Name: Pumpkin S’mores Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 34 min
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); ½ Cup chocolate chips; mini marshmallows; graham crackers (crushed)

Introduction to Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, there's nothing quite like embracing the flavors of fall with Pumpkin S’mores Cookies. Yes, you heard that right! This delightful twist combines the beloved taste of pumpkin with the classic s’mores experience, creating a cookie that's sure to impress friends and family alike. Imagine biting into a soft, chewy cookie that oozes with chocolate, surprises you with fluffy marshmallows, and warms your soul with the rich spice of pumpkin pie.

Why Pumpkin S’mores Cookies are the ultimate fall treat?

There’s something undeniably comforting about s’mores; they evoke memories of cozy bonfires and laughter-filled evenings. Now, when you add pumpkin and seasonal spices, it elevates this nostalgic treat into a delicious fall indulgence. With wholesome ingredients like pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice, these cookies not only taste amazing but also bring a festive spirit to your baking.

Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself after a long day, these cookies are the perfect mix of sweet and savory. Don’t just take my word for it—research shows that flavors associated with fall, especially pumpkin, can boost mood and evoke feelings of warmth and happiness. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s dive into this delectable recipe for Pumpkin S’mores Cookies!

Ingredients for Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

Essential ingredients for the perfect cookie

To create mouthwatering Pumpkin S’mores Cookies, you'll need a blend of comforting and flavorful ingredients. Start with:

Unsalted butter: 1 cup, softened for that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Brown sugar: ¾ cup, packed to provide rich sweetness.
Granulated sugar: ¼ cup, balancing the brown sugar’s depth.
Pumpkin puree: ½ cup, the star ingredient adding moisture and flavor.
Egg: 1 large, for structure and binding.
Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon, enhancing the flavor.
All-purpose flour: 2 ¼ cups, forming the base.
Baking soda: 1 teaspoon, for that fluffy lift.
Pumpkin pie spice: 1 teaspoon, giving that warm autumn vibe.
Salt: ½ teaspoon, balancing the sweetness.
Chocolate chips and mini marshmallows: 1 cup each, creating the iconic s'mores experience.

For additional crunch, break up 8 graham crackers into pieces.

Optional toppings for extra flair

Want to elevate your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies? Consider these optional toppings:

Extra chocolate chips: ½ cup for a richer chocolate flavor.
More mini marshmallows: perfect for that gooey, marshmallowy finish.
Crushed graham crackers: adding a delightful crunch on top.

Feel free to get creative! Trying different toppings can transform the flavor and presentation of your cookies. What’s your favorite way to enjoy s’mores?

Preparing Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

Making Pumpkin S’mores Cookies is not just a fun baking project; it's a delightful way to embrace the cozy vibes of autumn! Below, you'll find a step-by-step guide to perfect these tasty treats, ideal for sharing with friends or savoring on your own.

Preheat the oven and prepare the baking sheet

Kick things off by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures an even bake, helping our cookies rise to the occasion! While the oven warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper—this little trick prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later!

Cream together the butter and sugars

In a large mixing bowl, grab your unsalted butter—make sure it’s softened to room temperature—and combine it with both the brown and granulated sugars. Using an electric mixer or even a sturdy wooden spoon, beat them together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This is crucial as it incorporates air, giving your cookies the perfect texture.

Mix in the pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla

Next, it’s time to introduce some fall flavors! Fold in ½ cup of pumpkin puree, along with one large egg and a teaspoon of vanilla extract. If you're feeling festive, consider adding a couple of drops of orange food coloring for that vibrant touch. Mix until everything is well combined; the color and aroma will wonderfully set the tone for your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies.

Combine dry ingredients for the cookie dough

In a separate bowl, whisk together your dry ingredients: 2 ¼ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice, and ½ teaspoon of salt. For a deeper dive into the benefits of pumpkin pie spice, check out this article on the health benefits of spices. Once blended, gradually add it to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Remember, overmixing can make your cookies tough!

Fold in chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, and graham crackers

Now comes the exciting part! Gently fold in 1 cup each of chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, and broken graham cracker pieces. This combination really embodies the essence of s’mores, making these cookies irresistibly delicious!

Shape the dough and prepare for baking

Using a small cookie scoop or a spoon, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Leave about 2 inches of space between each cookie for spreading. For an extra treat, consider pressing a few additional marshmallows, chocolate chips, and graham cracker bits on top of each dough ball to amplify that s’mores taste!

Bake and cool the cookies

Pop your baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 14 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges are golden brown while the center remains soft. Once baked, let the cookies cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

As you await the cooling process, prepare to be engulfed by the warm, inviting aroma wafting through your kitchen—there’s nothing quite like it!

As you indulge in your homemade Pumpkin S’mores Cookies, remember that these treasures are perfect for gathering around the table or cozying up with a warm beverage on a chilly day. Enjoy!

Variations on Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

Gluten-free Version

Enjoy these delightful Pumpkin S'mores Cookies without gluten by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure it includes xanthan gum for that perfect cookie texture. Replace chocolate chips and graham crackers with gluten-free options, too. With these tweaks, you can savor your favorite fall treat while accommodating dietary needs, making it an all-around win for gatherings!

Vegan Alternative with Plant-Based Ingredients

Craving Pumpkin S'mores Cookies but want a plant-based option? Replace the large egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water). Use vegan butter for that buttery richness and opt for dairy-free chocolate chips and plant-based mini marshmallows. These simple swaps will yield deliciously satisfying cookies that everyone can enjoy, without sacrificing flavor!

For more tips on making baked goods vegan-friendly, check out Vegan Baking Substitutes.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

How to Manage Cookie Dough Consistency

For perfect Pumpkin S’mores Cookies, achieving the right dough consistency is key. Aim for a thick yet scoopable dough — it should hold its shape without spreading too much when baked. If your dough feels too sticky, sprinkle in a bit more flour, one tablespoon at a time. Conversely, if it’s too dry, a splash of milk or extra pumpkin puree can help bring it together. Just remember to fold in those delicious mini marshmallows, chocolate chips, and graham cracker pieces gently to keep the texture light!

Best Practices for Storing Cookies

Store your freshly baked Pumpkin S’mores Cookies in an airtight container to maintain their chewy texture and rich flavors. To keep them even fresher, consider layering the cookies between sheets of parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can last up to a week at room temperature, making them a great treat for weekly snacking. If you want to save some for later, freezing them is a fantastic option. Simply place them in a freezer-safe bag, and enjoy them later by thawing at room temperature or warming them briefly in the oven!

Serving suggestions for Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

Share at gatherings or cozy nights in

These Pumpkin S’mores Cookies make a delightful treat for any gathering or a cozy night in. Consider baking a batch for a relaxed movie night or sharing them with friends during fall festivities. Their warm, comforting flavors will surely create a festive atmosphere, sparking joy and nostalgia with every bite.

Ideal pairing with beverages

While these cookies are delicious on their own, they pair beautifully with a variety of beverages. Enjoy them alongside a rich cup of hot chocolate or a perfectly brewed coffee. The warm spices in the cookies complement the flavors of your drink, making them the ideal duo for unwinding after a long day or sharing with friends over brunch.

Time breakdown for Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

Preparation time

Get ready to mix and mingle! The preparation time for these delightful Pumpkin S’mores Cookies is about 20 minutes. This time includes gathering your ingredients and mixing everything together, making it a great activity for a cozy evening.

Baking time

Once your cookie dough is ready, pop it in the oven! The baking time is approximately 12 to 14 minutes. Keep an eye on them to achieve that perfect golden edge while ensuring the center remains soft and chewy—just how a cookie should be!

Total time

In total, you're looking at a total time of around 35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for those last-minute dessert cravings or a fun baking session with friends. These Pumpkin S’mores Cookies will surely bring joy to your kitchen and taste buds!

For more tips on timing your baking sessions, check out this handy guide.

Nutritional Facts for Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

Calories per cookie

Each Pumpkin S’mores Cookie contains approximately 232 calories. This makes for a delightful treat without compromising your daily caloric goals.

Breakdown of protein and carbs

In terms of macronutrients, each cookie has 2g of protein and 31g of carbohydrates. That balance allows you to enjoy a sweet indulgence while still getting a tiny boost of energy.

Key vitamins and minerals

These cookies offer some nice nutritional perks, too! With Vitamin A at 1041 IU and a small amount of calcium and iron, munching on these cookies can be a cozy way to support your overall health. For more detailed insights on vitamins, check out the National Institutes of Health.

FAQs about Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

Can I substitute pumpkin puree with something else?

Absolutely! If you don’t have pumpkin puree on hand, you can use butternut squash puree or even applesauce as an alternative. Keep in mind that these substitutes will create a slightly different flavor profile, but they can still yield delicious cookies.

How do I store leftover cookies?

To keep your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them for longer, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just ensure they’re fully cooled before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap or placing them in a freezer-safe container.

What flavors pair well with Pumpkin S’mores Cookies?

Pumpkin S’mores Cookies can be complemented by flavors like cinnamon, nutmeg, and even caramel. For a fun twist, serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side or enjoy with a warm cup of chai tea for a cozy treat that perfectly fits the fall vibe.

Explore more about pumpkin recipes here.

Conclusion on Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

Why These Cookies Deserve a Place in Your Baking Repertoire

If you're looking for a delightful twist on classic flavors, Pumpkin S’mores Cookies are a must-try. These soft, chewy treats combine the cozy essence of pumpkin with the nostalgic flavors of s'mores, making them perfect for any occasion. Plus, they are super easy to whip up!