Pumpkin Whoopie Pies

Pumpkin Whoopie Pies are a delightful dessert that brings joy to any occasion. These soft, cake-like cookies are made with pumpkin puree and warm spices, giving them a distinct autumn flavor. It is hard to resist the creamy filling that sits between two of these yummy cookies. Whether you want to impress guests at a party or treat your family to something special, Pumpkin Whoopie Pies are a great choice. They are easy to make and taste amazing, making them a favorite for many.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

There are many reasons to love Pumpkin Whoopie Pies. First, they have a wonderful flavor that combines the sweetness of pumpkin with spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. This makes them perfect for fall, but you can enjoy them anytime! Next, they are soft and cakey, which makes each bite feel like a hug. The creamy filling adds richness that balances the flavors perfectly.

Another reason to love this recipe is its simplicity. You don’t need to be a baking expert to make these pies. The ingredients are straightforward, and the steps are easy to follow. Plus, they are fun to share! Who doesn’t want to share delicious treats with friends and family? Pumpkin Whoopie Pies are always a hit, and they will leave your guests wanting more!

How to Make Pumpkin Whoopie Pies

Making Pumpkin Whoopie Pies is simple and enjoyable. All you need to do is gather your ingredients and follow the steps. Let’s get started!

Equipment Needed

To make Pumpkin Whoopie Pies, you will need:

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• A measuring cup and spoons
• An electric mixer (or a whisk for manual mixing)
• A piping bag (or a zip-top bag for easy filling)
• Wire rack for cooling

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 3/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 1 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1 1/4 cups canned pumpkin puree
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 6 oz cream cheese
• 6 Tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 3/4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Set the oven rack in the center and preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Line baking sheets with parchment paper.

2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. Set the bowl aside.

3. In another bowl, mix the brown sugar with your fingertips to remove clumps. Add the pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, egg, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Whisk until everything is combined.

4. Add the flour mixture to the pumpkin mixture and stir until it is well mixed.

5. Scoop about 1.5 tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, making sure to space them 2 inches apart.

6. Bake for 14 to 16 minutes until they are set. Allow them to cool on a wire rack.

7. For the frosting, whip the cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Add the powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla, and whip until it is fluffy.

8. Pipe the frosting onto half of the cookies and then top them with the other half.

9. Store the whoopie pies in the fridge in an airtight container.

How to Serve Pumpkin Whoopie Pies

Pumpkin Whoopie Pies are fantastic as a standalone dessert or treat. You can enjoy them with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or cider, especially during the cooler months. It’s a great way to treat yourself or offer a nice dessert to friends. You may also plate them nicely if you’re serving them at a gathering. The bright orange of the pumpkin and the creamy filling look so inviting!

Storage & Freezing: Pumpkin Whoopie Pies

These delicious pies can be stored in the fridge for a few days. Keep them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. If you want to make them ahead of time, you can freeze them as well. Just make sure to place parchment paper between layers to prevent them from sticking together. To serve, just thaw them overnight in the fridge, and they will be ready to enjoy.

Serving Suggestions

There are many ways to enjoy Pumpkin Whoopie Pies. Here are some ideas:

• Serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert.
• Use them as a festive treat for a holiday gathering or Halloween party.
• Top them with chopped nuts for extra crunch and flavor.
• Pair them with a warm drink, like hot chocolate or chai tea.

Variations

You can customize Pumpkin Whoopie Pies in various ways:

• Chocolate Chip: Add chocolate chips to the batter for a sweet twist.
• Spiced Cream Cheese: Mix in a little cinnamon or nutmeg into the frosting for added flavor.
• Vegan Option: Use a vegan egg substitute and a non-dairy cream cheese to make them vegan-friendly.
• Different Fillings: Try using whipped cream or a flavored buttercream for the filling.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin. Cook it, mash it, and then measure out the amount needed for the recipe.

2. How long do Pumpkin Whoopie Pies last?
They can last up to a week in the fridge when stored properly in an airtight container.

3. Can I make the batter ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter and store it in the fridge for up to a day. Just make sure to bake it fresh when you are ready.

4. What can I use instead of all-purpose flour?
You can use a gluten-free flour mix to make this recipe gluten-free.

Make-Ahead Tips for Pumpkin Whoopie Pies

To save time, you can make the cookie part of the whoopie pies ahead of time. Bake them and allow them to cool completely. Then, store them in an airtight container or freeze them until you are ready to fill them with frosting. This way, all you have to do is prepare the frosting on the day you want to serve them. Enjoying Pumpkin Whoopie Pies becomes even easier, and you can still delight in their fresh flavor!

By following these steps, you will create delicious Pumpkin Whoopie Pies that everyone will love. Happy baking!

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