Apple Cider Whoopie Pies are the perfect fall dessert, featuring soft, spiced cakes that embrace the warm flavors of cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg. The cream-filled center adds a rich, indulgent touch, making them an irresistible treat for your cozy autumn gatherings.
These whoopie pies are not just delicious, but also simple to make, perfect for sharing with family or gifting to friends. Whether paired with a hot cup of tea or enjoyed on their own, they bring a nostalgic touch to the season’s sweet offerings. Don’t forget to make extra—these will quickly disappear!
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
-
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
-
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
-
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
-
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
-
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
-
1/4 teaspoon salt
-
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
-
3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
-
1 large egg
-
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
-
1/2 cup apple cider
-
1/2 cup buttermilk
-
For the filling:
-
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
-
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
-
1 teaspoon cinnamon
-
1 tablespoon apple cider
Directions:
-
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
-
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt.
-
In a large bowl, beat the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
-
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined.
-
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the apple cider and buttermilk, starting and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
-
Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop about 2 tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart.
-
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the whoopie pies cool completely on the baking sheet.
-
While the pies cool, make the filling: Beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together until smooth, then add cinnamon and apple cider. Mix until smooth and fluffy.
-
Once the whoopie pies are completely cooled, spread the filling on the flat side of one pie and sandwich with another pie. Repeat for the remaining pies.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 12 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 200 kcal per whoopie pie | Servings: 12 servings
Why Apple Cider Whoopie Pies Are Perfect for Fall
Apple cider is a quintessential fall ingredient, evoking images of crisp apples, orchards, and cool afternoons. It’s a flavor that instantly transports you to autumn and pairs beautifully with warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. These whoopie pies bring out the best in these flavors, creating a dessert that’s perfect for any fall occasion, whether it’s Thanksgiving, Halloween, or simply enjoying the season with family and friends.
The rich apple cider flavor in the cake adds moisture and depth, while the cinnamon buttercream filling ties everything together with its smooth and comforting taste. The combination of these flavors not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also gives you a taste of fall in every bite. The whoopie pie’s soft, pillowy texture contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling, creating a delicious balance that will have you reaching for seconds (or thirds!).
The History and Tradition of Whoopie Pies
The whoopie pie is a nostalgic American dessert with roots in New England and Pennsylvania. While the exact origin remains debated, many claim that the treat was first made by the Amish in Pennsylvania, where it quickly became a staple at bake sales and gatherings. The name “whoopie pie” is thought to come from the excited reaction (“whoopie!”) that children would exclaim when they saw these sweet, creamy-filled treats.
Traditionally, whoopie pies are made with two soft cookies, but over time, the recipe has evolved with countless variations. From classic chocolate cakes with marshmallow filling to the more seasonal versions with pumpkin or apple flavors, whoopie pies have become a versatile dessert that can be tailored to any occasion. Apple Cider Whoopie Pies are just one of the many ways to update this nostalgic treat and bring it into the fall season with fresh and seasonal ingredients.
The Appeal of Apple Cider Flavored Desserts
Apple cider as a flavoring in desserts is a growing trend, and it’s easy to see why. The subtle sweetness of the apple cider pairs well with the natural tartness of apples, and it infuses baked goods with a warmth and depth that is characteristic of autumn. From apple cider donuts to pies and cakes, the flavor brings an unmistakable autumnal touch to any dessert.
In Apple Cider Whoopie Pies, the cider is not just a background note but a key player in the overall flavor profile. Its sweetness enhances the spices in the cake, while the moist texture of the cider adds a depth of flavor that makes these whoopie pies truly unique. The slight tang of the apple cider also helps balance the richness of the cinnamon buttercream filling, creating a dessert that is flavorful yet not overly sweet. It’s the kind of treat that embodies the spirit of fall without being overwhelming, and it pairs perfectly with a warm cup of tea or hot cider.
How to Make Your Apple Cider Whoopie Pies Stand Out
While the recipe for Apple Cider Whoopie Pies is simple and straightforward, there are several ways to personalize and elevate this fall treat. For instance, you can add chunks of fresh apple to the cake batter for an extra burst of flavor and texture. The addition of chopped apples would not only enhance the apple cider flavor but also provide a bit of crunch in each bite, making the whoopie pies even more irresistible.
Another way to boost the flavor profile is by experimenting with different spices. While cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger are classic fall spices, adding a pinch of allspice or cloves can create a deeper, more complex flavor. You could even play around with the filling by incorporating a hint of maple syrup or a dash of vanilla extract, offering a unique twist on the classic cinnamon buttercream.
For a fun, decorative touch, you can dust the whoopie pies with powdered sugar or sprinkle chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, around the edges of the filling. This adds a festive and elegant look to the pies, making them perfect for special occasions. Alternatively, you could drizzle caramel sauce on top for an indulgent, extra-sweet finish.
Making Apple Cider Whoopie Pies Vegan or Gluten-Free
One of the best things about baking is the flexibility to adapt recipes to suit various dietary preferences. Apple Cider Whoopie Pies can be easily modified to fit vegan or gluten-free diets without compromising on flavor. For a vegan version, simply swap the butter for a plant-based butter substitute and use a flaxseed egg or a store-bought egg replacer. The filling can be made vegan as well by using dairy-free butter and powdered sugar.
For a gluten-free version, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Make sure to use a blend that contains xanthan gum or guar gum to help bind the ingredients and maintain the soft texture of the whoopie pies. You might also want to check that your apple cider is gluten-free, as some commercially available ciders may contain gluten. With these simple swaps, you can create a dessert that everyone can enjoy, no matter their dietary needs.
Serving and Storing Apple Cider Whoopie Pies
Apple Cider Whoopie Pies are best enjoyed fresh, but they can also be stored for later enjoyment. To store them, simply place the whoopie pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them for longer, you can store them in the fridge for up to a week. You can even freeze the cakes and filling separately for up to three months and assemble the whoopie pies when you’re ready to serve them.
These pies make for a great make-ahead dessert as well. You can prepare the cakes in advance and keep them in an airtight container, and make the buttercream filling right before you plan to assemble the pies. This allows you to enjoy the pie without having to bake everything on the same day, making them an excellent choice for busy holiday weekends or last-minute gatherings.
Conclusion
Apple Cider Whoopie Pies are a delightful and comforting dessert that perfectly captures the essence of fall. With their soft, spiced cakes and creamy cinnamon buttercream filling, they are a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering or just looking for a sweet indulgence to enjoy at home, these pies will surely become a favorite.
The recipe is easy to follow, and there are endless ways to personalize it, making it a versatile dessert that everyone will love. From the rich apple cider flavor to the warm spices and creamy filling, every bite is a celebration of the season. So, next time you find yourself craving a sweet fall treat, why not bake a batch of Apple Cider Whoopie Pies and savor the flavors of autumn in every bite?