Apple Cider Whoopie Pies

If you’re looking for a cozy autumn treat that will warm your heart and satisfy your sweet tooth, look no further than Apple Cider Whoopie Pies. These delightful cookies are a perfect blend of warm spices and sweet apple cider, making them an irresistible choice for fall gatherings or a quiet night in. The combination of soft whoopie pie cookies and creamy apple cider buttercream is sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face!

This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to make, which means it’s great for busy weeknights or family baking sessions. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, these whoopie pies are bound to become a favorite in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The blend of spices and apple cider creates a comforting taste that screams fall.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the fun shape and sweet filling, making it a hit with the whole family.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake these ahead of time and store them for a delightful treat whenever you need!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday party or just because, these whoopie pies fit right in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Apple Cider Whoopie Pies use simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Let’s gather what we need!

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)

Variations

Feel free to get creative with these Apple Cider Whoopie Pies! Here are some fun ideas:

• Add Nuts: Mix in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
• Spice it Up: Experiment with different spices like ginger or allspice for a unique twist.
• Try Different Fillings: Swap out caramel sauce for chocolate ganache or a fruit preserve.
• Make It Vegan: Substitute the butter with plant-based alternatives and use flaxseed meal instead of egg.

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. Reducing the cider intensifies its flavor and sweetness!

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, mixing until combined. Gradually mix in the cooled apple cider reduction.

Add the dry ingredients in thirds, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients; this helps keep your batter nice and fluffy! Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to drop 2-tablespoon-sized rounds onto prepared sheets—make sure to leave about 2 inches between each one. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until firm to touch—this ensures your cookies are baked just right! Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Prepare the Buttercream

In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add in the powdered sugar followed by the cooled apple cider reduction, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat until smooth and fluffy—this will create an incredibly rich filling that complements your cookies perfectly!

Step 4: Assemble the Whoopie Pies

Pair up your whoopie pie halves by size. Pipe or spoon some of that luscious apple cider buttercream onto one flat side of each pie half. Drizzle caramel sauce on top; if you like things salty-sweet, sprinkle some flaky sea salt over that caramel! Top with another half and press gently—voila! Repeat this process until all pies are assembled.

Now you’re ready to enjoy these scrumptious Apple Cider Whoopie Pies! Whether shared with friends or savored alone with a cozy drink, they are sure to bring joy this season. Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Cider Whoopie Pies

Baking should be a joyful experience, and these tips will help you create the best Apple Cider Whoopie Pies!

• Use fresh apple cider: Fresh apple cider enhances the flavor of your whoopie pies. Look for locally sourced options if available, as they often have a richer taste.

• Let the butter soften completely: Softened butter mixes better with sugar, creating a light and fluffy texture for your whoopie pie cookies. Take it out of the fridge ahead of time to reach room temperature.

• Don’t overmix your batter: Mixing just until combined helps keep your whoopie pies soft and tender. Overmixing can lead to tougher cookies—no one wants that!

• Cool completely before assembling: Make sure your whoopie pie halves are completely cool before adding the buttercream and caramel filling. This prevents melting and ensures a beautifully structured dessert.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the spices in the batter! Adding a bit more cinnamon or even some ginger can give your pies a delightful twist that suits your taste preference.

How to Serve Apple Cider Whoopie Pies

These delightful treats deserve a beautiful presentation! Here are some ideas on how to serve them up for maximum enjoyment.

Garnishes

• Cinnamon sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top adds an extra touch of sweetness and makes them look irresistible.
• Caramel drizzle: Drizzling some additional caramel sauce on top not only looks gorgeous but also intensifies the flavor.
• Chopped nuts: For added crunch, sprinkle some finely chopped pecans or walnuts over the buttercream filling before sandwiching them together.

Side Dishes

• Warm apple cider: Complement your whoopie pies with a cup of warm apple cider spiced with cloves and cinnamon for a cozy pairing.
• Pumpkin spice latte: The rich flavors of pumpkin spice lattes enhance the autumn vibe while providing a decadent beverage alongside your sweet treat.
• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side contrasts beautifully with the spiced flavors of the whoopie pies, creating a delightful combination.
• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad consisting of seasonal fruits like apples, pears, and berries balances out the sweetness of the pies while adding a pop of color to your plate.

Now you’re all set to create and serve these delicious Apple Cider Whoopie Pies! Enjoy every bite as you savor this warm, fall-inspired dessert. Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Apple Cider Whoopie Pies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy the flavors of fall whenever the craving strikes. Here’s how to store or freeze your delicious treats:

Storing Leftovers

• Store whoopie pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer freshness, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Place individual whoopie pies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, separated by parchment paper, and store for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To enjoy them warm, place frozen whoopie pies on a baking sheet and let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm them for about 5-7 minutes until just heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Apple Cider Whoopie Pies.

Can I make Apple Cider Whoopie Pies without dairy?

Yes! You can substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative and use plant-based milk instead of whole milk. This will keep your whoopie pies just as delicious!

How do I store leftover Apple Cider Whoopie Pies?

Leftover whoopie pies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the fridge for about a week.

What can I use instead of caramel sauce in the filling?

If you’re looking for alternatives, you might try using a homemade fruit compote or chocolate ganache as a filling instead of caramel sauce.

Can I use fresh apple cider instead of reduced apple cider in this recipe?

Yes! However, reducing the apple cider enhances its flavor and sweetness, making it perfect for these whoopie pies. If you choose not to reduce it, consider adjusting the sugar levels in the batter.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am to bake these delightful Apple Cider Whoopie Pies! They are not only a treat but also a wonderful way to celebrate the cozy vibes of autumn. Enjoy making them with family or friends; they’re sure to become a new favorite! Happy baking!