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 simply satisfying your sweet tooth, these cookies blend traditional s’mores elements with the delightful taste of pumpkin. Each cookie is a delicious treat that will impress family and friends alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these cookies are perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Flavorful Combination: The rich flavors of pumpkin and chocolate meld beautifully, creating a unique twist on classic cookies.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy these cookies as a dessert or snack anytime; they pair wonderfully with coffee or tea.
• Fun for All Ages: Kids will love helping to make these cookies, especially when it comes to mixing in the marshmallows and chocolate.
• Perfect for Sharing: With 24 servings, you’ll have plenty of cookies to share at parties, gatherings, or just with your family.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare pumpkin s’mores cookies effectively, you’ll need a few essential tools. Gathering these beforehand will streamline your baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Cookie scoop or spoon
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients efficiently. Use different sizes for wet and dry ingredients to ensure proper mixing.
• Baking sheet: A good quality baking sheet ensures even baking. Lining it with parchment paper helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.

Ingredients

For the Cookie Base

• 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 S’mores Elements

• 1 Cup chocolate chips
• 1 Cup mini vegan marshmallows
• 8 graham crackers (broken into small pieces)
• 1 Teaspoon food coloring (orange, optional)
• ½ Cup chocolate chips
• Mini vegan 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 prepare for baking.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl:
1. Cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
2. This process incorporates air into the mixture, giving your cookies a nice texture.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

Beat in:
– The pumpkin puree,
– The egg,
– The vanilla extract until well combined.
If using orange food coloring, add it during this step to achieve that festive hue.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl:
1. Whisk together the flour, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt.
2. This ensures an even distribution of dry ingredients throughout the dough.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture:
– Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix as this can make your cookies tough.

Step 6: Fold in S’mores Ingredients

Gently fold in:
– Chocolate chips,
– Mini vegan marshmallows,
– Graham cracker pieces until evenly distributed in the dough.

Step 7: Shape the Cookies

Using a small cookie scoop or spoon:
– Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto prepared baking sheets.
– Space them about 2 inches apart for even baking.

Step 8: Add Toppings

Top each cookie dough ball by pressing in:
– Extra vegan marshmallows,
– Chocolate chips,
– Pieces of graham crackers into each one for added texture and flavor.

Step 9: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for:
– 12 to 14 minutes or until edges are golden but centers remain soft.

Step 10: Cool Down

Allow 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 to enjoy their full flavor!

How to Serve Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

Serving pumpkin s’mores cookies can elevate any gathering or cozy evening at home. These delightful treats are perfect for sharing and can be paired with various accompaniments that enhance their flavors.

With Hot Chocolate

• A warm cup of hot chocolate complements the sweet and spicy notes of the cookies, creating a cozy pairing.

With Vanilla Ice Cream

• Serve the cookies warm alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast in temperature and texture.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a dessert platter with other fall-themed treats like mini pumpkin pies or spiced cupcakes for an inviting presentation.

With Coffee or Tea

• Pair these cookies with your favorite coffee or tea to create a delightful afternoon snack that warms the heart.

As Party Favors

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

How to Perfect Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

Perfecting pumpkin s’mores cookies is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out delicious every time.

• Use room temperature ingredients: This helps create a smooth batter and results in soft, chewy cookies.
• Don’t overmix: Gently combine the ingredients until just incorporated to maintain a tender texture.
• Chill the dough: Chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking can help the cookies hold their shape better.
• Adjust baking time: Keep an eye on your cookies, as ovens may vary. Bake until edges are golden while keeping the center soft.
• Experiment with toppings: Feel free to add more chocolate chips or marshmallows on top before baking for extra gooeyness.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

When serving pumpkin s’mores cookies, consider pairing them with side dishes that enhance their flavor profile. Here are some great suggestions:

1. Apple Cider: The sweetness and acidity of apple cider balance the rich flavors of the cookies wonderfully.
2. Pumpkin Soup: A warm bowl of pumpkin soup offers a savory counterpoint that complements the cookie’s sweetness.
3. Cheese Platter: Include soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese which provide creamy textures that contrast nicely with the chewy cookies.
4. Spiced Nuts: A mix of spiced nuts adds crunch and savory elements that make an excellent pairing with sweet treats.
5. Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad brings brightness and freshness to your dessert table, enhancing overall enjoyment.
6. Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over the cookies can elevate their flavor and make for an indulgent treat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When baking pumpkin s’mores cookies, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for:

• Incorrect Butter Temperature – Using butter that is too cold or melted can affect the texture of your cookies. Always use room temperature butter for a light and fluffy mix.
• Overmixing the Dough – Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined for a soft, chewy texture.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Properly – Accurate measurements are key in baking. Use measuring cups and spoons to ensure you include the right amount of each ingredient.
• Ignoring Baking Time – Baking time is crucial for perfect cookies. Keep an eye on them as ovens can vary; remove them when the edges are golden but the centers remain soft.
• Skipping the Cooling Rack – Allowing cookies to cool on a wire rack prevents them from becoming soggy. Always transfer them after a few minutes.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers of cookies to avoid sticking.

Freezing Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

• Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to an airtight container or freezer bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F and bake for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Heat individual cookies in short bursts (10-15 seconds) until warm.
• Stovetop – Use a skillet on low heat, flipping frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about pumpkin s’mores cookies, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

What makes pumpkin s’mores cookies special?

Pumpkin s’mores cookies combine rich pumpkin flavor with gooey marshmallows and chocolate, creating a unique twist on classic s’mores.

Can I substitute ingredients in pumpkin s’mores cookies?

Yes! You can replace chocolate chips with white chocolate or use different spices if you prefer.

How long do pumpkin s’mores cookies last?

These cookies can last up to 5 days at room temperature when stored properly and up to 3 months in the freezer.

Are pumpkin s’mores cookies suitable for vegans?

Using mini vegan marshmallows and ensuring no dairy-based ingredients are included makes these cookies suitable for vegan diets.

What is the best way to store pumpkin s’mores cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

These pumpkin s’mores cookies are not only delightful but also versatile, allowing you to customize flavors and ingredients based on your preferences. With their soft texture and rich flavors, they make a perfect treat for any occasion. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!