Apple Cider Whoopie Pies

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that captures the essence of fall, these Apple Cider Whoopie Pies are just what you need! Every bite is like a hug from autumn, with soft, cake-like cookies that taste just like your favorite apple cider doughnuts. This recipe has become a cherished favorite in my home, perfect for those busy weeknights or for sharing with friends and family at gatherings. Whether you’re celebrating a cozy evening in or prepping for a festive get-together, these whoopie pies will bring joy to any occasion.

There’s something so comforting about the combination of cinnamon and apple flavors. Plus, they’re not just delicious; they’re simple to make! You’ll love how easy it is to whip up these sweet treats that are both fun to eat and share.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The rich blend of apple cider and spices creates an irresistible taste that screams fall.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy these whoopie pies, making them great for parties or family gatherings.
• Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, you’ll have these pies ready in no time!
• Make-Ahead Option: Bake the cookies ahead of time and fill them just before serving for fresh treats whenever you need them.
• Customizable Fillings: Choose between bourbon caramel buttercream or brown sugar cream cheese icing to suit your taste!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Apple Cider Whoopie Pies are made with simple, wholesome ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. Gather your favorites and get ready to create something special!

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)
• 2 tablespoons plus 2 teaspoons Bourbon Caramel Sauce
• 1 pinch 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

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can easily switch things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Change the Filling: Swap out the bourbon caramel buttercream for a chocolate ganache for an indulgent twist!
• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans into the cookie batter for extra texture and flavor.
• Use Different Spices: Experiment with other spices like allspice or cardamom to give your whoopie pies a unique flair.
• Make Them Mini: For bite-sized treats, scoop smaller mounds of dough and adjust baking time accordingly.

How to Make Apple Cider Whoopie Pies

Step 1: Reduce the Apple Cider

Preheat your oven to 350°F. In a medium saucepan, bring the apple cider to a boil over medium-high heat. This step is crucial because reducing the cider concentrates its sweet flavor. Let it simmer until it reduces down to about 1/4 cup; this will take around 30-35 minutes. Once done, set it aside to cool while you prepare other ingredients. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper so your cookies won’t stick!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and all those lovely spices. Sifting helps incorporate air into your dry mix which leads to fluffier cookies. Set this bowl aside; we’ll come back to it soon.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl—or using an electric mixer—beat together 6 tablespoons of room temperature butter with both sugars on medium speed until combined. Scrape down any bits stuck on the sides of the bowl. Next, add the vanilla extract followed by the eggs one at a time until fully incorporated. Now add in that reduced apple cider along with either apple butter or applesauce. This mixture will be fluffy and aromatic!

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

With your mixer on low speed, gradually add in the flour mixture until just combined. It’s important not to overmix here as we want our cookies light and tender!

Step 5: Shape Your Cookies

Scoop out mounds of dough about 1½ tablespoons each onto your prepared baking sheets, placing them about three inches apart since they will spread during baking. Rotate the pan halfway through baking time—about 11-13 minutes—until they spring back lightly when touched.

Step 6: Cool & Coat Cookies

Once out of the oven, let your cookies cool on the sheet for five minutes before transferring them onto a wire rack. Brush each cookie with melted butter while still warm and coat them in cinnamon sugar—this gives them that sweet crunch we all love!

Step 7: Fill Your Whoopie Pies

After allowing them to cool completely on racks, it’s time for filling! Use either bourbon caramel buttercream or brown sugar cream cheese icing—both options are scrumptious! Spread about 1½ tablespoons of filling on one cookie then top it off with another cookie to create those delightful sandwiches.

And there you have it! A batch of perfect Apple Cider Whoopie Pies ready to be enjoyed by everyone around you! Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Cider Whoopie Pies

Making these delightful Apple Cider Whoopie Pies is a fun and rewarding experience, and I’m here to help you make them even better!

• Use fresh apple cider: Freshly pressed apple cider provides a richer flavor than store-bought varieties and enhances the overall taste of your whoopie pies.

• Don’t skip the cooling step: Allowing the cookies to cool completely before filling them is crucial; it prevents the icing from melting and ensures that each bite has the perfect texture.

• Experiment with fillings: While this recipe includes Bourbon Caramel Buttercream and Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Icing, feel free to get creative with flavors like maple or even a spiced cream cheese frosting for extra autumn flair.

• Keep an eye on baking time: Every oven is different, so check your cookies a minute or two before the suggested baking time. You want them soft yet set, without being overbaked.

• Store properly: To keep the whoopie pies moist, store them in an airtight container. They taste even better the next day when flavors have had time to meld!

How to Serve Apple Cider Whoopie Pies

These whoopie pies are not just delicious; they also make for a beautiful presentation! Here are some ideas to serve them up in style.

Garnishes

• Sprinkle of cinnamon: A light dusting of cinnamon on top adds a lovely aroma and enhances the fall flavor profile.
• Caramel drizzle: A drizzle of non-alcoholic caramel sauce can give each pie a decadent touch while adding visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Warm apple cider: Serve alongside a warm mug of spiced apple cider for a comforting pairing that complements the flavors of your whoopie pies.
• Pumpkin spice latte: This coffee classic pairs wonderfully with the sweet and spicy notes of the cookies, enhancing your autumn treat experience.
• Crisp autumn salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens, cranberries, and pecans adds a nice balance to the rich sweetness of the whoopie pies.
• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream can elevate your dessert game and provide a tasty contrast against the cookie’s warmth.

Enjoy making these delightful treats! They’re sure to become a favorite in your fall dessert lineup.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Apple Cider Whoopie Pies are perfect for meal prep! You can make a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week or serve them at gatherings. Here’s how to store and preserve their delightful taste:

Storing Leftovers

• Store whoopie pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you prefer them to stay fresh longer, refrigerate them for up to a week.
• To prevent the filling from getting too soft, separate the cookies with parchment paper if stacking.

Freezing

• Freeze unfilled cookies by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• When ready to eat, allow cookies to thaw at room temperature before filling.

Reheating

• If you want to warm them up slightly, you can microwave a filled whoopie pie for about 10-15 seconds.
• Alternatively, place them in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes, just until they’re warm but not hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Apple Cider Whoopie Pies!

Can I use something other than apple butter in the Apple Cider Whoopie Pies?

Absolutely! You can substitute apple butter with applesauce if you prefer. Both will add moisture and a lovely apple flavor.

How do I adjust the sweetness of Apple Cider Whoopie Pies?

You can reduce the sugar slightly if you’d like a less sweet cookie. Just keep in mind that this may alter the texture a little, so don’t go overboard!

Can I make Apple Cider Whoopie Pies ahead of time?

Yes! These whoopie pies are great for making ahead. Store them as mentioned above for easy snacking later.

What can I use instead of Bourbon Caramel Sauce?

You can replace Bourbon Caramel Sauce with any caramel sauce or even maple syrup for a different twist without using alcohol.

How should I store leftover Apple Cider Whoopie Pies?

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for up to a week.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Apple Cider Whoopie Pies as much as I do! They capture all the cozy flavors of fall and are sure to bring smiles to everyone who tries them. Whether you’re sharing with friends or enjoying them yourself, they’re simply irresistible. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your creations!