Name: Pumpkin S’mores Cookies: Your New Favorite Fall Treat!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Ingredients: 1 cup butter (softened); 1 cup brown sugar (can substitute with coconut sugar); 1 cup white sugar (granulated sugar works as a replacement); 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or homemade); 1 large egg (or flax egg for vegan); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (can substitute with almond extract); 2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend); 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ginger; 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg; 1 cup graham cracker crumbs (or gluten-free graham cracker crumbs); 1 cup mini marshmallows (or chopped regular marshmallows); 1 cup chocolate chips (dark or milk chocolate chips)

As I placed the final cookie on the cooling rack, the enchanting aroma of pumpkin and warm spices enveloped my kitchen, instantly transporting me into the heart of fall. These Pumpkin S’mores Cookies are more than just a festive treat; they’re a delightful blend of nostalgia and seasonal flavor, perfect for Halloween gatherings or cozy family nights. With their chewy texture mingling gooey marshmallows and rich chocolate, they not only satisfy sweet cravings but are also a cinch to whip up, making them an ideal weekend baking project. Plus, if you’re sticking to gluten-free, you’ll be pleased to know they can easily adapt to meet your needs. Curious how to create these seasonal delights? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why are Pumpkin S’mores Cookies irresistible?

Warm, Cozy Flavor: The blend of pumpkin and spices creates a nostalgic taste, perfect for fall festivities.
Oh-So-Gooey: With mini marshmallows and chocolate chips, each bite is a delightful taste explosion!
Easy to Make: Simple steps make these cookies a perfect choice for both novice and experienced bakers.
Gluten-Free Friendly: Easily adaptable for gluten-free diets, everyone can join in on the deliciousness!
Crowd-Pleaser: These cookies are guaranteed to be a hit at parties, potlucks, or family gatherings, much like my Bakery Style Cookies.
Versatile Variations: Feel free to swap out toppings or mix-ins, making each batch uniquely yours!

Pumpkin S’mores Cookies Ingredients

• Get ready to bake these delightful treats!

For the Cookie Base

Butter – Adds richness and moisture; ensure it’s softened for easy creaming.
Brown Sugar – Provides sweetness and a hint of molasses flavor; can substitute with coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index.
White Sugar – Balances sweetness and helps with the cookies’ texture; granulated sugar works as a replacement.
Pumpkin Puree – The star ingredient that adds moisture and captures that fall essence; use either canned or homemade puree.
Egg – Binds ingredients and adds moisture; opt for a flax egg for a vegan alternative.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor; substitute with almond extract for a different aromatic twist.
All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the cookies; swap with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free adaptation.
Baking Soda – Aids in leavening for a soft cookie texture.
Salt – Enhances sweetness and balances flavors.
Cinnamon, Ginger, Nutmeg – A blend of spices that brings the classic fall flavor; adjust to your taste, or use a pre-mixed pumpkin spice blend.

For the S’mores Twist

Graham Cracker Crumbs – Adds a delightful crunch and s’mores character; for gluten-free, look for gluten-free graham cracker crumbs.
Mini Marshmallows – Provides gooeyness; chopped regular marshmallows can be used if minis are hard to find.
Chocolate Chips – Adds sweetness and richness; feel free to use dark or milk chocolate chips based on preference.

These Pumpkin S’mores Cookies not only embody the sweet essence of the season but also invite countless variations for you to explore and enjoy!

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

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheets
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While your oven warms up, grab two baking sheets and line them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This step ensures that your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies bake evenly and don’t cling to the sheets!

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, combine softened butter, brown sugar, and white sugar. Use a hand mixer to cream them together for about 3 minutes, mixing until the mixture is light, fluffy, and well blended. This step is crucial as it creates the base for your cookies’ delightful texture.

Step 3: Incorporate Pumpkin and Egg
Next, add in the pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract to your creamed mixture. Mix everything until smooth and well combined, ensuring that the pumpkin is fully integrated. This brings all those fall flavors together in your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies that everyone will adore.

Step 4: Whisk Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg. This helps to evenly distribute the leavening agent and spices throughout your cookie dough. The aromatic spices are key to capturing that warm autumn essence in every bite.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be cautious to avoid overmixing, as it can make your cookies tough instead of soft and chewy. You’re creating the dough that will become your sensational Pumpkin S’mores Cookies, so gentle mixing is the way to go!

Step 6: Fold in the Goodies
Now it’s time to gently fold in the graham cracker crumbs, mini marshmallows, and chocolate chips into the dough. Use a spatula to ensure everything is evenly incorporated. These delicious add-ins are what give these cookies their signature s’mores twist and delightful gooeyness.

Step 7: Shape the Cookie Dough
Using a tablespoon, scoop portions of the dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This gives the cookies room to spread out while baking, achieving that perfect chewy texture.

Step 8: Flatten and Bake
Gently flatten each dough ball with your hand before placing them in the oven. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are golden brown and the centers are soft but set. The tempting aroma of your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies will fill the kitchen, enticing everyone around!

Step 9: Cool Before Serving
Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This brief cooling period ensures that the marshmallows don’t melt out completely. After they’ve cooled, it’s time to enjoy these delightful fall treats!

Pumpkin S’mores Cookies Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to explore these delightful twists and swaps that will make your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies uniquely yours!

Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend and gluten-free graham cracker crumbs to make these cookies accessible for everyone.
Dairy-Free: Swap butter for coconut oil and use dairy-free chocolate chips for a lovely, plant-based treat.
Nutty Addition: Incorporate chopped pecans or walnuts into the dough for an added crunch that complements the soft cookies beautifully.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the spice mix for a subtle heat that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of pumpkin.
Caramel Drizzle: Once cooled, drizzle melted caramel over the cookies for an indulgent sweet touch. This twist elevates their flavor profile significantly!
Pumpkin Spice Chips: Mix in some pumpkin spice chips for an even more intense pumpkin flavor – deliciously fall in every bite!
Butterscotch Delight: Substitute chocolate chips with butterscotch chips for a unique and sweet variation that family and friends will love.
No-Chocolate Version: Skip the chocolate altogether and enrich your cookies with additional marshmallows to focus on the gooey texture.

For more delightful recipes like these, check out my Peanut Butter Cookies or try making gorgeous Cookies and Cream Cupcakes that will bring smiles to every gathering!

Expert Tips for Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

Avoid Overmixing: Gentle mixing is key; overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Aim for just combined dough for the best texture.
Chill if Needed: If your dough seems too soft, chill it in the fridge for 30 minutes. This helps shape the cookies better and prevents spreading.
Watch the Bake Time: Remove cookies when they are soft in the center and the edges are lightly golden. They will firm up as they cool.
Cool Properly: Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes to avoid melted marshmallows escaping; then transfer to a wire rack.
Adapt for Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend and gluten-free graham cracker crumbs to make these Pumpkin S’mores Cookies suitable for everyone!

How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

Airtight Container: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4-5 days to maintain their chewy texture and freshness.

Freezer: For longer preservation, freeze the cookies or prepared dough in a freezer-safe container. They can last up to 3 months.

Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw cookies overnight in the fridge or at room temperature for a few hours before serving them.

Reheating: To savor the gooey marshmallows and chocolate, place cookies in a microwave for a few seconds or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.

Make Ahead Options

These Pumpkin S’mores Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeks! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; just scoop the dough into balls and place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This method helps maintain the cookies’ remarkable texture and flavor. If you’d like to prep even further ahead, you can freeze the shaped cookie dough balls for up to 3 months—simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before baking. When you’re ready to enjoy these delightful treats, just bake from chilled or frozen, adjusting the baking time slightly if necessary. This way, you can revel in the warm, autumn flavors of Pumpkin S’mores Cookies with minimal effort whenever a sweet craving strikes!

What to Serve with Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

These delightful treats are perfect for creating a cozy autumn atmosphere that invites sharing and celebration.

Apple Cider: Warm or chilled, this classic fall drink enhances the flavors of pumpkin and spices in your cookies. Its sweetness complements the s’mores theme beautifully.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture contrasts wonderfully with the chewy cookies, making each bite a delightful experience. Serve a scoop on the side or sandwich it between two cookies for a twist!
Cheese Platter: A variety of mild cheeses can provide a savory balance to the sweetness of the cookies. Include some walnuts or pecans for a crunchy complement.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: Nothing screams fall more than this aromatic espresso treat! Its spicy notes mirror the warm spices of the cookies, creating a cozy pairing that’s perfect for cool evenings.
Chocolate Fondue: Dip leftover cookie halves into melted chocolate for an indulgent treat. The gooey marshmallows and rich chocolate in the cookies make this pairing a dessert lover’s dream come true.
Spiced Hot Chocolate: Cozy up with a warm mug of hot chocolate laced with cinnamon and nutmeg, echoing the flavors in your cookies. The velvety chocolate offers a deliciously comforting contrast to the chewy texture.
S’mores Parfait: Layer crumbled Pumpkin S’mores Cookies, whipped cream, and chocolate sauce in a glass. This fun dessert is a visual treat and accentuates the cookie’s delicious flavors.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing option that adds bright flavors and colors to your spread. The natural sweetness of apples, pears, and berries provides a light contrast to the rich cookies.
Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars: For an extended Halloween theme, serve these creamy bars alongside your cookies. They share that beloved pumpkin flavor while adding a dessert variety.
Chocolate Milk: A classic comfort drink that pairs perfectly with the cookies, enhancing the chocolatey goodness while being loved by both kids and adults!

Pumpkin S’mores Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right pumpkin puree for the cookies?
Absolutely! You can use canned pumpkin puree or make your own from fresh pumpkins. If you choose fresh, roast the pumpkin until tender, scoop out the flesh, and blend it to a smooth consistency. Either option adds wonderful moisture and flavor to your cookies, but make sure to select 100% pure pumpkin puree and avoid pumpkin pie filling as it contains added sugar and spices.

How do I store leftover Pumpkin S’mores Cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay delicious for about 4-5 days. Just make sure to place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking! If your cookies start to dry out, you can add a slice of bread to the container; it’ll help maintain moisture.

Can I freeze Pumpkin S’mores Cookies for later?
Yes! You can freeze either baked cookies or unbaked dough. To freeze baked cookies, allow them to cool completely, then place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, ensuring they don’t touch each other. They’ll last for up to 3 months. For the dough, scoop out each cookie portion, freeze them on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a zip-top bag. When ready to bake, simply let them thaw overnight in the fridge before baking!

What should I do if my cookie dough is too soft?
Very good question! If your dough feels overly soft and sticky, you can refrigerate it for 30 minutes. Chilling helps firm it up so it’s easier to handle and shape. Alternatively, you can add a little extra flour—start with a tablespoon at a time—until you achieve a manageable dough.

Are these cookies gluten-free?
Yes! You can easily make these Pumpkin S’mores Cookies gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and using gluten-free graham cracker crumbs. Make sure to double-check the labels to ensure all ingredients are gluten-free to accommodate any dietary restrictions.

Can I make substitutions for the eggs in this recipe?
Definitely! If you’re looking for a vegan option or have an egg allergy, you can replace the egg with a flax egg. To make a flax egg, mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water, let it sit for about 10 minutes to thicken, and then add it to your cookie dough as usual. It works beautifully to bind the ingredients while keeping your cookies deliciously soft!