When the leaves start to turn and the air gets crisp, I find myself yearning for cozy, comforting treats. That’s when I stumbled upon the irresistible delight of Pumpkin Whoopie Pies. Imagine the warm spices of cinnamon and nutmeg mingling with the sweet, wholesome flavor of pumpkin, all enveloped in soft, cakey cookies. And as if that wasn’t enough, each pie is lovingly sandwiched with luscious cream cheese frosting that adds just the right touch of tanginess.
These fluffy whoopie pies are perfect for everything from fall gatherings to quiet afternoons spent sipping tea on the porch. They’re easy to whip up and delightful to share, making them an ideal crowd-pleaser. With just a few simple ingredients and a dash of autumn magic, you can create a dessert that captures the essence of the season in every bite. Get ready to impress friends and family with this fun, handheld take on a classic treat. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe—you won’t want to miss it!
Why are Pumpkin Whoopie Pies a must-try?
Irresistible Flavor Combo: The delightful blend of pumpkin, warm spices, and tangy cream cheese frosting creates a flavor explosion that celebrates the season.
Easy to Make: You can whip these up quickly, making them perfect for any home cook, whether you’re seasoned or just starting.
Perfect for Sharing: These handheld treats are a hit at gatherings or cozy family dinners, sure to impress your guests!
Versatile Variations: Feel free to experiment! Add chocolate chips or nuts for a fun twist, and adapt the frosting to your liking.
Ideal Texture: Expect soft, cakey cookies with a dreamy creamy filling that balances sweetness, making every bite heavenly.
Embrace the essence of autumn with these delectable Pumpkin Whoopie Pies!
Pumpkin Whoopie Pies Ingredients
• To create the ultimate Pumpkin Whoopie Pies, gather your ingredients and follow these simple guidelines:
For the Cookies
- Unsalted Butter (¾ cup, 165 g) – Adds moisture and rich flavor; use salted if needed but reduce salt.
- Light Brown Sugar (¾ cup, 150 g) – Provides sweetness with a hint of molasses; can substitute with white sugar for a lighter taste.
- Granulated Sugar (¼ cup, 50 g) – Enhances sweetness and tenderness of the cookies.
- Pumpkin Purée (1 cup, 225 g) – The key flavor component; make sure it’s for baking and not from jack-o’-lanterns—homemade works perfectly.
- Large Eggs (2, lightly beaten) – Binds the ingredients together for structure; room temperature eggs yield the best results.
- Vanilla Extract (1½ teaspoons) – Adds a delightful depth of flavor.
- All-Purpose Flour (1½ cups, 210 g) – Essential for structure; proper measuring is crucial to avoid dense cookies.
- Baking Powder (1 teaspoon) & Baking Soda (¾ teaspoon) – Leavening agents that ensure fluffiness.
- Salt (¾ teaspoon) – Enhances flavor; adjust if you’re using salted butter.
- Pumpkin Pie Spice (2 teaspoons) – Infuses warm spice flavors; substitute with cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger if preferred.
- Ground Cinnamon (½ teaspoon) – Adds extra aromatic spice for the perfect autumn vibe.
For the Frosting
- Unsalted Butter (3 tablespoons, softened) – Ensures a creamy texture in the frosting.
- Cream Cheese (6 oz, 170 g, softened) – Offers a tangy richness; for best texture, use full-fat.
- Vanilla Extract (¾ teaspoon) – Elevates the flavor of your frosting.
- Salt (½ heaping teaspoon) – Balances the sweetness of your frosting.
- Powdered Sugar (2-3 cups, 250-375 g) – Sweetens and thickens; adjust based on desired consistency.
Enjoy baking and savoring these delightful Pumpkin Whoopie Pies, perfect for embracing the spirit of the season!
How to Make Pumpkin Whoopie Pies
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Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This essential step ensures your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick.
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Combine cooled melted butter and both sugars in a large mixing bowl; mix until well blended. This helps to create a rich and moist base for your cookies.
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Stir in the pumpkin purée, eggs, and vanilla until everything is fully incorporated. This mixture should appear smooth and luscious, hinting at the deliciousness to come!
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Whisk together dry ingredients—in a separate bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, pumpkin pie spice, and cinnamon. Mix until combined to ensure even distribution of these essential flavors.
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Fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture gradually, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this will affect the cookie texture—aim for a thick, smooth batter.
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Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of batter onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them at least 2 inches apart. This allows space for them to puff up and spread while baking!
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Bake for approximately 9 minutes, or until the cookies are fluffy and just set. They should be lightly golden—let them cool on the baking sheet afterward to firm up.
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Prepare the frosting by beating softened butter and cream cheese together in a mixing bowl until creamy. Incorporate powdered sugar gradually until smooth, followed by vanilla and salt for a delightful finish.
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Assemble the whoopie pies by spreading frosting on the flat side of half of the cookies, then sandwiching them with the remaining cookies. Press gently to ensure an even filling.
Optional: Chill the assembled whoopie pies for a few hours to enhance the flavors.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Whoopie Pies
Room Temperature: Keep leftover whoopie pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their fluffy texture and flavor.
Fridge: For longer freshness, store them in the fridge for up to 1 week. Allow to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before enjoying.
Freezer: Pumpkin whoopie pies can be frozen for up to 3 months—wrap each one individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: If you prefer warm whoopie pies, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight, then enjoy at room temperature or microwave for a few seconds until slightly warmed.
Make Ahead Options
These Pumpkin Whoopie Pies are a fantastic option for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie batter and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking, which allows you to fit baking into your schedule more easily. Simply mix your wet and dry ingredients as directed, then cover and store the batter in the fridge. You can also bake the cookies up to 3 days in advance; just store them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their softness. When ready to serve, whip up the cream cheese frosting, assemble the whoopie pies, and enjoy a delightful treat that tastes just as fresh as the day you made them!
Pumpkin Whoopie Pies Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing these delicious whoopie pies to your liking!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute regular flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend for a tasty treat that everyone can enjoy.
- Vegan: Use a vegan butter and replace the cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a plant-based option.
- Sugar-Free: Use a sugar substitute like erythritol in place of brown and granulated sugar to enjoy a dessert with fewer calories.
- Nutty Delight: Fold in 1/2 cup of finely chopped pecans or walnuts into the batter for a crunchy texture and extra flavor.
- Spiced Up: Add in an extra teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice or even a pinch of cayenne for a spicy kick that warms the soul.
- Chocolate Lovers: Incorporate 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips into the cookie batter for a rich chocolatey twist to the classic flavor.
- Marshmallow Frosting: Swap out half the cream cheese for marshmallow fluff for a sweet, dreamy filling that adds a magical twist.
- Dairy-Free Frosting: Use coconut cream as a base for a creamy frosting that accommodates dairy-free diets, keeping it light and delicious.
Expert Tips for Pumpkin Whoopie Pies
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Chill for Flavor: Refrigerate filled whoopie pies overnight to enhance their flavor and allow the frosting to set beautifully.
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Precise Measurements: Use a kitchen scale for accurate measurements of the ingredients, which helps prevent dense cookies.
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Check Freshness: Ensure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh for optimal puffiness and rise in your Pumpkin Whoopie Pies.
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Avoid Overmixing: Mix the batter until just combined to maintain the light, fluffy texture of your cookies; overmixing can lead to tough results.
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Even Spacing: Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of batter at least 2 inches apart on the baking sheet to allow for enough spread while baking.
What to Serve with Pumpkin Whoopie Pies?
Indulging in these fluffy, spiced delights sets the stage for a delightful fall feast or cozy gathering.
- Coffee: The rich, warm flavors of a freshly brewed cup perfectly enhance the sweetness of the whoopie pies, making for a comforting pairing.
- Spiced Tea: A cup of chai or spiced tea complements the warm spices in the pies, creating a soothing balance of flavors.
- Cinnamon Ice Cream: A scoop of cinnamon ice cream alongside the whoopie pies adds a creamy, cool contrast that blends beautifully with the pumpkin.
- Apple Cider: Sweet, slightly tart apple cider draws out the fruity notes in pumpkin, creating a refreshing sip that brightens the palate.
- Pecan Pie: Sharing both desserts at your gathering will highlight the seasonal essence of fall, with the nutty flavors of pecan pie harmonizing beautifully with the whoopie pies.
- Ginger Snap Cookies: These spicy cookies enhance the seasonal vibe, offering a crunchy texture that contrasts the soft whoopie pies.
- Autumn Salad: A fresh salad with roasted butternut squash, cranberries, and walnuts introduces a savory touch that rounds out your dessert table wonderfully.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of spiced whipped cream can also be a fantastic light enhancement to elevate each delightful bite of the whoopie pies.
Serve these alongside your Pumpkin Whoopie Pies for a memorable autumn experience that celebrates the flavors of the season!
Pumpkin Whoopie Pies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right pumpkin purée?
Absolutely! When selecting pumpkin purée, look for a brand labeled specifically as “baking pumpkin” or “100% pure pumpkin.” Avoid products labeled as “pumpkin pie filling,” which contain added spices and sugars. If you’re feeling adventurous, homemade purée works wonderfully too! Just roast your pumpkin, scoop out the flesh, and blend it until smooth.
How should I store leftover Pumpkin Whoopie Pies?
The more the merrier! To keep your whoopie pies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, they can be chilled in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just remember to let them sit at room temperature for a few moments before enjoying, as it enhances their flavor and texture.
Can I freeze Pumpkin Whoopie Pies?
Absolutely! Pumpkin whoopie pies freeze beautifully. To do so, wrap each pie individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge, thaw them in the fridge overnight and enjoy at room temperature or warm them slightly in the microwave.
What should I do if my whoopie pies come out flat?
Very important! If your whoopie pies turn out flat, it could be due to a few factors. Make sure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh, as expired leaveners won’t provide the necessary rise. Also, avoid overmixing the batter; this can lead to dense cookies. Lastly, ensure you’re using the right measurements—too much liquid or fat can affect texture.
Are Pumpkin Whoopie Pies suitable for people with allergies?
Of course! However, keep in mind that this recipe contains dairy and eggs, making it unsuitable for those with dairy allergies or vegan diets. For substitutions, you can use non-dairy cream cheese and aquafaba (chickpea brine) for eggs, but the texture may vary slightly. Always check ingredient labels for potential allergens!
How can I tell when my Pumpkin Whoopie Pies are done baking?
You’ll know they’re ready when they appear fluffy and just set, feeling firm to the touch. They should be lightly golden on the edges; be careful not to overbake them as they will continue to firm up slightly while cooling. If you gently press down on the top, they should spring back, indicating they are perfectly baked!
Delicious Pumpkin Whoopie Pies with Creamy Frosting Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Combine cooled melted butter and both sugars in a large mixing bowl; mix until well blended.
- Stir in the pumpkin purée, eggs, and vanilla until everything is fully incorporated.
- Whisk together dry ingredients in a separate bowl, then mix until combined.
- Fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture gradually, stirring until just combined.
- Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of batter onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart.
- Bake for approximately 9 minutes, or until the cookies are fluffy and just set.
- Prepare the frosting by beating softened butter and cream cheese together until creamy.
- Assemble the whoopie pies by spreading frosting on half of the cookies and sandwiching them.
- Optional: Chill the assembled whoopie pies for a few hours to enhance the flavors.