Apple Cider Whoopie Pies

If you’re looking for a cozy, fall-inspired treat that will warm your heart, look no further than these delightful Apple Cider Whoopie Pies. This recipe is a cherished favorite of mine, combining the rich flavors of apple cider and spices to create soft, cake-like cookies. They remind me of crisp autumn days spent picking apples and enjoying warm cider with friends and family. Perfect for gatherings or even just a busy weeknight dessert, these whoopie pies are sure to bring smiles all around.

What makes this treat extra special is the beautiful balance of flavors from the apple butter and the delicious filling options. Whether you prefer the bourbon caramel buttercream or the brown sugar cream cheese icing, each bite is a little piece of heaven. Trust me; once you try these Apple Cider Whoopie Pies, they’ll become a staple in your fall baking repertoire!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe requires simple steps that anyone can follow, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Family-Friendly Fun: Kids love to help assemble these cookie sandwiches, making it a great activity for family bonding.
• Perfect for Fall Gatherings: With their delightful flavors, these whoopie pies are ideal for parties, potlucks, or cozy evenings at home.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can bake and fill them ahead of time, so they’re ready when you need a sweet treat.
• Deliciously Unique: The combination of apple cider and spices gives these whoopie pies an irresistible autumn flavor that sets them apart from typical cookies.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up these scrumptious Apple Cider Whoopie Pies, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients. No fancy stuff here—just good old-fashioned baking staples that come together beautifully! Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Cookies

• 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

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating

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

For the Filling

Bourbon Caramel Buttercream

• ½ cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 1 ¼- 1 ½ cups powdered sugar (sifted)
• 2 tablespoons plus 2 teaspoons Bourbon Caramel Sauce
• 1 pinch of salt

Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Icing

• 4 ½ ounces cream cheese (room temperature)
• 3 tablespoons butter (room temperature)
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar (light or dark)
• 2 cups powdered sugar (sifted)
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 pinch salt

Variations

One of the best things about this Apple Cider Whoopie Pie recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with different flavors and fillings. Here are some fun ideas:

• Try Different Fillings: Swap out the bourbon caramel buttercream with your favorite frosting or even whipped cream for a lighter option.
• Add Nuts: Mix in chopped walnuts or pecans into the cookie dough for an added crunch.
• Spice It Up: Experiment with additional spices like allspice or cardamom in your cookie batter for a unique twist.
• Make Them Mini: Shape smaller mounds of dough to create mini whoopie pies—perfect for bite-sized treats!

How to Make Apple Cider Whoopie Pies

Step 1: Reduce the Apple Cider

Preheat your oven to 350°F. In a medium saucepan, bring the apple cider to a boil over medium-high heat. Reducing it down to just 1/4 cup concentrates those lovely apple flavors that will shine through in your cookies. This process takes about 30-35 minutes, so be patient! Once done, set it aside to cool before using.

Step 2: Prepare Your Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices. Sifting helps combine these ingredients evenly and gives your cookies a wonderful texture.

Step 3: Mix Your Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl or an electric mixer bowl, beat together 6 tablespoons of softened butter with both sugars on medium speed until well combined. Scraping down the sides ensures everything gets mixed in nicely. Then add in the vanilla followed by eggs and mix well. Finally, stir in your reduced apple cider along with either apple butter or applesauce.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Turn on your mixer to low speed and gradually mix in your dry ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies—so be gentle here!

Step 5: Bake Your Cookies

Scoop out mounds of dough about 1 1/2 tablespoons each onto lined baking sheets with enough space between them (about three inches). Bake them in your preheated oven for about 11-13 minutes until they spring back when gently touched.

Step 6: Cool and Coat

After baking, let them cool on the sheet for five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Brush each cookie with melted butter and sprinkle generously with cinnamon sugar while they’re still warm.

Step 7: Fill Your Whoopie Pies

Once cooled completely on the rack, it’s time to fill! Spread about 1 1/2 tablespoons of either Bourbon Caramel Buttercream or Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Icing between two cookies. If you’re using any extra bourbon caramel sauce as part of your filling—go ahead and add a little spoonful too!

Enjoy crafting these delicious Apple Cider Whoopie Pies! Each bite will remind you why fall is such a wonderful season for baking!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Cider Whoopie Pies

Creating the perfect Apple Cider Whoopie Pies can be a delightful experience, and these tips will help you achieve cookie perfection!

• Reduce cider properly: Make sure to simmer the apple cider until it reduces to 1/4 cup. This intensifies the flavor, making your whoopie pies taste even more like autumn in a bite.

• Room temperature ingredients: Always use room temperature butter and cream cheese in your filling. This ensures a smooth and creamy texture that spreads beautifully between your cookies.

• Don’t overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix until just incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, so keep your batter gentle!

• Use parchment paper: Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make clean-up a breeze. It also helps the cookies bake evenly without burning on the bottom.

• Cool completely before assembling: Allow your cookies to cool fully on a wire rack before filling them. This prevents the filling from melting and ensures every bite has that perfect creaminess.

How to Serve Apple Cider Whoopie Pies

These Apple Cider Whoopie Pies not only taste amazing but also look delightful when presented well. Here are some creative ideas on how to serve them!

Garnishes

• Dust with powdered sugar: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar adds an elegant touch and enhances the visual appeal of your whoopie pies.
• Drizzle with caramel sauce: A drizzle of caramel sauce on top can elevate the flavor profile, adding an extra layer of sweetness that complements the spices perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Hot apple cider: Serve your whoopie pies alongside warm apple cider for a cozy pairing that enhances the fall flavors in both treats.
• Pumpkin spice latte: For a festive vibe, pair these cookies with a pumpkin spice latte. The rich flavors work harmoniously together, creating a comforting treat experience.
• Cinnamon vanilla ice cream: A scoop of cinnamon vanilla ice cream adds a creamy texture that contrasts wonderfully with the soft cookies, making for an indulgent dessert.
• Spiced chai tea: The aromatic spices in chai tea complement the flavors of apple cider beautifully while providing a warming drink option for chilly days.

These serving suggestions will not only make your Apple Cider Whoopie Pies shine at any gathering but also create an unforgettable tasting experience for you and your guests! Enjoy this delightful fall treat!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Apple Cider Whoopie Pies are not only a delightful treat but also perfect for meal prep. You can make them ahead of time, ensuring that you have a sweet, seasonal snack ready whenever you’re craving a taste of fall.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover whoopie pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• If you notice any moisture, place a paper towel inside the container to absorb it.

Freezing

• To freeze, allow the whoopie pies to cool completely.
• Wrap each pie tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped pies in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months.
• When ready to enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight.

Reheating

• If you prefer warm whoopie pies, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the pies on a baking sheet and warm for about 5-7 minutes until soft and warm.
• Enjoy them fresh out of the oven or with a little extra frosting if desired!

FAQs

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

Can I use store-bought apple cider for this recipe?

Absolutely! Store-bought apple cider works perfectly fine and saves you time. Just ensure it’s pure apple cider without added preservatives.

What is the best way to serve Apple Cider Whoopie Pies?

These delicious Apple Cider Whoopie Pies are best served at room temperature. You can even warm them slightly before serving for an extra cozy treat!

How do I know when my whoopie pies are done baking?

Your whoopie pies are done when they spring back lightly when touched. They should be set around the edges but still soft in the center.

Can I make these without apple butter?

Yes! You can substitute apple butter with applesauce in equal measure if you don’t have apple butter on hand. They will still taste fantastic!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating these Apple Cider Whoopie Pies! They capture all the warmth and comfort of fall flavors while being incredibly fun to make. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with friends and family, these cookie sandwiches are sure to delight everyone. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite fillings! Happy baking!