Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

The comforting fusion of seasonal pumpkin puree, rich chocolate chunks, and melty marshmallows brings these Pumpkin S’mores Cookies to life. Every bite is like a trip to a fall festival and a cozy night around a bonfire all in one. These cookies are soft, chewy, and bursting with autumn flavor, with a perfect contrast of textures from the crushed graham crackers.

Perfect for seasonal parties, bake sales, or just treating yourself on a crisp day, these cookies are a fun twist on the classic s’mores experience. Their nostalgic taste and warm spices make them irresistible for kids and adults alike. Plus, they’re super easy to bake and fill your kitchen with the sweetest, most inviting aroma.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted

• 1 cup packed brown sugar

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

• 1 egg yolk

• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1 1/2 cups mini marshmallows

• 1 cup chocolate chunks

• 1 cup crushed graham crackers

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until well mixed.

3. Stir in the egg yolk, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract.

4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.

5. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.

6. Fold in chocolate chunks and graham cracker crumbs.

7. Scoop tablespoon-sized dough balls onto prepared baking sheets, leaving room for spreading.

8. Lightly press a few mini marshmallows into the top of each dough ball.

9. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are set but centers remain soft.

10. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 12 minutes | Total Time: 27 minutes
Kcal: 215 kcal | Servings: 24 cookies

There’s something undeniably comforting about the flavors of fall. The scent of cinnamon, the warmth of nutmeg, and the rich, earthy sweetness of pumpkin can transport anyone to a cozy autumn afternoon. Now, take those nostalgic fall flavors and marry them with the gooey indulgence of campfire s’mores  the result is an unforgettable treat known as Pumpkin S’mores Cookies.

These cookies are the perfect fusion of two timeless classics. The first is the seasonal pumpkin spice cookie, which has become a staple of autumn baking. The second is the beloved s’mores dessert, traditionally made over an open flame with graham crackers, chocolate, and toasted marshmallows. When combined, they create a treat that’s both familiar and unique, warm yet playful, and sure to become a seasonal favorite.

The Inspiration Behind Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

Pumpkin S’mores Cookies were inspired by a desire to create a dessert that captures the magic of both autumn and childhood memories of roasting marshmallows. As pumpkin desserts dominate kitchen counters and bakery displays during the fall, many home bakers look for new ways to innovate with this classic ingredient. S’mores, on the other hand, remind us of summer nights, storytelling around the campfire, and the indulgent messiness of melted chocolate and marshmallow. By blending the two, this recipe delivers the best of both worlds in one delightful cookie.

This dessert is especially popular in late September through November when pumpkins are in season and comfort food is in high demand. But don’t be surprised if you find yourself craving these cookies year-round  they’re just that good.

What Makes These Cookies Special?

Pumpkin S’mores Cookies stand out not just for their flavor but also for their unique texture and visual appeal. The cookie base is soft and tender thanks to the addition of pumpkin puree, which also imparts a beautiful golden-orange hue. Warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg elevate the flavor, making each bite a comforting reminder of autumn.

What truly sets them apart, though, is the s’mores element. Each cookie features chunks of graham crackers baked into the dough, offering a light crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft texture of the cookie. Meanwhile, chocolate chunks melt just enough to become pockets of richness, and mini marshmallows added to the top create gooey, toasted spots that mimic the effect of real campfire s’mores.

The combination of flavors  subtly spiced pumpkin, sweet marshmallow, and rich chocolate hits all the right notes. The graham cracker bits introduce a rustic charm, turning a simple cookie into a dessert with layers of character and nostalgia.

The Perfect Cookie for All Occasions

These cookies are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed on a variety of occasions. Whether you’re baking a batch for a Halloween party, a cozy Thanksgiving dessert table, or a chilly weekend movie night, Pumpkin S’mores Cookies fit the bill. They’re easy to transport, simple to store, and even easier to share.

Because they offer such a perfect balance between sweetness and spice, these cookies also make thoughtful gifts during the holiday season. Wrap them in parchment and twine, and you’ve got a homemade treat that’s as charming to give as it is to receive.

In addition, they make excellent additions to bake sales, school lunches, or weekend baking projects with kids. The familiar s’mores flavor appeals to younger audiences, while the elevated pumpkin twist impresses adults with a more refined palate.

Tips for the Best Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

To make the most of this recipe, here are a few expert baking tips:

1. Use Pure Pumpkin Puree: Avoid pumpkin pie filling, which has added spices and sugar. You want to control the flavor profile yourself.
2. Don’t Overmix the Dough: Once the dry ingredients are incorporated, stop mixing to avoid tough cookies.
3. Chill the Dough if Needed: If your cookie dough is too soft to handle, a quick 30-minute chill can help firm it up for cleaner scooping and better shape retention.
4. Reserve Marshmallows for the Top: Mixing marshmallows directly into the dough can cause them to dissolve during baking. Placing a few on top of each cookie before baking gives you that signature gooey, toasted marshmallow look and feel.
5. Watch the Bake Time: These cookies are best slightly underbaked so they remain soft and chewy. Keep a close eye to avoid overbaking, especially since marshmallows can brown quickly.

Customization Ideas

While the classic recipe is a winner, you can easily customize Pumpkin S’mores Cookies to suit your preferences:

• Add white chocolate chips for a creamy twist.
• Sprinkle sea salt on top for a sweet and salty contrast.
• Use dark chocolate chunks if you prefer a richer, less sweet chocolate flavor.
• Make them gluten-free by swapping in gluten-free flour and graham crackers.
• Create sandwich cookies by spreading marshmallow fluff or chocolate ganache between two cookies.

The recipe also scales beautifully, allowing you to bake a smaller batch for intimate gatherings or a large batch for big holiday events.

Why Pumpkin and S’mores Work So Well Together

At first glance, pumpkin and s’mores may seem like an unusual pairing, but they complement each other in surprising ways. Pumpkin’s mild flavor and moist texture make it a great vehicle for warm spices, which harmonize beautifully with the smoky sweetness of marshmallows and the richness of chocolate. Meanwhile, graham crackers bring a nutty, honeyed crunch that adds a structural balance to the gooey components.

It’s a flavor profile that evokes both the warmth of fall and the nostalgia of summer, creating a dessert that feels familiar yet fresh.

Storage and Shelf Life

Pumpkin S’mores Cookies store well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. Because of the moisture from the pumpkin, they remain soft longer than many traditional cookies. You can also freeze them for up to two months. To enjoy, just let them thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for 10–15 seconds to revive that just-baked gooeyness.

If you’re planning ahead for a party or gathering, you can even prepare the dough ahead of time and freeze it in pre-portioned scoops. Bake straight from frozen  just add an extra minute or two to the bake time.

Conclusion: A Cookie You’ll Crave Every Fall (and Beyond)

Pumpkin S’mores Cookies are a celebration of everything we love about the seasons. They capture the cozy, spiced essence of autumn while bringing in the nostalgic joy of summer’s favorite fireside treat. Whether you’re a seasoned baker looking for a new fall classic or someone craving something indulgent and different, these cookies are a must-try.

What makes them truly special is their ability to transport you. One bite, and you’re sitting by a campfire under a starlit sky, wrapped in a blanket, surrounded by friends and the smell of fallen leaves. That’s the power of a well-made dessert  it doesn’t just satisfy hunger; it tells a story and evokes emotion.

So, the next time you reach for a pumpkin recipe or find yourself reminiscing about s’mores, remember that you don’t have to choose between the two. With Pumpkin S’mores Cookies, you can have both  and enjoy every warm, gooey, flavorful bite.