Pumpkin S’mores Cookies are a delightful fall treat that combines the warm flavors of pumpkin with the classic s’mores experience. These cookies are soft, chewy, and packed with chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, and graham cracker crumbs, making them a perfect dessert for gatherings or cozy nights at home. The combination of pumpkin and s’mores creates a unique twist that is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
Origin of Pumpkin S’mores Cookies
The tradition of s’mores dates back to the early 20th century, originating from campfire cooking in the United States. The addition of pumpkin to this classic recipe likely emerged as pumpkin became a popular ingredient in fall baking. Pumpkin S’mores Cookies blend these two beloved treats, offering a seasonal twist that captures the essence of autumn.
Ingredients
For the Pumpkin S’mores Cookies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- ¾ cup brown sugar (packed)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup pumpkin puree (canned)
- 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)
- Extra chocolate chips and marshmallows for topping (optional)
Method of Preparation
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
- Mix in the pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients until just combined.
Step 5: Fold in S’mores Ingredients
- Gently fold in the chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, and broken graham crackers until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 6: Shape the Cookies
- Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
Step 7: Add Toppings
- Press additional chocolate chips and marshmallows on top of each cookie dough ball for extra flavor and presentation.
Step 8: Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12–14 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Tips
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your butter and egg are at room temperature for better mixing.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to keep your cookies soft and chewy.
- Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to reduce the sugar if you prefer less sweetness; the marshmallows will add additional sweetness as well.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Measuring Flour Correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid adding too much flour, which can lead to dense cookies.
- Overbaking: Keep an eye on your cookies; they should be soft when you take them out of the oven.
- Skipping Toppings: Adding extra chocolate chips and marshmallows on top enhances both flavor and appearance.
Serving Tips
Pumpkin S’mores Cookies are best served warm but can also be enjoyed at room temperature. They pair wonderfully with:
- A glass of cold milk or hot cocoa.
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
- An autumn-themed dessert platter featuring other seasonal treats.
Health Benefits of Ingredients
- Pumpkin Puree: Rich in vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants that support overall health.
- Chocolate Chips: Dark chocolate can provide antioxidants; opt for dark chocolate chips for added health benefits.
- Graham Crackers: Made from whole grains, they can offer some fiber while adding crunch to your cookies.
Why Everyone Loves This Dish
Pumpkin S’mores Cookies are loved for their unique blend of flavors that evoke feelings of warmth and nostalgia during the fall season. The combination of soft pumpkin cookies with gooey marshmallows and rich chocolate creates an irresistible treat that appeals to all ages. Their easy preparation makes them a favorite among bakers looking for delicious seasonal desserts.
Interesting Facts About Pumpkin S’mores Cookies
- Versatile Recipe: You can easily customize these cookies by adding nuts or using different types of chocolate.
- Perfect for Fall Gatherings: These cookies are ideal for parties, potlucks, or as a sweet treat during Halloween festivities.
- Freezer Friendly: You can freeze unbaked cookie dough balls; just bake them directly from frozen when you’re ready!
Summarized Recipe
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream together butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until fluffy.
- Mix in pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla until combined.
- Whisk together flour, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt; add to wet ingredients.
- Fold in chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, and graham crackers.
- Drop rounded dough onto prepared baking sheet; press extra toppings on top.
- Bake for 12–14 minutes until edges are golden; cool before serving.
Pumpkin S’mores Cookies are not just a dessert; they encapsulate the spirit of fall! Enjoy this delightful treat at your next gathering or as a comforting snack any day!
