Pumpkin S’mores Cookies – The Ultimate Fall Dessert Treat

If fall had a flavor, it would be wrapped up in these Pumpkin S’mores Cookies—a dreamy fusion of pumpkin spice warmth, gooey marshmallow goodness, and nostalgic graham cracker crunch. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking for a cozy kitchen adventure, this recipe delivers all the comforts of fall in one chewy, chocolatey bite. These cookies are easy to make with no chill time, minimal tools, and maximum flavor. In this article, we’ll walk you through why they’re a seasonal must, how to get that perfect texture, smart baking tips, and fun ways to customize your own batch. Looking for inspiration? Try our Pumpkin Brownies next—they’re just as rich and gooey.

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Why Pumpkin S’mores Cookies Are a Must-Try This Season

A perfect twist on traditional s’mores and fall flavors

You don’t need a campfire to enjoy the comfort of s’mores anymore. Pumpkin S’mores Cookies take the classic combination of marshmallows, chocolate, and graham crackers, and give it a cozy fall twist with rich pumpkin puree and warming spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and pumpkin pie spice. The result is an indulgent cookie that’s nostalgic yet entirely new.

Pumpkin adds natural moisture and depth, enhancing both texture and flavor. It’s this combination of gooey and spiced that makes these cookies a standout on any fall dessert table or cookie exchange.

Chewy, gooey, and packed with autumn spice

What makes these cookies truly addictive is their texture. They bake up with crisp golden edges and tender, chewy centers—thanks to melted butter and the right flour blend. Cut marshmallows added mid-bake ensure they melt just right without evaporating or burning.

Graham cracker crumbs mixed directly into the dough give that signature s’mores flavor, while semi-sweet chocolate chips offer the melty richness every good cookie deserves. If you love cozy spice desserts, don’t miss our Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting—a fluffy cousin to this recipe.

No-chill dough and easy steps—great for busy bakers

No time to chill cookie dough? No problem. This recipe skips chilling altogether, making it perfect for weeknight baking or last-minute guests. You’ll mix melted butter with brown sugar and white sugar, fold in the dry ingredients, and scoop the dough right onto the baking sheet.

No stand mixer is required—just two bowls and a whisk will do the trick. In under 30 minutes, you’ll have warm cookies with melty marshmallows ready to wow your guests or satisfy your craving.

Discover great ideas like our S’mores Snack Mix if you want something even quicker for your next gathering.

Key Ingredients That Make These Cookies Irresistible

Pumpkin puree—choosing and prepping it right

Not all pumpkin is created equal. Choose a high-quality canned pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling. Before adding it to the dough, blot the pumpkin with paper towels to reduce excess moisture. This trick ensures your cookies stay chewy instead of turning cakey. Want something naturally sweetened? Don’t miss our No Added Sugar Pumpkin Banana Bread.

If you prefer a cakier texture, feel free to skip the blotting—but for chewy cookies, moisture control is key.

Marshmallows and graham crackers—bringing the s’mores effect

Graham cracker crumbs aren’t just for topping pies—they’re a flavor bomb in cookies. Blend about three whole crackers to get half a cup of crumbs, then fold them right into the cookie dough. You can also sprinkle extra crumbs on top after baking for that rustic s’mores finish.

When it comes to marshmallows, use regular-sized ones cut in half. This helps control spreading and ensures they melt just enough without disappearing or burning. Place them on top of cookies midway through baking for the ultimate gooey topping.

Best chocolate for the meltiest bites

Semi-sweet chocolate chips offer the right balance of richness and sweetness. You can use mini chips for a more even spread, or chunks for big pockets of melty goodness. Feel free to press a few extra chips on top right after baking—they’ll melt slightly and look picture-perfect.

If you’re curious about other fall bakes that combine pumpkin and chocolate, check out our Healthy Pumpkin Oat Cookies, packed with hearty ingredients and no refined sugar.

Step-by-Step Guide to Baking Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

Prepping the pumpkin for ideal texture

The secret to chewy—not cakey—pumpkin cookies lies in one extra step: blotting the pumpkin. Start by spooning your pumpkin puree into a paper towel-lined bowl. Let it sit while you prep other ingredients. The towel will absorb excess moisture, helping your dough bake up into cookies with the perfect chew and crispy edges. Skip this step only if you want a more muffin-like result.

This small move makes a big difference in texture—especially when you’re baking with moisture-rich ingredients like pumpkin.

Mixing the dough—dry and wet ingredient tips

In one bowl, whisk together your dry ingredients: flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, pumpkin spice, and graham cracker crumbs. Sifting these helps eliminate clumps and distributes the spices evenly.

In a separate bowl, mix the melted butter with brown sugar and white sugar until smooth. Then whisk in vanilla extract, optional graham cracker extract, the egg yolk, and blotted pumpkin puree.

Once your wet and dry mixtures are ready, gently fold them together. Don’t overmix—stop as soon as no flour streaks remain. Then stir in your chocolate chips. The dough should be thick, soft, and scoopable.

Assembling, baking, and topping like a pro

Use a large cookie scoop (around 3 oz.) to portion out dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Flatten each dough ball slightly with your palm—this encourages spreading and prevents muffin-like domes.

Bake at 350°F for 12 minutes, then remove the tray to add your halved marshmallows on top. Return to the oven for another 1–4 minutes. This final burst of heat lets the marshmallows puff and brown just right. For extra flair, press more chocolate chips and graham crumbs on top immediately after baking.

Don’t miss our Best S’mores Cookies Recipe if you’re craving even more creative takes on this fireside favorite.

Smart Baking Tips for Perfect Results Every Time

When to smush the dough and why it matters

Flattening your cookie dough balls just a little helps ensure even spreading. Since this dough uses pumpkin puree, it’s naturally more moist and may hold shape too well in the oven. Smushing it down prevents puffed-up centers and encourages crisp edges with chewy middles.

It’s a small move that gives your cookies that classic flat, bakery-style look.

Parchment paper vs. silicone mats—what works better

Parchment paper is your best friend for this recipe. It prevents over-spreading, ensures even bottoms, and helps those marshmallows peel off cleanly. Silicone mats can retain more heat, which may result in marshmallows burning or the cookies spreading unpredictably.

Keep things simple and use parchment for a foolproof bake every time.

High-altitude adjustments for foolproof cookies

Baking at elevation? No problem. Just add 2 tablespoons of extra flour to the dry mix. This gives the dough added structure and prevents it from spreading too thin. You may also want to reduce the baking soda slightly and keep a close eye during the final minutes of baking.

Looking for more high-altitude friendly treats? Don’t miss our fluffy Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal—it holds up beautifully at any elevation.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Keeping your cookies chewy and fresh

Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh and chewy for up to 5 days. Slip in a slice of sandwich bread to help maintain softness—just swap it out after a couple days if it dries up.

Avoid refrigerating unless necessary, as it can make the cookies dry out faster.

How to freeze dough balls and baked cookies

To freeze unbaked dough, scoop and flatten the cookies onto a tray. Freeze them until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake from frozen by adding 1–2 extra minutes to the baking time.

Baked cookies also freeze well. Let them cool fully, wrap individually, and freeze for up to 30 days. Thaw at room temperature or warm briefly in the microwave.

Why they taste even better on day 2

Like many spice-forward baked goods, these cookies intensify in flavor after a day. The spices deepen and meld, while the texture stays perfectly chewy. Bake them the night before your event or gathering for cookies that wow even more on day two.

Fun Variations and Add-On Ideas

Mini marshmallows, flavored chips, or extra spice

Feel free to play with mix-ins! Swap regular marshmallows for mini ones if you want a more scattered look. For a richer flavor, try dark chocolate chips or pumpkin spice baking chips. You can even toss in a pinch of cayenne or cardamom for a bold twist on classic autumn warmth.

Making them gluten-free or egg-free

Want a gluten-free version? Replace the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend and use certified gluten-free graham crackers. To skip the egg yolk, just increase the pumpkin puree slightly—about a tablespoon extra will do. These cookies are forgiving and still turn out chewy.

Looking for inspiration? Try our Flourless Pumpkin Muffins—they’re naturally gluten-free and kid-friendly.

Turning them into cookie sandwiches or bars

Take these cookies to the next level by sandwiching two around a layer of marshmallow fluff or pumpkin cream cheese frosting. Or press the dough into a square pan and bake into soft bars—just adjust the time slightly and slice while warm.

Don’t miss our Pumpkin Pie Overnight Oats if you’re looking for another unique take on pumpkin spice.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Conclusion: Why These Pumpkin S’mores Cookies Belong in Your Fall Baking Lineup

Pumpkin S’mores Cookies are everything you love about fall and campfires, baked into one handheld treat. With no mixer needed, no chill time, and chewy texture in every bite, they’re a must for any autumn baking list. Whether you’re hosting a fall party, making a cozy dessert board, or stocking the cookie jar, these cookies deliver rich flavor, gooey marshmallows, and a nostalgic twist with every bite.

Don’t miss our Healthy Pumpkin Mousse for a no-bake dessert that’s equally cozy and seasonal.

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