Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

You can’t go wrong with pumpkin s’mores cookies. They’re soft, sweet, and very more-ish, offering plenty of amazing flavors in every bite! Perfect for fall gatherings, cozy evenings by the fire, or a delightful treat anytime you crave something special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe combines simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin puree and chocolate chips creates a rich flavor that is both sweet and satisfying.
• Fun for All Ages: Kids will love helping to mix the dough and add toppings, making this an engaging activity for family baking time.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy these cookies warm out of the oven or at room temperature. They are great for parties or as a homemade gift.
• Seasonal Delight: Pumpkin s’mores cookies capture the essence of fall, with comforting spices that evoke warm memories.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making your pumpkin s’mores cookies, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Electric mixer (optional)
• Cookie scoop or spoon
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: These are essential for combining ingredients efficiently without making a mess.
• Electric mixer: While optional, using an electric mixer can save time and ensure your butter and sugars are creamed perfectly.
• Cookie scoop or spoon: Helps create uniform cookie sizes for even baking.

Ingredients

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
– 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)
– ½ Cup chocolate chips
– mini vegan marshmallows
– graham crackers (crushed)

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 prevent sticking.

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: Combine Wet Ingredients

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

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix until just combined to avoid overmixing.

Step 6: Fold in Add-ins

Gently fold in the chocolate chips, mini vegan marshmallows, and 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 Toppings

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

Step 9: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 14 minutes. The edges should be golden while 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 your pumpkin s’mores cookies at room temperature for maximum enjoyment!

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 enjoying a quiet night at home, these cookies offer versatility in serving.

With a Glass of Milk

• A classic pairing, cold milk complements the sweetness of the cookies perfectly.

As a Dessert Sandwich

• Place two cookies together with a layer of your favorite frosting or nut butter for an indulgent treat.

Warm with Ice Cream

• Heat the cookies slightly and serve them topped with vanilla or pumpkin ice cream for a cozy dessert.

At a Fall Gathering

• Present these cookies on a festive platter at your next autumn event to impress your guests.

With Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy these cookies alongside your favorite warm beverage for a comforting snack.

How to Perfect Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

Perfecting pumpkin s’mores cookies is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out delicious every time.

• Use room temperature ingredients – Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Don’t overmix the dough – Mix just until combined; overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
• Chill the dough if necessary – If the dough feels too soft, chilling for 30 minutes can help shape better cookies.
• Experiment with spices – Adjust the pumpkin pie spice amount based on your taste preference for extra warmth.
• Store properly – Keep cookies in an airtight container to maintain their softness and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

Pairing side dishes with pumpkin s’mores cookies can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some delightful options to consider.

1. Spiced Apple Cider
   A warm, spiced apple cider enhances the fall flavors presented in the cookies.

2. Caramel Sauce
   Drizzle caramel sauce over each cookie for an additional layer of sweetness and richness.

3. Chocolate Fondue
   Serve chocolate fondue alongside so guests can dip pieces of cookie for an interactive treat.

4. Fruit Salad
   A fresh fruit salad provides a refreshing contrast to the sweet, rich flavors of the cookies.

5. Roasted Nuts
   Offer a variety of roasted nuts as a crunchy side that complements the soft texture of the cookies.

6. Cheese Platter
   Create a cheese platter with mild cheeses that balance out the sweetness of pumpkin s’mores cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making pumpkin s’mores cookies, it’s important to avoid some common pitfalls that can affect the outcome of your delicious treat.

• Ignoring ingredient temperature: Using cold butter can lead to cookies that are flat and dense. Always make sure your butter is at room temperature for the best texture.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing the cookie dough too much can result in tough cookies. Mix until just combined for a soft, fluffy texture.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Using too much flour can make the cookies dry. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurement.
• Skipping the chilling step: If you chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking, it helps the flavors meld and prevents excessive spreading during baking.
• Not testing for doneness: Baking time can vary; check your cookies a couple of minutes early. They should be golden around the edges but still soft in the center.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store pumpkin s’mores cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will stay fresh for up to 5 days.

Freezing Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

• Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container; they can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat cookies for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds for a quick warm-up.
• Stovetop: Place a cookie in a pan on low heat, cover with a lid, and heat for about 1-2 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding pumpkin s’mores cookies.

Can I make Pumpkin S’mores Cookies vegan?

Yes! Substitute the egg with a flaxseed egg or applesauce, and ensure all chocolate chips are dairy-free.

What can I use instead of graham crackers?

You can use digestive biscuits or any other crunchy cookie as an alternative if you prefer something different.

How do I customize my Pumpkin S’mores Cookies?

Feel free to add nuts, different types of chocolate, or spices like cinnamon to enhance flavor according to your taste preferences.

Why are my cookies spreading too much?

This could be due to warm dough or too little flour. Make sure your dough is cold before baking and measure flour properly.

How long do these cookies last after baking?

If stored properly in an airtight container, they will last up to 5 days at room temperature or longer in the fridge.

Final Thoughts

Pumpkin s’mores cookies are an irresistible treat that combines classic flavors with seasonal pumpkin goodness. Their soft texture and sweet marshmallow bits offer a delightful experience in every bite. Feel free to experiment with ingredients like different chocolates or spices to suit your taste!