Apple Cider Whoopie Pies

If you’re looking for the ultimate fall dessert that tastes like a warm hug, then you’ve stumbled upon the right recipe! These Apple Cider Whoopie Pies are soft, delightful cookie sandwiches that take the essence of apple cider doughnuts and transform them into a treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering with friends or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home, these whoopie pies will bring a smile to your face and warmth to your heart.

What makes this recipe so special is the combination of rich flavors from the apple cider, cinnamon, and apple butter. It’s like autumn on a plate! Plus, they’re fun to make and even more fun to share with loved ones. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and easy-to-find ingredients, you can whip these up even on busy weeknights.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love these sweet treats; they’re perfect for sharing!
• Versatile: You can fill these whoopie pies with different frostings to suit everyone’s taste.
• Perfect for Fall: The flavors of apple cider and spices capture the essence of fall in every bite.
• Make Ahead: These cookies stay fresh for days, making them an ideal make-ahead treat for gatherings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering ingredients for your Apple Cider Whoopie Pies is simple! You’ll find that most items are pantry staples. Here’s what you 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 Frosting:

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, plus more if needed)
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 pinch salt

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to customize it according to your preferences. Here are some ideas:

• Change the Filling: Swap out the frosting for a classic vanilla buttercream or chocolate ganache for a different flavor twist.
• Add Nuts: Stir in some chopped pecans or walnuts into your cookie batter for added texture and flavor.
• Spice it Up: Experiment with other spices like allspice or cloves to create your own unique blend.
• Use Different Applesauce: Try variations such as cinnamon applesauce or spiced applesauce for an extra layer of flavor.

How to Make Apple Cider Whoopie Pies

Step 1: Reduce the Apple Cider

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. In a medium saucepan, bring the apple cider to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and let it simmer until it reduces down to about 1/4 cup—this should take around 30-35 minutes. Allow it to cool before using. The reduction concentrates the flavor and gives your cookies that deliciously rich apple essence!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices. This step ensures that everything is evenly mixed and helps produce light cookies. Set this bowl aside while we work on our wet ingredients.

Step 3: Cream Together Sugars and Butter

In a large bowl or mixer bowl, beat together 6 tablespoons of room-temperature butter with both sugars until just combined. Scrape down the sides of your bowl as needed. Add in vanilla followed by eggs one at a time. Mixing in these ingredients helps create an airy texture in your cookies!

Step 4: Combine Everything

Now add in that cooled apple cider along with either apple butter or applesauce. Mix on low speed until just combined—don’t overmix! Gradually add in your dry ingredient mixture until everything is just blended together.

Step 5: Shape and Bake Cookies

Spoon out mounds of dough about 1 ½ tablespoons each onto lined baking sheets—make sure they are spaced about three inches apart! Rotate your pan halfway through baking them for about 11-13 minutes or until they spring back when touched lightly. This step ensures even baking!

Step 6: Cool and Coat

Once baked, allow cookies to cool on the sheet for five minutes before transferring them to wire racks. Brush them gently with melted butter and roll them in cinnamon sugar while still warm. This adds an irresistible sweetness!

Step 7: Fill Your Whoopie Pies

Let those cookies cool completely before filling them with either Bourbon Caramel Buttercream or Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Icing! Don’t forget an extra drizzle of caramel if you choose that frosting—it’s divine!

And there you have it—your very own batch of scrumptious Apple Cider Whoopie Pies! Enjoy every bite as you celebrate fall with this delicious treat!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Cider Whoopie Pies

Making whoopie pies can be a delightful experience, and these tips will ensure your Apple Cider Whoopie Pies turn out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh apple cider: The taste of your whoopie pies largely depends on the quality of the apple cider. Fresh, unfiltered cider will give your cookies that rich, authentic flavor reminiscent of autumn.

• Don’t skimp on cooling time: Allowing the cookies to cool completely before frosting is key. This prevents the icing from melting and sliding off, giving you a beautiful presentation.

• Experiment with fillings: While this recipe suggests two delicious fillings, feel free to experiment! Try using other frostings or even whipped cream mixed with caramel for a unique twist.

• Sift your dry ingredients: Sifting helps to aerate the flour and evenly distribute the baking powder and spices. This ensures a light and fluffy texture in your cookies.

• Measure accurately: Baking is a science! Use proper measuring tools for both wet and dry ingredients to achieve consistent results every time.

How to Serve Apple Cider Whoopie Pies

These Apple Cider Whoopie Pies are not only delicious but also stunning, making them perfect for any fall gathering or cozy evening at home. Here are some ideas to present them beautifully!

Garnishes

• Cinnamon Sugar Dusting: Lightly dust the tops of your whoopie pies with additional cinnamon sugar for an extra touch of sweetness and visual appeal.
• Caramel Drizzle: A drizzle of homemade or store-bought caramel sauce adds a decadent finish that complements the flavors beautifully.
• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle finely chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added texture and a nutty crunch that pairs well with the apple flavor.

Side Dishes

• Warm Apple Cider: Serve your whoopie pies alongside a steaming mug of warm apple cider. The comforting drink enhances the overall experience and keeps with the autumn theme.
• Pumpkin Spice Latte: A classic fall beverage, this creamy coffee drink pairs perfectly with the spiced flavors of whoopie pies.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a delightful creaminess that contrasts nicely with the soft cookies. You could even use cinnamon ice cream for extra flavor!
• Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad featuring apples, pears, and cranberries can balance out the sweetness of the whoopie pies while adding seasonal flair.

These serving suggestions will elevate your Apple Cider Whoopie Pies, making them an unforgettable treat for any occasion! Enjoy every bite as you celebrate the flavors of fall.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Apple Cider Whoopie Pies are not only delightful but also perfect for meal prep! You can prepare them in advance to make entertaining a breeze or simply to enjoy throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover whoopie pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you prefer, place them in the refrigerator for longer freshness, which can extend their life to about a week.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap each whoopie pie individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to label them with the date!

Reheating

• When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen whoopie pies, let them thaw in the fridge overnight.
• For a warm treat, you can microwave them for about 15-20 seconds or until just warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions I often receive about this scrumptious recipe!

What are Apple Cider Whoopie Pies?

Apple Cider Whoopie Pies are soft cookie sandwiches made from reduced apple cider, spices, and filled with creamy frosting. They taste just like your favorite fall treats!

Can I use other types of filling for Apple Cider Whoopie Pies?

Absolutely! You can experiment with different fillings like vanilla buttercream or even pumpkin spice cream cheese for a seasonal twist.

How do I store leftover Apple Cider Whoopie Pies?

Store your leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate them for about a week.

Can I freeze Apple Cider Whoopie Pies?

Yes! Wrap each pie individually and freeze them for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making these delightful Apple Cider Whoopie Pies as much as I do! They’re a wonderful way to celebrate the flavors of fall and perfect for sharing with friends and family. So roll up your sleeves, get baking, and savor every delicious bite! Happy baking!