Players receive instructions from Chef Smurf on how to prepare specific meals. Players follow instructions to deliver dishes to customers. They receive purple smurfs from customers. They must earn a specific number of berries for each level to win. When they complete a level, they will receive berries and marshmallows as rewards. They can multiply their berries by watching ads.
The Smurfs: Cooking offers simple gameplay. Like similar restaurant games, cooking stations feature a circular green countdown timer that tells players when to take action to prevent food from overcooking and agitating customers. Some customers want simple food, while others want snacks and sides. Players must learn to multitask to provide quick service. Finally, they receive access to upgrades from Brainy Smurf and boosters that improve each mission.
The game gives players the opportunity at the store and during special events to receive gifts that can help them during gameplay. Players only need to watch a certain number of ads.