If you’re a fan of s’mores and love the warm, comforting flavors of pumpkin spice, then this Pumpkin S’mores Cookies recipe is perfect for you. These cookies combine the gooey, chocolatey goodness of s’mores with the moist, spiced flavor of pumpkin, creating a delightful treat that’s sure to please any crowd. Ideal for fall gatherings, holiday parties, or just a cozy night in, these cookies are soft, chewy, and packed with the irresistible flavors of the season.

Essential Ingredients for Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

To make these delicious cookies, you’ll need a few basic ingredients and a couple of special additions to give them that unique s’mores twist.

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup pumpkin puree – This adds moisture and a subtle pumpkin flavor.
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice – A blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves.
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup chocolate chips – Semi-sweet or milk chocolate works best.
1 cup mini marshmallows
8 graham crackers, broken into small pieces
1 teaspoon orange food coloring (optional)
½ cup extra chocolate chips (optional)
Marshmallows and graham crackers, crushed, for garnish

Why Use Pumpkin Puree in Cookies?

Pumpkin puree is the secret ingredient that makes these cookies extra moist and chewy. It adds a subtle, earthy sweetness and a beautiful orange color to the dough, perfectly complementing the rich chocolate chips and gooey marshmallows. The pumpkin puree also adds moisture, ensuring that these cookies stay soft and delicious for days.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

To create these scrumptious Pumpkin S’mores Cookies, you’ll need the following kitchen equipment:

Mixing bowls (one large and one medium)
Electric mixer or whisk
Measuring cups and spoons
Parchment paper
Baking sheet
Wire cooling rack
Cookie scoop or spoon (½ inch recommended)

Step-by-Step Preparation

Preparing the Cookie Dough

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.
Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer or whisk to cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
Mix in Wet Ingredients: Beat in the pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined. If you want to add a bit more color, mix in the orange food coloring at this stage.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt until well combined.
Form the Dough: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies soft and tender.

Adding the S’mores Twist

Fold in the S’mores Ingredients: Gently fold in the chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, and graham cracker pieces. Make sure these ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Shape the Cookies: Using a ½-inch cookie scoop or spoon, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Space the cookies about 2 inches apart. For an extra s’mores effect, press a few additional marshmallows, chocolate chips, and graham cracker pieces into the top of each dough ball.

Baking the Perfect Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 14 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are golden and the centers are set but still soft.
Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial to ensure the cookies firm up but remain chewy in the middle.

Tips for Perfect Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

Don’t Overmix the Dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
Measure Flour Correctly: Too much flour can make the cookies dry. Use the spoon-and-level method for accuracy.
Chill the Dough for Chewier Cookies: If you prefer a chewier texture, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking.
Use Fresh Marshmallows: Stale marshmallows won’t melt properly and may affect the texture of the cookies.

Common Mistakes When Making Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

Using Too Many Marshmallows: Too many marshmallows can cause the cookies to spread too much and create a sticky mess. Stick to the recommended amount.
Overbaking the Cookies: Pumpkin S’mores Cookies should be soft in the center. Overbaking will make them hard. Remove them from the oven when the edges are just set.
Skipping the Cooling Time: Letting the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes helps them set properly without breaking apart.

Fun Variations for Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

Add Nuts: For a crunchy twist, add chopped walnuts or pecans to the dough.
Swap the Chocolate Chips: Try white chocolate chips or dark chocolate chunks for a different flavor profile.
Use Different Spices: Add a pinch of ginger, cardamom, or allspice for a unique flavor twist.
Drizzle with Chocolate: Melt some extra chocolate chips and drizzle over the cooled cookies for a decorative touch.

How to Serve and Present Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

For a Party: Arrange the cookies on a platter and garnish with extra marshmallows and graham cracker crumbs for a festive look.
As a Gift: Wrap them in cellophane bags tied with autumn-themed ribbons for a homemade gift.
With a Hot Drink: Serve these cookies warm with a hot cup of cocoa, tea, or coffee for the ultimate cozy treat.

How to Store Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

To keep your cookies fresh:

At Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
In the Freezer: Freeze the cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?
No, canned pumpkin pie filling contains added sugars and spices, which can alter the flavor and texture of the cookies. Use pure pumpkin puree for the best results.
How can I make the cookies less sweet?
You can reduce the amount of sugar or use dark chocolate chips to balance the sweetness.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, the dough can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours or frozen for up to 3 months.

conclusion

These Pumpkin S’mores Cookies are a delightful twist on two classic treats. They’re perfect for fall, easy to make, and incredibly delicious. Try them out, and don’t forget to share the recipe with your friends and family! If you loved this recipe, be sure to subscribe to our blog for more seasonal delights.

Pumpkin S’mores Cookies Recipe