Pumpkin Whoopie Pies – Easy Fall Dessert Recipe

Pumpkin Whoopie Pies are a quintessential fall treat, combining the comforting flavors of pumpkin, warm spices, and a delightful cream cheese filling. These soft, cake-like sandwiches are the perfect dessert for cozy evenings, family gatherings, or even as a special treat to share with friends. The combination of sweet maple cream cheese and pumpkin gives each bite a rich, autumnal flavor that’s hard to resist.

Why Pumpkin Whoopie Pies Are Perfect for Fall

Pumpkin Whoopie Pies are the ultimate fall dessert. Not only do they boast a delicious balance of spices and pumpkin flavor, but they also come together in a fun, handheld form that makes them perfect for parties or as a sweet treat for your family. These whoopie pies are incredibly moist and flavorful, with a soft texture that’s more cake than cookie. The added maple cream cheese filling brings a sweet and tangy contrast that makes them irresistible. If you’re a fan of autumn flavors, this is a must-try recipe.

Ingredients

To make these Pumpkin Whoopie Pies, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients that bring out the best of fall flavors.

• All-purpose flour: Provides structure for the cake-like texture.
• Salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• Baking soda: Helps the whoopie pies rise and become fluffy.
• Baking powder: Adds to the lightness of the texture.
• Pumpkin pie spice: A blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, creating that classic autumn flavor.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cookies while maintaining their soft texture.
• Dark brown sugar: Adds depth and a hint of molasses flavor.
• Vegetable oil: Keeps the cookies moist and tender.
• Pumpkin puree: The star ingredient that gives the pies their distinct flavor and moisture.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add to the fluffiness.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the pies.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you’re looking to adapt the recipe to suit dietary preferences or don’t have all the ingredients on hand, here are some alternatives:

• Flour: Use whole wheat flour for a heartier texture or gluten-free flour to make this recipe gluten-free.
• Eggs: Swap for flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water per egg) if you need a vegan version.
• Sugar: Coconut sugar can be used instead of granulated sugar for a lower glycemic alternative.
• Vegetable oil: Olive oil can be substituted if you prefer a healthier option.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making Pumpkin Whoopie Pies is easy, but follow these steps carefully for the best results.

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together flour, salt, baking soda, baking powder, and pumpkin pie spice.
3. Combine wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, dark brown sugar, and vegetable oil. Add pumpkin puree and whisk until fully combined. Then, add eggs and vanilla extract, mixing well.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the pumpkin mixture, whisking until just combined.
5. Scoop the dough: Using a cookie scoop, drop the dough in 1.5-inch mounds onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
6. Bake: Bake the whoopie pies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Make the filling: In a stand mixer, beat the softened butter until smooth. Add cream cheese and beat until fluffy. Add powdered sugar, maple syrup, and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
9. Assemble the pies: Turn half of the cooled cookies upside down and pipe the cream cheese filling onto the flat side. Place another cookie on top, pressing gently to spread the filling evenly.
10. Chill and serve: Refrigerate the assembled pies for at least one hour before serving.

Tips & Tricks

• If the dough is too sticky, add an extra ½ cup of flour to achieve the right consistency.
• Pumpkin Whoopie Pies freeze well! After assembling, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container for up to three months.
• For an even more flavorful filling, chill the cream cheese frosting before piping it onto the cookies.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

Pumpkin Whoopie Pies are delicious on their own, but here are some ideas to elevate the experience:

• Side dishes: Pair them with a hot cup of spiced cider or pumpkin spice latte for a cozy fall treat.
• Toppings: Sprinkle with chopped pecans or drizzle with extra maple syrup for added texture and sweetness.
• Variations: Try adding chocolate chips to the dough for a decadent twist. Or, substitute the maple cream cheese filling with a vanilla buttercream for a lighter option.

These whoopie pies can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making them perfect for parties or as an easy make-ahead treat for Thanksgiving.

Health Benefits of Pumpkin Whoopie Pies

While these treats may be indulgent, pumpkin is a great source of vitamins A and C, both of which support healthy skin and immune function. The spices used in the recipe, like cinnamon and ginger, also offer antioxidant properties that can aid digestion and reduce inflammation. So, while Pumpkin Whoopie Pies are a delightful fall dessert, they also offer some nutritional benefits that make them a little more guilt-free.

Pumpkin Whoopie Pies are more than just a dessert; they’re a comforting, nostalgic treat that perfectly captures the flavors of fall. With their soft, cake-like texture, spiced pumpkin flavor, and indulgent maple cream cheese filling, they’re bound to be a hit wherever you serve them. Whether for a cozy afternoon snack or as a sweet gift to friends, this recipe is sure to become a fall favorite.

Conclusion

Pumpkin Whoopie Pies are an irresistible fall treat that combines the best flavors of the season in one delectable dessert. From the warm spices to the rich pumpkin flavor and creamy maple filling, each bite is a celebration of autumn. These whoopie pies are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re serving them at a holiday gathering, enjoying a cozy afternoon snack, or sharing them with family and friends. The ease of preparation and versatility of the recipe makes them a must-try for anyone craving a comforting seasonal dessert.

The delightful combination of soft cookies and velvety cream cheese filling makes Pumpkin Whoopie Pies a memorable dessert that will quickly become a favorite. So, gather your ingredients, get baking, and treat yourself to the perfect fall indulgence!

FAQ

More Relevant Recipes

• Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler: This savory dish features ground beef with a cheesy, flaky cheddar biscuit topping, offering a rich and comforting flavor. It’s a deliciously hearty option that contrasts well with the sweetness of Pumpkin Whoopie Pies, making it an ideal pairing for a full meal.
• Southern Style Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers: These sweet and savory cornbread bites, glazed with honey butter, deliver a comforting, down-home flavor. Perfect for pairing with the pumpkin-inspired sweetness of the whoopie pies, they provide a satisfying contrast in texture and flavor.
• Easy Strawberry Mousse: For a lighter dessert option, this strawberry mousse is sweet, creamy, and easy to prepare. The fresh berry flavor offers a refreshing contrast to the spiced pumpkin in the whoopie pies, making it an excellent alternative for those looking for a fruity dessert.

Print