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, Halloween parties, or simply to enjoy at home, these cookies combine the comforting taste of pumpkin with the classic s’mores experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe is simple and straightforward, perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Flavorful Combination: The blend of pumpkin, chocolate, and marshmallows creates a delightful taste that everyone will love.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a festive holiday treat or a cozy night in, these cookies are ideal for sharing with friends and family.
• Soft Texture: These cookies are incredibly soft and chewy, making them irresistible.
• Versatile Treat: Customize your pumpkin s’mores cookies by adding nuts or adjusting the spices to match your taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking experience. Having everything ready will make the process enjoyable and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups
• Electric mixer
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Cookie scoop

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without mess.
• Electric mixer: Makes creaming butter and sugar effortless.
• Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy surface for even baking of cookies.

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 marshmallows
– 8 graham crackers (broken into small pieces)
– 1 Teaspoon food coloring (orange, optional)
– ½ Cup chocolate chips
– mini 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 the Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Step 3: Add Pumpkin and Egg

Beat in the pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined. If using it, add the orange food coloring 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 Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined; avoid over mixing.

Step 6: Fold in Add-ins

Gently fold in the chocolate chips, mini 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: Top with Extras

Press some extra mini marshmallows, chocolate chips, and graham cracker pieces into each cookie dough ball for added texture.

Step 9: Bake Cookies

Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 14 minutes. The edges should be golden while the center remains soft.

Step 10: Cool on Baking Sheet

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 the pumpkin s’mores cookies at room temperature for maximum flavor enjoyment!

How to Serve Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

Pumpkin s’mores cookies are delightful treats that can be enjoyed in many ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your cookie experience.

With a Glass of Milk

• Pair these cookies with a cold glass of milk for a classic combination that balances the sweetness and richness.

As a Dessert Platter

• Arrange pumpkin s’mores cookies on a festive platter alongside other fall treats, like caramel apples or pumpkin pie bites, for a seasonal dessert spread.

Warm with Ice Cream

• Serve the warm cookies with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream on top for an indulgent dessert that melts in your mouth.

Drizzled with Chocolate

• Drizzle melted chocolate over the cookies just before serving for an extra touch of sweetness and elegance.

At Fall Gatherings

• Bring these cookies to parties or potlucks during the fall. They’re sure to be a hit among guests looking for seasonal flavors.

With Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy your pumpkin s’mores cookies alongside your favorite coffee or tea. The flavors complement each other beautifully, making for a cozy treat.

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How to Perfect Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

To ensure your pumpkin s’mores cookies turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Measure ingredients accurately: Use proper measuring cups and spoons for precise amounts, which can significantly affect the texture and taste of the cookies.

• Use room temperature butter: This contributes to the perfect creamy texture when creaming with sugars, leading to soft and chewy cookies.

• Do not overmix: Mixing just until combined helps maintain the cookie’s softness. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.

• Chill dough if needed: If your dough is too soft, chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps maintain shape while baking.

• Monitor baking time closely: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake; they should be golden around the edges but still soft in the center.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

Pumpkin s’mores cookies pair wonderfully with several side dishes that complement their flavors. Here’s a list of great options.

1. Spiced Apple Cider: A warm mug of spiced apple cider brings out the autumn flavors in your cookies, creating a cozy pairing.

2. Pecan Pie Bars: These nutty bars add crunchy texture and sweetness that balance well with the soft pumpkin s’mores cookies.

3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The caramelized sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes enhances the cookie flavors while providing a savory contrast.

4. Maple Glazed Carrots: These tender and sweet carrots offer a fresh side dish that complements the rich taste of pumpkin.

5. Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses can provide a savory counterpoint to the sweetness of your pumpkin s’mores cookies.

6. Autumn Salad: A salad featuring mixed greens, cranberries, and walnuts adds freshness and crunch that pairs nicely with dessert flavors.

7. Cinnamon Sugar Donuts: For an extra sweet treat, serve mini donuts dusted in cinnamon sugar alongside your delicious pumpkin s’mores cookies.

8. Chocolate Fondue: Create a fun dessert experience by pairing your cookies with chocolate fondue for dipping!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When baking pumpkin s’mores cookies, even the smallest errors can affect your delicious results. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Ignoring measurements: Accurate measurements are crucial. Use measuring cups and spoons to ensure you add the right amounts of each ingredient.
• Overmixing the dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined for softer, chewier pumpkin s’mores cookies.
• Not chilling the dough: If your dough is too warm, cookies may spread too much while baking. Chill the dough for 30 minutes to maintain shape.
• Skipping the parchment paper: Without parchment paper, cookies may stick to the baking sheet. Always line your sheet for easy removal and perfect results.
• Baking at the wrong temperature: Ensure your oven is correctly preheated. An oven thermometer can help maintain the right temperature throughout baking.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• For best texture, place parchment paper between layers of cookies.

Freezing Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

• Freeze baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be stored for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and warm cookies for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, covered with a lid.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about pumpkin s’mores cookies that might help you while baking:

How do I make pumpkin s’mores cookies from scratch?

You can easily make them by combining ingredients like butter, sugars, pumpkin puree, and chocolate chips, then baking them according to the recipe instructions.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes! If you prefer fresh pumpkin, roast and puree it beforehand. Ensure it has a similar consistency as canned puree.

Are pumpkin s’mores cookies suitable for freezing?

Absolutely! You can freeze them after baking or even freeze unbaked dough balls for later use.

What can I substitute if I don’t have graham crackers?

You can use crushed digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers as an alternative to graham crackers in this recipe.

How should I store leftover pumpkin s’mores cookies?

Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them if you want them to last longer.

Final Thoughts

Pumpkin s’mores cookies are not only tasty but also versatile. They combine comforting flavors perfect for fall and holidays. Feel free to customize them by adding nuts or using different types of chocolate. Give this delightful recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!