Apple Cider Whoopie Pies

Apple Cider Whoopie Pies are the perfect treat for fall! These delightful cookies combine warm spices and rich apple cider buttercream, creating a cozy dessert that’s ideal for any autumn gathering. Whether for a party or a quiet night in, these whoopie pies will satisfy your sweet cravings with their unique flavor profile.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of apple cider and fall spices brings warmth to every bite.
• Perfect for Sharing: With 12 servings, these whoopie pies are great for gatherings or as a thoughtful gift.
• Easy to Make: Simple steps make this recipe approachable for bakers of all levels.
• Versatile Dessert: Ideal for any occasion—be it Thanksgiving, Halloween parties, or cozy evenings at home.
• Deliciously Decadent: The caramel filling adds an extra layer of richness that everyone will love.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare these delicious Apple Cider Whoopie Pies, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Cookie scoop or tablespoon
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Electric mixer

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients efficiently without mess.
• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when beating butter and sugar until fluffy.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Ingredients

Apple Cider Whoopie Pie cookies with caramel filling combine warm fall spices and apple cider buttercream in every bite. Perfect for cozy autumn baking!

For the Whoopie Pies:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground nutmeg
• ¼ tsp ground cloves
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup apple cider, reduced to ¼ cup (boil down 1 cup until it reduces)
• ½ cup whole milk

For the Apple Cider Buttercream:

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• ¼ cup reduced apple cider (see note above)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

For the Caramel Filling:

• ½ cup store-bought caramel sauce (or homemade if you prefer)
• Pinch of flaky sea salt (optional)

How to Make Apple Cider Whoopie Pies

Step 1: Reduce the Apple Cider

Start by making the apple cider reduction. Pour 1 cup of apple cider into a saucepan and simmer over medium heat until it reduces to ¼ cup. This should take about 10–15 minutes. Once done, let it cool while you prepare the whoopie pie batter.

Step 2: Make the Whoopie Pies

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. In a large bowl, beat the butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, and beat until combined. Gradually mix in the cooled apple cider reduction. Add the dry ingredients in thirds, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to drop 2-tablespoon-sized rounds of batter onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each. Bake for 10–12 minutes or until firm to touch; a toothpick inserted should come out clean. Transfer the whoopie pie halves to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Prepare the Buttercream

In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add in the powdered sugar followed by the cooled apple cider reduction, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat until smooth and fluffy.

Step 4: Assemble the Whoopie Pies

Pair up whoopie pie halves by size. Pipe or spoon a generous amount of apple cider buttercream onto one flat side of each half. Drizzle caramel sauce over the buttercream; sprinkle flaky sea salt if desired. Top with another whoopie pie half pressing gently to create a sandwich. Repeat with remaining pies.

Enjoy your delicious Apple Cider Whoopie Pies!

How to Serve Apple Cider Whoopie Pies

Apple Cider Whoopie Pies are delightful treats that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for a casual gathering or a festive celebration, these pies can be paired with different accompaniments to elevate their flavor and presentation.

With Hot Beverages

• Coffee: The rich flavors of coffee complement the spices in the whoopie pies.
• Hot Chocolate: A warm cup of hot chocolate adds a sweet touch perfect for fall.
• Tea: Choose chai or spiced tea for an aromatic pairing that enhances the apple cider flavor.

As Dessert Platter

• Fruit Salad: Fresh fruit adds a refreshing contrast to the sweet whoopie pies.
• Cheese Board: Include mild cheeses to balance sweetness; consider pairing with crackers or nuts.
• Ice Cream: Vanilla or caramel ice cream creates a decadent dessert experience.

For Special Occasions

• Festive Table Setting: Arrange whoopie pies on decorative platters during holidays for an inviting display.
• Gift Packaging: Wrap individual pies in clear bags with ribbons as thoughtful homemade gifts.

How to Perfect Apple Cider Whoopie Pies

Getting your Apple Cider Whoopie Pies just right takes a little practice. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time.

• Use Fresh Spices: Fresh spices enhance flavor significantly, making your whoopie pies more aromatic and flavorful.
• Cool Thoroughly: Allow the pie halves to cool completely before frosting; this prevents the buttercream from melting.
• Measure Ingredients Accurately: Precision in measuring flour and sugar helps achieve the right texture for your pies.
• Don’t Overmix Batter: Mix until just combined to keep the whoopie pies soft and tender.
• Experiment with Fillings: While caramel is delicious, try other fillings like cream cheese frosting for a unique twist.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Cider Whoopie Pies

To round out your dessert experience, consider serving some delightful side dishes alongside your Apple Cider Whoopie Pies. Here are some great options:

1. Pumpkin Soup: This warm and creamy soup pairs beautifully with the warm spices of the whoopie pies.
2. Spiced Nuts: A mixture of roasted nuts with cinnamon and sugar provides a crunchy contrast.
3. Cranberry Sauce: Tart cranberry sauce complements sweetness with its tangy flavor profile.
4. Caramelized Apples: Sweet, caramelized apples enhance the apple flavor in the whoopie pies while adding warmth.
5. Chai-Spiced Oatmeal: A bowl of chai-spiced oatmeal gives a cozy vibe that resonates well with fall flavors.
6. Maple Glazed Carrots: These sweet and savory carrots make an unexpected yet delightful side dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking Apple Cider Whoopie Pies can be delightful, but there are a few common mistakes you should watch out for.

• Bold mismeasuring ingredients – Using too much or too little flour or sugar can affect the texture. Always use measuring cups and spoons for accuracy.
• Bold skipping the cooling time – Not allowing the whoopie pies to cool before filling can lead to melting buttercream. Be patient and let them cool completely.
• Bold overmixing the batter – Overmixing can make the whoopie pies tough instead of soft. Mix just until combined for a tender result.
• Bold neglecting to reduce cider properly – If the apple cider isn’t reduced enough, it won’t provide that concentrated flavor. Ensure you simmer it down as instructed.
• Bold not pairing similar sizes – Mismatched whoopie pie halves can make them difficult to assemble. Always pair similar-sized halves for better presentation and bite.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover whoopie pies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Apple Cider Whoopie Pies

• Wrap individual whoopie pies tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating Apple Cider Whoopie Pies

• Bold Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm them for about 5-7 minutes.
• Bold Microwave – Use medium power to heat each pie for about 10-15 seconds, checking often.
• Bold Stovetop – Place whoopie pies in a skillet over low heat, flipping gently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Apple Cider Whoopie Pies?

Apple Cider Whoopie Pies are soft cookies filled with a sweet apple cider buttercream and caramel sauce, perfect for fall treats.

Can I use homemade caramel sauce?

Yes, you can definitely use homemade caramel sauce in your Apple Cider Whoopie Pies for a fresher taste!

How do I make my Apple Cider Whoopie Pies more flavorful?

Adding spices like ginger or allspice can enhance the flavor of your Apple Cider Whoopie Pies significantly.

Can I substitute ingredients in this recipe?

Certainly! You can swap whole milk with any plant-based milk or adjust spices according to your preference.

How should I serve Apple Cider Whoopie Pies?

These whoopie pies are best served at room temperature, making them perfect for gatherings or cozy evenings at home.

Final Thoughts

Apple Cider Whoopie Pies are a delightful treat that captures the essence of autumn with their warm spices and rich flavors. They offer versatility when it comes to customization; feel free to add nuts, chocolate chips, or different fillings. Whether you’re enjoying them at home or sharing with friends, these whoopie pies are sure to impress!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Apple Cider Whoopie Pies

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• Author: Lara
• Total Time: 32 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the cozy flavors of fall with our Apple Cider Whoopie Pies! These delightful treats feature soft, spiced cookies filled with a luscious apple cider buttercream and a touch of caramel, making them the perfect dessert for any autumn gathering. With warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, each bite delivers a delightful burst of flavor that captures the essence of the season. Ideal for sharing at parties or enjoying on a quiet evening at home, these whoopie pies will surely satisfy your sweet cravings. Easy to make and irresistibly delicious, they are bound to become a new favorite in your baking repertoire.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground nutmeg
• ¼ tsp ground cloves
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup apple cider, reduced to ¼ cup
• ½ cup whole milk
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened (for buttercream)
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• ¼ cup reduced apple cider
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (for buttercream)
• Pinch of salt (for buttercream)
• ½ cup store-bought caramel sauce
• Pinch of flaky sea salt (optional)

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Instructions

1. Reduce 1 cup of apple cider in a saucepan over medium heat until it reaches ¼ cup. Let it cool.
2. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
3. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and spices.
4. In another bowl, beat softened butter and brown sugar until fluffy; add egg and vanilla then mix in cooled apple cider.
5. Gradually combine dry ingredients with the wet mixture alternating with milk until just mixed.
6. Drop tablespoon-sized rounds onto baking sheets and bake for 10–12 minutes or until firm.
7. Prepare the buttercream by beating softened butter with powdered sugar, cooled apple cider reduction, vanilla, and salt until fluffy.
8. Assemble by spreading buttercream on one cookie half, drizzling caramel over it, then topping with another cookie half.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 24g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 25mg