Name: Delicious Pumpkin Whoopie Pie for Cozy Fall Gatherings
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 42 min
Ingredients: 2 cups All-purpose flour (Use whole wheat for added nutrition.); 1 teaspoon Baking powder (Ensure it’s fresh for optimal rising.); 1 teaspoon Baking soda (Works with acidic ingredients like pumpkin.); 1/2 teaspoon Salt (Use kosher or sea salt for best taste.); 2 teaspoons Pumpkin pie spice (Can substitute with cinnamon and nutmeg.); 1 cup Granulated sugar (Coconut sugar works well for a lower glycemic index.); 1/2 cup Dark brown sugar (Light brown sugar is a suitable alternative.); 1/2 cup Vegetable oil (Can be replaced with melted coconut oil.); 1 cup Pumpkin puree (Fresh puree can be cubed and roasted.); 2 large Eggs (Flax eggs can be substituted for a vegan option.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract (Almond extract is a fragrant substitute.); 1/2 cup Unsalted butter (Use margarine for a dairy-free option.); 4 ounces Cream cheese (Non-dairy alternatives available for a vegan version.); 2 cups Confectioners’ sugar (Can use powdered erythritol for a low-carb option.); 1/4 cup Maple syrup (Agave nectar or honey can be used for sweetness.)

As the leaves turn vibrant shades of orange and gold, the aroma of spices mingling with pumpkin wafts through the air, triggering a little comfort in my heart. Today, I'm excited to share my delightful Pumpkin Whoopie Pie recipe with creamy maple filling—a perfect companion for those cozy autumn afternoons. These soft, spiced cookies sandwiched with a luscious filling not only come together in a breeze, but they also serve as a cheerful crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Whether you’re looking to impress family or simply indulge in a comforting dessert after a hectic day, these whoopie pies are sure to lift your spirits. So, are you ready to embrace fall with a sweet treat that's both nostalgic and utterly irresistible? Let’s dive in!

Why is Pumpkin Whoopie Pie a Must-Try?

Festive Flavor: The warm spices in this Pumpkin Whoopie Pie capture the essence of fall, making every bite a delightful seasonal celebration.
Quick and Easy: With simple steps and readily available ingredients, you'll whip up these whoopie pies in no time—perfect for any baker, regardless of skill level.
Irresistible Texture: Enjoy the contrast of soft, cake-like cookies paired with creamy maple filling that melts in your mouth.
Crowd Favorite: Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy get-together with friends, these treats are sure to impress everyone at the table. Invite a friend over and share some over a cup of tea or coffee!
Versatile Options: Want a twist? Try substituting pumpkin with sweet potato or mix in some chocolate for a fun variation. For more inspiration, check out my tips on creative filling ideas.

Pumpkin Whoopie Pie Ingredients

For the Cookies

All-purpose flour – Structure; use whole wheat for added nutrition.
Baking powder – Leavening agent; ensure it’s fresh for optimal rising.
Baking soda – Leavening agent; works with acidic ingredients like pumpkin.
Salt – Enhances flavor; use kosher or sea salt for best taste.
Pumpkin pie spice – Flavor; can substitute with cinnamon and nutmeg for a homemade blend.
Granulated sugar – Sweetness; coconut sugar works well for a lower glycemic index.
Dark brown sugar – Moisture and sweetness; light brown sugar is a suitable alternative.
Vegetable oil – Moisture and richness; can be replaced with melted coconut oil.
Pumpkin puree – Flavor and moisture; fresh puree can be cubed and roasted, then pureed for best results.
Eggs – Binding and moisture; flax eggs can be substituted for a vegan option.
Vanilla extract – Flavor; almond extract is a fragrant substitute.

For the Filling

Unsalted butter – Richness for the filling; use margarine for a dairy-free option.
Cream cheese – Base for filling; non-dairy alternatives available for a vegan version.
Confectioners’ sugar – Sweetness for filling; can use powdered erythritol for a low-carb option.
Maple syrup – Flavor; agave nectar or honey can be used for sweetness.

With these Pumpkin Whoopie Pie ingredients, you are just a step away from creating a delightful fall treat that’s sure to bring joy to your table!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Whoopie Pie

Step 1: Preheat the oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper, ensuring you have enough space for your cookies. This preparation will help create a perfect non-stick surface for the Pumpkin Whoopie Pies, ensuring easy removal once they’re baked to golden perfection.

Step 2: Mix the dry ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and pumpkin pie spice until fully combined. This step is crucial for ensuring that your ingredients are evenly distributed, allowing the Pumpkin Whoopie Pies to rise beautifully while baking, creating that delightful soft texture we all love.

Step 3: Combine the wet ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix the granulated sugar, dark brown sugar, and vegetable oil until smooth and creamy. This mixture should feel light and airy, signaling that it's ready. Incorporating the sugars and oil efficiently helps to keep the cookies moist and flavorful, setting the right foundation for your Pumpkin Whoopie Pies.

Step 4: Add the pumpkin and eggs
To the sugary oil mixture, add the pumpkin puree, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk everything together until creamy and well combined. The color should be a vibrant orange, indicating that the pumpkin is evenly blended, which is essential for best flavor in your Pumpkin Whoopie Pies.

Step 5: Combine wet and dry mixtures
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just blended. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to denser cookies. You want a smooth, slightly thick batter that will hold its shape when scooped and baked into fluffy Pumpkin Whoopie Pies.

Step 6: Scoop and place dough
Using a cookie scoop or two spoons, drop 1.5 to 2 tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about an inch apart. This allows for expansion during baking, ensuring your Pumpkin Whoopie Pies won't stick together, resulting in beautiful, evenly sized cookies.

Step 7: Bake the cookies
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cookie comes out clean. The edges should be set and slightly golden, while the centers may still appear soft – this is exactly what you want for the perfect Pumpkin Whoopie Pie texture.

Step 8: Cool the cookies
Once baked, allow the Pumpkin Whoopie Pies to cool on the baking sheets for about 10 minutes. Afterward, gently transfer them to wire racks to cool completely. This cooling process is crucial as it sets their shape and ensures a delightful bite when filled.

Step 9: Make the creamy filling
For the delicious creamy filling, beat the unsalted butter in a large bowl until smooth. Gradually blend in the cream cheese, confectioners’ sugar, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until the mixture is fluffy and well combined. The filling should be creamy and spreadable, promising to add indulgence to your Pumpkin Whoopie Pies.

Step 10: Assemble the whoopie pies
Spread the filling generously on the flat side of half of the cooled cookies, then gently press the remaining cookies on top to create a sandwich. Chill the assembled Pumpkin Whoopie Pies in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and makes it easier to bite into them!

Step 11: Serve and enjoy
After chilling, your Pumpkin Whoopie Pies are ready to be served. These delightful treats can be enjoyed as a warming dessert or paired with coffee for a cozy afternoon snack. They'll surely be a hit with family and friends, capturing the taste of fall in every bite!

Make Ahead Options

These Pumpkin Whoopie Pies are a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy sweet treats without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate it in an airtight container. The cookies themselves can be baked and stored at room temperature for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months—just ensure they’re well wrapped to maintain freshness. For the filling, make it ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days; just give it a quick stir before using. When you’re ready to assemble, spread the chilled filling on the cooled cookies and enjoy your delightful Pumpkin Whoopie Pies!

Expert Tips for Making Pumpkin Whoopie Pie

Mix Well: Ensure dry ingredients are thoroughly combined to avoid uneven texture in your Pumpkin Whoopie Pie cookies.
Don't Overmix: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture to keep your cookies light and fluffy—overmixing can lead to dense whoopie pies.
Uniform Sizes: Use a cookie scoop to achieve even-sized cookies. This ensures consistent baking and a neat presentation for your delicious treats.
Cooling Time: Allow baked cookies to cool completely before filling. This will help the filling adhere better and prevent it from melting into the cookies.
Chill the Filling: If your cream cheese filling feels too loose, chill it briefly in the refrigerator. This will make it easier to spread and maintain its shape when assembling.

Pumpkin Whoopie Pie Variations & Substitutions

Customize your Pumpkin Whoopie Pie experience with these fun and flavorful twists! Let your creativity shine as you explore new and delicious alternatives.

Sweet Potato: Swap pumpkin puree with sweet potato puree for a unique flavor and a slightly sweeter profile. It's a wonderful twist that brings a new depth to your whoopie pies.
Chocolate Filling: For chocolate lovers, add cocoa powder to the cream cheese filling to create a rich chocolate surprise. This decadent filling can take your whoopie pies to a whole new level!
Spiced Filling: Elevate the flavor by adding an extra pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling. The enhanced spices will pair beautifully with the cookie and ignites warmth in every bite.
Vegan-Friendly: Use flax eggs and a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a completely vegan version of these sweet treats. You won’t miss a thing with these thoughtful substitutions!
Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate gluten sensitivities. Just make sure to add a little xanthan gum to maintain the right texture.
Maple Substitution: For an alternative to maple syrup, use honey or agave nectar for sweetness in the filling. Both options will lend a lovely flavor without sacrificing the texture.
Nutty Crunch: Mix in some chopped walnuts or pecans to the cookie dough for a delightful nutty crunch. This adds extra texture and a lovely earthy flavor to your whoopie pies.
Minty Fresh: Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the filling for a refreshing twist. It’s an unexpected flavor that can be delightfully surprising and festive for the holiday season.

With these options, your Pumpkin Whoopie Pies can be tailored to suit any taste or dietary need! Get playful in the kitchen, and remember that great cooking is all about making recipes your own. Plus, for even more ideas, don’t miss my tips on creative filling ideas and how to showcase your baked goods beautifully. Happy baking!

What to Serve with Pumpkin Whoopie Pie

These delightful treats are perfect for creating a cozy dining experience that captures the essence of fall.

Spiced Apple Cider: A warm mug of spiced apple cider complements the autumn flavors perfectly, warming your soul as you indulge.
Coffee: Rich, freshly brewed coffee enhances the sweet, creamy filling, making it an ideal pairing for a delightful afternoon treat.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cold texture of vanilla ice cream contrasts beautifully with the soft whoopie pie, adding a refreshing element to each bite.
Chai Tea: With its fragrant spices, chai tea echoes the spiced notes of the cookies, creating a comforting and harmonious pairing.
Autumn Salad: A fresh salad with greens, apples, walnuts, and a maple vinaigrette offers a light contrast to the rich whoopie pies, balancing out the meal.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: Embrace the season fully with a pumpkin spice latte that mirrors the flavors of the whoopie pie, creating a festive atmosphere.
Cheesecake Bites: For those who adore dessert, mini pumpkin cheesecake bites provide an extra fall-inspired treat that’s perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth.
Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of warm caramel sauce over the whoopie pie adds an indulgent touch, making every bite irresistibly decadent, while also giving it a festive vibe.

How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Whoopie Pie

Room Temperature: Keep uneaten Pumpkin Whoopie Pies at room temperature for up to 1 day, wrapped in plastic wrap to retain moisture.

Fridge: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, ensuring they remain fresh and delicious.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap each assembled whoopie pie individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.

Reheating: Thaw frozen Pumpkin Whoopie Pies in the fridge overnight, then allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Pumpkin Whoopie Pie Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! When choosing pumpkin puree, look for brands that list "100% pumpkin" as the sole ingredient. If you're using fresh pumpkin, choose pumpkins that are firm and have a rich orange color. Avoid any with dark spots or soft spots, as these may indicate overripeness. If you’re feeling adventurous, baking a small pie pumpkin, cubing it, and then pureeing will give you a fresher taste!

How do I store leftover Pumpkin Whoopie Pies?
Very simply! Store your uneaten Pumpkin Whoopie Pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day or in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, wrap each pie individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They'll stay fresh for up to 3 months in the freezer!

Can I freeze Pumpkin Whoopie Pies?
Absolutely! To freeze your Pumpkin Whoopie Pies, allow them to cool completely. Then, wrap each pie tightly in plastic wrap. Place them into a freezer-safe bag, and label it with the date. When you're ready to enjoy them, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and let them come to room temperature before serving. This method keeps them moist and delicious!

What should I do if my Pumpkin Whoopie Pies are too dense?
If you're finding your Pumpkin Whoopie Pies came out dense, it might be due to overmixing the batter. Ensure you only mix until just combined when incorporating the dry and wet ingredients. Overmixing can lead to a tough cookie, rather than the soft, cake-like texture you desire. If you suspect your baking powder or soda might not be fresh, double-check those as well, as they are crucial for that perfect rise!

Are there any dietary considerations for Pumpkin Whoopie Pies?
Absolutely! For those with dietary restrictions, you can make a vegan version by replacing eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg, let sit until gelatinous), using vegan butter and cream cheese alternatives, and selecting a non-dairy milk option. Always check the labels for potential allergens if you're serving these to guests with allergies.

What is the texture of the finished Pumpkin Whoopie Pies?
The texture of your finished Pumpkin Whoopie Pies should be soft and moist, akin to cake-like cookies, with a delightful creamy filling that contrasts beautifully with the spiced outer cookies. Enjoy the tender bite that melts in your mouth, creating a truly comforting fall treat.