Apple Cider Whoopie Pies

Apple Cider Whoopie Pies are a delightful treat that captures the essence of fall! These soft cookie sandwiches, filled with creamy icing, evoke memories of autumn cider doughnuts. Perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home, they are not only delicious but also easy to make. With their unique flavors of apple cider and warm spices, they stand out as a festive dessert option.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of apple cider, cinnamon, and apple butter creates a warm and inviting taste that’s perfect for fall.
• Versatile Treat: Ideal for parties, family gatherings, or just a cozy night in with loved ones.
• Easy to Make: Even beginners can whip up these whoopie pies with simple steps and common ingredients.
• Creative Fillings: Choose between Bourbon Caramel Buttercream or Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Icing to suit your taste!
• Perfectly Soft Texture: These pies have a soft and cake-like texture that melts in your mouth.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making Apple Cider Whoopie Pies, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort while ensuring a smooth batter consistency.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes for easy cleanup of your baking sheets.
• Cooling rack: Allows cookies to cool evenly without getting soggy on the bottom.

Ingredients

This Apple Cider Whoopie Pie recipe makes soft, delicious cookies that taste like apple cider doughnuts! Made with apple cider, cinnamon, apple butter, they’re the perfect fall treat. They’re coated with cinnamon sugar and stuffed with either bourbon caramel buttercream or brown sugar cream cheese icing. 

For the Cookies:

• 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 brushed 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)
• 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

How to Make Apple Cider Whoopie Pies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium saucepan, bring the apple cider to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat to medium and let it simmer until reduced down to 1/4 cup. This should take around 30-35 minutes. Once done, 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:
1. Flour
2. Baking powder
3. Baking soda
4. Salt
5. Spices: cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl or electric mixer bowl:
1. Beat together 6 tablespoons of room temperature butter with both sugars on medium speed until well combined.
2. Scrape down the sides of the bowl.
3. Add in vanilla followed by eggs one at a time.
4. Mix in cooled apple cider along with apple butter or applesauce.
5. Slowly mix in flour mixture until just combined.

Step 4: Bake the Cookies

Turn out mounds of dough about 1½ tablespoons each onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 3 inches apart. Rotate the pan halfway through baking for even results; bake for about 11-13 minutes or until cookies spring back when touched lightly.

Step 5: Cool and Coat Cookies

Once baked, allow cookies to cool on the sheet for five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Brush warm cookies with reserved melted butter and sprinkle generously with cinnamon sugar.

Step 6: Fill Your Whoopie Pies

Let cookies cool completely before filling them with either Bourbon Caramel Buttercream or Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Icing—about 1½ tablespoons per cookie—and add an extra teaspoon of Bourbon Caramel if desired.

Enjoy your delightful 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. Their soft texture and rich flavor make them versatile for different occasions. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

With a Warm Beverage

• Spiced Apple Cider: Pair your whoopie pies with a cup of spiced apple cider for a cozy fall treat.
• Hot Chocolate: Enjoy these sweet cookies alongside a rich hot chocolate topped with whipped cream for an indulgent dessert.

As a Dessert Platter

• Dessert Board: Arrange the whoopie pies on a platter with slices of seasonal fruits like pears and apples, along with cheese for contrast.
• Mini Treats: Serve mini whoopie pies at gatherings for bite-sized delights that guests can enjoy easily.

For Breakfast or Brunch

• Coffee Companion: Serve them as a sweet addition to your morning coffee or brunch spread, perfect for those lazy weekend mornings.
• Breakfast Sandwiches: Use two whoopie pies to create a breakfast sandwich filled with yogurt and fresh berries for a fun twist.

How to Perfect Apple Cider Whoopie Pies

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

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your apple cider is fresh and not past its prime, as this will enhance the flavor of your cookies.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined when adding the flour; overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
• Chill the Dough: If possible, chill your dough for 30 minutes before baking. This helps maintain shape and improves texture.
• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to confirm your oven’s temperature; this guarantees even baking and perfect results.
• Experiment with Fillings: Try different fillings like cream cheese frosting or flavored buttercreams to find your favorite combination.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Cider Whoopie Pies

Apple Cider Whoopie Pies pair well with various side dishes that complement their sweet and spiced flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Cinnamon Sugar Donuts: These fluffy donuts echo the flavors of the whoopie pies and make for a delightful combo.
2. Caramel Apples: The tartness of apples drizzled in caramel adds a crunchy contrast to the soft pies.
3. Pumpkin Soup: A warm bowl of pumpkin soup offers comforting flavors that balance the sweetness of the whoopie pies.
4. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese for a savory touch that pairs wonderfully with dessert.
5. Roasted Nuts: A mix of spiced roasted nuts provides crunch and saltiness, enhancing the overall flavor experience.
6. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad with seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances out the richness of the whoopie pies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Apple Cider Whoopie Pies can be a fun experience, but it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls.

• Incorrect apple cider reduction: Failing to reduce the apple cider properly can result in a watery batter. Always simmer it down to 1/4 cup for the best flavor.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to dense cookies. Combine ingredients until just mixed for lighter whoopie pies.
• Not cooling cookies properly: Skipping the cooling step before filling can make your pies soggy. Allow cookies to cool completely on a wire rack.
• Using cold butter: Cold butter won’t cream well with sugar. Ensure your butter is at room temperature for a smooth batter.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can affect cookie texture. Always use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store whoopie pies in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Apple Cider Whoopie Pies

• Wrap each pie individually in plastic wrap.
• Store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Apple Cider Whoopie Pies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat one pie at a time for 10-15 seconds for quick warming.
• Stovetop: Place on low heat in a skillet, cover, and warm for about 2-3 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use apple juice instead of apple cider?

Yes, you can substitute apple juice, but it may alter the flavor slightly. Cider provides a richer taste.

How do I make vegan Apple Cider Whoopie Pies?

Replace eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce and use plant-based butter alternatives.

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

Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freeze them for longer storage.

Can I customize the filling for my whoopie pies?

Absolutely! You can try different flavors like pumpkin spice or vanilla cream cheese icing.

Final Thoughts

Apple Cider Whoopie Pies are not only delightful but also versatile. Their soft texture and rich flavors make them perfect for any occasion, from fall gatherings to everyday treats. Feel free to customize fillings and toppings to suit your taste!