Name: Indulgent Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies for Cozy Fall Days
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 52 min
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour (can substitute with gluten-free flour); 1 cup old-fashioned oats (can swap with an equal amount of flour); 1 teaspoon baking soda (no direct substitute exists); ½ teaspoon salt; 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice (can mix cinnamon and nutmeg as alternatives); ½ cup unsalted butter (can substitute with vegan butter); ½ cup brown sugar (can use granulated sugar for a lighter taste); ½ cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg (can replace with a flax egg for vegan option); 1 cup pumpkin puree (100% pure, canned is convenient); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 4 ounces cream cheese (can substitute with mascarpone or dairy-free cream cheese); ¼ cup unsalted butter (softened); 1 cup powdered sugar; ¼ cup pumpkin puree; 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Autumn has a way of wrapping us in warmth, doesn’t it? As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, nothing satisfies quite like a homemade treat. Enter my irresistible Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies—a delightful fall indulgence that combines soft, spiced cookies with a rich, creamy filling. Not only are these cookies easy to whip up with pantry staples and canned pumpkin puree, they’re also a crowd-pleaser perfect for those busy days when a sweet smile is needed most. What’s more? They’re vegetarian, making them a fantastic option for everyone at the table. So, are you ready to bake up a batch of these chewy wonders and fill your home with the cozy scents of fall?

Why Are These Cookies a Must-Make?

Satisfying Comfort: These Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies bring together rich flavors that evoke the essence of fall, making them the perfect treat as the cozy season sets in.
Effortless Preparation: With just a handful of pantry staples and the convenience of canned pumpkin puree, you can quickly whip up these delicious cookies.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Ideal for gatherings, these cookies are loved by everyone, ensuring smiles all around whether served at autumn parties or simply enjoyed after a long day.
Versatile Variations: Feel free to adapt the recipe by adding chocolate chips or switching out pumpkin for sweet potato for a fun twist.
Healthier Option: Being vegetarian, they cater to various dietary preferences while still delivering a satisfying and indulgent flavor!

Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies Ingredients

For the Cookies

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the cookies; substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
Old-Fashioned Oats – Adds delightful texture and chewiness; can swap with an equal amount of flour for smoother cookies, though flavor changes.
Baking Soda – A vital leavening agent that helps cookies rise; no direct substitute exists.
Salt – Enhances all flavors, providing essential balance to the sweet notes.
Pumpkin Pie Spice – Infuses warm, cozy flavors; can mix cinnamon and nutmeg as alternatives.
Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and contributes to a soft cookie texture; substitute with vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
Brown Sugar – Moistens and deepens flavors; you can use granulated sugar for a lighter taste.
Granulated Sugar – Delivers sweetness and structure to the cookie dough.
Large Egg – Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture; replace with a flax egg for a vegan option.
Pumpkin Puree (100% pure) – The star ingredient keeping cookies moist and flavorful; use canned for convenience.
Vanilla Extract – Adds aromatic sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

For the Cream Filling

Cream Cheese – Forms a creamy filling base; can substitute with mascarpone cheese or Greek yogurt; for vegan, try dairy-free cream cheese.
Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the cream filling for a luscious texture.
Pumpkin Puree (100% pure) – Adds extra flavor to the filling; stick with canned pumpkin for ease.
Pumpkin Pie Spice – Imparts a hint of warmth to the cream filling; a small amount goes a long way!
Vanilla Extract – Elevates the taste with its delightful sweet aroma.

Let the comforting smell of these Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies waft through your home and enjoy the cozy vibes of the season!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies

Step 1: Prepare Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of old-fashioned oats, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of salt, and 2 teaspoons of pumpkin pie spice until well combined. This mixture is the foundation for your Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies, giving them the perfect texture and flavor.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars
In another bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together ½ cup of softened unsalted butter, ½ cup of brown sugar, and ½ cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This step is crucial for incorporating air into your dough, ensuring your cookies turn out soft and tender.

Step 3: Mix in Wet Ingredients
Add 1 large egg, 1 cup of pumpkin puree, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the creamed butter mixture. Beat until everything is well combined and smooth, which should take about 1 minute. The pumpkin puree will provide moisture and a delightful flavor that is key to your Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the cookies tough. You want a slightly thick dough that clings together beautifully, ready to be scooped out onto your baking sheet.

Step 5: Preheat Oven
While you finish mixing the dough, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). The right temperature is essential for ensuring the edges of your cookies become golden brown while keeping the centers soft and chewy.

Step 6: Shape Cookies
Line your baking sheets with parchment paper. Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop mounds of dough about 2 inches apart on the prepared sheets. This spacing allows the Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies to spread properly as they bake, creating individual delights.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them, as they should look slightly domed. Remove the sheets from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Step 8: Prepare the Cream Filling
In a separate bowl, mix together 4 ounces of cream cheese, ¼ cup of unsalted butter (softened), 1 cup of powdered sugar, ¼ cup of pumpkin puree, 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and creamy, ensuring a wonderfully rich center for your Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies.

Step 9: Assemble the Cookies
Once the cookies are completely cooled, spread a generous amount of cream filling on the flat side of one cookie and top it with another cookie, flat side down. Press gently to create a sandwich. Repeat this process until all cookies are filled, resulting in delightful Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies ready to be enjoyed!

Expert Tips for Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies

Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and cream cheese are softened to room temperature for easy mixing and a smooth filling.
Avoid Overmixing: Gently mix the dough until just combined to keep your Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies soft and chewy. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
Chill the Dough: Refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps prevent cookies from spreading too much and ensures a thicker, chewier texture.
Cool Completely: Let cookies cool completely on the wire rack before adding the cream filling. This maintains the integrity of the cookies and prevents the filling from melting.
Customize Your Spices: Feel free to play with spices! Adding a pinch of ginger or cloves can personalize your Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies for extra warmth and complexity.

How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies

Room Temperature: Store your Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their softness and flavor.

Fridge: For longer freshness, place them in the refrigerator where they can last up to 1 week. Just allow them to reach room temperature before serving for the best taste.

Freezer: If you want to enjoy these delightful treats later, freeze the assembled pies wrapped tightly in foil or placed in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before savoring.

Reheating: To warm them up, simply microwave for 10-15 seconds to invite back that freshly baked feel without drying them out.

What to Serve with Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies

Indulging in these warm, spiced wonders isn't complete without the perfect accompaniments that enhance their cozy flavors.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These buttery, smooth potatoes provide a comforting contrast that balances the sweet cream pies perfectly.
Spiced Apple Cider: Warm and fragrant, a cup of spiced apple cider brings out the beautifully autumnal notes of the pumpkin.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of rich vanilla ice cream melts delightfully against the sweet, spiced cookies, creating a harmonious dessert experience.
Maple Glazed Carrots: Roasted carrots drizzled with maple syrup add a sweet yet savory element, complementing the creaminess of the pies.
Chai Latte: This spiced beverage not only warms you up but also mirrors the cozy flavors in the cream pies, making it a delightful pairing.
Pecan Pie: With its nutty richness, pecan pie adds another layer of sweetness that will please anyone’s palate after enjoying the cookies.
Autumn Salad: A salad with leafy greens, cranberries, and walnuts topped with a honey mustard dressing adds freshness, contrasting beautifully with the rich flavors.

Choose any combination of these delightful pairings, and you'll create a full fall meal that warms the soul!

Make Ahead Options

These Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies are a fantastic option for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours; just be sure to cover it tightly to prevent drying out. Alternatively, you can scoop the dough into balls and freeze them for up to 3 months. When you're ready to bake, simply thaw the dough in the fridge overnight, then bake as directed. The cream filling can also be made in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, ensuring it stays creamy and fresh. When it's time to serve, simply assemble the cookies for delightful, homemade treats that taste just as good as fresh!

Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies: Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative and customize these cookies to suit your taste and dietary needs!

Dairy-Free: Substitute cream cheese with dairy-free cream cheese and use vegan butter to make the filling completely dairy-free. The rich flavors will still shine through!
Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend for a gluten-free treat that everyone can enjoy. Just be sure to check your other ingredients as well.
Sweet Potato Twist: Swap pumpkin puree for an equal amount of sweet potato puree for a unique flavor profile that’s just as comforting and delicious.
Flavor Boost: Add ½ cup of chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the cookie dough for delightful bites of texture and flavor. Who can resist a surprise of chocolate?
Spicy Variation: Incorporate additional spices like ground ginger or a dash of cayenne pepper for a warming twist. This adds an exciting heat that complements the sweetness of the cookies.
Filling Alternatives: Instead of a cream cheese filling, try using a mascarpone cheese mixture for a richer taste or Greek yogurt for a lighter twist. It will be just as creamy and delicious!
Low-Sugar Option: Use a sugar substitute or coconut sugar in place of brown and granulated sugar if you want to lower the sweetness without compromising taste.
Nutty Crunch: Add ½ cup of chopped pecans or walnuts to the cookie dough for a delightful crunch that adds depth to every bite. The combination of chewiness and crunch is simply heavenly!

Feel free to make these Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies your own—each variation holds the potential for delicious discovery! For more delightful treats, try out our easy pumpkin desserts or explore vegetarian options!

Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies Recipe FAQs

What type of pumpkin puree should I use?
Absolutely! It's best to use 100% pure canned pumpkin puree for this recipe, as it provides a consistent flavor and moisture. Avoid using pumpkin pie filling, as it contains added sugars and spices that might alter your recipe's balance.

How should I store Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies?
You can store your Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer preservation, refrigerate them where they can last for up to a week. Make sure to allow them to come to room temperature before serving to enjoy their soft texture fully.

Can I freeze these cookies?
Certainly! To freeze your Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies, wrap them tightly in foil or place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight. For an added treat, you can warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before indulging!

What can I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
The more the merrier! If your cookies tend to spread excessively, try refrigerating the dough for about 30 minutes before baking. Also, ensure that you’re measuring your flour correctly and using a cookie scoop to maintain even sizes, which helps cookies hold their shape during baking.

Are these cookies suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Very! These Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies are vegetarian-friendly as they contain no meat or meat-derived ingredients. If you need to accommodate a specific dietary restriction, you can easily substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) for a vegan option.

What if I have a cream cheese allergy?
No worries! If you're allergic to cream cheese, I often make a substitute using dairy-free cream cheese or mascarpone cheese for a rich filling. You can also use Greek yogurt mixed with powdered sugar for a tangy alternative, creating a delightful creaminess without the allergens.