0 Shares

As the leaves crunch underfoot and the scent of cinnamon fills the air, I find myself craving something that marries the warmth of autumn with the joyful nostalgia of childhood campfire gatherings. That’s where these Vegan Pumpkin S’mores Cookie Bars come in—a delightful intersection of chewy pumpkin goodness and the familiar comfort of s’mores. Each bite is a celebration, blending melty vegan marshmallows, luxurious dark chocolate, and a spiced pumpkin dough that embraces the season perfectly.

Picture this: a cozy afternoon spent with friends and family, the excitement in the air as you pull these indulgent treats from the oven, their golden edges hinting at the deliciousness within. These bars are not just another dessert; they’re a conversation starter, a crowd-pleaser, and a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re vegan, gluten-free, or simply looking for a wholesome alternative to fast food treats, get ready to fall in love with a recipe that brings comfort and delightful flavors right into your home. Let’s dive into the magic of these delightful bars!

Why Love Vegan Pumpkin S’mores Cookie Bars?

Vegan Pumpkin S’mores Cookie Bars offer a cozy twist on a beloved classic that easily wins hearts. Irresistible flavors come together with spiced pumpkin, rich chocolate, and gooey marshmallows for a treat that’s hard to resist. Perfect for gatherings, these bars are a delightful centerpiece, sure to impress friends and family. Easy to make, even novice bakers will feel accomplished. Customizable options allow you to adapt the recipe based on dietary needs, ensuring everyone can enjoy. Ideal for fall, they capture the essence of the season in every bite!

Vegan Pumpkin S’mores Cookie Bars Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

Canned Pumpkin Purée – Adds moisture and flavor; use the full amount for best results.
Coconut Oil (melted) – Acts as a fat source for richness; can be substituted with melted vegan butter for a different flavor.
Light Brown Sugar – Provides sweetness and depth, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Maple Syrup – Adds additional sweetness and a hint of lovely flavor, perfectly complementing the pumpkin.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavors in the bars, making each bite delightful.
All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; for gluten-free, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Baking Powder & Baking Soda – Essential leavening agents for achieving the right texture.
Salt – Enhances all the flavors, bringing balance to the sweetness.
Ground Spices (Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Ginger) – Adds warmth and autumn flavor; adjust to taste if less spice is preferred.

For the Layers

Vegan Mini Marshmallows – Provides gooeyness; check for allergen-friendly brands to accommodate dietary needs.
Vegan Dark Chocolate – Offers rich, indulgent flavor; can use chocolate chunks or chopped leftover dark chocolate.
Graham Crackers (crushed) – Adds a delicious crunchiness; ensure gluten-free if necessary.

These Vegan Pumpkin S’mores Cookie Bars are not just a recipe; they’re a heartwarming invitation to gather and share delightful moments. Enjoy crafting this cozy autumn treat!

How to Make Vegan Pumpkin S’mores Cookie Bars

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare an 8×8-inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper. This ensures easy removal and clean-up later.
Whisk together the canned pumpkin purée, melted coconut oil, light brown sugar, maple syrup, and vanilla extract in a large bowl until you achieve a smooth mixture that smells heavenly.
Combine the dry ingredients: in another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground spices until well mixed and fragrant.
Merge the two mixtures by gradually adding the dry ingredients to the wet mix. Stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix to keep the texture chewy.
Fold half of the crushed graham crackers into the dough, adding extra flavor and texture. The eager crunch sets the stage for a delightful surprise with every bite.
Spread half of the dough into the prepared pan, pressing gently to create an even layer. This will form the base for our scrumptious toppings.
Scatter the vegan mini marshmallows and chopped dark chocolate over this layer to create a luscious filling that will melt beautifully during baking.
Dollop the remaining dough over the toppings, using your fingers to spread it out. Allow some of the marshmallows and chocolate to peek through for tantalizing visuals.
Sprinkle the rest of the crushed graham crackers on top, adding that delightful crunchiness we all adore in s’mores as it bakes.
Bake in your preheated oven for 28-32 minutes. Keep an eye out for golden brown edges. A toothpick should come out mostly clean, with a few gooey bits!
Cool the baked dessert completely in the pan before slicing into bars. This helps achieve that perfect chewy texture we crave.

Optional: Serve warm with a drizzle of chocolate on top for an indulgent treat.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Vegan Pumpkin S’mores Cookie Bars Variations

Get ready to customize your Vegan Pumpkin S’mores Cookie Bars with these delightful tweaks!

Sweet Potato Purée: Swap pumpkin with sweet potato for a subtly different flavor that still embraces fall vibes.
Orange Zest: Add fresh orange zest to the dough to brighten up the flavors with a zesty twist that uplifts each bite.
Vegan Butter: If coconut oil isn’t on hand, use melted vegan butter for a rich, slightly different taste and texture in your bars.
Nut-Free: Omit any nuts or seeds to cater to allergies, while replacing the texture with extra chocolate to keep it indulgent.
Chocolate Variations: Experiment with white chocolate vegan chips for a fun flavor contrast alongside the traditional dark chocolate.
Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for those avoiding gluten. Sweet potato or almond flour can also add unique flavors.
Spice Adjustments: Reduce the amount of ground spices if you prefer a milder flavor, or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a surprising kick!
Dried Fruits: Toss in some dried cranberries or cherries to add a burst of tartness that beautifully contrasts with the sweetness of the bars.

What to Serve with Vegan Pumpkin S’mores Cookie Bars?

Imagine yourself cozied up with your loved ones, engaging in laughter and sharing delightful moments while enjoying these indulgent bars.

Vegan Vanilla Ice Cream: Adds a creamy contrast to the chewy bars, enhancing the overall dessert experience. A scoop of cold sweetness complements the warm, spiced flavors beautifully.
Chai Tea: The aromatic spices meld perfectly with the pumpkin, creating a cozy beverage pairing reminiscent of autumnal gatherings. Its warmth soothes the soul as you savor your treats.
Coffee: A bold brew complements the rich chocolate and pumpkin flavor, making an invigorating pairing for coffee lovers. The bitterness balances the sweetness of the bars delightfully.
Coconut Whipped Cream: This light and airy topping adds a tropical twist, enhancing the flavors without overwhelming them. It’s a beautiful, fluffy complement to each bite.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing burst of seasonal fruits brings brightness and a touch of acidity, perfectly cutting through the sweetness of the cookie bars.
Peanut Butter Drizzle: A warm drizzle of peanut butter elevates the indulgence level, creating a fantastically rich and nutty harmony with the chocolate and pumpkin.
Maple Syrup: A light drizzle over the top adds extra sweetness with a hint of natural caramel flavor, creating a luxurious finish to each bar.

With these delightful accompaniments, your vegan pumpkin s’mores cookie bars will transform your gathering into a heartwarming feast!

Make Ahead Options

These Vegan Pumpkin S’mores Cookie Bars are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time in the kitchen! You can prepare the dough and layer it into the pan up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cover the unbaked bars with plastic wrap and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. This helps maintain the freshness and flavors, allowing all the ingredients to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, just pop the pan in the oven and bake according to the instructions. Trust me, they’ll come out just as delicious, with that comforting spiced aroma filling your home—a wonderful treat that saves time without compromising on taste!

Storage Tips for Vegan Pumpkin S’mores Cookie Bars

Room Temperature: Store your bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their chewy texture and freshness.
Fridge: For longer shelf life, refrigerate the bars in an airtight container, where they’ll stay fresh for up to a week.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place them in a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy your frozen Vegan Pumpkin S’mores Cookie Bars, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes until slightly warm.

Expert Tips for Vegan Pumpkin S’mores Cookie Bars

Cool Fully: Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing. This ensures maximum chewiness, making each bite satisfying and delightful.
Don’t Overbake: Watch for golden brown edges but avoid overbaking. Overbaked bars can turn dry and crumbly instead of staying soft and chewy.
Texture Boost: Consider folding in 1/2 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts into the dough for added crunch and richness, enhancing the enjoyment of these Vegan Pumpkin S’mores Cookie Bars.
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to substitute orange zest or sweet potato purée for variation; this can elevate your recipe and surprise your taste buds!
Storage Matters: Keep your bars fresh by storing them in an airtight container. They’ll stay tasty for up to 3 days at room temperature, or longer if refrigerated.

Vegan Pumpkin S’mores Cookie Bars Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right pumpkin purée?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and moisture, use 100% canned pumpkin purée without any additives. Opt for brands that have a smooth consistency and a rich color. Avoid pumpkin pie filling, as it contains spices and sugars that could alter the recipe’s outcome.

How should I store leftover Vegan Pumpkin S’mores Cookie Bars?
Very! Store your bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, which helps keep that chewy texture intact. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. Make sure the container is completely sealed to prevent them from drying out.

Can I freeze these cookie bars?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the Vegan Pumpkin S’mores Cookie Bars tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place them in a freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature for a bit before diving in!

What should I do if my bars are too dry?
If you find your bars turning out dry, make sure you’re not overbaking them—remove them from the oven as soon as the edges are golden brown. Additionally, you can add a teaspoon of extra coconut oil or a splash of non-dairy milk into the dough to enhance moisture next time. This will ensure those delightful gooey layers stay intact!

Are there any allergen-friendly options for these cookie bars?
Definitely! For nut allergies, simply omit any nuts and consider adding more chocolate chips for additional texture. To make these bars gluten-free, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. Always check that your marshmallows and graham crackers are allergen-free as well!

Can pets eat any of the ingredients in these bars?
It’s crucial to keep these treats away from pets! Ingredients such as chocolate and certain sweeteners can be harmful to dogs and other animals. Always ensure that leftovers are stored safely out of their reach to keep them happy and healthy.