Pumpkin S’mores Cookies blend the cozy charm of autumn spices with the nostalgic magic of campfire treats. The combination of creamy pumpkin purée, semi-sweet chocolate chips, crushed graham crackers, and melty marshmallows creates a dessert that is soft, chewy, and completely irresistible. These cookies strike the perfect balance between sweet indulgence and warm seasonal comfort.
Ideal for holiday gatherings, weekend baking, or simply enjoying with a cup of hot cocoa, these cookies are the kind of recipe that brings people together. The warm scent of cinnamon and nutmeg as they bake fills your home with the essence of fall, while the gooey marshmallow and rich chocolate make every bite feel like a cozy hug. Whether you’re baking for a party or a quiet night in, these Pumpkin S’mores Cookies are guaranteed to steal the show.
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
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1 cup unsalted butter, softened
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1 cup brown sugar
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½ cup granulated sugar
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2 large eggs
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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½ cup pumpkin purée
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3 cups all-purpose flour
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1 tsp baking soda
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1½ tsp ground cinnamon
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½ tsp nutmeg
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½ tsp salt
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1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
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1 cup mini marshmallows
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1 cup crushed graham crackers
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Optional: extra marshmallows and chocolate for topping
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
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In a large bowl, cream together butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until fluffy.
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Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract and pumpkin purée. Mix until combined.
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In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
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Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined.
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Fold in chocolate chips, marshmallows, and crushed graham crackers.
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Scoop dough onto prepared baking sheets and gently press extra marshmallows or chocolate on top, if using.
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Bake for 10–12 minutes or until golden brown at the edges but soft in the center.
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Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 12 minutes | Total Time: 27 minutes
Kcal: 240 kcal | Servings: 24 cookies
Introduction to Pumpkin S’mores Cookies
Pumpkin S’mores Cookies are the epitome of autumn-inspired indulgence. They combine the rich, earthy sweetness of pumpkin with the nostalgic charm of s’mores—chocolate, graham crackers, and gooey marshmallows. This cookie recipe beautifully marries fall flavors with a playful twist on a summertime campfire classic, creating a dessert that’s both comforting and whimsical.
These cookies are soft and chewy, with warm undertones of cinnamon and nutmeg, made even more irresistible with pockets of melty chocolate and toasted marshmallow. The crushed graham crackers add a delightful crunch and a touch of caramelized flavor. Whether you’re baking for a Halloween gathering, Thanksgiving dessert table, or a cozy evening at home, Pumpkin S’mores Cookies are sure to impress and satisfy.
The Perfect Fusion of Fall and Summer Treats
What sets Pumpkin S’mores Cookies apart is their ability to fuse two seasonal icons into one incredible dessert. Pumpkin is undeniably the king of autumn flavors, used in everything from pies to lattes. S’mores, on the other hand, evoke memories of summer nights spent by the campfire. Together, these flavors create a cookie that transcends seasons, offering the best of both worlds.
The addition of pumpkin purée brings moisture and richness to the cookie dough, making each bite soft and tender. Meanwhile, marshmallows melt into gooey puddles, and chocolate chips add depth and decadence. The graham cracker bits not only introduce texture but also carry that essential s’mores essence.
Texture and Flavor Profile
These cookies boast a soft and pillowy texture, thanks to the moisture content of the pumpkin. Unlike traditional s’mores, which rely on crisp graham crackers and solid chocolate, this recipe delivers a more harmonious blend of textures. The outer edges of the cookies bake to a light crispness, while the centers remain luscious and chewy.
Flavor-wise, the warm spices complement the mild pumpkin, elevating its natural sweetness without overpowering the s’mores components. The sweetness of the marshmallows contrasts beautifully with the bittersweet notes of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips. Together, these elements create a multi-layered flavor experience that feels familiar yet excitingly different.
Versatility and Customization
One of the greatest advantages of this recipe is its adaptability. Pumpkin S’mores Cookies can be customized to suit different tastes or dietary needs. For those who prefer a more intense chocolate flavor, dark chocolate chunks can replace semi-sweet chips. White chocolate chips also offer a sweeter, creamier contrast that pairs well with pumpkin.
Gluten-free graham crackers can be substituted to make the recipe more accessible, and plant-based marshmallows and butter alternatives allow for a vegan-friendly version. You can also adjust the amount of spice to make the cookies more subtle or more robust, depending on your preference.
For added flair, some bakers choose to press additional marshmallows and chocolate on top of each cookie before baking. This enhances the visual appeal and ensures every bite has that signature s’mores appearance.
Serving Suggestions
Pumpkin S’mores Cookies are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. They are a crowd-pleasing choice for holiday cookie exchanges, school events, and seasonal parties. Serve them warm with a mug of hot chocolate or spiced cider for the ultimate cozy treat.
They also pair wonderfully with fall desserts like apple crisp, pecan pie, or pumpkin cheesecake if you’re curating a dessert buffet. For a touch of indulgence, consider sandwiching a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream between two cookies for a unique and festive ice cream sandwich.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Pumpkin S’mores Cookies store well, making them ideal for make-ahead baking during the busy holiday season. Once baked and cooled, they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To maintain their softness, add a slice of bread to the container to help regulate moisture.
For longer storage, the cookie dough can be portioned into balls and frozen on a baking sheet before transferring to a zip-top bag. When you’re ready to bake, simply place the frozen dough balls on a parchment-lined tray and add a couple of minutes to the baking time.
Why Pumpkin S’mores Cookies Stand Out
There are countless cookie recipes out there, but few are as fun, festive, and flavorful as Pumpkin S’mores Cookies. Their uniqueness lies in their ability to bring nostalgia and innovation into the same bite. They taste like fall, look like a campfire treat, and feel like a homemade hug.
This recipe also stands out for its balance of flavors and textures. The use of pumpkin not only adds moisture but enhances the overall complexity of the cookie, while the marshmallows and chocolate satisfy those classic dessert cravings. It’s a seasonal twist on a childhood favorite, elevated for a modern palate.
Baking Tips for Best Results
To achieve the perfect batch of Pumpkin S’mores Cookies, follow a few helpful baking tips. First, don’t overmix the dough—this can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until the ingredients are incorporated. When adding the marshmallows, make sure they’re folded gently into the dough to prevent excessive melting during baking.
Spacing the cookies out on the baking sheet is also important, as the marshmallows and chocolate tend to spread. Use parchment paper or silicone baking mats to minimize sticking and ensure even baking. Letting the cookies rest on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack allows them to set and prevents breakage.
Lastly, if you’re looking to impress visually, strategically place a few extra marshmallows and chocolate chips on top of each dough ball before baking. This not only enhances presentation but guarantees that gooey, picture-perfect s’mores look in every cookie.
The Role of Ingredients in Flavor Development
Each ingredient in this cookie recipe plays a specific role in developing the signature flavor and texture. The butter provides richness and a creamy base that supports the sweet and spicy notes. Brown sugar contributes moisture and a deep molasses flavor that complements pumpkin and chocolate perfectly.
Pumpkin purée is the heart of the recipe, offering both moisture and subtle sweetness. The warm spices—usually cinnamon, nutmeg, and sometimes clove or ginger—accentuate the pumpkin and bring seasonal character. Chocolate chips add richness, while marshmallows create pockets of gooeyness that mimic real s’mores. Finally, the graham crackers tie the whole experience together, bringing crunch and familiarity.
Cultural and Seasonal Relevance
Pumpkin S’mores Cookies tap into strong seasonal trends. Fall is synonymous with pumpkin, and each year, the demand for pumpkin-flavored treats grows. These cookies cater to that desire while incorporating the playful nostalgia of s’mores, a universally beloved treat.
They also reflect a shift toward hybrid recipes—dishes that blend traditional comfort foods with creative modern updates. By taking two well-loved recipes and merging them, Pumpkin S’mores Cookies appeal to food lovers looking for fresh takes on nostalgic flavors.
From Halloween and Thanksgiving to casual weekend baking, this cookie is seasonally appropriate, visually inviting, and incredibly tasty. Its versatility makes it an easy choice for bakers of all skill levels who want to deliver big flavor without overly complex steps.
Conclusion
Pumpkin S’mores Cookies are more than just a seasonal treat—they’re a celebration of flavor, texture, and nostalgia. With their warm spices, rich chocolate, gooey marshmallows, and crunchy graham bits, they offer an unforgettable dessert experience that’s as comforting as it is fun.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a casual home cook, this recipe provides an easy way to impress friends and family with something that feels festive and familiar. It’s the kind of cookie that sparks conversation, inspires repeat baking, and earns a permanent spot in your autumn recipe rotation.
So as the leaves start to fall and sweater weather sets in, embrace the flavors of the season and treat yourself to a batch of Pumpkin S’mores Cookies. They’re cozy, crowd-pleasing, and just the right kind of sweet for any autumn occasion.