If you’re searching for a cozy, sweet treat that feels like a warm hug in dessert form, this Pumpkin Whoopie Pies Recipe is about to become your new obsession. These soft, cakey pumpkin rounds sandwich a luscious, creamy filling that perfectly balances spice and sweetness. Each bite offers a delightful blend of autumn flavors and a melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering or craving a comforting snack, these whoopie pies hit every note perfectly.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Pumpkin Whoopie Pies Recipe calls for straightforward ingredients that come together beautifully to create incredible taste and texture. Each component plays a key role, from the rich pumpkin puree providing moisture and color to the warming cinnamon that spices things up just right.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for tender, cakey whoopie pie rounds.
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree: Adds moisture, color, and that unmistakable pumpkin flavor.
- 1 tsp baking powder: Helps the pies rise and stay fluffy.
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon: Brings warm spice that complements pumpkin perfectly.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake base evenly without overpowering.
- 2 large eggs (room temperature): Bind ingredients and add richness.
- 1/2 cup softened butter: Contributes to the moist, tender crumb.
- 8 oz cream cheese (full-fat): Key for a smooth, tangy, and velvety filling.
- 2 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the cream cheese filling.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a hint of warmth and depth.
How to Make Pumpkin Whoopie Pies Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Sheets
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining two baking sheets with parchment paper. This simple step ensures your whoopie pies bake evenly and don’t stick, setting you up for picture-perfect, easy removal once baked.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Mixing these thoroughly now ensures the spices and leavening agents are evenly distributed for that perfect rise and consistent flavor throughout your pumpkin whoopie pies.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
Using a mixer, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This process traps air to create a tender crumb. Then add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, before mixing in the pumpkin puree. The wet mixture will become rich and creamy, full of that classic autumn character.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Carefully fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing just until everything is combined. Overmixing can make the whoopie pies tough, so be gentle here. The batter will be thick but soft, almost like a dense cake batter ready to transform into soft, pillow-like pies.
Step 5: Drop Batter onto Sheets
Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded tablespoons of batter about two inches apart on your prepared baking sheets. This spacing allows the pies room to spread slightly without touching, ensuring they bake into perfectly shaped rounds ready for filling.
Step 6: Bake and Cool
Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the tops spring back lightly when touched. The edges should be set but not hard, promising a soft and tender texture inside. Let the pies cool completely on wire racks before assembling.
Step 7: Make the Cream Cheese Filling and Assemble
Beat the cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Once the whoopie pie halves are fully cooled, spread a generous amount of filling onto the flat side of one piece, then sandwich it with another. The contrast between the spiced pumpkin cake and the sweet, tangy filling is extraordinary.
How to Serve Pumpkin Whoopie Pies Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a light dusting of powdered sugar over the assembled whoopie pies for an elegant touch that also enhances sweetness. For a festive look, you can add a pinch of cinnamon or even a drizzle of melted white chocolate to make them irresistible when presenting to guests.
Side Dishes
These whoopie pies are fantastic on their own, but pairing them with a hot cup of spiced chai tea, coffee, or rich hot chocolate elevates the experience, making for a cozy autumn snack that feels like a special occasion.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking multiple whoopie pies on a pretty serving platter for an eye-catching centerpiece at fall parties. Alternatively, wrap individual pies in parchment paper and tie with twine for charming homemade gifts or party favors that everyone will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store leftover Pumpkin Whoopie Pies Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days without sacrificing freshness. The cream cheese filling stays delicious while the pumpkin cake keeps its soft texture.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy these treats later, they freeze beautifully. Wrap each whoopie pie individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to three months, then thaw in the refrigerator overnight for best results.
Reheating
For a freshly baked feel, allow thawed whoopie pies to come to room temperature and warm slightly in a microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. This softens the filling and enhances their warmth without melting the cream cheese filling too much.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Absolutely! Just make sure to cook and puree your fresh pumpkin first, then measure one cup for the recipe. Canned pumpkin is convenient and consistent, but fresh pumpkin can add a lovely homemade touch.
Are these whoopie pies gluten-free?
This particular recipe uses all-purpose flour, so it’s not gluten-free. However, you can try substituting a gluten-free baking blend that includes xanthan gum to achieve a similar texture.
Can I make the cream cheese filling dairy-free?
Yes, swap the cream cheese for a plant-based alternative and use powdered sugar as directed. The texture might vary slightly, but it will still be creamy and delicious.
How long do Pumpkin Whoopie Pies last at room temperature?
Because of the cream cheese filling, it’s best to keep them refrigerated and consume within four days. At room temperature, they should not be left out for more than two hours to keep things safe and fresh.
Can I add other spices to the batter?
Definitely! Nutmeg, cloves, or ginger can complement the cinnamon and pumpkin beautifully if you want a more complex spice profile.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly magical about the Pumpkin Whoopie Pies Recipe that makes it a fall favorite worth making again and again. The combination of soft pumpkin cake and creamy filling is utterly comforting and impressive whether for family snacks or special occasions. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and enjoy every delicious bite!
