Apple Cider Whoopie Pies

Apple Cider Whoopie Pies are the perfect treat for autumn. These delightful cookies feature a rich, spiced flavor profile and a luscious apple cider buttercream filling that captures the essence of fall in every bite. Ideal for gatherings, cozy evenings, or as a sweet surprise for loved ones, these whoopie pies offer a unique twist that will make them a favorite at any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of warm spices and apple cider buttercream creates an irresistible taste.
• Perfect for Fall: Celebrate the season with a dessert that embodies autumn’s flavors.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is accessible for bakers of all levels.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy these whoopie pies as an afternoon snack, dessert at dinner parties, or even as gifts.
• Fun to Assemble: Get creative while assembling your whoopie pies, adding your own twist to the presentation.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Apple Cider Whoopie Pies, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will streamline your process and ensure success.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Electric mixer
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Cookie scoop or tablespoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Makes it easy to cream butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining dry and wet ingredients without any mess.
• Baking sheets: Provide a stable surface for baking your whoopie pies evenly.

Ingredients

Apple Cider Whoopie Pie cookies with caramel filling combine warm fall spices and apple cider buttercream in every bite. Perfect for cozy autumn baking!

For the Whoopie Pies:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground nutmeg
• ¼ tsp ground cloves
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup apple cider, reduced to ¼ cup (boil down 1 cup until it reduces)
• ½ cup whole milk

For the Apple Cider Buttercream:

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• ¼ cup reduced apple cider (see note above)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

For the Caramel Filling:

• ½ cup store-bought caramel sauce (or homemade if you prefer)
• Pinch of flaky sea salt (optional)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

this recipe

How to Make Apple Cider Whoopie Pies

Step 1: Reduce the Apple Cider

Start by making the apple cider reduction. Pour 1 cup of apple cider into a saucepan and simmer over medium heat until it reduces to ¼ cup. This should take about 10-15 minutes. Once done, let it cool while you prepare the whoopie pie batter.

Step 2: Make the Whoopie Pies

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. In a large bowl, beat the butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract; beat until combined.

Gradually mix in the cooled apple cider reduction. Add the dry ingredients in thirds, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with dry ingredients; mix until just combined. Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to drop 2-tablespoon-sized rounds of batter onto prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until firm to touch; a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean. Transfer whoopie pie halves to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Prepare the Buttercream

In a medium bowl, beat softened butter until creamy. Gradually add in powdered sugar followed by cooled apple cider reduction, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat until smooth and fluffy.

Step 4: Assemble the Whoopie Pies

Pair up whoopie pie halves by size. Pipe or spoon a generous amount of apple cider buttercream onto the flat side of one whoopie pie half. Drizzle caramel sauce over buttercream; sprinkle flaky sea salt if desired. Top with second half of whoopie pie; press gently to create a sandwich. Repeat with remaining pies.

Enjoy your Apple Cider Whoopie Pies!

How to Serve Apple Cider Whoopie Pies

Apple Cider Whoopie Pies are delightful treats that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering or simply indulging on a cozy afternoon, these whoopie pies pair perfectly with different accompaniments.

With a Cup of Hot Cider

• Enjoy your whoopie pies with a warm cup of spiced apple cider. The flavors will complement each other beautifully, enhancing the autumn experience.

As Dessert After Dinner

• Serve these whoopie pies as a sweet ending to your fall dinner party. Their rich flavors make them an excellent choice for any meal.

Paired with Ice Cream

• For an indulgent treat, serve warm whoopie pies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cold ice cream contrasts nicely with the soft, warm cookies.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange Apple Cider Whoopie Pies on a dessert platter alongside other autumn-themed desserts for an impressive presentation at any gathering.

How to Perfect Apple Cider Whoopie Pies

Creating the perfect Apple Cider Whoopie Pies is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground spices enhance the flavor profile significantly compared to pre-ground ones.
• Cool the Cider: Allow the reduced apple cider to cool completely before mixing it into the batter for better consistency.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix your batter just until combined to keep the whoopie pies tender and fluffy.
• Check Your Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures, which can vary by appliance.
• Experiment with Fillings: While caramel is delicious, consider trying different fillings like cream cheese or chocolate ganache for variety.
• Store Properly: Keep leftover whoopie pies in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent drying out.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Cider Whoopie Pies

When serving Apple Cider Whoopie Pies, pairing them with side dishes can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Pumpkin Spice Muffins: These moist muffins add seasonal flavor and complement the sweetness of the whoopie pies beautifully.
2. Caramelized Apples: Sautéed apples tossed in cinnamon and sugar provide a warm, fruity contrast to the rich whoopie pies.
3. Cheese Board: A selection of cheeses, nuts, and fruits creates a delightful balance of savory and sweet flavors alongside your desserts.
4. Chai Tea: This spiced tea enhances the warm spices in your whoopie pies while offering a cozy beverage option.
5. Roasted Fall Vegetables: A savory dish like roasted butternut squash or Brussels sprouts balances out the sweetness of your dessert nicely.
6. Chocolate Fondue: Dip slices of apple or pear into chocolate fondue for a fun and interactive dessert experience that pairs well with your whoopie pies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Apple Cider Whoopie Pies, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the final outcome. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can lead to tough whoopie pies. Stir until just combined for a tender texture.
• Skipping the Cider Reduction: Not reducing the apple cider will result in a watery batter. Always simmer it down as directed for the best flavor.
• Incorrect Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can cause uneven cooking. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate heat.
• Not Cooling Completely: Assembling while warm can cause the filling to melt. Let the whoopie pie halves cool completely before adding buttercream and caramel.
• Ignoring Consistency of Buttercream: If your buttercream is too runny, it won’t hold its shape. Adjust with more powdered sugar until you achieve a thick, spreadable texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Apple Cider Whoopie Pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will stay fresh for up to 5 days.

Freezing Apple Cider Whoopie Pies

• Wrap each whoopie pie individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating Apple Cider Whoopie Pies

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place whoopie pies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one at a time on medium power for 10-15 seconds until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid for about 3-4 minutes until soft.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make my Apple Cider Whoopie Pies more flavorful?

You can enhance the flavor by adding more spices, like ginger or allspice, into your batter.

Can I use homemade caramel sauce?

Absolutely! Homemade caramel sauce adds a personal touch and can be customized to your taste.

What can I substitute for apple cider?

If you don’t have apple cider, try using unsweetened applesauce or apple juice, keeping in mind that it may slightly alter the flavor.

How long do Apple Cider Whoopie Pies last?

When stored properly, they last up to 5 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months in the freezer.

Can I make these whoopie pies gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking.

Final Thoughts

Apple Cider Whoopie Pies are not only delicious but also bring warmth and comfort during autumn baking. Their rich flavors combined with creamy filling make them irresistible. Feel free to customize with different spices or fillings based on your preferences! Enjoy creating this delightful treat for friends and family.

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Apple Cider Whoopie Pies

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• Author: Sofia
• Total Time: 32 minutes
• Yield: Makes approximately 12 whoopie pies 1x

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Description

Apple Cider Whoopie Pies are a delightful autumn treat that perfectly captures the essence of fall. These soft and spiced cookies are sandwiched with a creamy apple cider buttercream filling and drizzled with rich caramel, making them an irresistible dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering or surprising loved ones with a sweet gift, these whoopie pies offer a unique twist on traditional flavors. Each bite is bursting with warm spices and the nostalgic taste of apple cider, sure to become a seasonal favorite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground nutmeg
• ¼ tsp ground cloves
• ½ cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup light brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup apple cider (reduced to ¼ cup)
• ½ cup whole milk
• ½ cup unsalted butter (for buttercream)
• 3 cups powdered sugar (for buttercream)
• ¼ cup reduced apple cider (for buttercream)
• pinch of salt (for buttercream)
• ½ cup caramel sauce (for caramel filling)
• optional flaky sea salt (for caramel filling)

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Instructions

1. Reduce apple cider by simmering 1 cup until it reduces to ¼ cup; let cool.
2. Preheat oven to 350°F. In one bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and spices. In another bowl, beat butter and brown sugar until fluffy; add egg and vanilla.
3. Gradually mix in cooled cider reduction and dry ingredients alternating with milk.
4. Drop tablespoon-sized rounds onto lined baking sheets; bake for 10-12 minutes and cool completely.
5. For buttercream, beat softened butter until creamy; gradually add powdered sugar, cooled cider reduction, and salt until smooth.
6. Assemble by piping buttercream and drizzling caramel on half the cookies before sandwiching with another half.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 whoopie pie (60g)
• Calories: 230
• Sugar: 20g
• Sodium: 120mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: <1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 25mg

Keywords: Freshly ground spices will enhance flavor. Allow reduced cider to cool before adding to the batter for optimal consistency. Experiment with different fillings like cream cheese or chocolate ganache.