Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

Pumpkin s’mores cookies are the perfect treat for any occasion, combining the classic flavors of fall with the gooey delight of s’mores. These cookies are not only easy to make but also gluten-free, making them suitable for everyone. With hints of pumpkin and warm spices, each bite is a delicious reminder of autumn’s charm.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and quick steps, these cookies can be made in no time.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin, chocolate, and vegan marshmallows creates a mouthwatering treat.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for fall gatherings, Halloween parties, or just a cozy night in.
• Gluten-Free Goodness: Enjoy these cookies without worrying about gluten; they’re suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
• Kid-Friendly Fun: Kids will love helping to make and eat these delightful treats!

Tools and Preparation

To create your delicious pumpkin s’mores cookies, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Wooden spoon
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Cookie scoop

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly without any mess.
• Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy surface for baking your cookies evenly.
• Cookie scoop: Ensures uniform cookie sizes for even baking and perfect presentation.

Ingredients

Pumpkin s’mores cookies are made gluten-free with simple ingredients that create a delightful treat!

For the Base

• 1/2 cup creamy unsweetened almond butter
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup pumpkin puree
• 1 tsp. vanilla extract

For the Dry Ingredients

• 1/4 packed cup almond flour
• 2 tsp. pumpkin pie spice
• 1/2 tsp. baking soda
• 1/4 tsp. salt

For the S’mores Filling

• 1/2 cup vegan mini marshmallows
• 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or chunks

How to Make Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, use a wooden spoon to mix together:
1. Almond butter
2. Brown sugar
3. Pumpkin puree
4. Vanilla extract
5. Egg

Make sure everything is well combined.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together:
1. Almond flour
2. Pumpkin pie spice
3. Baking soda
4. Salt

Once mixed, add these dry ingredients into the wet mixture and stir until fully combined.

Step 4: Add Chocolate and Marshmallows

Fold in the chocolate chips or chunks gently into the cookie dough.

Step 5: Scoop & Shape Cookies

Place 2-3 vegan marshmallows into your cookie scoop before scooping up the cookie batter. Ensure that they sit on top but are still mixed into the dough as you portion them onto the baking sheet.

Step 6: Bake

Sprinkle extra chocolate chips or chunks on each cookie if desired. Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden brown. Remove from oven and let cool before enjoying your delicious pumpkin s’mores cookies!

How to Serve Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

Pumpkin s’mores cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you want to impress guests or simply enjoy them at home, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With a Glass of Almond Milk

• Almond milk pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the cookies, complementing their flavors while keeping things light.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a decorative platter with some fresh fruit. This adds color and makes for an appealing presentation.

Warm with Ice Cream

• Serve a warm cookie alongside a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert that everyone will love.

Dipped in Chocolate

• For an extra indulgent treat, dip half of each cookie in melted semi-sweet chocolate and let them cool for a rich finish.

With a Cup of Herbal Tea

• A warm cup of herbal tea can balance the sweetness of the cookies, making it a cozy pairing for chilly evenings.

How to Perfect Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

To ensure your pumpkin s’mores cookies turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Allow your egg and pumpkin puree to come to room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Don’t overmix the dough: Mixing just until combined will keep your cookies soft and chewy, preventing them from becoming tough.
• Chill the dough: If you have time, refrigerate the dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps the flavors meld together and improves texture.
• Adjust baking time: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. Ovens vary, so they might need slightly more or less time than stated.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for additional warmth and flavor complexity.
• Store properly: Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

Pairing side dishes with pumpkin s’mores cookies can elevate your dessert experience. Here’s a list of delicious options that complement their flavor.

1. Fruit Salad: Fresh seasonal fruits like apples and pears provide a refreshing contrast to the sweetness.
2. Caramel Sauce: Drizzling caramel sauce over each cookie adds an extra layer of richness that’s hard to resist.
3. Chia Seed Pudding: A light chia seed pudding made with almond milk offers a nutritious balance alongside the cookies.
4. Roasted Nuts: A mix of lightly salted roasted nuts provides crunch and depth, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
5. Coconut Whipped Cream: This dairy-free topping is light and fluffy, adding creaminess without overpowering the cookie’s flavors.
6. Pumpkin Spice Latte: Enjoying these cookies with a warm pumpkin spice latte creates a comforting autumn experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making pumpkin s’mores cookies, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the egg: The egg is crucial for binding the ingredients together. Ensure you include it for a better cookie texture.
• Not measuring pumpkin puree correctly: Too much or too little can affect the consistency of your dough. Use a measuring cup for accuracy.
• Overmixing the dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined for a soft and chewy texture.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Make sure your oven is properly preheated. An incorrect temperature can result in uneven baking.
• Not letting cookies cool: Allowing cookies to cool on the baking sheet helps them firm up. Don’t skip this step for optimal texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Cookies will stay fresh for up to 5 days.

Freezing Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

• Place cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm cookies for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Lightly toast on a skillet over low heat, flipping once until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Pumpkin S’mores Cookies?

Pumpkin s’mores cookies are soft, chewy cookies filled with chocolate and vegan marshmallows, infused with pumpkin puree and spice.

Can I use other nut butters?

Yes! Feel free to substitute almond butter with peanut butter or cashew butter as per your preference.

How do I make these cookies gluten-free?

Using almond flour makes these pumpkin s’mores cookies gluten-free. Ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free certified.

What other add-ins can I include?

You can customize your cookies by adding nuts, dried fruits, or other types of chocolate chips for extra flavor.

Can I make these vegan?

Yes! This recipe is already vegan-friendly due to the use of almond butter and flax egg if you prefer not using an egg.

Final Thoughts

Pumpkin s’mores cookies are a delightful treat that combines the flavors of autumn with gooey goodness. These versatile cookies can be easily customized with various add-ins, making them perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the sweet taste of fall!