Apple Cider Whoopie Pies are the ultimate fall treat, combining the warm flavors of apple cider and spices into soft cookies. These delightful cookie sandwiches are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a festive holiday party. With their unique taste reminiscent of apple cider doughnuts, they’re sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of apple cider, cinnamon, and apple butter creates a rich taste that captures the essence of fall.
- Versatile Treat: Perfect for gatherings, lunch boxes, or as a sweet snack at home.
- Soft and Chewy Texture: Each whoopie pie is soft and chewy, making them irresistible.
- Customizable Fillings: Choose between bourbon caramel buttercream or brown sugar cream cheese icing to suit your taste.
- Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, this recipe is accessible for bakers of all levels.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into our Apple Cider Whoopie Pies recipe, gather your tools and prepare your kitchen. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Medium saucepan
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing bowls
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Wire rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer or hand mixer: Essential for achieving a smooth batter by thoroughly mixing ingredients quickly.
- Medium saucepan: Used to reduce the apple cider, intensifying its flavor before adding it to the cookie dough.
- Baking sheets: Provides an even surface for baking cookies, ensuring they cook uniformly.
Ingredients
This Apple Cider Whoopie Pie recipe makes soft, delicious cookies that taste like apple cider doughnuts! Made with apple cider, cinnamon, apple butter, they’re the perfect fall treat. They’re coated with cinnamon sugar and stuffed with either bourbon caramel buttercream or brown sugar cream cheese icing.
Ingredients:
– 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 brushed 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
– 3 tablespoons butter (melted)
– ¼ cup sugar
– ½ teaspoon cinnamon
– 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
– 4 ½ ounces cream cheese (room temperature) (leave it at room temperature for at least an hour before making)
– 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 oven to 350 F. In a medium saucepan, bring the apple cider to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to medium and simmer until cider 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 the Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, sift together:
Flour
Baking powder
Baking soda
Salt
Spices
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl or the bowl of an electric mixer:
1. Beat 6 tablespoons of the butter with both sugars on medium speed until combined.
2. Scrape down the sides of the bowl.
3. Add vanilla followed by eggs.
4. Incorporate cooled apple cider followed by apple butter or applesauce.
5. Turn the mixer on low and mix in flour until just combined.
Step 4: Shape Cookies
Turn the cookie dough out into mounds about 1½ tablespoons each on prepared baking sheets:
Place them about 3 inches apart.
Rotate the pan halfway through baking for even cooking.
Bake for 11–13 minutes or until cookies spring back when lightly touched.
Step 5: Cool and Coat Cookies
Once out of the oven:
1. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for five minutes.
2. Transfer them to a wire rack.
3. Brush with reserved melted butter and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar.
Step 6: Fill Cookies
Allow cookies to cool completely on a rack before filling them with either:
Bourbon Caramel Buttercream or
Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Icing
Add a teaspoon of Bourbon Caramel if desired between two cookies to create delightful whoopie pies! Enjoy your homemade Apple Cider Whoopie Pies!
How to Serve Apple Cider Whoopie Pies
Apple Cider Whoopie Pies are not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve them in various ways to enhance their flavor and presentation. Here are some creative serving suggestions.
With a Hot Beverage
- Coffee or Tea: Pair these whoopie pies with a warm cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat.
- Spiced Cider: Enhance the apple flavor by serving them alongside hot spiced apple cider.
As Dessert Platters
- Dessert Tray: Arrange the whoopie pies on a beautiful platter with other seasonal treats like pumpkin bars and caramel apples.
- Gift Box: Pack them into a festive box as homemade gifts for friends and family during fall gatherings.
Topped with Extras
- Ice Cream Sandwiches: Turn them into ice cream sandwiches by adding a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream between two cookies.
- Drizzled Sauces: Drizzle additional bourbon caramel sauce on top for an extra indulgent touch.
How to Perfect Apple Cider Whoopie Pies
To ensure your Apple Cider Whoopie Pies turn out perfectly every time, follow these handy tips.
- Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough for 30 minutes helps it firm up, making it easier to scoop and shape.
- Use Fresh Spices: Utilize fresh spices for the best flavor; freshly ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger can elevate your whoopie pies.
- Check Oven Temperature: Always use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is at the correct temperature for even baking.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix until just combined to keep the texture soft and tender. Overmixing can lead to tougher cookies.
- Allow to Cool Completely: Let the cookies cool completely before filling them. This prevents the filling from melting and makes for better presentation.
- Experiment with Fillings: Try different fillings such as maple buttercream or whipped cream cheese for variety.
Best Side Dishes for Apple Cider Whoopie Pies
Apple Cider Whoopie Pies pair wonderfully with several side dishes that complement their flavors. Consider serving these alongside your dessert.
- Pumpkin Spice Latte: A warm, spiced drink that enhances the fall flavors of your whoopie pies.
- Cinnamon Applesauce: A refreshing side that echoes the apple flavor while adding moisture to your plate.
- Cheese Platter: Include sharp cheddar or creamy brie for a savory contrast against the sweet whoopie pies.
- Caramel Corn: This crunchy treat adds texture and pairs well with the soft cookies.
- Fruit Salad: A light salad featuring seasonal fruits like pears and cranberries can balance out the sweetness.
- Warm Apple Crisp: Serve this classic dessert warm, topped with vanilla ice cream, for a comforting combination.
- Maple Glazed Nuts: These sweet and salty snacks provide an excellent crunch that complements the soft whoopie pies.
- Vanilla Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit; it’s a light option that contrasts nicely with rich desserts.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Apple Cider Whoopie Pies can be a delightful experience, but it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls to ensure your treats turn out perfectly.
- Ignoring the cider reduction: Failing to properly reduce the apple cider can lead to overly wet dough. Always simmer until it reaches 1/4 cup for the best flavor.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can make your cookies tough. Mix until just combined for soft whoopie pies.
- Skipping the cooling step: Not allowing cookies to cool completely can make filling them messy. Be patient and let them cool on a wire rack.
- Inconsistent cookie sizes: Using uneven amounts of dough can cause irregular baking. Use a tablespoon for uniform mounds placed 3 inches apart.
- Not sifting dry ingredients: Skipping this step may leave lumps in your batter. Sift flour, baking powder, and spices together for even distribution.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Freezing Apple Cider Whoopie Pies
- Freeze individually wrapped whoopie pies for up to 3 months.
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible.
Reheating Apple Cider Whoopie Pies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm for 5-10 minutes for a fresh-baked taste.
- Microwave: Heat one pie at a time for about 10-15 seconds for softness.
- Stovetop: Place on a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, turning occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Apple Cider Whoopie Pies that might help you along your baking journey.
Can I use store-bought apple butter?
Yes, store-bought apple butter works well in this recipe and saves time.
What if I don’t have bourbon caramel sauce?
You can substitute with regular caramel sauce or omit it entirely; the pies will still be delicious!
How do I know when my whoopie pies are done?
They should spring back when lightly touched and have a slight golden color around the edges.
Can I customize the filling?
Absolutely! You can use any frosting or filling you prefer, such as vanilla buttercream or whipped cream.
How do I make these gluten-free?
Substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend will work; just ensure it contains xanthan gum for proper texture.
Final Thoughts
These Apple Cider Whoopie Pies are not only scrumptious but also versatile! Feel free to experiment with different fillings or spices to make them your own. This fall treat is perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home—give them a try!
Apple Cider Whoopie Pies
Apple Cider Whoopie Pies are the quintessential fall dessert, merging the rich flavors of apple cider and warm spices into soft, chewy cookies. These delightful treats are perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to festive holiday parties. With their unique taste reminiscent of apple cider doughnuts and customizable fillings like bourbon caramel buttercream or brown sugar cream cheese icing, they are sure to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet cravings. Easy to make with common ingredients, these whoopie pies offer a cozy treat that captures the spirit of autumn in every bite.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 13 minutes
- Total Time: 33 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 cups apple cider
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup apple butter or applesauce
- 2 eggs
- Optional fillings: bourbon caramel buttercream or brown sugar cream cheese icing
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Reduce apple cider in a saucepan until it reaches ¼ cup, then cool.
- Sift together flour, baking powder, salt, and spices in a bowl.
- In a mixer, beat butter and sugars until creamy. Add eggs, vanilla, reduced cider, and apple butter; mix until combined.
- Gradually add dry ingredients until just mixed.
- Scoop dough onto baking sheets; bake for 11–13 minutes or until springy.
- Cool cookies and fill with desired frosting before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 whoopie pie (60g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
