmallows to prevent melting and help them maintain their shape during baking, ensuring delicious texture in your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies.
Cool Properly: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them set and prevents breakage.
Storage Secrets: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate them for a week to keep them fresh and tasty.
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to try different chocolate types—dark, milk, or white chips—based on your preference, adding even more richness to your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies.

Pumpkin S’mores Cookies Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to play around with these Pumpkin S’mores Cookies to suit your cravings and dietary needs—delight in the flavors and textures that inspire you!

Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil or vegan butter for a rich, creamy base without dairy.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour to ensure everyone can enjoy these cookies!
Sweetness Adjustments: Lower the sugar content by using less granulated sugar, or experiment with a sugar alternative like monk fruit sweetener.
Nutty Addition: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the mix for a delightful crunch that elevates the cookie experience.
Pumpkin Swap: Try sweet potato puree in place of pumpkin puree for a slightly different flavor profile that still brings the fall vibes.
Chocolate Variations: Use dark or white chocolate chips based on your preference; dark chocolate adds a richer flavor while white chocolate brings extra sweetness.
Spicy Heat: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or extra pumpkin pie spice for a warm spice kick that enhances the cookie’s depth.
No Marshmallows: Omit mini marshmallows and replace them with more chocolate chips for a more intense chocolate experience, reminiscent of traditional cookies.

These variations are perfect for mixing things up! You can even serve these delightful cookies alongside other beloved treats like Pumpkin Sugar Cookies or a slice of Sweet Sourdough Pumpkin Bread to create a pumpkin-filled dessert table. Enjoy customizing this cozy treat!

Make Ahead Options

These Pumpkin S’mores Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients together and refrigerating it in an airtight container. Alternatively, you can scoop the dough into balls and freeze them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply place the frozen dough balls on a baking sheet and add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time. This method ensures that your cookies come out just as delicious and fresh as if you made them on the spot, saving you precious time on busy weeknights!

Pumpkin S’mores Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! When selecting pumpkin puree, make sure to look for 100% pure pumpkin. Avoid using pumpkin pie filling, as it contains added sugars and spices that can alter the flavor of your cookies. Brand quality can vary, but I often recommend going with organic options when available for the best taste!

How should I store my Pumpkin S’mores Cookies?
To keep your cookies soft and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to prolong their freshness, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Just make sure they’re well sealed to prevent them from drying out.

Can I freeze Pumpkin S’mores Cookies?
Yes, you can! Baked cookies can be frozen for up to 4 months. I recommend placing them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, with parchment paper in between layers to avoid sticking. To enjoy, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before savoring the flavors again!

What if my cookies spread too much while baking?
Very! If your cookies spread excessively during baking, it may be due to overly warm dough or insufficient flour. Ensure the butter is softened but not melted and measure flour using the spoon-and-level method for accuracy. If needed, pop the dough in the fridge for 30 minutes before baking to help maintain shape.

Are these cookies suitable for people with allergies?
I often make them for gatherings! Just be sure to consider any common allergens: use gluten-free flour for those avoiding gluten, and vegan mini marshmallows for a dairy-free alternative. Always double-check labels for any potential allergens in your ingredients, especially if sharing with guests.