Irresistible Pumpkin Whoopie Pies Recipe Fun
If you’re searching for a fun, easy recipe for Pumpkin Whoopie Pies that’s irresistibly soft, spiced, and perfect for fall gatherings or cozy treats, you’ve landed in the right place! These delightful pumpkin desserts combine fluffy, tender cake-like cookies with a luscious cream filling, creating a bite-sized pumpkin paradise that will quickly become a seasonal favorite. From the warm spices to the rich, velvety texture, Pumpkin Whoopie Pies offer comfort and joy in every mouthful, making them a standout dessert to bake again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comfort in Every Bite: The combination of pumpkin and warm spices creates a cozy flavor that tastes like autumn wrapped in a treat.
- Soft, Fluffy Texture: These whoopie pies have a tender, cake-like consistency that melts in your mouth.
- Perfectly Portion-Controlled: Each pie is just the right size for satisfying your sweet tooth without going overboard.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples and real pumpkin, this recipe doesn’t require fancy items.
- Great for Sharing: These pies are ideal for potlucks, holiday gatherings, or simply as thoughtful homemade gifts.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Pumpkin Whoopie Pies lies in the harmony of simple ingredients that work together to build wonderful flavor, moisture, and structure. Each component is essential for creating that signature soft texture and irresistible pumpkin spice taste.
- Pure Pumpkin Puree: Use canned or fresh pumpkin puree for that rich, moist texture and authentic pumpkin flavor.
- Flour: All-purpose flour provides the necessary structure while keeping the cookies tender.
- Warm Spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves add festive warmth and depth.
- Baking Soda and Powder: These leavening agents ensure a fluffy rise.
- Sugar: Both granulated and brown sugar add sweetness and enhance soft texture and caramel notes.
- Eggs: They help bind the ingredients and enrich the pie rounds.
- Butter or Oil: Adds moistness and richness to the batter.
- Vanilla Extract: Boosts overall flavor complexity.
- Cream Cheese: This creamy filling ingredient adds tang and smoothness.
- Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and thickens the filling for that perfectly fluffy cream.
Variations for Pumpkin Whoopie Pies
One of the best parts about making Pumpkin Whoopie Pies is how easy it is to customize them! Whether you want to tweak flavors, adapt to dietary needs, or simply experiment, these pies are incredibly versatile.
- Vegan Version: Substitute eggs and butter with flax eggs and coconut oil or vegan butter for a plant-based treat.
- Chocolate Pumpkin: Add cocoa powder to the batter for a chocolatey pumpkin twist.
- Spiced Up: Increase the amount of ginger and cloves for a bolder spice profile.
- Maple Cream Filling: Swap some powdered sugar for maple syrup for a naturally sweetened filling.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make the whoopie pies safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
How to Make Pumpkin Whoopie Pies
Step 1: Prepare Your Batter
Start by whisking together your dry ingredients: flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and salt. In a separate bowl, cream the butter and sugars until light and fluffy, then mix in eggs, vanilla, and pumpkin puree. Gradually fold in the dry ingredients until everything is just combined. This gentle approach helps maintain a tender batter perfect for soft whoopie pies.
Step 2: Bake the Pies
Use a tablespoon or cookie scoop to drop rounded portions of batter onto parchment-lined baking sheets, spacing them well. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 12 to 15 minutes, or until the edges feel set and a toothpick comes out clean. Allow the pies to cool completely before filling.
Step 3: Make the Cream Filling
Beat cream cheese and butter together until smooth, then gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to mix until fluffy. The filling should be thick enough to hold its shape but soft enough to spread easily between the pumpkin cookie layers.
Step 4: Assemble the Whoopie Pies
Spread a generous dollop of cream filling on the flat side of one pumpkin cookie, then sandwich it with another. Press gently to distribute the filling evenly without squishing it out. Refrigerate the pies briefly to set the filling if desired.
Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Whoopie Pies
- Measure Flour Carefully: Too much flour can dry out the pies, so spoon and level for accuracy.
- Don’t Overmix: Mixing just until combined keeps the batter light and flaky.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This helps blend everything smoothly and ensures even baking.
- Cool Completely: Give the pies enough time to cool before filling to stop melting and sliding.
- Chill for Best Texture: Refrigerate assembled pies for 30 minutes to let flavors meld and filling firm up.
How to Serve Pumpkin Whoopie Pies
Garnishes
Adding a little decoration can elevate your Pumpkin Whoopie Pies instantly. Sprinkle some cinnamon or pumpkin spice on top, dust the edges lightly with powdered sugar, or press a small caramel drizzle over the finished pies for an inviting presentation.
Side Dishes
Pair your whoopie pies with warm apple cider or a frothy latte for a perfect fall indulgence. A fresh fruit salad or toasted nuts can provide a nice balance, adding crunch and freshness alongside the soft, sweet pies.
Creative Ways to Present
For gatherings, stack your Pumpkin Whoopie Pies on a tiered cake stand for a charming dessert display. Wrap individual pies in parchment paper tied with twine for gifting, or serve on rustic wooden boards to bring a cozy farmhouse vibe to your table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover Pumpkin Whoopie Pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. They should stay soft and flavorful for up to 3-4 days, making them perfect for prepping ahead or enjoying over several days.
Freezing
Wrap pies individually in plastic wrap and place them inside a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen Pumpkin Whoopie Pies can last up to 3 months, letting you store seasonal treats well in advance and enjoy them whenever you crave a comforting bite.
Reheating
To enjoy your whoopie pies fresh from the freezer or fridge, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight. You can also warm them gently for a few seconds in the microwave to revive softness, but avoid overheating to keep the filling intact.
FAQs
Can I use canned pumpkin for Pumpkin Whoopie Pies?
Yes! Canned pumpkin puree works perfectly in this recipe and helps keep the pies moist and flavorful.
How long do Pumpkin Whoopie Pies stay fresh?
When stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator, they stay fresh for about 3-4 days.
Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Absolutely! The cream cheese filling can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator, just give it a quick whisk before spreading.
Are Pumpkin Whoopie Pies gluten-free?
The standard recipe uses all-purpose flour, but you can substitute a gluten-free flour blend without much trouble for a gluten-free version.
Can I freeze Pumpkin Whoopie Pies after assembling?
Yes, you can freeze them assembled. Just wrap each pie individually to prevent freezer burn and thaw in the fridge before serving.
Final Thoughts
Nothing quite captures the essence of fall like a batch of homemade Pumpkin Whoopie Pies. They’re simple to make, wonderfully tasty, and perfect for sharing with friends and family. Whether you’re a baking beginner or a seasoned pro, this recipe will quickly become a comforting favorite on chilly days. Grab your ingredients, warm up your oven, and dive into this soft, spiced, cream-filled delight—you won’t regret it!
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Pumpkin Whoopie Pies
Pumpkin Whoopie Pies are soft, spiced, and cake-like pumpkin cookies sandwiching a luscious cream cheese filling. Perfectly portioned for fall gatherings or cozy treats, these delightful pies combine warm autumn spices with rich pumpkin flavor and a velvety cream filling for a comforting seasonal favorite.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 whoopie pies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free (optional with GF flour blend)
Ingredients
For the Pumpkin Cookies
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend for GF)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened (or oil or vegan butter/oil)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- 1 large egg (or flax egg for vegan)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or fresh)
For the Cream Cheese Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened (or vegan butter)
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare Your Batter: Whisk together the dry ingredients – flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and salt. In a separate bowl, cream the butter and both sugars together until light and fluffy. Mix in the egg, vanilla extract, and pumpkin puree. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined, ensuring a tender batter ideal for soft whoopie pies.
- Bake the Pies: Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded portions of batter onto parchment-lined baking sheets, spacing them well apart. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 12 to 15 minutes or until edges are set and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Cool the pies completely on a wire rack before filling.
- Make the Cream Filling: Beat cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until the filling is fluffy, thick enough to hold shape yet spreadable between the cookie layers.
- Assemble the Whoopie Pies: Spread a generous dollop of cream filling on the flat side of one pumpkin cookie, then sandwich it with another. Press gently to distribute the filling evenly without squeezing it out. Refrigerate the assembled pies briefly to set the filling if desired.
Notes
- Measure flour carefully by spooning into the cup and leveling for best texture.
- Mix batter only until the ingredients are combined to keep it light and fluffy.
- Use room temperature ingredients for smooth blending and even baking.
- Allow pies to cool completely before filling to prevent melting and sliding filling.
- Refrigerate assembled pies for 30 minutes to let flavors meld and filling firm up.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 whoopie pie
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: pumpkin whoopie pies, pumpkin desserts, fall treats, cream cheese filling, spiced pumpkin cookies