Name: Delicious Pumpkin S'mores Cookies for a Cozy Treat
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 44 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted Butter (at room temperature); 1 cup Brown Sugar; 1 cup Granulated Sugar; 1 cup Pumpkin Puree; 1 large Egg; 1 tsp Vanilla Extract; 2 cups All-Purpose Flour; 1 tsp Baking Soda; 2 tsp Pumpkin Pie Spice; 1 tsp Salt; 1 cup Chocolate Chips; 1 cup Mini Marshmallows; 1 cup Crushed Graham Crackers

As I stirred the pot, the scent of spices wafted through the kitchen, invoking memories of cozy winter evenings. My Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili blends the beloved flavors of Buffalo wings with the warm heartiness of chili, creating a meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. This recipe is not only a breeze to prepare—perfect for busy days—but it also delivers the kind of comfort food that beckons everyone to gather around the table. With its rich, robust flavors, this dish is sure to become a favorite for game nights or chilly weeknights. Plus, it caters beautifully to gluten-free diets with just a few simple tweaks! Are you ready to transform your dinner routine? Let’s dive into this flavorful adventure!

Why You Should Make This Chili?

Hearty Comfort: This Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili is the ultimate cozy dish, perfect for snuggling up on cold nights.

Flavor Explosion: The robust Buffalo wing flavors paired with savory spices deliver an extraordinary taste experience that your taste buds will adore.

Easy Preparation: With minimal hands-on time and a slow cooker doing the work, you can enjoy a hearty meal without the hassle.

Customizable: Feel free to swap ingredients based on what you have on hand—try turkey for a leaner option or add extra veggies for nutrition.

Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a game day feast, this chili guarantees to impress your guests and spark delightful conversations.

Get ready to embrace the joy of cooking

and complement your meal!

Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili Ingredients

For the Spice Blend

Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness to balance the spices; adjust based on taste preference.
Chili Powder – Provides the base flavor and warmth; substitute with cayenne for more heat if desired.
Ground Cumin – Adds a warm, earthy tone; can be omitted if unavailable.
Sweet Smoked Paprika – Gives a smoky depth to the dish; regular paprika can be used if necessary.
Mustard Powder – Contributes tang; can be replaced with prepared mustard, adjusting quantity accordingly.
Dried Oregano – Enhances flavor with herby notes; fresh oregano can be used, adjusting the amount.
Cayenne Pepper – Offers heat; reduce for a milder taste.

For the Chili Base

Yellow Onion – Provides sweetness and depth; shallots can be substituted.
Olive Oil – Used for sautéing vegetables; can swap with any neutral oil.
Celery – Adds crunch and flavor; can be omitted for a simpler version.
Garlic – Essential for aromatic flavor; substitute with garlic powder if fresh is unavailable.
Low Sodium Chicken Broth – Nutritious base; vegetable broth can make a vegetarian version.
Great Northern Beans – Contributes heartiness; other beans can be used but adjust soaking times as needed.
Fire-Roasted Canned Tomatoes – Adds depth and slight smokiness; regular tomatoes can substitute, but add smoked paprika for flavor.
Diced Green Chiles – Provides a touch of heat; can be omitted for a milder chili.
Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs – Keeps the chili moist and flavorful; can replace with chicken breasts or shredded rotisserie chicken.

For Creaminess (Optional)

Neufchâtel Cheese – Creates creaminess; substitute with regular cream cheese if desired.

This Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Chili is your new go-to for a cozy and comforting meal, perfect for any time you crave that distinctive Buffalo flavor!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for https://xoxobella.com/pumpkin-smores-cookies/

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This will ensure your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies bake evenly. Keep the parchment close by, as you’ll be using it shortly for the cookie dough drops.

Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream together the unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. The sugars should dissolve into the butter, creating a smooth texture. This step is crucial for achieving that soft and chewy cookie texture you want in your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies.

Step 3: Mix in Wet Ingredients
Next, add the pumpkin puree, large egg, and vanilla extract into the creamed mixture, mixing until well combined. If you desire a vibrant orange color, you can add a few drops of orange food coloring at this stage. This will enhance the visual appeal of your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies while blending the warm flavors beautifully.

Step 4: Whisk the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. This dry mixture needs to be well combined to ensure your cookies have an even distribution of flavor and texture. Set this bowl aside as you prepare to combine it with your wet ingredients for the Pumpkin S’mores delight.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to denser cookies. The dough should appear slightly thick but manageable. This balance is key to achieving the perfect texture in your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies.

Step 6: Fold in Sweet Additions
Gently fold in the chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, and crushed graham crackers into the dough until evenly distributed. The chocolate and marshmallows will provide a delightful gooey texture, while the graham crackers add that classic s’mores crunch. This mixture will make your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies truly irresistible.

Step 7: Scoop the Dough
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, scoop rounded portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie. This spacing is important as the cookies will spread while baking. The dough will be sticky and fluffy, giving an indication of the soft cookies to come.

Step 8: Add Extra Toppings
Before baking, press a few extra chocolate chips, graham cracker pieces, and mini marshmallows into the tops of each dough ball. This step will enhance the visual appeal and flavor profile of your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies, inviting everyone to dig in as soon as they come out of the oven.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for 12-14 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown while the centers remain soft. Keep an eye on them, as you want to achieve that perfect balance between soft and chewy. The delightful aroma will fill your kitchen, signaling that fall has officially arrived.

Step 10: Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, remove the Pumpkin S’mores Cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This cooling time is crucial to prevent breaking, as they can be quite delicate while hot. Enjoy these cozy treats warm or at room temperature!

What to Serve with Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

These delightful cookies are perfect for cozy gatherings and making every autumn evening feel special.

Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a contrasting temperature and richness that perfectly complements the warm, spiced cookies.
Hot Cocoa: Indulge in a classic pairing—enjoying these cookies alongside a steaming mug of rich hot cocoa creates a decadent treat.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream is light and fluffy, balancing the sweetness of the cookies while enhancing the overall dessert experience.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: Elevate your flavors by sipping on a comforting pumpkin spice latte, deepening that cozy fall vibe and enhancing the pumpkin notes in the cookies.
Candied Pecans: Add a crunchy, sweet element with candied pecans—these offer a delightful contrast to the softness of the cookies and amplify autumn flavors beautifully.
Apple Cider Punch: A refreshing apple cider punch served chilled is perfect for mingling vibes and pairs excellently with the pumpkin and chocolate notes.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzle some warm caramel sauce over the cookies for an added layer of sweetness and decadence—making each bite even tastier.
Chocolate Milk: Pair these cookies with a glass of ice-cold chocolate milk for a nostalgic combination that kids and adults will love.
Cheesecake Bites: If you seek something a bit more elegant, mini cheesecake bites provide a richness that balances the chewy cookies splendidly.
Roasted Marshmallows: For a campfire feel, serve roasted marshmallows on the side, evoking that nostalgic s’mores experience while savoring every bite.

Make Ahead Options

These Pumpkin S’mores Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance—simply mix all the ingredients and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This helps them remain fresh and maintain that soft, chewy texture. Alternatively, you can scoop the dough onto the baking sheet and freeze individual cookie balls for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, just place the frozen dough on a baking sheet and add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll enjoy delightful, freshly baked Pumpkin S’mores Cookies with minimal effort!

Expert Tips for Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

Room Temperature Butter: Ensure your unsalted butter is at room temperature for easy mixing. Cold butter can lead to uneven textures in your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies.
Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix gently to prevent dense cookies. Overmixing can ruin the fluffy, chewy texture you desire!
Cool Before Transferring: Allow your cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before moving them. They’re delicate when hot, and this helps maintain their shape.
Customize Your Mix-Ins: Feel free to swap chocolate chips for white chocolate or even add nuts for a different crunch. Make your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies unique to your taste!
Store for Freshness: Keep cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze unbaked dough, so you can enjoy them fresh at any time.

Storage Tips for Pumpkin S’mores Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cooled Pumpkin S’mores Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and texture.

Fridge: If you want to keep them a bit longer, you can refrigerate the cookies for up to a week, just ensure they’re sealed well to prevent drying out.

Freezer: For extended storage, freeze either baked cookies or unbaked dough. Baked cookies can last up to 3 months, while unbaked dough can be frozen for up to a year—just scoop and bake straight from the freezer!

Reheating: To enjoy warm cookies, simply reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, keeping the delightful gooey texture intact.

Pumpkin S’mores Cookies Variations

Dive into a world of creativity with these delightful and versatile cookies, where every bite can be a different adventure!

Chocolate Swap: Change out chocolate chips for white chocolate or butterscotch chips for an exciting flavor twist. This simple swap can elevate your cookie game to new heights.
Nutty Delight: Add crushed walnuts or pecans to the mix for a satisfying crunch. The nutty flavor pairs beautifully with the pumpkin, making each bite a wholesome experience.
Oreo Crust: Substitute graham crackers with crushed Oreo cookies for a decadent chocolatey version. The rich flavors create an indulgent treat that’s sure to impress at gatherings.
Pumpkin Spice Lovers: Boost the pumpkin pie spice for an extra kick of fall flavor. Adjust the spices according to your taste, and you’ll have spicy cookies that are simply unforgettable!
Dairy-Free Version: Use coconut oil and dairy-free chocolate to create a delicious vegan treat. This variation keeps the comforting essence of the original while catering to those with dietary restrictions.
Chewy Add-in: Fold in shredded coconut for an unexpected chewiness. This addition adds an excellent texture and a hint of tropical flavor to your fall favorites.
Seasonal Fruit: Incorporate dried cranberries or chopped apples for an added burst of juicy flavor. The tartness complements the sweetness beautifully and elevates the cookie experience.
Extra Warmth: Toss in a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick. This unexpected heat contrasts wonderfully with the sweetness, creating a surprisingly delightful blend of flavors.

Feel free to get creative with these variations, and explore the delicious possibilities for your homemade Pumpkin S’mores Cookies!

Pumpkin S’mores Cookies Recipe FAQs

What kind of pumpkin puree should I use?
Absolutely! For the best results, make sure to use 100% pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling. The filling often contains added sugars and spices that can alter the flavor and texture of your cookies.

How should I store my Pumpkin S’mores Cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh, store cooled Pumpkin S’mores Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Just ensure they’re sealed well to prevent drying out!

Can I freeze the dough for Pumpkin S’mores Cookies?
Very! Freezing the dough is a fantastic option. Simply scoop the cookie dough portions onto a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then, transfer the dough balls to a zip-top freezer bag and store for up to a year. When you’re ready to bake, you can bake them straight from the freezer—just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

What should I do if my cookies turn out too dense?
If your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies end up too dense, it may be due to overmixing the dough. When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. If that’s not the issue, ensure your baking soda is fresh, as stale leavening agents can also lead to flat cookies.

Are these cookies suitable for gluten-free diets?
Absolutely! To make your Pumpkin S’mores Cookies gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure to select a blend that contains xanthan gum, which helps to provide the necessary structure for the cookies.

Can pets enjoy these cookies?
Oh, it’s important to note! The ingredients in Pumpkin S’mores Cookies, like chocolate and certain spices, can be harmful to pets. It’s best to keep these delicious treats for yourself and opt for pet-friendly snacks for your furry friends instead.