Name: Pumpkin S'mores Cookies That Will Warm Your Fall Days
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 39 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted Butter (room temperature); 3/4 cup Brown Sugar (dark brown preferred); 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar; 1 cup Pumpkin Puree (100% pure, not pie filling); 1 large Egg (preferably large); 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract (pure vanilla for best results); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (can substitute gluten-free); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda (ensure it's fresh); 2 teaspoons Pumpkin Pie Spice (can substitute individual spices); 1/2 teaspoon Salt; 1 cup Chocolate Chips (semi-sweet or dark); 1 cup Mini Marshmallows (vegan options available); 1/2 cup Graham Crackers (can swap for crushed cookies or omit); a few drops Orange Food Coloring (optional)

As the leaves begin to turn and the air fills with the scent of cinnamon, I find myself diving into a baking frenzy, and there’s nothing quite like the joy of crafting Pumpkin S’mores Cookies. These delightful treats combine the warmth of pumpkin with the sweetness of gooey marshmallows and rich chocolate, creating the perfect taste of fall. Not only are they a fantastic crowd-pleaser at gatherings, but they also whip up effortlessly in just a few simple steps—making them your new go-to recipe for the season. Whether for cozy family nights or festive celebrations, these cookies are sure to delight and satisfy. Curious about how to make these seasonal delights come to life? Let’s get started!

Why Are These Cookies So Special?

Softness and Chewiness: These Pumpkin S’mores Cookies offer a delightful softness that perfectly contrasts with a slightly crisp edge, ensuring every bite is satisfying.
Seasonal Flavors: Bursting with the essence of fall spices, they capture the vibrant essence of the season, making them a perfect match for seasonal gatherings or cozy nights in.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re entertaining friends or treating family, these cookies are guaranteed to impress everyone, from kids to adults, and become a new favorite.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is ideal for both novice and experienced bakers. Even if you’re busy, you’ll find time to whip up a batch! If you’re also looking for easy alternative options, check out our Brownie Mix Cookies for another fun treat!
Versatile Options: Want to switch things up? Feel free to experiment with different chocolate or nut combinations for a personalized twist, making it easy to cater to your taste preferences!
Delicious Aroma: Baking these cookies fills your home with the comforting scents of pumpkin and spices, setting the perfect atmosphere for any fall occasion.

Pumpkin S’mores Cookies Ingredients

• Here’s what you’ll need to create these delightful treats!

For the Dough

Unsalted Butter – Ensures a rich, tender texture; room temperature makes creaming easier.
Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and a deep flavor; dark brown sugar amplifies caramel notes.
Granulated Sugar – Provides sweetness and adds a crispy edge to the cookies.
Pumpkin Puree – Gives moisture and that essential pumpkin flavor; use 100% pure pumpkin puree, not pie filling.
Egg – Binds ingredients for a sturdy structure; large eggs are preferred.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; always opt for pure vanilla for the best results.
All-Purpose Flour – Forms the cookie structure; gluten-free can use a 1:1 substitute.
Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent for a light texture; ensure it’s fresh for optimal results.
Pumpkin Pie Spice – Infuses warm autumn spices; can substitute with individual spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.
Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.

For the S’mores Filling

Chocolate Chips – Provides rich sweetness; semi-sweet or dark chocolate are classic choices.
Mini Marshmallows – Adds chewiness and gooeyness; vegan marshmallows hold their shape well when baking.
Graham Crackers – Introduces a satisfying crunch; can swap with crushed cookies or omit for less crunch.

Optional Enhancements

Orange Food Coloring – Enhances the visual appeal; can skip for a more natural look.

With these Pumpkin S’mores Cookies ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating a fall treat that’ll warm your heart and satisfy your cravings!

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

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While your oven warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper, ensuring a non-stick surface for your cookies. This preparation sets the stage for your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies to bake evenly and achieve the perfect texture.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter, 3/4 cup of brown sugar, and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar. Mix on medium speed until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This step is key to creating tender, airy cookies that melt in your mouth.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
Next, incorporate 1 cup of pumpkin puree, 1 large egg, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract into the creamy butter mixture. If you’d like a vibrant hue, add a few drops of orange food coloring at this stage. Blend everything together until well-combined and smooth, ensuring the pumpkin flavor shines through in your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 2 teaspoons of pumpkin pie spice, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. This mixture will provide the essential structure and depth of flavor for your cookies. Sifting the dry ingredients can help avoid lumps and ensure even distribution of the spices.

Step 5: Mix Together
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently with a spatula or wooden spoon. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies. Your Pumpkin S’mores Cookie dough will be slightly sticky but should hold its shape well when spooned onto the baking sheet.

Step 6: Fold in Add-ins
Now, it’s time for the fun! Gently fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips, 1 cup of mini marshmallows, and 1/2 cup of crushed graham crackers into the dough. This adds texture and the iconic s’mores crunch to your cookies, making them irresistibly delicious. Mix until the add-ins are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 7: Shape Cookies
Using a medium cookie scoop, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. For a decorative touch, top each dough ball with an extra chocolate chip, a few mini marshmallows, and a sprinkle of graham crackers. This creates a beautiful presentation that showcases the s’mores theme.

Step 8: Bake
Place your baking sheet in the preheated oven and allow the Pumpkin S’mores Cookies to bake for 12-14 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges turn golden brown, but the centers still look slightly soft. Keeping the centers chewy is essential for that perfect cookie experience!

Step 9: Cool
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them sit on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. This short resting time helps them firm up without losing their softness. Then, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely, allowing the warm, enticing aromas of pumpkin and chocolate to fill your home.

Storage Tips for Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

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

Fridge: If you want them to last longer, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to one week. This may slightly alter the texture but keeps them fresh.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to four months without losing their delicious flavor.

Reheating: To enjoy them warm, simply pop the frozen Pumpkin S’mores Cookies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or heat in a 350°F oven for a few minutes until soft.

Pumpkin S’mores Cookies Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to let your creativity shine while making these cookies; there are so many ways to personalize your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies!

Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour substitute to keep the deliciousness while accommodating dietary needs.
Vegan: Swap the egg for a flax egg and use coconut oil instead of butter for a plant-based option that everyone can enjoy.
Nutty Twist: Add 1/2 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts in the dough for added crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the pumpkin beautifully.
Flavor Boost: Replace chocolate chips with caramel chips for a sweet, gooey twist that elevates the classic s’mores experience.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dough for a hint of heat that contrasts wonderfully with the sweetness.
Easy Swap: Swap mini marshmallows for a layer of Nutella to create a unique and deliciously gooey filling that everyone will love.
Dough Variations: For a fun texture, try mixing in crushed pretzels for a sweet-and-salty version that adds an extra crunch—yum!
Dessert Bars: Transform this recipe into bars by spreading the dough into a baking dish and layering with additional chocolate and marshmallows, then bake and cut into squares. If you’re intrigued by baking with mixes, don’t miss out on our delightful Brownie Mix Cookies for a quick and easy treat!

With these flavorful variations and substitutions, your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies are destined to be a hit this fall!

Expert Tips for Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

Measure Accurately: Using a kitchen scale for ingredients can help ensure you get the perfect texture in your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies without any surprises!
Avoid Overmixing: Gently combine your wet and dry ingredients; overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of the soft, chewy texture you want.
Cool Briefly: Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for a few minutes; they will be fragile when hot but firm up perfectly as they cool.
Utilize Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your baking soda is fresh for optimal rise and texture; expired leavening agents can lead to dense cookies.
Customize Add-ins: Feel free to swap chocolate chips for butterscotch or white chocolate for different flavor twists in your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies!

What to Serve with Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

Indulging in a warm cookie fresh from the oven is a delightful experience, especially during the cozy fall season.

Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla perfectly balances the warm spices and sweetness, enhancing your dessert experience.
Imagine the rich flavors of pumpkin melting into a scoop of cold ice cream, creating a delightful contrast that is simply irresistible.
Hot Apple Cider: This warm, spiced beverage complements the autumnal flavors of the cookies, creating a joyful fall ambiance.
Sipping on apple cider as the leaves change color is like a warm hug for your soul.
Coffee: A cup of rich, aromatic coffee provides a delicious contrast to the sweet cookies, making it a perfect afternoon treat.
The deep flavors of coffee highlight the sweet, gooey chocolate and marshmallow in every bite.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: Embracing the season, this creamy, spiced coffee drink pairs beautifully with your cookies for the ultimate fall indulgence.
A warm pumpkin spice latte with its frothy topping enhances the cozy feel of the season shared with your loved ones.
Maple Cream Cheese Frosting Dip: This sweet and tangy dip adds a fun twist, making your cookies even more delightful.
Dunking these cookies into the creamy goodness will bring your taste buds to a whole new level of happiness!
Chocolate Milk: For a nostalgic touch, serve these cookies with a glass of rich chocolate milk to delight both kids and adults alike.
The combination of chocolate flavors creates a sweet experience that feels like a cozy childhood memory.
Spiced Pecans: Crunchy, sugared nuts add a delightful texture contrast, enhancing the overall flavor of your cookie spread.
They provide a nutty backdrop that brings out the warmth of the spices in your cookies.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of fresh whipped cream on top of warm cookies can elevate your dessert moment instantly.
The light, fluffy texture creates a heavenly bite that melts in your mouth alongside the pumpkin goodness.

Make Ahead Options

These Pumpkin S’mores Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. For even easier prep, you can scoop the dough into balls and freeze them for up to 3 months—just bake frozen dough for an extra 1-2 minutes. To maintain their deliciousness, it’s best to store your prepped dough away from strong odors in the fridge or freezer. When you’re ready to bake, simply place the chilled or frozen scoops on a baking sheet, top with a few extra chocolate chips and marshmallows, and follow the baking instructions for warm, gooey treats everyone will love!

Pumpkin S’mores Cookies Recipe FAQs

What kind of pumpkin puree should I use?
Absolutely! For the best flavor in your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies, always use 100% pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling. The puree is smooth and provides the perfect moisture and rich pumpkin flavor that makes these cookies special.

How should I store my Pumpkin S’mores Cookies?
I recommend storing your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them fresh longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Just be aware that refrigeration may slightly change the texture, but they’ll still be delicious!

Can I freeze these cookies?
Of course! Freezing Pumpkin S’mores Cookies is a fantastic way to enjoy them later. To freeze, first place the baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them for about 1-2 hours. Once they’re firm, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag, layering with parchment paper if necessary, and they’ll stay fresh for up to 4 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just microwave them for 10-15 seconds or reheat in a 350°F oven until warm.

What should I do if my cookies are spreading too much while baking?
Very! If you find that your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies are spreading too much, it could be due to using warm butter or not enough flour. To fix this, try chilling the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps the fats solidify, resulting in cookies that hold their shape better. Also, ensure you’re measuring your flour correctly—using a kitchen scale can help with this!

Can these cookies be made gluten-free?
Yes! To make Pumpkin S’mores Cookies gluten-free, simply substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Look for a mix that contains xanthan gum, as this will help mimic the texture and structure that gluten provides. Your cookies will still be scrumptious and perfect for all to enjoy!

Are there any common allergies I should be aware of with this recipe?
Absolutely! Since Pumpkin S’mores Cookies contain common allergens like eggs, gluten, and dairy, it’s essential to consider any dietary restrictions. For egg substitutes, you can use flax eggs or applesauce. If you’re looking to make it dairy-free and vegan, swap the unsalted butter for a plant-based alternative and use vegan mini marshmallows. Always double-check ingredient labels to prevent any allergic reactions.