As the air turns crisp and the leaves shift to their golden hues, I find myself craving a delightful blend of nostalgia and comfort. These Gluten-Free Pumpkin S’mores Cookies perfectly bridge the gap between summer’s sweet treats and autumn’s cozy flavors. With chewy vegan marshmallows and rich dairy-free chocolate melting in every bite, this recipe offers an easy way to satisfy your sweet tooth without sacrificing health. Not only are they lower in sugar, making them a guilt-free indulgence, but they also shine with the seasonal flavors of pumpkin and pumpkin spice, inviting you to savor each moment. Ready to elevate your baking game this fall? Let’s dive into the deliciousness of these cookies together!
Why Are Pumpkin S’mores Cookies Amazing?
Unforgettable Flavor: These cookies combine the beloved flavors of pumpkin and s’mores into one mouthwatering treat that’s sure to please everyone!
Health-Conscious Indulgence: With a lower sugar content and gluten-free ingredients, you can indulge without the guilt.
Simple to Make: Easy-to-follow steps make it a wonderfully achievable recipe, perfect for bakers of any skill level.
Versatile Snack Options: Enjoy them warm or store for later—these cookies maintain their chewy goodness for days.
Great for Sharing: Perfect for fall gatherings or cozy nights in, they’ll have everyone raving about your baking skills! Pair them with a warm cup of pumpkin spice latte for an extra cozy experience.
Pumpkin S’mores Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
- Creamy Unsweetened Almond Butter – Provides moisture and a nutty flavor; can substitute with sunflower seed butter for nut-free cookies.
- Light Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness with a hint of caramel; consider using coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index.
- Egg – Acts as a binder to hold everything together; for a vegan version, replace with a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 2.5 tbsp water).
- Pumpkin Puree – Essential for moisture and rich pumpkin flavor; always select 100% canned pumpkin puree, not pie filling.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall taste; do not skip as it’s key for a well-rounded flavor.
- Almond Flour – The star of this gluten-free recipe; provides unique texture, so avoid regular flour as a replacement.
- Pumpkin Pie Spice – Infuses a warm spice profile; alternatively, mix cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger for a homemade blend.
- Baking Soda – Essential for helping the cookies rise; ensure it’s fresh for best results.
- Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor; don’t overlook this important ingredient.
For the S’mores Filling
- Vegan Mini Marshmallows – Offers that classic gooeyness of s’mores; don’t substitute with regular marshmallows, as they will melt into the dough.
- Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips or Chunks – Brings richness and a touch of sweetness; make sure they are dairy-free for a vegan treat.
These Pumpkin S’mores Cookies are an enchanting blend of flavors and textures, perfect for warming up your autumn days!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin S’mores Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) while you prepare your cookie dough. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, ensuring it’s ready to catch those gooey treats. Taking this step first saves time and ensures your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies bake evenly and to the right crispy perfection.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of creamy unsweetened almond butter, 3/4 cup of light brown sugar, 1/2 cup of pumpkin puree, 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract, and one egg (or flax egg for vegan). Stir these ingredients together using a spatula or whisk until they blend smoothly and create a luscious, creamy base that captures all the cozy autumn flavors.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of almond flour, 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Make sure there are no lumps in the flour, and the spices are dispersed evenly throughout. This mixture will give the Pumpkin S’mores Cookies their unique texture and warm flavor.
Step 4: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until fully incorporated. This will form the dough for your cookies. Be gentle yet thorough, ensuring the ingredients unite to create a thick, homogenous batter that’s rich with the essence of autumn.
Step 5: Add Chocolate and Marshmallows
Gently fold in 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips and 1 cup of vegan mini marshmallows. Ensure they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough, allowing those gooey marshmallow pockets to create delightful surprises within your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies as they bake.
Step 6: Scoop the Dough
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out the dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Each scoop should be about 2 tablespoons, and be sure to place them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. Top each cookie with a few extra chocolate chips for that extra indulgent look.
Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them—look for golden edges and a soft center. This timing will yield cookies that are crispy on the outside with a chewy, gooey interior, just perfect for your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Allow them to cool slightly so the marshmallows firm up, enhancing that s’mores experience. Enjoy your delectable Pumpkin S’mores Cookies while they’re warm for the best texture!
Expert Tips for Pumpkin S’mores Cookies
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Perfect Ratio: Ensure you use the correct amount of almond flour; too much can lead to dry cookies, while too little can make them too gooey.
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Marshmallow Placement: Place the vegan mini marshmallows on top of the dough mounds for that classic s’mores look and to avoid melting into the dough.
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Resting Time: Let cookies cool for at least 10 minutes before serving; this helps maintain their chewy texture and prevents marshmallows from being too gooey.
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Dairy-Free Chocolate: Always check that your chocolate chips are dairy-free to keep your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies fully vegan.
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Baking Sheet Prep: For best results, line your baking sheet with parchment paper; it prevents sticking and enhances even baking.
Pumpkin S’mores Cookies Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists to make these cookies uniquely your own!
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Gluten-Free Blend: Swap almond flour for a gluten-free flour blend to adapt for different dietary needs. Just note that flour choices can affect texture.
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Nut-Free Delight: Use sunflower seed butter instead of almond butter for a nut-free alternative. This not only changes the flavor but is also perfect for school lunches!
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Creative Chocolate: Experiment with different types of chocolate chips, like dark or white chocolate. Each variation gives the cookies a new fun twist and flavor explosion!
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Pumpkin Flavor Boost: Add a splash of pumpkin extract along with the puree for an extra rich pumpkin flavor. It’s a wonderful way to embrace the season even more!
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Add Some Crunch: Mix in chopped nuts or seeds for a delightful textural twist. Walnuts or pecans work beautifully alongside the chewy cookies for added depth.
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Spice Up the Season: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder for an unexpected kick! The heat will beautifully contrast with the sweetness.
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Vanilla Variations: Switch up vanilla extract with maple extract for a sweet, earthy twist that pairs beautifully with pumpkin. It adds a cozy layer of flavor.
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Sweetness alteration: Reduce the sugar further by using a stevia-based sweetener instead. This is an excellent way to keep indulgence guilt-free.
Feel free to pair these cookies with a warm cup of pumpkin spice latte or a comforting hot chocolate! You’ll want to share the joy of these scrumptious treats at your next fall gathering or cozy evening at home!
How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin S’mores Cookies
Room Temperature: Keep Pumpkin S’mores Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their delightful chewiness.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap cookies tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Reheating: To bring back that gooey texture, microwave cookies for 10-15 seconds before serving. It’s a warm, melty treat you won’t want to miss!
Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the cookie dough in advance and freeze it for up to a month. Bake it fresh whenever the craving strikes for warm, fresh Pumpkin S’mores Cookies!
What to Serve with Pumpkin S’mores Cookies
Indulging in these delightful treats is just the beginning—expand your cozy culinary experience with these tantalizing pairings.
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Pumpkin Spice Latte: The classic fall drink enhances the pumpkin flavors in the cookies, creating a comforting duo perfect for chilly days.
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Warm Apple Cider: Sip on this sweet, spiced beverage for a taste of autumn; it perfectly complements the chewy, gooey richness of the cookies.
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Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream provides a refreshing contrast to the warm, spiced cookies, making each bite divine.
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Chai Tea: The warming spices in chai beautifully match the flavors of the cookies, inviting a fragrant harmony in every sip and bite.
There’s something special about cozying up with steaming drinks and delicious cookies in hand.
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Chocolate Chip Pancakes: Take breakfast up a notch by serving these alongside; the sweet, fluffy pancakes balance the crunchy cookies brilliantly.
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Graham Crackers with Nut Butter: For an extra s’mores experience, serve graham crackers spread with nut butter for that perfect mix of crunchy and creamy textures.
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Maple Glazed Carrots: A unique savory pairing, these sweet and slightly earthy carrots complement the cookie’s spice without overwhelming the palate.
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Cinnamon Roll Casserole: This delightful dish brings a sweet cinnamon burst that echoes the cookie’s flavors, making it a great brunch pairing.
Each delicious option creates a perfect setting to savor the season and your beautiful Pumpkin S’mores Cookies!
Make Ahead Options
These Gluten-Free Pumpkin S’mores Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time in busy weeks! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix all the wet and dry ingredients, then refrigerate the dough in an airtight container. This helps maintain the cookies’ chewy texture while enhancing the flavors. When you’re ready to bake, scoop the chilled dough onto a baking sheet, add those vegan mini marshmallows, and semi-sweet chocolate chips before baking them straight from the fridge. Enjoy fresh, warm cookies with minimal effort, making it just as delightful as when they’re made from scratch on the spot!
Pumpkin S’mores Cookies Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! It’s important to choose 100% canned pumpkin puree, as it offers the rich pumpkin flavor you need for your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies. Avoid pie filling, as it often contains added sugars and spices that can alter the taste of your cookies.
How should I store leftover Pumpkin S’mores Cookies?
To maintain their delightful chewiness, store your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you have extras, you can freeze them wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil for up to 3 months.
Can I freeze the cookie dough for Pumpkin S’mores Cookies?
Yes! You can prepare and freeze the cookie dough for up to a month. Just form the dough into individual cookie mounds, freeze them on a baking sheet, and once frozen solid, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, you can bake them directly from the freezer—just add a minute or two to the baking time.
What if my cookies turn out too dry or too wet?
If your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies are dry, double-check your measurements—especially with the almond flour—too much can lead to dryness. If they turn out too wet, add a bit more almond flour (1 tablespoon at a time) until you reach your desired consistency. Remember that the dough should be thick but scoopable!
Are these cookies safe for gluten allergies?
Absolutely! These Pumpkin S’mores Cookies are gluten-free when made with almond flour and are suitable for those with gluten allergies. Just ensure that all ingredients (like chocolate chips and marshmallows) are labeled as gluten-free to avoid any cross-contamination.
Can I use other types of flour instead of almond flour?
While almond flour is key to the texture of these cookies, you can try a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend as a substitute. However, keep in mind that the texture and flavor will vary. The almond flour gives a unique chewiness that might be harder to replicate, so I recommend sticking with it for the best results!
Pumpkin S’mores Cookies: Fall’s Chewy, Gooey Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the almond butter, brown sugar, pumpkin puree, vanilla extract, and egg (or flax egg). Stir until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together almond flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until fully incorporated.
- Gently fold in the chocolate chips and marshmallows, ensuring even distribution.
- Scoop the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing approximately 2 inches apart, and top with extra chocolate chips.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden edges form and center is soft. Let cool for 10 minutes.
- Remove from oven and allow to cool on a wire rack before serving.
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