Pumpkin Smores Bars

Pumpkin Smores Bars combine fall spices with gooey marshmallow and chocolate chips. Easy gluten free recipe with pumpkin puree makes perfect fall dessert bars.

Hi, I’m Linda, and welcome to Tasty at Home—a cozy corner where bold flavors meet everyday kitchens. Last October, while camping in the Smoky Mountains, I watched my kids roasting marshmallows over the fire and thought, “What if we could capture this magic at home with fall flavors?” That’s when these Pumpkin S’mores Bars were born.

Well, let me tell you, my first attempt was a complete disaster. Meanwhile, the marshmallow layer turned into a sugary soup, and the pumpkin flavor disappeared entirely.

However, after six kitchen experiments and countless taste tests, I finally cracked the code. These bars now deliver everything you love about s’mores with the warm, spiced comfort of pumpkin season.

You know what makes these bars absolutely irresistible? The way the fluffy marshmallow layer stays perfectly gooey while the pumpkin cookie base develops a tender, cake-like texture. Moreover, each bite combines the nostalgic campfire experience with sophisticated fall spices that adults crave.

Whether you’re planning a Halloween party or simply want to bring autumn indoors, these Pumpkin S’mores Bars will transform your kitchen into a cozy retreat. Furthermore, they’re surprisingly simple to make—no campfire required.

What Makes These S’mores Pumpkin Bars So Special

These aren’t your typical fall bars. Instead, they represent the perfect marriage between classic s’mores and seasonal pumpkin flavors. After testing dozens of variations, I discovered the secret lies in the three-layer construction that creates textural contrast in every bite.

The bottom layer features a soft pumpkin cookie base infused with warming spices. Next, a cloud-like marshmallow layer provides that essential s’mores element. Finally, dollops of extra cookie dough create delightful pockets of concentrated pumpkin flavor throughout.

Additionally, these bars work beautifully for both casual family desserts and elegant entertaining. The pumpkin puree adds natural moisture, which means they stay fresh for days. Plus, the recipe easily doubles for larger gatherings.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Pumpkin S’mores Bars

Shopping Tips for Perfect Results

When shopping for pumpkin puree, look for 100% pure pumpkin without added spices. Libby’s remains the gold standard, but store brands work equally well. However, avoid pumpkin pie filling, which contains sugar and spices that will throw off the recipe balance.

For marshmallow creme, Jet-Puff provides consistent results. Nevertheless, if you prefer mini marshmallows, they create delightful pockets of gooey sweetness throughout the bars. The choice depends on whether you want an even marshmallow layer or scattered bursts of sweetness.

Equipment and Step-by-Step Instructions

Essential Equipment

• 8×8 inch baking pan (metal preferred for even browning)
• Stand mixer or hand mixer (wooden spoon works in a pinch)
• Medium mixing bowl for dry ingredients
• Rubber spatula for gentle folding
• Measuring cups and spoons (accurate measurements matter)
• Wire cooling rack (prevents soggy bottoms)

Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace

Preheat your oven to 375°F and position the rack in the center. Lightly spray an 8×8 inch pan with cooking spray, then line with parchment paper for easy removal. Trust me, this extra step saves you from scraping bars out later.

Step 2: Create the Perfect Cookie Base

Using your stand mixer or hand mixer, cream the softened butter and brown sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy—about one minute of beating. The mixture should look pale and increase in volume. If your butter was too cold, this step takes longer and affects the final texture.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Add the pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Beat until just combined, stopping as soon as the ingredients merge. Overmixing at this stage can create tough bars, so gentle incorporation is key.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. This ensures even spice distribution throughout the bars. Then, add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined—you should still see a few flour streaks.

Step 5: Fold in Chocolate Chips

Using a wooden spoon, gently stir in the chocolate chips. This manual mixing prevents overmanipulating the dough while ensuring even chocolate distribution. The dough should feel slightly sticky but hold together well.

Step 6: Create the Base Layer

Spread approximately three-quarters of the cookie dough into your prepared pan, reserving about 1/4 cup for the top layer. Use an offset spatula to create an even surface, but don’t pack it down too firmly. The remaining dough should be set aside in a small bowl.

Step 7: Add the Marshmallow Layer

Here’s where the magic happens. Using a clean spatula, spread the marshmallow creme over the cookie base. Don’t worry if it mixes slightly with the dough—this actually creates beautiful swirled patterns. The goal is to cover most of the cookie layer while leaving some areas uncovered for visual interest.

Alternatively, if using mini marshmallows, sprinkle them evenly over the base, then add a few extra chocolate chips on top.

Step 8: Create the Signature Top Layer

Drop spoonfuls of the reserved cookie dough randomly across the marshmallow layer. You don’t want complete coverage—instead, create irregular patches that will bake into golden islands of cookie goodness. This technique gives the bars their distinctive appearance and varied textures.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 25-30 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the cookie portions comes out with just a few moist crumbs. Remember, the marshmallow layer will remain gooey, so don’t expect a completely clean toothpick. The top should be lightly golden, and the edges should just begin to pull away from the pan.

Step 10: Cool Completely

Let the bars cool completely in the pan before cutting—this is absolutely crucial. Warm bars will be impossibly gooey and impossible to cut cleanly. I learned this lesson the hard way when my impatient family convinced me to cut them early, resulting in a delicious but messy disaster.

Pro Tips and Creative Variations

Expert Secrets for Bakery-Quality Results

The secret to perfect Pumpkin S’mores Bars lies in understanding moisture balance. Pumpkin puree adds incredible tenderness, but too much creates soggy bars. Additionally, the marshmallow layer continues cooking even after removal from the oven, so slight underbaking actually produces the ideal gooey texture.

Temperature control matters enormously. Cold ingredients don’t cream properly, resulting in dense bars. Conversely, overly warm butter creates thin, greasy results. Room temperature ingredients (about 68°F) blend effortlessly and create the perfect texture.

Regional Variations That Wow

Southern Comfort Style: Add 1/4 cup mini bourbon-soaked raisins and substitute pecans for half the chocolate chips. The bourbon evaporates during baking, leaving behind sophisticated caramel notes that complement the pumpkin beautifully.

Pacific Northwest Twist: Fold in 2 tablespoons of instant espresso powder and use dark chocolate chunks instead of milk chocolate chips. The coffee enhances the pumpkin’s earthiness while creating a more adult flavor profile.

Texas-Sized Bars: Double the recipe and bake in a 9×13 inch pan for 30-35 minutes. Perfect for potluck dinners and football gatherings where you need to feed a crowd.

Gluten-Free Excellence: Simply substitute your favorite gluten-free flour blend cup-for-cup. Bob’s Red Mill 1-to-1 Baking Flour produces nearly identical results to traditional all-purpose flour.

Dairy-Free Delight: Use vegan butter and dairy-free chocolate chips. The pumpkin puree provides so much richness that you won’t miss the dairy components.

Make-Ahead and Storage Solutions

For make-ahead entertaining, bake the bars completely and store covered at room temperature. They actually improve after 24 hours as the flavors meld together. However, if you want that just-baked warmth, pop individual servings in the microwave for 8-10 seconds.

Perfect Pairings and Serving Suggestions

These Pumpkin S’mores Bars shine alongside warm beverages that complement their spiced sweetness. Consider serving with spiced apple cider, pumpkin spice lattes, or rich hot chocolate topped with mini marshmallows for the ultimate s’mores experience.

For an elegant dinner party dessert, pair individual bars with vanilla bean ice cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce. The temperature contrast between warm bars and cold ice cream creates an unforgettable sensory experience.

Additionally, these bars work wonderfully as part of a fall dessert buffet. Consider pairing them with our Sweet Japanese Potato Crème Brûlée for an international autumn celebration, or serve alongside our Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Marshmallow Cookies for the ultimate pumpkin lover’s feast.

For casual gatherings, wrap individual bars in cellophane bags tied with autumn ribbons. They make perfect teacher gifts, bake sale contributions, or hostess presents for Halloween parties.

Pumpkin S’mores Bars FAQs

The Sweet Conclusion

Man, oh man, there’s something magical about the moment these Pumpkin S’mores Bars emerge from your oven. The kitchen fills with the warm scent of cinnamon and nutmeg while golden peaks of cookie dough glisten above pools of melted marshmallow—like tiny autumn mountains dotting a sweet landscape.

These bars represent everything I love about fall baking: the comfort of familiar spices, the joy of creative fusion, and the satisfaction of sharing homemade treats that bring people together. Moreover, they prove that the best recipes often come from unexpected combinations and willingness to experiment.

Whether you’re hosting a Halloween gathering, contributing to a school bake sale, or simply want to fill your home with the scents of autumn, these Pumpkin S’mores Bars deliver every time. Furthermore, they freeze beautifully, so you can stash a batch for unexpected guests or those moments when only something homemade will do.

I’d love to hear about your own Pumpkin S’mores Bars adventures! Did you try the bourbon raisin variation? Perhaps you discovered your own creative twist? Share your results on social media and tag us—seeing your beautiful creations absolutely makes my day.

For your next autumn gathering, consider serving these alongside our Halloween Pasta Salad for a complete seasonal menu. The savory-sweet combination creates the perfect balance for any fall celebration.

Remember, every great recipe tells a story, and now these Pumpkin S’mores Bars can become part of yours. Happy baking, and welcome to the deliciously cozy world of Tasty at Home!

Pumpkin S’mores Bars

Pumpkin S’mores Bars combine the nostalgic gooey sweetness of campfire s’mores with the cozy warmth of pumpkin spice cookie bars. Featuring layers of spiced pumpkin cookie dough, gooey marshmallow, and chocolate chips, these bars are the ultimate fall treat—perfect for parties, bake sales, or cozy nights in.

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 9 bars

Equipment

• 8×8-inch baking pan
• stand mixer or hand mixer
• mixing bowls
• Rubber spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wire cooling rack

Ingredients

  

Core Ingredients

• ½ cup Unsalted butter Softened, room temperature
• ⅔ cup Light brown sugar Packed
• ¼ cup + 2 tbsp Pumpkin puree Not pumpkin pie filling
• 1 Large egg Room temperature preferred
• 1 tsp Vanilla extract Pure vanilla recommended

Dry Ingredients

• 1 cup All-purpose flour Gluten-free flour works
• 2 tsp Pumpkin pie spice Homemade blend works
• ½ tsp Salt Fine sea salt preferred
• ¼ tsp Baking powder Fresh for best rise
• ¼ tsp Baking soda Check expiration date

Bold Add-ins

• 1 cup Semisweet chocolate chips Dairy-free options available
• ½ cup Marshmallow creme Or 1 cup mini marshmallows

Instructions

 

• Preheat oven to 375°F. Grease and line an 8×8 inch pan with parchment paper.
• Cream butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
• Add pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until just combined.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, pumpkin pie spice, salt, baking powder, and baking soda.
• Combine wet and dry ingredients until just incorporated. Fold in chocolate chips.
• Spread 3/4 of the dough into the pan. Layer with marshmallow creme or mini marshmallows.
• Dollop remaining dough on top, leaving gaps for the marshmallow to show.
• Bake 25–30 minutes until golden and edges pull slightly away. Toothpick should come out with moist crumbs.
• Cool completely before cutting into bars.

Notes

For variations, try bourbon-soaked raisins and pecans for Southern style, espresso powder and dark chocolate for a Northwest twist, or make them gluten-free or dairy-free. Bars freeze beautifully and taste even better the next day as flavors meld together.

Keyword Cookie Bars, fall, pumpkin, S’mores