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, or just a delightful treat to brighten your day, these cookies combine the rich taste of pumpkin with the gooey goodness of s’mores.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of pumpkin puree and chocolate chips creates a unique taste that is both comforting and delicious.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you’ll whip up a batch in no time.
• Versatile Treat: Great for any occasion—from holiday celebrations to casual get-togethers, everyone will love them!
• Soft and Chewy Texture: These cookies have just the right amount of chewiness, making them incredibly satisfying with every bite.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin baking these scrumptious pumpkin s’mores cookies, gather your tools. Having everything at hand will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Cookie scoop or spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: Makes creaming butter and sugars effortless, resulting in a light texture.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without mess.
• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for baking evenly cooked cookies.

Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

• 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

For the Dry Ingredients

• 2 ¼ Cups all-purpose flour
• 1 Teaspoon baking soda
• 1 Teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
• ½ Teaspoon salt

For the Mix-ins

• 1 Cup chocolate chips
• 1 Cup mini vegan marshmallows
• 8 grachicken chicken ham crackers (broken into small pieces)
• 1 Teaspoon food coloring (orange, optional)
• ½ Cup chocolate chips (for topping)
• Mini vegan marshmallows (for topping)
• Grachicken chicken ham crackers (crushed for topping)

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. This should take about 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Beat in the pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined. If you’re using orange food coloring for a festive touch, add it at this stage.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Make sure there are no lumps.

Step 5: Mix Dry Ingredients into Wet Mixture

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix until just combined; be careful not to over-mix as this can affect cookie texture.

Step 6: Fold in Mix-ins

Gently fold in the chocolate chips, mini vegan marshmallows, and broken grachicken chicken ham cracker pieces until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

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 to allow for spreading during baking.

Step 8: Add Toppings

Press a few extra vegan marshmallows, chocolate chips, and/or grachicken chicken ham cracker pieces into the top of each cookie dough ball for added flavor.

Step 9: Bake Cookies

Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 14 minutes. The edges should be golden while the center remains soft—this is key for that chewy texture!

Step 10: Cool Down

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 and enjoy!

How to Serve Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

Pumpkin s’mores cookies are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. Their rich flavors and soft texture make them a fantastic dessert option or snack. 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 combo that balances the sweetness and richness.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a beautifully decorated dessert platter for gatherings, adding colorful garnishes like fresh fruits or edible flowers.

Warm with Ice Cream

• Serve warm pumpkin s’mores cookies topped with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for an indulgent treat.

As Party Favors

• Package individual cookies in clear bags tied with ribbons as sweet party favors for guests to enjoy later.

With Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy these cookies alongside your favorite coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack; the spices complement warm beverages beautifully.

How to Perfect Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

Baking pumpkin s’mores cookies can be simple, but a few tips can elevate your results. Keep these in mind for perfect cookies every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and egg are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix the dough until just combined to keep the cookies soft and chewy.

• Chill the Dough: If time allows, chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps the flavors meld and prevents spreading.

• Add Extra Toppings: Before baking, press additional chocolate chips and mini vegan marshmallows into the tops of each cookie for extra gooeyness.

• Bake Until Just Golden: Remove the cookies from the oven when they just start to turn golden at the edges. They will continue cooking on the baking sheet.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

Pairing side dishes with pumpkin s’mores cookies can create a delightful spread. Here are some ideas that complement their flavors well.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad adds a nice contrast to the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and seasonal fruits for a balanced dish that pairs well with sweet treats.
3. Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses can provide savory contrasts that enhance your cookie experience.
4. Mini Pumpkin Muffins: Keep the pumpkin theme going with moist mini muffins; these are great for sharing at gatherings.
5. Chocolate Fondue: Set up a chocolate fondue station where guests can dip pieces of cookie along with fruits or marshmallows.
6. Hot Chocolate Bar: Create an inviting hot chocolate bar with toppings like whipped cream, cinnamon, and shaved chocolate to enjoy alongside your cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making pumpkin s’mores cookies can be fun, but there are common mistakes that can ruin the experience. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Not using room temperature ingredients: Using cold butter or eggs can lead to a dense cookie. Make sure your butter is at room temperature and your egg is slightly warmed.
• Overmixing the dough: Overmixing can result in tough cookies. Mix until just combined for a soft texture.
• Skipping the cooling step: Allowing the cookies to cool on the baking sheet helps them set properly. Don’t rush this step; cooling enhances their flavor and texture.
• Incorrect oven temperature: An oven that’s too hot or too cool will affect baking time and cookie texture. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer for accuracy.
• Neglecting to measure ingredients accurately: Baking is a science, so precise measurements are crucial. Use proper measuring cups and spoons for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store pumpkin s’mores cookies in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

• Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen.
• Transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper.
• They will keep well for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place cookies on a baking sheet, and heat for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet on low heat for about 1-2 minutes per side until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about pumpkin s’mores cookies.

How do I make gluten-free Pumpkin S’mores Cookies?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Make sure it contains xanthan gum for proper structure.

Can I add nuts to Pumpkin S’mores Cookies?

Yes! Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans can add great texture and flavor. Just fold them into the dough before baking.

What’s the best way to store Pumpkin S’mores Cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

Can I use other types of chocolate in Pumpkin S’mores Cookies?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with dark chocolate or white chocolate chips according to your preference.

How can I customize my Pumpkin S’mores Cookies?

You can add different spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or switch out mini marshmallows for larger ones, adjusting baking time as needed.

Final Thoughts

Pumpkin s’mores cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. The combination of pumpkin and chocolate provides a unique twist on classic flavors, making them perfect for any occasion. Feel free to get creative with mix-ins or toppings based on your preferences!