Apple Cider Whoopie Pies

Apple Cider Whoopie Pies are the ultimate fall treat that captures the cozy essence of autumn with every bite. These delightful cookie sandwiches not only taste like apple cider doughnuts, but they also boast a soft texture and a hint of warm spices. Perfect for gatherings, cozy nights in, or simply indulging your sweet tooth, these whoopie pies will surely impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of apple cider, cinnamon, and apple butter creates a unique taste that embodies the spirit of fall.
• Simple to Make: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, even novice bakers can whip up these treats with ease.
• Versatile Filling Options: Choose between a rich bourbon caramel buttercream or a creamy brown sugar cream cheese icing to suit your taste.
• Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a casual get-together, these whoopie pies are sure to be a hit.
• Perfectly Soft Texture: Each bite delivers a moist and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth.

Tools and Preparation

To ensure your baking experience is smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools on hand is crucial.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without mess; make sure to have various sizes for different tasks.
• Electric mixer: Saves time and ensures even mixing, giving you the best results for your dough and frosting.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking during baking, ensuring easy removal of your whoopie pies without damage.

Ingredients

For this Apple Cider Whoopie Pie recipe, gather the following ingredients:

For the Cookie Dough

• 2 cups apple cider (reduced to 1/4 cup)
• ½ cup unsalted butter (room temperature, divided (6 tablespoons for the dough and 2 tablespoons melted for brushing the baked cookies))
• 1 ¾ cups flour
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon baking soda
• 1 ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ginger
• ½ teaspoon nutmeg
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup plus 2 teaspoons brown sugar (light or dark, packed)
• ¼ cup apple butter or applesauce
• 2 eggs
• ¼ teaspoon vanilla

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating

• 3 tablespoons butter (melted)
• ¼ cup sugar
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon

For the Fillings

Bourbon Caramel Buttercream

• ½ cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 1 ¼- 1 ½ cups powdered sugar (sifted) (add gradually until desired consistency is reached)
• 2 tablespoons plus 2 teaspoons Bourbon Caramel Sauce
• 1 pinch salt

Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Icing

• 4 ½ ounces cream cheese (room temperature) (leave at room temperature for at least an hour before making)
• 3 tablespoons butter (room temperature)
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar (light or dark)
• 2 cups powdered sugar (sifted, plus more if needed)
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 pinch salt

How to Make Apple Cider Whoopie Pies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. In a medium saucepan, bring the apple cider to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to medium and simmer until it reduces down to about 1/4 cup. This will take approximately 30-35 minutes. Set aside to cool before using. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices. This ensures even distribution of flavors throughout the cookies.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl or using an electric mixer, beat together 6 tablespoons of room temperature butter with both sugars on medium speed until well combined. Scrape down sides of the bowl as needed. Add in vanilla extract followed by eggs. Mix in cooled apple cider along with apple butter or applesauce until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Turn down mixer speed to low and gradually add dry ingredients into wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 5: Bake Cookies

Drop mounds of dough about 1½ tablespoons each onto prepared baking sheets, spaced three inches apart. Bake for about 11-13 minutes or until cookies spring back when touched lightly with your fingertip. Allow cookies to cool on baking sheet for five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Step 6: Add Finishing Touches

Brush cookies with reserved melted butter then sprinkle with cinnamon sugar or toss in it while still warm. Let them cool completely before filling with either Bourbon Caramel Buttercream or Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Icing. Enjoy!

How to Serve Apple Cider Whoopie Pies

Apple Cider Whoopie Pies are delightful treats that can be enjoyed on their own or with various accompaniments. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

With Hot Beverages

• Coffee: The rich flavors of coffee pair perfectly with the sweetness of the whoopie pies.
• Tea: A warm cup of chai or spiced tea complements the fall spices in the cookies.
• Cider: Serve with a glass of warm apple cider for an extra apple kick.

As a Dessert Platter

• Fruit Salad: Offer a fresh fruit salad to balance the sweetness of the whoopie pies.
• Cheese Board: Include mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese for a savory contrast.
• Ice Cream: Vanilla or caramel ice cream adds creaminess that pairs well with the spices.

For Special Occasions

• Birthday Parties: These whoopie pies can be an exciting addition to any dessert table.
• Fall Gatherings: Perfect for Thanksgiving or autumn-themed events, these pies bring festive cheer.
• Potlucks: An easy-to-transport treat that everyone will love at gatherings.

How to Perfect Apple Cider Whoopie Pies

To ensure your Apple Cider Whoopie Pies turn out just right, follow these handy tips for success.

• Boldly Reduce Cider: Reducing the cider intensifies its flavor, making your cookies richer and more flavorful.
• Boldly Measure Ingredients: Accurate measurements are crucial in baking. Use measuring cups and spoons for precise quantities.
• Boldly Cool Cookies: Allowing cookies to cool completely ensures that they hold their shape when you fill them.
• Boldly Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Using butter and eggs at room temperature helps achieve a smooth batter and better texture.
• Boldly Sift Dry Ingredients: Sifting flour and spices helps prevent clumps, ensuring even mixing and a lighter texture in your cookies.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Cider Whoopie Pies

Pairing sides with Apple Cider Whoopie Pies can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options.

1. Pumpkin Soup: This creamy soup serves as a warm start, complementing the fall flavors in whoopie pies.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables provides a savory counterbalance to the sweet desserts.
3. Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette refreshes the palate between bites of sweet whoopie pies.
4. Caramelized Apples: Warm caramelized apples echo the apple flavor in the pies, creating a cohesive theme.
5. Spiced Nuts: Crunchy, spiced nuts offer a satisfying texture contrast alongside the soft cookies.
6. Maple Syrup Drizzle: A drizzle of maple syrup over vanilla yogurt makes an excellent dip for these sweet treats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Apple Cider Whoopie Pies, there are a few common pitfalls you might encounter. Avoiding these mistakes can help ensure your whoopie pies turn out perfectly.

• Using unmeasured ingredients: Accurately measuring your ingredients is crucial for baking success. Use proper measuring cups and spoons to avoid inconsistencies in texture and taste.
• Not reducing the apple cider: Skipping the step of reducing the apple cider will result in a less intense flavor. Make sure to simmer it until it reaches 1/4 cup for the best taste.
• Overmixing the dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined to keep them soft and fluffy.
• Skipping cooling time: Allowing the cookies to cool properly helps them set and makes filling easier. Don’t rush this step!
• Using cold butter: Room temperature butter is essential for creaming with sugars effectively. Ensure your butter is softened for a smooth batter.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Apple Cider Whoopie Pies in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the refrigerator for about 5 days.

Freezing Apple Cider Whoopie Pies

• Wrap each pie tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Apple Cider Whoopie Pies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat for about 5-7 minutes for warm, soft cookies.
• Microwave: Heat one pie on medium power for about 10-15 seconds until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Place on a skillet over low heat for a couple of minutes, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Apple Cider Whoopie Pies.

Can I use store-bought apple cider?

Yes, store-bought apple cider works perfectly for this recipe. Just make sure it’s not overly sweetened.

How do I make my whoopie pies more flavorful?

To enhance flavor, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or using spiced apple butter instead of regular apple butter.

Can I substitute the cream cheese icing?

Absolutely! You can replace it with whipped coconut cream or any plant-based frosting if you prefer dairy-free options.

What are some variations of Apple Cider Whoopie Pies?

You can customize these pies by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits into the batter or filling.

How do I prevent my whoopie pies from sticking?

Using parchment paper on your baking sheets will help prevent sticking and allow easy removal once baked.

Final Thoughts

Apple Cider Whoopie Pies are not only delicious but also versatile! They capture the essence of fall flavors and can easily be customized with different fillings or add-ins. Whether enjoyed fresh or stored for later, these treats are sure to impress anyone who tries them. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a go!

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Apple Cider Whoopie Pies

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: About 12 servings 1x

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Description

Apple Cider Whoopie Pies are the quintessential autumn treat, perfectly capturing the cozy flavors of fall in a delightful cookie sandwich. These soft, cake-like cookies are infused with the warm essence of apple cider and spices, reminiscent of classic apple cider doughnuts. Filled with your choice of luscious buttercream or cream cheese icing, these whoopie pies are ideal for gatherings or simply indulging on a chilly evening. Easy to make and adaptable to your taste preferences, they are sure to impress friends and family alike.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups apple cider (reduced to 1/4 cup)
• ½ cup unsalted butter (room temperature, divided)
• 1 ¾ cups flour
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon baking soda
• 1 ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ginger
• ½ teaspoon nutmeg
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup plus 2 teaspoons brown sugar (light or dark, packed)
• ¼ cup apple butter or applesauce
• 2 eggs
• ¼ teaspoon vanilla
• 3 tablespoons butter (melted)
• ¼ cup sugar
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ cup unsalted butter (room temperature) for buttercream
• 1 ¼– 1 ½ cups powdered sugar (sifted)
• 1 pinch salt
• 4 ½ ounces cream cheese (room temperature)
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar (light or dark)
• 2 cups powdered sugar (sifted, plus more if needed)
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Simmer apple cider in a saucepan until reduced to 1/4 cup; set aside to cool.
2. In a bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices.
3. Beat together 6 tablespoons of room temperature butter with both sugars until well combined. Add in vanilla followed by eggs. Mix in cooled apple cider along with apple butter or applesauce until fully incorporated.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients into wet mixture until just combined.
5. Drop mounds of dough about 1½ tablespoons each onto prepared baking sheets, spaced three inches apart. Bake for about 11-13 minutes or until cookies spring back when touched lightly. Allow cookies to cool before transferring to a wire rack.
6. Brush cookies with reserved melted butter then sprinkle with cinnamon sugar or toss in it while still warm. Let them cool completely before filling.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 13g
• Sodium: 90mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 25mg