Pumpkin S’mores Cookies (Vegan)

These Pumpkin S’mores Cookies (Vegan) are perfect for any occasion, from cozy fall gatherings to holiday celebrations. Soft and chewy, these cookies combine the richness of pumpkin puree with gooey vegan marshmallows and dark chocolate chunks. They capture the essence of classic s’mores while adding a delightful autumn twist, making them a must-try for all cookie lovers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin, spices, and chocolate creates a unique and satisfying taste.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is accessible for bakers of all levels.
• Perfect for Sharing: These cookies make a great treat for parties or potlucks, impressing friends and family alike.
• Vegan-Friendly: Enjoy the classic s’mores experience without animal products, making it suitable for various diets.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite nuts or swap in different types of vegan chocolate.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies, gather your tools to ensure a smooth process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Cookie scoop

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining wet and dry ingredients efficiently.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth mixture by thoroughly blending the ingredients together.
• Baking sheet: Provides even heat distribution to ensure uniform baking of the cookies.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Ingredients

For the Dough

• ½ cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
• ½ cup coconut oil or vegan butter, melted
• ¾ cup brown sugar, packed
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon nutmeg

For the Mix-Ins

• ½ cup vegan chocolate chunks or chips
• ½ cup vegan marshmallows, cut into halves
• ½ cup crushed graham crackers (vegan-friendly)

How to Make Pumpkin S’mores Cookies (Vegan)

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl:
1. Whisk together the pumpkin puree, melted coconut oil or vegan butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and vanilla until smooth.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl:
1. Whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well mixed.

Step 4: Mix Together

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients:
1. Stir until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep cookies tender.

Step 5: Add S’mores Mix-Ins

Gently fold in:
1. Vegan chocolate chunks,
2. Vegan marshmallows,
3. Crushed graham crackers until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 6: Scoop Cookies onto Baking Sheet

Using a cookie scoop:
1. Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet,
2. Ensure there is space between each cookie to allow for spreading while baking.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies

Place in the preheated oven:
1. Bake for 10–12 minutes or until edges are set but centers remain soft,
2. Remember that cookies will firm up as they cool on the baking sheet.

Step 8: Cool & Enjoy!

After baking:
1. Let cookies rest on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes,
2. Transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely before enjoying your delicious Pumpkin S’mores Cookies!

How to Serve Pumpkin S’mores Cookies (Vegan)

These Vegan Pumpkin S’mores Cookies are perfect for sharing or enjoying on cozy nights. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your cookie experience.

With a Warm Beverage

• Hot Chocolate: Pair your cookies with a rich, creamy hot chocolate for a delightful treat.
• Chai Tea: The spices in chai tea complement the flavors of pumpkin and cinnamon beautifully.
• Coffee: A warm cup of coffee brings out the cookie’s sweetness and balances its flavors.

As a Dessert Platter

• Fruit Salad: Serve alongside a refreshing fruit salad for a light and vibrant contrast.
• Vegan Ice Cream: Add a scoop of vegan ice cream to create an indulgent dessert that’s hard to resist.
• Nut Butter Dip: Offer a side of almond or peanut butter for dipping, adding extra flavor and protein.

For Gatherings

• Cookie Sandwiches: Create cookie sandwiches by adding a layer of vegan frosting between two cookies for added fun.
• Gift Wrapping: Package these cookies in decorative bags for thoughtful homemade gifts at parties or holidays.

How to Perfect Pumpkin S’mores Cookies (Vegan)

For the best results with your Vegan Pumpkin S’mores Cookies, consider these tips to elevate your baking game.

• Use Fresh Pumpkin Puree: Fresh puree offers better flavor compared to canned options, enhancing the overall taste.
• Check Oven Temperature: Ensure your oven is properly calibrated; an accurate temperature leads to consistent baking results.
• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Gently mix ingredients to keep cookies soft and chewy. Overmixing can lead to dense cookies.
• Experiment with Spices: Add more spices like allspice or ginger for a unique flavor profile that enhances the pumpkin essence.
• Adjust Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies; baking longer can result in dryness. Aim for slightly underbaked centers.
• Cool Completely Before Storing: Allow cookies to cool fully before storing them in an airtight container to maintain their texture.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin S’mores Cookies (Vegan)

Complementing your Vegan Pumpkin S’mores Cookies with side dishes can create a well-rounded snack experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Apple Slices: Crispy apple slices add freshness and crunch, balancing the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Carrot Sticks with Hummus: This healthy combo offers a savory contrast while providing a satisfying crunch.
3. Trail Mix: A blend of nuts, seeds, and dried fruits makes for a nutritious and energizing side dish.
4. Coconut Yogurt Parfait: Layer coconut yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy, fruity addition that pairs well with sweets.
5. Popcorn: Seasoned popcorn adds texture and can be flavored sweet or savory to match your mood.
6. Rice Cakes with Nut Butter: Light yet filling, rice cakes topped with nut butter are great for dipping alongside the cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pumpkin S’mores Cookies (Vegan), it’s easy to overlook certain details that can affect the outcome. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Using pumpkin pie filling: This can lead to overly sweet cookies. Always use pure pumpkin puree for the best flavor and texture.
• Overmixing the dough: This can result in tough cookies. Mix until just combined for a soft and chewy texture.
• Not measuring ingredients correctly: Accurate measurements are key. Use measuring cups and spoons for consistency.
• Skipping the cooling time: Letting cookies cool on the baking sheet helps them set properly. Don’t rush this step!
• Ignoring ingredient temperature: Using cold coconut oil or butter can affect how well they blend. Allow them to come to room temperature before mixing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Pumpkin S’mores Cookies (Vegan)

• Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet for about 1 hour.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper. They will last up to 3 months.

Reheating Pumpkin S’mores Cookies (Vegan)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet on low heat, cover, and warm for a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes these Pumpkin S’mores Cookies (Vegan) unique?

These cookies combine traditional s’mores flavors with pumpkin, resulting in a deliciously soft and chewy treat perfect for fall.

Can I substitute any ingredients in the recipe?

Yes! You can swap the coconut oil with vegan butter and use different types of vegan chocolate or marshmallows based on your preference.

How should I store Pumpkin S’mores Cookies (Vegan)?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for up to five days.

Are these cookies gluten-free?

The original recipe uses all-purpose flour, but you can use a gluten-free flour blend if desired.

How long do these cookies take to bake?

Bake the cookies for 10–12 minutes until the edges are set while keeping the centers soft.

Final Thoughts

These Vegan Pumpkin S’mores Cookies offer a delightful blend of flavors that celebrate the essence of fall. Their versatility allows you to customize them with various mix-ins or toppings. Try them today and enjoy a cozy treat that’s perfect any time of year!