Table of Contents
Introduction about Pumpkin S’mores Cookies
Have you ever wondered how you could combine the classic, gooey goodness of s’mores with the warm, comforting flavors of fall? Look no further! Pumpkin S’mores Cookies are here to save the day! These delightful treats are not just cookies; they are a celebration of autumn in every bite. Imagine sinking your teeth into a chewy cookie, bursting with the flavors of pumpkin, chocolate, and marshmallows, all while enjoying the nostalgia of a campfire treat.
But what makes Pumpkin S’mores Cookies so special? The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. It’s easy enough for even the most novice bakers to tackle, yet it has that wow factor that will impress everyone, from family to friends. Whether you’re cozying up at home or hosting a fall gathering, these cookies will surely bring joy and warmth to your table.
Let’s dive into this seasonal delight! With the perfect blend of pumpkin spice and classic s’mores ingredients, you’ll understand why these cookies are irresistible. Are you ready to make some magic in the kitchen? Read on!
Key Benefits of Pumpkin S’mores Cookies
Why you’ll love this recipe
- Delicious flavor combination: The mix of pumpkin and chocolate offers a unique twist on classic cookies.
- Easy to make: With straightforward steps, you don’t need to be a baking expert.
- Quick preparation: These cookies bake in just 12 to 14 minutes, perfect for a last-minute treat.
- Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love these cookies, making them a hit for all ages!
- Seasonal delight: Great for fall and Thanksgiving gatherings, capturing the essence of autumn.
- Customizable: You can easily tweak the recipe to cater to various tastes and dietary needs.
What makes it stand out
These Pumpkin S’mores Cookies are more than just dessert; they’re a culinary expression of the fall season. While regular s’mores evoke memories of summer nights under the stars, adding pumpkin gives them a delightful autumn twist. The use of pumpkin puree not only enhances flavor but also adds moisture and chewiness to the cookies.
Another standout feature is their versatility. Want to jazz things up? Feel free to add nuts, swap out chocolate chips for butterscotch, or even use flavored marshmallows. The possibilities are endless, making this recipe adaptable for every occasion or taste preference.
Ingredients for Pumpkin S’mores Cookies
Complete ingredient list with measurements
To make these delicious Pumpkin S’mores Cookies, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 Cup unsalted butter (at room temperature)
- ¾ Cup brown sugar (packed)
- ¼ Cup granulated sugar
- ½ Cup pumpkin puree
- 1 large egg
- 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 marshmallows
- 8 graham crackers (broken into small pieces)
- 1 Teaspoon food coloring (orange, optional)
Substitutes and alternatives
If you want to customize the recipe further or have dietary restrictions, here are some common swaps:
- Butter: Use coconut oil or a dairy-free butter alternative for a dairy-free version.
- Pumpkin puree: Substitute with applesauce or mashed bananas for a different flavor.
- Chocolate chips: Try white chocolate or carob chips instead, depending on your taste.
- Egg: For a vegan option, you can replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water).
- Flour: Use gluten-free all-purpose flour to make this recipe gluten-free.
How to Make Pumpkin S’mores Cookies – Step-by-Step Directions
Ready to dive into baking Pumpkin S’mores Cookies? Here’s how to do it in simple steps:
Step 1 – Prep your workspace and ingredients
Before you start, make sure your kitchen is tidy, and all the ingredients are gathered. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2 – Cream the butter and sugars
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Beat them together using an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 3–5 minutes.
Step 3 – Mix in pumpkin, egg, and vanilla
Next, add the pumpkin puree, large egg, and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. If you’re using orange food coloring, add it here as well. Mix until everything is well combined and smooth.
Step 4 – Combine dry ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. This ensures that the leavening agent is evenly distributed throughout the flour.
Step 5 – Bring it all together
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Gently mix until it’s just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this will keep your cookies tender!
Step 6 – Fold in the goodies
Now comes the fun part! Gently fold in the chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, and broken graham cracker pieces. Make sure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 7 – Scoop the dough
Using a small cookie scoop or a spoon, drop rounded tablespoons of the cookie dough onto your prepared baking sheet. Space them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading during baking.
Step 8 – Add toppings
To make these cookies even more appealing, press a few extra mini marshmallows, chocolate chips, and graham cracker pieces on top of each cookie dough ball. This will create a lovely appearance once they’re baked.
Step 9 – Bake to perfection
Bake your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies in the preheated oven for 12 to 14 minutes. The edges should be golden, but the center should remain soft and slightly underbaked—this is the secret to a chewy cookie!
Step 10 – Cool and enjoy
Once baked, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Allow them to cool completely. Now it’s time to serve and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions for Pumpkin S’mores Cookies
Best occasions to serve this dish
Pumpkin S’mores Cookies are perfect for a variety of occasions, including:
- Family gatherings during the fall
- Halloween parties
- Thanksgiving dessert tables
- Cozy nights in with a warm beverage
- Bake sales or potlucks
What to serve with it
Elevate your cookie experience! Here’s a list of pairing suggestions:
- Hot Chocolate: A warm, chocolatey drink that complements the cookie goodness.
- Chai Tea: The spicy flavors of chai are a great match for pumpkin.
- Coffee: Pair with a hot cup of coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.
- Ice Cream: Serve alongside vanilla or pumpkin pie-flavored ice cream for a decadent dessert.
Storing Pumpkin S’mores Cookies Properly
Best storage practices
To keep your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies fresh and delicious:
- At room temperature: Store them in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- In the fridge: They can last for up to 10 days in the refrigerator.
- In the freezer: Freeze them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Reheating and freezing tips
If you want to enjoy warm cookies later:
- To reheat: Microwave them for about 10-15 seconds or bake them at 300°F until warmed through.
- To thaw: Simply move frozen cookies to the fridge for a few hours or let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before enjoying.
Tips & Tricks for Pumpkin S’mores Cookies
Mistakes to avoid
- Overmixing the dough: This can lead to tough cookies, so mix just until combined.
- Underbaking: If your cookies don’t slightly underbake, they won’t be chewy. Keep an eye on them!
- Ignoring the chill: For super chewy cookies, it can help to chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking.
Extra tips for better results
- Use room temperature ingredients: This ensures better mixing and a smoother dough.
- Experiment with flavors: Add nuts or different spices to create your unique version of Pumpkin S’mores Cookies.
- Keep dough uniform: Use a cookie scoop to maintain even sizes for baking.
Recipe Variations of Pumpkin S’mores Cookies
Creative twists
- Nutty addition: Fold in chopped pecans or walnuts for a lovely crunch.
- Different spices: Try adding a pinch of cinnamon, ginger, or even cayenne for a kick!
- Holiday twists: Use peppermint marshmallows for a festive twist in winter.
Dietary adjustments
- Gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Dairy-free: Use dairy-free butter and chocolate chips in your recipe.
- Vegan: Replace the egg with a flax egg, and ensure all other ingredients are vegan-friendly.
Conclusion about Pumpkin S’mores Cookies
In conclusion, Pumpkin S’mores Cookies are a delightful way to celebrate the flavors of fall. Easy to make, packed with yummy ingredients, and flexible for various dietary needs, it’s a recipe you’ll want to come back to year after year. Not only will they satisfy your sweet tooth, but they also bring warmth and joy to any gathering.
I encourage you to give this recipe a try! Share these cookies with family and friends, and watch how quickly they disappear. Don’t forget to leave feedback on how your cookies turned out and any fun variations you tried. Happy baking!
FAQs about Pumpkin S’mores Cookies
What if it doesn’t turn out right?
If your cookies don’t come out as expected, don’t fret! Check if you measured your ingredients accurately and followed the steps closely. Sometimes, baking time can vary, so consider adjusting it next time.
Can I prepare it ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. You can also scoop the cookie dough balls and freeze them for up to 3 months; bake them straight from the freezer by adding an extra minute or two to the baking time.
What are the best ingredient substitutions?
Common substitutions include using coconut oil for butter, gluten-free flour for all-purpose flour, or a flax egg instead of a regular egg. You can also experiment with different types of chocolate chips.
How long can it be stored?
Stored in an airtight container, these cookies can last at room temperature for about 1 week, in the fridge for 10 days, and frozen for up to 3 months.
Can I use store-bought dough or crust?
While you can use store-bought cookie dough, the unique flavor of homemade Pumpkin S’mores Cookies really shines through! Making your dough from scratch is highly recommended for the best taste.
Is this recipe kid-friendly or family-appropriate?
Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for all ages. Kids will love the fun of adding marshmallows and chocolate chips, making it a great family baking project.
Can I make this recipe allergen-free?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe to be allergen-free using substitutes like gluten-free flour, dairy-free butter, and vegan marshmallows to cater to various dietary needs.
Pumpkin S’mores Cookies
Equipment
- Mixing Bowls
- Electric Mixer
- Whisk
- Cookie scoop or spoon
- Baking Sheets
- Parchment Paper
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter room temperature
- ¾ cup brown sugar packed
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup pumpkin puree
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 8 graham crackers broken into pieces
- 1 tsp orange food coloring optional
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream together butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (3–5 minutes).
- Mix in pumpkin puree, egg, vanilla, and optional food coloring.
- In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, and graham cracker pieces.
- Scoop dough into tablespoon-sized portions and place on baking sheets, spacing 2 inches apart.
- Press a few extra marshmallows, chocolate chips, and graham pieces on top of each dough ball.
- Bake 12–14 minutes until edges are golden and centers are soft.
- Cool cookies on a wire rack before serving.