Apple Cider Whoopie Pies

If you’re looking for a cozy treat that captures the essence of fall, then these Apple Cider Whoopie Pies are just the thing! They’re soft, cake-like cookies that taste like apple cider doughnuts, making them perfect for family gatherings or those chilly afternoons when you want something sweet. I love how they bring everyone together—whether you’re enjoying them with a cup of tea or sharing them at a potluck, these whoopie pies never fail to impress.

What truly makes this recipe special is the delightful combination of flavors. The rich apple cider, warm spices, and creamy fillings create a comforting dessert that feels like a hug in every bite. Plus, baking these little treats is a fun activity to do with kids or friends. You’ll find that once you try this recipe, it’ll quickly become a favorite in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, you’ll have these whoopie pies ready in no time!
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the sweet flavors and soft textures—perfect for sharing.
• Flexible fillings: Choose between bourbon caramel buttercream or brown sugar cream cheese icing for a delicious twist.
• Make-ahead option: Bake and fill these whoopie pies ahead of time—they stay fresh and tasty for days!
• Fall favorite: These cookies are ideal for autumn gatherings and celebrations, making them a seasonal must-have.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients! This recipe uses familiar items that you might already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these delicious Apple Cider Whoopie Pies:

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 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 (Optional)

• 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 it out for at least an hour before using)
• 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! You can mix things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas:

• Try different spices: For a unique twist, add pumpkin spice instead of traditional cinnamon and nutmeg.
• Use different fillings: Swap out the fillings with your favorite flavored frosting—vanilla bean or maple cream would be delightful!
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary needs.
• Add nuts or chocolate chips: Fold in some chopped walnuts or mini chocolate chips into the cookie dough for added texture.

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. Then reduce the heat to medium and let it simmer until the cider reduces down to about 1/4 cup. This process intensifies the flavor of the cider and adds depth to your cookies. It will take about 30–35 minutes, so set it aside to cool while you prepare everything else.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices. This step ensures even distribution of all dry ingredients and prevents any clumping later on.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl or using an electric mixer, combine 6 tablespoons of softened butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar on medium speed until well blended. Scrape down the sides of your bowl as needed. Add in the vanilla extract followed by eggs one at a time. Next comes our reduced apple cider along with either apple butter or applesauce—this adds moisture and flavor!

Step 4: Combine Wet & Dry Mixtures

Turn your mixer down to low speed and gently mix in the dry ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want soft cookies!

Step 5: Bake Your Cookies

Using about 1½ tablespoons of dough per cookie, drop mounds onto parchment-lined baking sheets about three inches apart. Rotate your pan halfway through baking them for about 11–13 minutes or until they spring back when touched lightly.

Step 6: Cool & Coat

Once out of the oven, let your cookies cool on the sheet for five minutes before transferring them to wire racks. Brush each cookie with melted butter while still warm and then sprinkle them generously with cinnamon sugar for that perfect finishing touch!

Step 7: Fill Your Whoopie Pies

Allow your cookies to cool completely before filling them! Use either Bourbon Caramel Buttercream or Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Icing—whichever suits your taste buds that day! Enjoy each bite because trust me; they are worth every effort!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Cider Whoopie Pies

Making these delightful treats is a breeze, but a few handy tips can help you elevate them to perfection!

• Reduce the cider thoroughly: Make sure to simmer the apple cider until it reduces to 1/4 cup. This intensifies the flavor and ensures that your whoopie pies are bursting with that lovely apple essence.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature before you start mixing. This helps create a smoother batter and icing, leading to a better texture in your finished pies.

• Don’t overmix the batter: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of soft, fluffy ones!

• Cool completely before filling: Allow your cookies to cool on a wire rack completely before filling them with frosting. This prevents the filling from melting or oozing out, ensuring that each bite is perfectly balanced.

• Experiment with fillings: While bourbon caramel buttercream and brown sugar cream cheese icing are delicious options, don’t hesitate to try other flavors! Maple cream or spiced vanilla frosting could also be wonderful alternatives.

How to Serve Apple Cider Whoopie Pies

These Apple Cider Whoopie Pies are not only tasty but also visually appealing, making them a fantastic treat for gatherings or cozy family nights. Here are some fun ideas for serving them up!

Garnishes

• Sprinkled cinnamon sugar: A light dusting of cinnamon sugar on top adds an extra touch of sweetness and enhances the autumnal feel.
• Caramel drizzle: A drizzle of caramel sauce over the top creates a beautiful presentation while adding another layer of rich flavor.
• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some finely chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch and nuttiness.

Side Dishes

• Warm spiced apple cider: Serve your whoopie pies alongside a mug of warm spiced apple cider. The flavors complement each other perfectly and enhance the cozy fall vibe.
• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with these whoopie pies, providing a delightful contrast in texture and temperature.
• Pumpkin soup: For a savory option, consider serving pumpkin soup as a starter. The warmth and spices will resonate well with the flavors in the whoopie pies.
• Cheese platter: A selection of cheeses, including sharp cheddar or creamy brie, offers a savory balance to the sweetness of the whoopie pies, creating an inviting spread for guests.

With these serving suggestions in mind, you’ll be ready to impress anyone lucky enough to taste your Apple Cider Whoopie Pies! Enjoy this seasonal treat as part of your fall festivities or simply as a delightful dessert any time of year.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Apple Cider Whoopie Pies are perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time and store them for later, making them an ideal treat for busy days or special occasions.

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 where they can last up to a week.

Freezing

• To freeze, place the whoopie pies in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Reheating

• If you’d like to enjoy your whoopie pies warm, remove them from the refrigerator or freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
• Pop them into a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Apple Cider Whoopie Pies!

Can I use different types of apple butter in my Apple Cider Whoopie Pies?

Yes! You can use any type of apple butter or even unsweetened applesauce as a substitute. Just ensure it’s smooth to maintain the texture of your whoopie pies.

How do I know when my Apple Cider Whoopie Pies are done baking?

Your whoopie pies are done when they spring back lightly when touched. They should also have a slightly golden edge but remain soft in the center.

Can I freeze my Apple Cider Whoopie Pies?

Absolutely! Follow the freezing instructions above to enjoy these delicious treats later without losing flavor or texture.

What can I use instead of bourbon caramel sauce?

You can substitute bourbon caramel sauce with a homemade caramel sauce or store-bought non-alcoholic caramel syrup that fits your taste preference.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am about making these delightful Apple Cider Whoopie Pies! They encapsulate the essence of fall with every bite, offering delicious flavors that will surely brighten your day. Enjoy making this recipe, and may your kitchen be filled with warmth and sweetness. Happy baking!