Apple Cider Whoopie Pies are a delightful treat that captures the essence of fall in every bite. These cookie sandwiches are soft, spiced, and filled with a creamy center that makes them perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy gathering or a festive celebration. With flavors reminiscent of warm apple cider doughnuts, these whoopie pies are sure to impress your friends and family.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of apple cider, cinnamon, and apple butter creates a rich autumn flavor that’s hard to resist.
- Versatile Treat: Perfect for parties, potlucks, or just a cozy night at home with a cup of tea.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have delicious whoopie pies in no time.
- Customizable Filling: Choose between bourbon caramel buttercream or brown sugar cream cheese icing for a tailored taste experience.
- Fun to Share: These whoopie pies make great gifts or sweet surprises for loved ones.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking your Apple Cider Whoopie Pies, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Electric mixer: Saves time and effort by quickly combining ingredients to achieve the perfect texture.
- Parchment paper: Prevents sticking, ensuring easy removal of cookies from the baking sheet.
Ingredients
To prepare these delicious Apple Cider Whoopie Pies, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Cookies:
- 2 cups apple cider (reduced to 1/4 cup)
- ½ cup unsalted butter (room temperature, divided (6 tablespoons for the dough and 2 tablespoons melted for brushing the baked cookies))
- 1 ¾ cups flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ginger
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup plus 2 teaspoons brown sugar (light or dark, packed)
- ¼ cup apple butter or applesauce
- 2 eggs
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
- 3 tablespoons butter (melted)
- ¼ cup sugar
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
For the Fillings:
Bourbon Caramel Buttercream:
- ½ cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 1 ¼ – 1 ½ cups powdered sugar (sifted, add gradually until desired consistency is reached)
- 2 tablespoons plus 2 teaspoons Bourbon Caramel Sauce
- 1 pinch of salt
Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Icing:
- 4 ½ ounces cream cheese (room temperature)
- 3 tablespoons butter (room temperature)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (light or dark)
- 2 cups powdered sugar (sifted, plus more if needed)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 pinch salt
How to Make Apple Cider Whoopie Pies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F. In a medium saucepan, bring the apple cider to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat to medium and simmer until it is reduced down to 1/4 cup. This will take about 30–35 minutes. Set aside to cool before using. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl or using an electric mixer, beat together 6 tablespoons of softened butter with both sugars on medium speed until well combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl. Add in vanilla and eggs next. Then incorporate the reduced apple cider followed by either apple butter or applesauce. Turn your mixer on low and slowly mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
Step 4: Bake Cookies
Scoop out mounds of dough about 1 ½ tablespoons each onto your prepared baking sheets. Place them about three inches apart. Rotate your pan halfway through baking for even cooking. Bake for about 11–13 minutes or until cookies spring back when lightly touched.
Step 5: Cool and Coat Cookies
Once baked, let cookies cool on the sheet for five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Brush each cookie with melted butter then sprinkle with cinnamon sugar or toss them in it.
Step 6: Assemble Whoopie Pies
Allow cookies to cool completely on a rack before filling them with either bourbon caramel buttercream or brown sugar cream cheese icing along with optional bourbon caramel drizzle if desired.
These Apple Cider Whoopie Pies are sure to become a favorite! Enjoy every bite filled with fall flavors!
How to Serve Apple Cider Whoopie Pies
Apple Cider Whoopie Pies are a delightful treat that can be served in various ways, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering or simply enjoying them at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your experience.
Classic Presentation
- Serve the whoopie pies on a rustic wooden platter for a cozy autumn vibe.
With Hot Beverages
- Pair with warm apple cider or spiced tea to enhance the flavors of the cookies.
Dessert Buffet
- Arrange on a dessert table alongside other treats like pumpkin cookies and caramel apples for a festive display.
Gift Packaging
- Wrap individual whoopie pies in clear cellophane with a ribbon for delightful party favors or gifts.
Ice Cream Sandwiches
- For an indulgent twist, fill whoopie pies with vanilla ice cream instead of frosting.
How to Perfect Apple Cider Whoopie Pies
Achieving the perfect Apple Cider Whoopie Pies requires attention to detail and some helpful tips. These suggestions will help ensure your baking results in soft, flavorful cookies every time.
- Use fresh apple cider: Freshly pressed cider enhances the flavor significantly compared to bottled versions.
- Cool the cider completely: Allowing the reduced cider to cool ensures it doesn’t cook the eggs when mixed.
- Measure accurately: Use proper measuring techniques for flour and sugars to maintain texture.
- Mix gently: Avoid overmixing once you add flour to keep your cookies tender and fluffy.
- Check doneness carefully: Cookies should spring back when touched lightly; avoid overbaking for optimal softness.
- Store properly: Keep filled whoopie pies in an airtight container at room temperature to prevent them from drying out.
Best Side Dishes for Apple Cider Whoopie Pies
While Apple Cider Whoopie Pies are delicious on their own, pairing them with complementary side dishes can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some tasty options to consider:
Spiced Nuts
A mix of roasted nuts seasoned with cinnamon and nutmeg provides a crunchy contrast.Fruit Salad
A fresh assortment of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the sweetness of the whoopie pies.Pumpkin Soup
The warmth and earthiness of pumpkin soup makes for a comforting pairing that complements fall flavors.Cheese Platter
Include sharp cheddar and creamy brie, which provide savory notes that balance the sweetness of the pies.Caramel Dipping Sauce
A small bowl of caramel sauce encourages guests to dip their whoopie pies for an extra layer of flavor.Maple Glazed Doughnuts
For an indulgent treat, serve alongside mini maple-glazed doughnuts that echo the autumn theme.Chai Latte
The spiced flavors of chai tea pair beautifully with sweet desserts like whoopie pies.Whipped Cream Dip
A light whipped cream dip can offer a fun alternative for those who enjoy extra creaminess with their sweets.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Apple Cider Whoopie Pies can be fun, but it’s important to avoid common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Using cold ingredients: Starting with cold butter or eggs can prevent proper mixing and texture. Always use room temperature ingredients for better results.
- Skipping the cider reduction: Not reducing the apple cider concentrates the flavor. Make sure to simmer it down to 1/4 cup for that rich taste.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too long can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined to keep them soft and fluffy.
- Ignoring cooling time: Filling warm cookies can cause the filling to melt. Allow your whoopie pies to cool completely before adding any frosting.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Inaccurate measurements can affect texture and flavor. Use kitchen scales or measuring cups for precision.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Apple Cider Whoopie Pies in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Apple Cider Whoopie Pies
- Wrap each whoopie pie tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Apple Cider Whoopie Pies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place whoopie pies on a baking sheet, and heat for about 5-7 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat one pie at a time for about 10-15 seconds for a warm treat.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Apple Cider Whoopie Pies:
Can I use apple juice instead of apple cider?
Yes, you can substitute apple juice, but the flavor may not be as rich as using apple cider.
How do I make these whoopie pies gluten-free?
You can use a gluten-free flour blend in place of regular flour for delicious gluten-free Apple Cider Whoopie Pies.
What filling options do you recommend?
You can fill them with brown sugar cream cheese icing or try a spiced whipped cream for a twist on classic flavors.
Can I add nuts or dried fruit?
Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or dried cranberries would add great texture and flavor to your whoopie pies.
Final Thoughts
These Apple Cider Whoopie Pies are not only delightful treats but also versatile enough for any fall gathering. The combination of soft cookies and sweet filling makes them irresistible. Feel free to customize your pies with different fillings or spices to suit your taste!
Apple Cider Whoopie Pies
Apple Cider Whoopie Pies are the ultimate fall treat that combines soft, spiced cookies with a creamy filling, reminiscent of warm apple cider doughnuts. These delightful cookie sandwiches are easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion, from cozy gatherings to festive celebrations. With the rich flavors of apple cider, cinnamon, and apple butter, each bite is a sweet reminder of autumn. Plus, they are customizable with various fillings to suit your taste. Impress your family and friends with these delicious whoopie pies that capture the essence of the season!
- Total Time: 33 minutes
- Yield: About 12 whoopie pies 1x
Ingredients
- 2 cups apple cider (reduced to 1/4 cup)
- ½ cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 1 ¾ cups flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ginger
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup plus 2 teaspoons brown sugar (light or dark, packed)
- ¼ cup apple butter or applesauce
- 2 eggs
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla
- 3 tablespoons butter (melted)
- ¼ cup sugar
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ cup unsalted butter (room temperature) for the filling
- 1 ¼ – 1 ½ cups powdered sugar (sifted)
- 4 ½ ounces cream cheese (room temperature)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (light or dark)
- 2 cups powdered sugar (sifted, plus more if needed)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Reduce apple cider in a saucepan until it reaches 1/4 cup; cool.
- In a bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices.
- Beat softened butter and sugars together until creamy; add eggs, vanilla, and reduced cider.
- Gradually mix in dry ingredients until just combined.
- Scoop dough onto lined baking sheets and bake for about 11–13 minutes.
- Cool cookies before filling them with your choice of icing.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 13 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 whoopie pie (45g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Use fresh apple cider for the best flavor. Substitute apple juice if necessary but expect a milder taste. Experiment with different fillings or add nuts/dried fruits for added texture.
