As the leaves turn golden and the air carries a hint of crispness, I find myself craving cozy, homemade desserts that wrap me in warmth. These Creamy Pumpkin Whoopie Pies are the perfect way to embrace the flavors of fall with their tender, cake-like pumpkin cookies and luscious maple cream cheese filling. Not only are they quick to whip up, making them a delightful choice for busy weeknights or surprise guests, but they also bring a comforting warmth that feels like a hug in every bite. Whether you're treating yourself after a long day or sharing them at gatherings, these whoopie pies are sure to create memories around the table. Is your kitchen ready for the irresistible aroma of fall?
Why Are Pumpkin Whoopie Pies Loved?
Irresistible Flavor: The warm spices and sweet pumpkin create a delightful taste that embodies the essence of fall.
Quick Preparation: These treats come together in no time, making them perfect for spontaneous baking sessions.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike can’t resist the fluffy texture and creamy filling, making them a hit at any gathering.
Versatile Enjoyment: Serve them as a cozy dessert, a fun snack, or a delightful afternoon treat with coffee—there's no wrong way to enjoy them.
Make Ahead: With the ability to store them in the fridge or freeze for later, you’ll always have a little taste of fall ready to share. Don’t forget to check out some of our other favorite fall desserts like Spiced Apple Crisp to round out your menu!
Pumpkin Whoopie Pie Ingredients
For the Cookies
- All-Purpose Flour – Essential for structure; no substitutions recommended for the best texture.
- Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent for that delightful fluffiness.
- Baking Powder – Complements baking soda to ensure the perfect rise.
- Salt – Enhances the flavor; sea salt can provide a gourmet touch.
- Pumpkin Pie Spice – Infuses warm, aromatic flavors; substitute with a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger if needed.
- Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness; coconut sugar can deepen the flavor profile.
- Dark Brown Sugar – Ensures moisture and caramel notes; light brown sugar is an acceptable alternative.
- Vegetable Oil – Keeps cookies moist and soft; melted coconut oil or applesauce can lighten things up.
- Chilled Pumpkin Puree – The star ingredient for that rich pumpkin flavor; homemade puree is a great option too!
- Eggs – Binds the ingredients and adds moisture; for a vegan twist, use flax eggs.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor depth; almond extract serves as a lovely alternative.
For the Cream Cheese Filling
- Unsalted Butter – Base for the creamy filling; consider a vegan alternative for a dairy-free version.
- Cream Cheese – Provides that luscious texture; use a non-dairy alternative for a vegan option.
- Confectioners' Sugar – Adds sweetness and thickens the filling; powdered erythritol works for a low-sugar take.
- Maple Syrup – Introduces a rich, natural sweetness to the filling; honey or agave can be substituted.
Get ready to indulge in the season with these delicious Pumpkin Whoopie Pies!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Whoopie Pie
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This will ensure your Pumpkin Whoopie Pies bake evenly and come out perfectly when the time comes to assemble them with delicious filling.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of salt, and 1 tablespoon of pumpkin pie spice. This blend of dry ingredients is key to mastering the flavor and structure of your whoopie pies, so ensure there are no lumps as you mix.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, beat together 1 cup of granulated sugar, ½ cup of dark brown sugar, and ½ cup of vegetable oil until the sugars are well incorporated. Next, add 1 cup of chilled pumpkin puree, 2 eggs, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the mixture. Blend until smooth and creamy, ensuring all the components are well combined.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, gently stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix this batter to maintain the soft and tender texture of your Pumpkin Whoopie Pies. You want to see no dry flour, but the batter should remain light and fluffy!
Step 5: Scoop the Dough
Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, drop 1.5 to 2 tablespoons of dough onto the lined baking sheets. Place the rounds about an inch apart to give them room to spread while baking. Your scoops should look plump and slightly domed, ready to puff up beautifully in the oven.
Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Slide the baking sheets into the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. The whoopie pies are done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the edges are slightly firm yet springy. Allow the cookies to cool on the sheets for about 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Step 7: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
In a medium bowl, beat together 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter and 8 ounces of cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add in 1 cup of confectioners’ sugar, 2 tablespoons of maple syrup, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing until combined. If your filling seems too soft, refrigerate it for a few minutes to achieve the right consistency.
Step 8: Assemble the Whoopie Pies
Once the cookies are cooled, spread a generous dollop of the cream cheese filling onto the flat side of half of the cookies. Place the remaining cookies on top, flat side down, to create delightful, sandwich-style whoopie pies. Press gently so the filling peeks out slightly—this step makes them look as irresistible as they taste!
Step 9: Chill Before Serving
For the best flavor and texture, place the assembled Pumpkin Whoopie Pies in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving. Chilling helps the flavors meld together beautifully and firms up the cream cheese filling for a delightful bite. Your comforting fall treat is now ready to be enjoyed!
What to Serve with Pumpkin Whoopie Pie
Indulge in a delightful meal that pairs beautifully with the warmth and sweetness of these irresistible treats.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their buttery richness creates a comforting contrast to the sweet whoopie pies, perfect for a cozy fall dinner.
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Spiced Apple Cider: A warm cup of spiced cider brings out the fall spices in the whoopie pies while offering a delightful refreshment.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The slight bitterness of the sprouts balances the sweetness of the pie, providing a well-rounded, autumn-inspired meal.
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Maple-Glazed Carrots: These sweet, tender carrots echo the maple flavor in the filling while adding vibrant color to your table.
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Caramelized Pear Salad: Crisp greens, sweet pears, and a tangy vinaigrette create a refreshing contrast, making each bite feel brighter next to dessert.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve a scoop alongside the whoopie pies for a classic pairing—the creaminess perfectly complements their rich filling.
Transform your gathering with these delightful pairings, ensuring every bite is a celebration of autumn!
How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Whoopie Pies
Room Temperature: Keep unfilled cookies at room temperature for up to 2 days in an airtight container to maintain their lovely softness.
Fridge: Store filled Pumpkin Whoopie Pies in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Place them in an airtight container to avoid drying out or absorbing any other odors.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the assembled pies for up to 3 months. Wrap each pie individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
Thawing: To enjoy, simply transfer the frozen Pumpkin Whoopie Pies to the fridge overnight to thaw before serving—this helps the flavors settle beautifully!
Pumpkin Whoopie Pie Variations
Feel free to make these delightful whoopie pies your own with these fun swaps and twists!
- Vegan Version: Use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and substitute flax eggs for a delicious vegan treat.
- Sweet Potato Surprise: Swap out pumpkin puree for sweet potato puree to create a unique, subtly different flavor.
- Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or more pumpkin pie spice for an extra kick of warmth in your cookies.
- Nutty Delight: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for a delightful crunch and heartiness.
- Chocolate Lovers: Drizzle melted dark chocolate on top of filled whoopie pies for an indulgent treat that’s sure to please chocolate lovers.
- Coconut Bliss: Use whipped coconut cream as a filling for a light, airy alternative that adds tropical notes to your dessert.
- Apple Pie Twist: Mix in finely chopped apples with a hint of cinnamon for a fruity twist reminiscent of classic apple pie.
- Maple Infusion: Increase the maple syrup in the filling for a richer sweetness, or even add a splash of bourbon for an adult-only twist.
These ideas will surely keep your pumpkin whoopie pies fresh, exciting, and perfect for every fall occasion! If you’re looking for more cozy recipes, check out our delightful Spiced Apple Crisp and embrace the season with more comforting flavors.
Make Ahead Options
These Pumpkin Whoopie Pies are perfect for meal prep and can save you time during the busy fall season! You can prepare the cookie dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking, ensuring it retains its soft texture. Additionally, the assembled whoopie pies can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For optimal freshness, chill them for at least an hour before serving to enhance the flavors and firm up the cream cheese filling. If you're planning further ahead, you can freeze the unassembled cookies for up to 3 months; simply thaw them in the fridge overnight before adding the filling for delicious, freshly made Pumpkin Whoopie Pies whenever you need a sweet treat!
Expert Tips for Pumpkin Whoopie Pies
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Avoid Overmixing: Gently fold the wet and dry ingredients together. Overmixing can result in dense cookies instead of the light, fluffy Pumpkin Whoopie Pies you want.
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Cool Cookies Completely: Allow cookies to cool fully before adding the cream cheese filling. This prevents the filling from melting and ensures a perfect texture.
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Use Chilled Ingredients: For a richer flavor and firmer filling, chill your cream cheese and butter before mixing. It also helps to maintain the right consistency in the filling.
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Don’t Skip the Refrigeration: Refrigerate the assembled pies for at least an hour before serving. This helps the flavors meld, enhancing their deliciousness.
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Experiment with Fillings: While the maple cream cheese filling is delightful, consider trying whipped coconut cream or flavored frostings for a unique twist on your Pumpkin Whoopie Pies.
Pumpkin Whoopie Pie Recipe FAQs
What kind of pumpkin puree should I use?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, I recommend using chilled pumpkin puree—canned pure pumpkin works beautifully. If you're feeling adventurous, you can make your own by roasting fresh pumpkin, scooping out the flesh, and blending it until smooth!
How should I store my Pumpkin Whoopie Pies?
You can keep your filled Pumpkin Whoopie Pies in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to place them in an airtight container to preserve their soft texture and prevent them from absorbing any other odors.
Can I freeze Pumpkin Whoopie Pies?
Yes, you can! Wrap each assembled pie individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll last for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply transfer them to the fridge to thaw overnight.
What if my cookies are too flat?
Very! If your cookies spread too much during baking, check your oven temperature to ensure it's accurate, as an overly hot oven can cause this. Also, make sure to chill your wet ingredients slightly before mixing, and avoid overmixing to maintain their fluffy texture.
Are there any allergy considerations with this recipe?
Indeed! This Pumpkin Whoopie Pie recipe contains gluten, dairy, and eggs. For a vegan version, you can replace the eggs with flax eggs, use dairy-free cream cheese, and opt for a dairy-free butter substitute. Always check ingredient labels to be certain they meet your dietary needs, especially if serving to others.
Can I make them ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cookies in advance and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Prepare the filling separately and assemble just before serving. This way, they’ll remain fresh and delicious!
Indulgent Pumpkin Whoopie Pie That Will Warm Your Heart
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and pumpkin pie spice.
- In a separate bowl, beat the granulated sugar, dark brown sugar, and vegetable oil until well incorporated. Add the pumpkin puree, eggs, and vanilla extract, blending until smooth.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Drop 1.5 to 2 tablespoons of dough onto the baking sheets, spacing them an inch apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool on sheets for 10 minutes before transferring.
- In a medium bowl, beat together the butter and cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add confectioners' sugar, maple syrup, and vanilla extract, mixing until combined.
- Spread a dollop of filling onto the flat side of half the cookies and sandwich with the remaining cookies.
- Refrigerate the assembled whoopie pies for at least an hour before serving.
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