It's finally fall, and you're craving something that brings together all those cozy autumn flavors you love. That's exactly where pumpkin s'mores cookies come in. These aren't just any ordinary cookies; they're a game-changer that combines the warm spices of pumpkin with the classic campfire vibes of s'mores. Pumpkin s'mores cookies are the perfect blend of chewy, gooey, and absolutely delicious. Whether you're baking for a Halloween party or just want a tasty weekend treat, pumpkin s'mores cookies deliver every single time.
What makes pumpkin s'mores cookies so special is how they capture the best of both worlds. You get that rich pumpkin flavor mixed with melty chocolate and marshmallow in every bite. These fall treats are easy to make and always impress friends and family. If you've been looking for a dessert that screams autumn, pumpkin s'mores cookies are your answer.
Background & Why This Recipe Stands Out
There's something magical about pumpkin desserts when September rolls around. Pumpkin s'mores cookies have become a favorite because they hit all those autumn cravings at once. They're soft on the inside, with that perfect balance of chocolate and marshmallow. The pumpkin spice flavor ties everything together beautifully. This treat brings together nostalgic campfire memories with the cozy feeling of fall baking, making it a recipe worth mastering.
What really sets pumpkin s'mores cookies apart is their versatility. You can make them for holiday gatherings, Halloween parties, or simply as a weeknight dessert that feels fancy but doesn't take forever. The combination of gooey marshmallow and chocolate melting into the warm pumpkin cookie base creates something truly special. These aren't just cookies; they're an experience. Pumpkin s'mores cookies prove that fall baking doesn't have to be complicated to taste incredible.
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Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
- All-purpose flour (or almond flour for gluten-free pumpkin s'mores cookies) ;
- Pumpkin puree (pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling) ;
- Butter, softened ;
- Coconut sugar (or regular brown sugar) ;
- Egg ;
- Vanilla extract ;
- Pumpkin pie spice ;
- Baking soda ;
- Salt ;
- Chocolate chips (swap for dairy-free chocolate chips for a vegan version)
For Topping
- Marshmallows, chopped into small pieces ;
- Graham cracker crumbs ;
- Extra chocolate chips for drizzling
See recipe card for quantities.
Instructions
Step 1; Prepare Your Ingredients and Preheat
1. Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line your baking sheets with parchment paper so your pumpkin s'mores cookies won't stick. Gather all your ingredients and measure them out before you begin mixing; this makes the process smoother and faster.
Step 2; Mix Your Wet Ingredients
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine softened butter and coconut sugar. Beat them together until the mixture looks light and fluffy, which should take about 2 to 3 minutes. Add in your egg and vanilla extract, stirring well. Now fold in the pumpkin puree slowly, mixing until everything is combined evenly. This creates the foundation for your delicious pumpkin s'mores cookies.
Step 3; Combine Dry Ingredients and Fold Together
3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to your wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Don't overmix; you want your pumpkin s'mores cookies to stay soft and tender. Fold in the chocolate chips carefully, then gently mix in about three-quarters of your chopped marshmallows to distribute them throughout the dough.
Step 4; Bake and Add Toppings
4. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto your prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the edges are set but the centers still look slightly soft. Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle the remaining marshmallows and graham cracker crumbs on top of each warm pumpkin s'mores cookie. Return to the oven for just 1 to 2 minutes until marshmallows start to melt. Let them cool for a few minutes before enjoying.
Expert Cooking Tips
Pro Tips for Perfect Pumpkin S'mores Cookies
Don't Skip the Cooling Step ; Pumpkin s'mores cookies need a minute or two to set after baking. This prevents them from falling apart when you pick them up and gives you that perfect texture where the bottom is crispy and the inside stays chewy.
Toast Your Marshmallows Lightly ; For that authentic s'mores experience, lightly toast your marshmallows under the broiler for 30 seconds. This gives pumpkin s'mores cookies that classic browned marshmallow flavor you remember from campfires.
Use Pure Pumpkin Puree ; Many bakers make the mistake of using pumpkin pie filling instead of pure puree. The filling has added sugar and spices that will throw off the flavor balance in your recipe. Always check your label when buying pumpkin for pumpkin s'mores cookies.
These expert tips ensure your pumpkin s'mores cookies come out perfectly every single time. The key is paying attention to small details like using quality ingredients and not rushing the cooling process. Take your time with these steps, and you'll have cookies that taste like they came from a professional bakery.
Avoid Overmixing the Dough ; When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until everything comes together. Overmixing activates the gluten in your flour, which can make pumpkin s'mores cookies tough instead of soft.
Marshmallow Pro Move ; Chill your marshmallows in the freezer for 10 minutes before chopping them. They're easier to cut and won't stick together as much during mixing.
Recipe Variations & Substitutions
Gluten-Free Pumpkin S'mores Cookies
Swap regular all-purpose flour with a one-to-one gluten-free flour blend. This keeps your pumpkin s'mores cookies just as delicious while making them safe for anyone with gluten sensitivity. The texture turns out almost identical, and nobody will notice the difference.
Vegan Pumpkin S'mores Cookies
Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water). Use vegan butter instead of regular butter and swap chocolate chips for dairy-free versions. These vegan pumpkin s'mores cookies are surprisingly amazing and prove that plant-based baking doesn't mean sacrificing flavor.
Mini Pumpkin S'mores Cookie Bars
Instead of dropping dough onto baking sheets, press it into a greased 9x9 pan. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, then add marshmallows and graham crackers on top for the final minute. Cut into squares once cooled. This version of pumpkin s'mores cookies is perfect for feeding a crowd without the fuss of dropping individual cookies.
These variations show how adaptable pumpkin s'mores cookies really are. Whether you're dealing with dietary restrictions or simply want to mix things up, you can customize this recipe. The beauty of pumpkin s'mores cookies is that they work with almost any substitution you throw at them.
- Dark Chocolate Twist ; Use dark chocolate chips instead of milk chocolate for a more sophisticated flavor profile that complements the pumpkin spice beautifully.
- Salted Marshmallow Version ; Look for salted marshmallows at specialty stores, or sprinkle a tiny pinch of sea salt on top of regular marshmallows. This adds an interesting contrast to the sweetness.
Equipment Recommendations
- Cookie Sheets ; Use flat, light-colored baking sheets for even baking. Dark pans can brown the bottoms too quickly on pumpkin s'mores cookies.
- Parchment Paper ; This isn't optional; it prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy for your pumpkin s'mores cookies.
- Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer ; Makes beating butter and sugar infinitely easier, though you can absolutely do this by hand with some elbow grease.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons ; Accurate measurements are crucial for consistent results with pumpkin s'mores cookies.
- Silicone Spatula ; Perfect for folding ingredients together gently without overworking your dough.
Having the right equipment makes baking pumpkin s'mores cookies faster and more enjoyable. You don't need anything fancy; basic baking tools will get the job done beautifully.
Storage & Meal Prep Tips
Keeping Your Cookies Fresh
Store your pumpkin s'mores cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They stay soft and delicious when kept away from air and moisture. If you want them to last longer, keep pumpkin s'mores cookies in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Freezing is absolutely possible with these treats. Place cooled pumpkin s'mores cookies in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between layers. They'll keep frozen for up to 2 months, and you can thaw them at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving. This makes pumpkin s'mores cookies perfect for meal prep during busy seasons.
Make-Ahead Strategy
Prepare your cookie dough the night before and store it in the fridge. When you're ready to bake, the dough is ready to go. You can scoop cookies directly onto baking sheets and bake them fresh. This approach lets you enjoy warm, fresh pumpkin s'mores cookies with minimal effort.
These storage methods ensure your pumpkin s'mores cookies stay delicious throughout the week. Planning ahead makes it easy to have these tasty treats on hand whenever you want them.
Grandma's Secret That Changed Everything
The real magic behind incredible pumpkin s'mores cookies lies in one simple step; toasting your marshmallows briefly before they meet the warm cookie. This isn't just about making them look pretty. When marshmallows hit heat, they caramelize just slightly on the outside while staying gooey inside. This creates a depth of flavor that regular pumpkin cookies simply don't have.
Here's another game-changer that grandmas have known for years; let your cookies cool for exactly 90 seconds before adding the marshmallow topping. This timing is everything. If you add marshmallows while cookies are too hot, they melt completely and slide off. Too cool, and the pumpkin s'mores cookies won't have enough residual heat to get that perfect gooey consistency. This simple timing trick transforms pumpkin s'mores cookies from good to absolutely unforgettable.
FAQ
What Cookies Can I Use for S'mores?
The classic choice is graham crackers, but pumpkin cookies use the cookie itself as the base instead. You can also use digestive biscuits, gingersnaps, or even chocolate wafers. The key is choosing something sturdy enough to hold up to the marshmallow and chocolate without falling apart. Pumpkin s'mores cookies eliminate this problem by making the whole thing a single delicious package.
Are S'mores Cookies Being Discontinued?
No, s'mores cookies in all their forms, including pumpkin s'mores cookies, are here to stay. They've become such a beloved dessert that they're now a permanent fixture in many bakeries and home kitchens. Expect pumpkin s'mores cookies to remain popular, especially during fall and holiday seasons.
What's the Secret to a Gooey S'mores Cookie?
The secret is all about timing and temperature. Pumpkin s'mores cookies need to come out of the oven while they're still slightly underbaked in the center. Add marshmallows while the cookies are warm enough to make them tacky but not so hot that they disappear. This balance creates that signature gooey texture everyone craves in pumpkin s'mores cookies.
What Is Michelle Obama's Favorite Cookie?
Michelle Obama's favorite cookie is actually a classic chocolate chip cookie. While we can't confirm if she's tried pumpkin s'mores cookies specifically, we know that great cookies are made with quality ingredients and love. These pumpkin s'mores cookies are definitely worthy of a former First Lady's approval.
Your Pumpkin S'mores Journey Starts Now
You now have everything you need to master the art of making pumpkin s'mores cookies that'll have everyone asking for your recipe. These fall treats combine the comfort of pumpkin with the joy of marshmallow and chocolate. Whether you're making classic pumpkin cookies or trying one of the fun variations, you're creating memories one bite at a time.
Don't stop here though. Once you've perfected pumpkin s'mores cookies, try our S'mores Pizza Recipe for a fun twist on the classic campfire combo, or dive into our Pumpkin Brownies Recipe to explore more ways to celebrate fall flavors. These recipes pair beautifully with pumpkin s'mores cookies on any dessert spread. Your kitchen is about to become the go-to spot for all the best fall treats in your neighborhood.
With love from my kitchen to yours,
Aubrey James
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Pumpkin S’mores Cookies Recipe
Equipment
- 1 Baking sheet Use light-colored for even baking
- 1 Parchment paper Prevents sticking
- 1 Mixing bowl Large size for combining ingredients
- 1 Hand or Stand Mixer For creaming butter and sugar
- 1 Silicone spatula For folding ingredients gently
- 1 Measuring cups/spoons For accuracy
Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
- 1 cup all-purpose flour or gluten-free blend
- 0.5 cup pumpkin puree pure pumpkin, not pie filling
- 0.25 cup butter softened
- 0.25 cup coconut sugar or brown sugar
- 1 egg room temperature
- 0.5 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 0.25 teaspoon baking soda
- 0.25 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 cup chocolate chips dairy-free if vegan
For the Topping
- 1 cup marshmallows chopped
- 0.5 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 2 tablespoon chocolate chips for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F and line baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Beat butter and sugar until fluffy, then add egg, vanilla, and pumpkin puree.
- Whisk flour, pumpkin spice, baking soda, and salt; combine with wet mix.
- Fold in chocolate chips and most marshmallows.
- Scoop dough, bake 10–12 minutes, then top with marshmallows and crumbs.
- Broil for 30 seconds for toasted marshmallows if desired.
- Cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before serving.
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