Ultimate Gooey S’mores Cookies: Soft & Chewy Pudding Cookies with Chocolate & Marshmallow
Prepare for an irresistible treat: these S’mores Cookies are absolutely bursting with the gooey perfection of toasted marshmallows and rich chocolate. Made with a special pudding mix, these cookies are incredibly soft and chewy, loaded with mini chocolate chips and M&M’s, then crowned with fluffy marshmallows and a square of melty chocolate. They are, without a doubt, the BEST S’mores Cookies you will ever sink your teeth into!
As summer rolls on, our love for S’mores remains as strong as ever. This innovative cookie recipe takes the classic campfire delight to a whole new level, offering a convenient and utterly delicious way to enjoy those beloved flavors. Each bite delivers a delightful contrast: a tender, melt-in-your-mouth cookie base, generous chunks of rich chocolate, and sweet, sticky marshmallow. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that combines the best of a chocolate chip cookie with the magical experience of S’mores. You’ll definitely want to keep this recipe close!
What Exactly Are S’mores Cookies?
Simply put, S’mores Cookies are a creative and utterly delicious rendition of the traditional S’mores, transformed into a convenient cookie format. We start with a remarkably soft and flavorful chocolate chip cookie base, enhanced by a secret ingredient that ensures an exceptionally tender crumb. Once baked, these cookies are adorned with pieces of your favorite chocolate and a generous topping of mini marshmallows. A quick return to the oven lightly toasts the marshmallows and melts the chocolate, replicating the iconic campfire experience without the need for a fire pit. For an extra touch of fun and flavor, we’ve also incorporated mini M&M candies into the dough, adding a delightful crunch and colorful surprise to every bite.
Key Ingredients for the Perfect Soft S’mores Chocolate Chip Cookies
Crafting these extraordinary S’mores cookies requires a thoughtful selection of ingredients, each playing a crucial role in achieving their signature soft, chewy, and irresistibly gooey texture. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need to gather:
- Butter & Shortening: For the ultimate cookie texture and flavor, I find a blend of both butter and shortening to be indispensable. Butter provides that rich, classic flavor, while shortening contributes to a softer, lighter crumb and helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much, ensuring they remain wonderfully thick.
- Granulated Sugar & Brown Sugar: The combination of these two sugars is key to achieving both the sweetness and the desired chewiness. Granulated sugar offers sweetness and helps with crisp edges, while packed light brown sugar adds moisture, depth of flavor, and contributes significantly to the cookies’ soft and chewy center.
- Eggs & Milk: Eggs act as a binder, providing structure and moisture, while milk helps to achieve the perfect dough consistency, ensuring the cookies are tender and not too dry.
- Vanilla Extract: High-quality vanilla extract is paramount here. It elevates all the other flavors, adding a warm, aromatic depth that makes these cookies truly exceptional. I highly recommend investing in a good quality vanilla extract or even a Vanilla Bean Paste for an even more intense vanilla presence. These links are my personal favorites!
- All-Purpose Flour: This forms the primary structure of our cookies. While all-purpose flour works perfectly, you can also experiment with bread flour for an even chewier texture, though it’s not strictly necessary.
- Vanilla Pudding Mix (Instant or Cook & Serve): This is our secret weapon for incredibly soft and moist cookies! The pudding mix helps to keep the cookies tender for days. I’ve successfully used both instant and cook & serve varieties in my cookie recipes and honestly can’t discern a significant difference in the final product. Feel free to use whichever you have on hand.
- Baking Soda & Salt: Baking soda is our leavening agent, ensuring the cookies rise nicely and achieve that slightly puffy, yet soft, texture. Salt balances the sweetness and enhances all the other flavors, making them pop.
- Mini Chocolate Chips, M&M Candies, and Mini Marshmallows: These are the star mix-ins! The mini chocolate chips melt beautifully, creating pockets of chocolatey goodness throughout the cookie. The M&M’s add a delightful crunch and burst of color. And of course, mini marshmallows are essential for that signature gooey, toasted S’mores topping. If you’re looking to simplify, you can use 2 cups of mini chocolate chips and omit the M&M’s, but the trio is truly magical.
- Hershey’s Chocolate: For the classic S’mores experience, a square of Hershey’s chocolate on top is a must. I prefer using 4 bars of Special Dark Hershey’s Chocolate, broken into 12 squares each, for a richer, less sweet chocolate complement to the marshmallows. Milk chocolate is also a fantastic option for those who prefer a sweeter topping.
The Secret to Unbelievably Soft Cookies: Pudding Mix!
One of the standout features of these S’mores cookies is their incredible softness, and the key to this lies in the addition of vanilla pudding mix. You might wonder why pudding mix in cookies? It’s a fantastic baking hack that adds moisture, richness, and creates an amazingly tender crumb that stays soft for days. The cornstarch in the pudding mix helps to absorb moisture during baking, preventing the cookies from drying out and giving them a delightful, almost cake-like chewiness. It also subtly enhances the vanilla flavor, making these cookies truly irresistible. Whether you use instant or cook & serve, the result is consistently soft, fluffy, and perfectly structured cookies.
How to Make These Incredible S’mores Cookies
Creating these delightful S’mores cookies is a straightforward process that yields truly spectacular results. Follow these simple steps to bring this gooey, chocolatey goodness to your kitchen:
- Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large cookie sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
- Cream Fats and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer, cream together the softened butter and shortening for about 2 minutes until the mixture becomes pale and fluffy. This aerates the fats, contributing to a lighter cookie texture. Add the granulated sugar and brown sugar, mixing until they are thoroughly combined and the mixture is light and well-incorporated.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract and milk, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix at this stage.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, vanilla pudding mix, baking soda, and salt. This ensures all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed before being added to the wet mixture.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until the flour is completely incorporated and no streaks remain. Again, avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
- Stir in Mix-ins: Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips and mini M&M’s by hand using a spatula. Distribute them evenly throughout the dough.
- Scoop and Bake (First Round): Using a medium cookie scoop (about 1.5-2 tablespoons), scoop level balls of dough and place them about 1.5-2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 9 minutes in the preheated oven. The cookies will be lightly golden at the edges and still look slightly underdone in the center.
- Add Toppings: Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Immediately place one square of Hershey’s chocolate on top of each warm cookie. Then, artfully arrange 5-6 mini marshmallows on top of each cookie, making sure to leave a little bit of the chocolate exposed.
- Final Bake and Cool: Return the cookies to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, or until the marshmallows are lightly golden and toasted, and the chocolate is beautifully melted. Remove from the oven and let them cool on the cookie sheet for at least 5 minutes. This allows the cookies to set and the chocolate to slightly firm up before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.
BEST S’mores Chocolate Chip Cookies
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Ingredients
- 1/2 cup salted butter softened
- 1/2 cup shortening
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all purpose flour
- 1 3.4 oz box vanilla pudding mix
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups mini chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup Mini M&M’s
- 4-5 cups mini marshmallows
- 48 squares Hershey’s chocolate
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350°F and line a cookie sheet with parchment paper.
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Using an electric mixer, cream your butter and shortening for about 2 minutes, until pale. Add sugars and mix until well combined. Add your eggs, vanilla and milk & mix.
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Whisk together flour, pudding mix, baking soda and salt. Pour into butter mixture and mix until flour is completely incorporated.
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Stir in mini chocolate chips and mini M&M’s.
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Scoop dough level using a medium cookie scoop. Place balls about 1.5-2″ inches apart on the baking sheet. Bake for 9 minutes.
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Remove from oven and place 1 square of chocolate on each cookie. Arrange 5-6 mini marshmallows on top of cookies, making sure to leave some of the chocolate exposed.
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Return to oven and bake an additional 5 minutes. Let cool on cookie sheet for at least 5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
Nutrition
Essential Tips for Baking the Perfect Chocolate Chip Cookies
Achieving consistently perfect chocolate chip cookies, including these delightful S’mores variations, is easier with the right tools and techniques. Here are three key items and tips that significantly streamline the baking process and enhance your results:
- Parchment Paper is Your Best Friend: For effortless baking and cleanup, I always line my cookie sheets with a piece of parchment paper. These sheets are often sold in sizes perfectly suited for standard 12×16 inch cookie sheets. Parchment paper ensures that your cookies bake evenly without sticking to the pan, and it eliminates the need for messy oil sprays or greasing, making cleanup incredibly simple. It also promotes a more even distribution of heat, resulting in beautifully golden bottoms without over-browning.
- Invest in a Quality Electric Mixer: A reliable electric mixer, especially a stand mixer like a KitchenAid, is a game-changer for cookie dough. While I also own a Bosch, I find myself consistently reaching for my KitchenAid for cookie recipes. Most stand mixers come with a versatile paddle attachment that efficiently creams butter and sugar, and uniformly mixes ingredients without overworking the dough. This consistent mixing is crucial for developing the right texture in your cookies, ensuring they are tender and chewy every time.
- The Magic of a Cookie Scoop: For years, I struggled with unevenly sized cookies, using two spoons to haphazardly drop dough onto baking sheets. Then a friend revealed her secret to perfectly uniform cookies: a cookie scoop! These handy tools come in various sizes (typically 1/2 tablespoon, 1.5 tablespoon, and 3 tablespoon). For these S’mores cookies, and most other cookie recipes, I use the middle size (1.5 tablespoon). A cookie scoop ensures each cookie is the same size, which means they bake evenly, preventing some from being undercooked while others are overbaked. Plus, they make the scooping process much faster and cleaner.
Customizing Your S’mores Cookie Experience
While this recipe for S’mores cookies is exceptional as written, don’t hesitate to get creative and personalize them to your taste! Here are a few ideas to inspire you:
- Chocolate Varieties: Instead of or in addition to Hershey’s Special Dark, try milk chocolate, white chocolate, or even a blend of different chocolates for the topping. Dark chocolate chips can also be mixed into the dough for a deeper chocolate flavor.
- Nutty Additions: For an extra layer of texture and flavor, consider adding chopped nuts like pecans, walnuts, or almonds to the cookie dough.
- Flavor Boosters: A pinch of cinnamon or a dash of espresso powder can add a warm, complex note that complements the chocolate and marshmallow beautifully.
- Different Candies: While M&M’s are a fun addition, feel free to experiment with other mini candies or even chopped candy bars for unique twists.
- Graham Cracker Dust: For an even more intense S’mores flavor, gently fold some crushed graham cracker crumbs into the dough, or sprinkle a few on top before baking the second round.
Can You Freeze S’mores Cookies? Yes, Absolutely!
These S’mores cookies are fantastic for making ahead and freezing, whether you want to prepare the dough for future baking or save baked cookies for later enjoyment. Here are two convenient ways to freeze them:
- Freezing Cookie Dough Balls: This method is perfect for having fresh-baked cookies whenever a craving strikes. After scooping your dough using a cookie scoop, form the dough into uniform balls. Place these dough balls on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, ensuring they don’t touch each other. Freeze the entire tray for 1-2 hours, or until the dough balls are solid. Once frozen, transfer the hardened cookie dough balls into a freezer-safe Ziplock bag or an airtight container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply place the frozen dough balls on a prepared baking sheet and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed. You’ll add the marshmallows and chocolate for the topping during the final stages of baking, just like with fresh dough.
- Freezing Baked S’mores Cookies: If you’ve already baked a batch and want to save some for later, you can certainly freeze the entire cookie once it’s completely cooled. It’s crucial that the cookies are fully cooled, and the chocolate topping has solidified again (this can take several hours at room temperature or quicker in the fridge). To freeze, arrange the cooled cookies in an airtight container, placing a layer of parchment paper between each stack to prevent them from sticking together. This helps maintain their shape and prevents the toppings from smudging. For best quality, consume within 1-2 months. To defrost, simply place the cookies on the countertop at room temperature for an hour or two until soft. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the marshmallows overly sticky.
More Delicious Variations on Chocolate Chip Cookies!
If you’re a fan of these S’mores cookies, you’ll love exploring other creative takes on the classic chocolate chip cookie. The possibilities are endless when it comes to infusing new flavors and textures into this beloved treat. Here are some fantastic recipes to inspire your next baking adventure, all building on the comforting base of a perfect chocolate chip cookie:
- BANANA CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES: A delightful fusion of ripe banana and sweet chocolate chips, offering a moist and flavorful cookie.
- DOUBLE CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES: For the ultimate chocolate lover, these cookies are packed with cocoa powder in the dough and an abundance of chocolate chips.
- PUMPKIN CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES: A seasonal favorite, combining the warm spices of pumpkin with rich chocolate chips for a cozy treat.
- DOUBLE CHOCOLATE CHIP PUDDING COOKIES: Another pudding-enhanced recipe, delivering extra soft and chocolatey cookies that stay fresh longer.
- AVOCADO CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES: A healthier twist, where avocado adds healthy fats and a wonderfully moist texture without altering the taste.
- OATMEAL CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES: The hearty chewiness of oatmeal meets the classic sweetness of chocolate chips for a satisfying cookie.
- GRAHAM CRACKER S’MORES COOKIES: A different take on S’mores, incorporating graham cracker crumbs directly into the cookie.
- CARAMEL STUFFED CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES: Imagine a soft chocolate chip cookie with a gooey, molten caramel center. Pure indulgence!
- RASPBERRY CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES: The bright, tart flavor of raspberries beautifully complements the sweetness of chocolate in these delightful cookies.
- BUTTER PECAN CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES: A nutty and buttery twist, perfect for those who enjoy the rich flavor of pecans with their chocolate.
Serving and Enjoying Your S’mores Cookies
These S’mores cookies are best enjoyed slightly warm, when the chocolate is still melty and the marshmallows are delightfully gooey. Serve them fresh from the oven for the ultimate experience. They pair perfectly with a cold glass of milk, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or even a hot cup of coffee for a truly comforting treat. Whether it’s for a summer barbecue, a family gathering, or just a cozy night in, these cookies are sure to be a hit!
Frequently Asked Questions About S’mores Cookies
Here are some common questions about making and enjoying these amazing S’mores cookies:
- Can I use different types of marshmallows? Yes, mini marshmallows work best for even melting and coverage, but larger marshmallows can be cut into smaller pieces.
- Do I need to chill the dough? This recipe is designed not to require chilling, thanks to the balance of fats and sugars. However, if your kitchen is very warm, a brief chill (15-30 minutes) won’t hurt.
- How do I store leftover cookies? Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, refer to the freezing instructions above.
- My marshmallows turned too brown/burnt. What happened? This usually means they were in the oven too long or the oven temperature was too high during the second bake. Keep a close eye on them; marshmallows toast quickly!
This photo always brings a smile to my face. This is my father-in-law, who never had pets growing up, and honestly, our extended family isn’t exactly teeming with furry companions. So, when we unexpectedly brought home two puppies, we weren’t entirely sure how everyone would react. Well, let me tell you, it was love at first sight! These puppies and my father-in-law are the best of friends. They absolutely light up when he comes over, and I’m quite certain the feeling is mutual. It’s a wonderful thing to witness!
Experience the ultimate S’mores delight with these incredible S’mores Cookies! Crafted as soft pudding cookies, they’re loaded with mini chocolate chips and M&M’s, then crowned with perfectly toasted marshmallows and a square of rich chocolate. This recipe truly delivers the BEST S’mores Cookies you’ll ever bake!
