Apple Cider Whoopie Pie cookies with Caramel Filling

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that captures the essence of fall, you’ve come to the right place! These Apple Cider Whoopie Pie cookies with Caramel Filling are soft, spiced, and absolutely delicious. They’re perfect for cozy family gatherings or even a sweet pick-me-up on a busy weeknight. Trust me, once you take a bite of these tender cookies filled with luscious caramel, they will become a favorite in your household.

This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it combines two classic flavors—apple cider and caramel—into one irresistible dessert. Plus, they’re easy to make, meaning you can whip them up whenever the craving strikes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes of prep time, you’ll have these scrumptious whoopie pies ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves cookies! These whoopie pies are sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a bake sale or just an afternoon snack, these cookies fit right in.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The blend of spices and sweet apple cider creates an incredible flavor that’s hard to resist.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can bake the cookies in advance and fill them later, making it easy to enjoy them fresh when you’re ready.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Apple Cider Whoopie Pie cookies with Caramel Filling use simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Let’s gather what you need to create these delightful treats!

For the Cookies

• 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 Filling

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• ¼ cup reduced apple cider (see note above)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• ½ cup store-bought caramel sauce (or homemade if you prefer)
• Pinch of flaky sea salt (optional)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations to keep things interesting:

• Add Nuts: Mix in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Spice It Up: Experiment with spices by adding ginger or cardamom for a unique twist.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dairy-free chocolate over the filled whoopie pies for an indulgent touch.
• Different Fillings: Swap out caramel for cream cheese frosting or even a fruit preserve for a fruity version.

How to Make Apple Cider Whoopie Pie cookies with Caramel Filling

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients on the counter. This keeps everything organized and makes the baking process smoother. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s hot and ready when your cookie batter is prepared.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. This step is important because it ensures that the spices are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Creaming introduces air into the mixture, which helps give your cookies that perfect light texture.

Step 4: Add Egg and Vanilla

Add in the egg and vanilla extract to your creamed mixture. Mix until well combined. This adds moisture and flavor to your dough.

Step 5: Incorporate Apple Cider

Slowly add the reduced apple cider into your batter along with the whole milk. Mixing these wet ingredients gives your cookies their signature apple flavor while keeping them moist.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually mix your dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want those cookies tender!

Step 7: Bake Your Cookies

Scoop tablespoons of dough onto a lined baking sheet about two inches apart. Bake for about 10 minutes or until they are slightly golden around the edges. Allow them to cool on wire racks before filling.

Step 8: Make the Caramel Filling

While your cookies cool down, prepare the filling by beating together softened butter and powdered sugar until smooth. Then mix in reduced apple cider and vanilla extract until creamy.

Step 9: Assemble Your Whoopie Pies

Spread a generous amount of caramel filling on one cookie half before topping it with another cookie half. If desired, sprinkle a little flaky sea salt on top for an extra pop of flavor!

And there you have it—your very own batch of Apple Cider Whoopie Pie cookies with Caramel Filling! Enjoy every bite as you share this delightful treat with friends and family. Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Cider Whoopie Pie cookies with Caramel Filling

Making these whoopie pies is a delightful experience, and with a few helpful tips, you can ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh apple cider – Fresh apple cider enhances the flavor of your whoopie pies. If you can find it at your local market, it’s worth the extra effort for that authentic taste!

• Don’t skip the reduction – Reducing the apple cider not only intensifies its flavor but also gives the filling a thicker consistency. This makes for a more satisfying bite and prevents the filling from becoming too runny.

• Room temperature ingredients are key – Using room temperature eggs and butter helps create a smooth batter that incorporates air better, leading to light and fluffy cookies.

• Chill the filling – Allowing your caramel filling to chill before assembling will help it set, making it easier to spread between the cookie halves without spilling out.

• Experiment with spices – If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a dash of ginger or allspice to your cookies. These spices can elevate the flavor profile and give your whoopie pies a unique twist.

How to Serve Apple Cider Whoopie Pie cookies with Caramel Filling

Presentation is everything when it comes to desserts! These whoopie pies are not only delicious but also eye-catching. Here are some ideas on how to serve them beautifully:

Garnishes

• Flaky sea salt – A light sprinkle on top of each filled cookie adds an elegant touch and enhances the sweetness of the caramel.
• Cinnamon dusting – A light dusting of cinnamon on top before serving gives a warm fall vibe and complements the spices in the cookies.
• Chopped nuts – Finely chopped pecans or walnuts can add texture and an extra layer of flavor when sprinkled on top of each whoopie pie.

Side Dishes

• Hot apple cider – Warm up some apple cider as a cozy drink pairing. The spiced flavors will harmonize beautifully with the cookies.

• Vanilla ice cream – A scoop of vanilla ice cream served alongside provides a creamy contrast to the soft whoopie pies, creating a delightful combination.

• Pumpkin spice latte – For those chilly days, this seasonal favorite will complement the flavors in your whoopie pies while providing warmth and comfort.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in mind, you’re all set to impress friends and family with your delicious Apple Cider Whoopie Pie cookies with Caramel Filling! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Apple Cider Whoopie Pie cookies with Caramel Filling are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them ahead of time and enjoy their delightful flavors whenever you crave a sweet treat.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the whoopie pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If they last longer than that, consider refrigerating them to keep them fresh for up to a week.
• Make sure to layer them with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.

Freezing

• For longer storage, freeze the whoopie pie cookies individually on a baking sheet for about an hour until firm.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months — just thaw them at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy!

Reheating

• To refresh the whoopie pies, microwave them for about 10-15 seconds if they’ve been stored in the fridge or freezer.
• Alternatively, warm them in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.
• This will help revive their soft texture and melt any stored caramel filling slightly.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making these delicious treats!

Can I substitute apple cider in the Apple Cider Whoopie Pie cookies with Caramel Filling?

Absolutely! You can use unsweetened applesauce as a substitute for apple cider. Just note that it may alter the flavor slightly but will still yield delicious results.

How do I achieve the best texture in my Apple Cider Whoopie Pie cookies with Caramel Filling?

To get that perfect texture, ensure you’re measuring your flour correctly—spoon it into your measuring cup rather than scooping directly. This helps avoid dense cookies!

Can I make the caramel filling ahead of time?

Yes! The caramel filling can be made in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and give it a quick stir before using.

What is the best way to serve Apple Cider Whoopie Pie cookies with Caramel Filling?

Serve these delightful cookies slightly chilled or at room temperature. They pair wonderfully with a warm beverage like tea or cider!

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to whip up these Apple Cider Whoopie Pie cookies with Caramel Filling! They bring a cozy autumn vibe that’s hard to resist, and I’m sure they’ll become a favorite for gatherings or just enjoying at home. Don’t hesitate to share your creations—I’d love to hear how they turn out. Happy baking!