Pumpkin Whoopie Pies Recipe

When you think about fall flavors, pumpkin whoopie pies often come to mind as a perfect blend of taste and texture. You’ll appreciate how the soft, spiced cookies sandwich a rich filling, making them a delightful treat for any occasion. With just a few ingredients and a quick baking time, you can whip up a batch that’s not only satisfying but also versatile in flavor. Curious about the history behind this seasonal favorite or how to customize your filling? Let’s explore what makes these treats a must-try this autumn.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll absolutely adore this Pumpkin Whoopie Pies recipe for several reasons. First, the cakes are pillowy soft, combining the best textures of cookies and cake.

You’ll use a whole can of pumpkin, which gives these treats a rich flavor, and if you choose, you can add pumpkin seed meal for extra protein. They stay moist and fluffy for days, perfect for sharing or enjoying over time. Additionally, this treat is a good source of Vitamin A, which supports vision and immune function.

The sweet cream fillings are another highlight. You can use decadent cream cheese frosting to hold the whoopie pies together, or opt for a healthier Greek yogurt version.

For a twist, try brown butter cream cheese frosting, which adds a nutty aroma that perfectly complements the pumpkin spice.

Preparation is easy and versatile. You’ll mix the batter in one bowl, making cleanup a breeze. You can bake them right away or refrigerate the dough for up to a day.

They’re ideal for Halloween parties or Thanksgiving gatherings. Plus, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days.

All of this comes together in under an hour, making it a quick and enjoyable baking experience!

History

The history of whoopie pies is a delightful blend of folklore and tradition, with roots tracing back to both Maine and Pennsylvania. In Maine, local stories suggest that farmers’ wives created whoopie pies using leftover cake batter. Meanwhile, the Pennsylvania Dutch also claim the treat, saying farmers would shout “Whoopie!” upon discovering them in their lunchboxes.

Believed to have originated in the early 1900s, whoopie pies show influences from traditional British desserts like the Victoria sponge cake. They’re known by various names, such as “gobs,” “black moons,” and “twins.” The Amish community in Pennsylvania Dutch country is often credited with their creation. Maine is recognized as the unofficial capital of whoopie pies, showcasing the dessert’s significance in local culture.

Whoopie pies have become deeply woven into the culinary fabric of these regions. Maine even recognizes them as the official state treat, while Pennsylvania considers them a part of its baking heritage.

Originally made as portable snacks for farmers, whoopie pies are now sold in bakeries, diners, and artisanal shops, showcasing a variety of flavors. Their popularity continues to rise, making them a comforting symbol at regional fairs and bake sales across the United States.

Recipe

Pumpkin Whoopie Pies Recipe

Indulge in the delightful flavors of fall with these scrumptious pumpkin whoopie pies. These soft, cake-like cookies are sandwiched together with a creamy filling, making them the perfect treat for any occasion. Rich in pumpkin flavor and spiced with warm spices, these whoopie pies are bound to become a favorite among friends and family.

Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying them with a warm cup of coffee, these treats are a comforting delight. Making pumpkin whoopie pies is a straightforward process that combines simple ingredients to create a deliciously satisfying dessert. With a few steps, you’ll have a batch of these delightful sweets ready to impress. Just follow the recipe below, and you’ll be on your way to baking a tempting batch of whoopie pies that everyone will love.

Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 to 2 3/4 cups canned pumpkin puree
– 1 1/2 to 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 to 2 cups packed brown sugar
– Pumpkin pie spice or a combination of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves
– 1 to 2 large eggs at room temperature
– Melted butter
– Oil
– Baking powder
– Baking soda
– Salt
– Vanilla extract
– Cream cheese
– Powdered sugar
– Maple syrup (optional)
– Additional cinnamon for flavor

Cooking Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, oil, brown sugar, eggs, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract until well combined.
In another bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and your choice of spices. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
Using a spoon or ice cream scoop, drop 2-tablespoon dollops of the batter onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them a couple of inches apart to allow for spreading.
Bake the whoopie pies in the preheated oven for 10 to 13 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are set. Remove from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack.
While the whoopie pies are cooling, prepare the filling. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat until it turns golden brown and releases a nutty aroma. Allow it to cool slightly before transferring to a mixing bowl.
Beat the cooled brown butter with softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar in two additions, mixing until well combined. Then, mix in the vanilla extract, maple syrup (if using), and additional cinnamon for flavor.
Once the whoopie pies are completely cooled, use a spoon or small ice cream scoop to place a dollop of the filling on the flat side of one pie. Top with another whoopie pie to create a sandwich.
If desired, dust the tops with powdered sugar for a decorative finish. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Extra Tips: To guarantee the best results, make sure your eggs are at room temperature before mixing, as this helps to create a better texture in the batter.

Also, be careful not to overbake the whoopie pies; they should be soft to the touch when you take them out of the oven. If you want to enhance the flavor of your filling, feel free to experiment with different extracts, such as almond or maple, to find your perfect combination. Enjoy your baking!

Note: Ensure pumpkin puree is not watery for the best results, as this affects the texture of the whoopie pies.

Final Thoughts

These delightful pumpkin whoopie pies aren’t just a seasonal treat; they’re versatile enough to brighten any occasion, from Halloween parties to Thanksgiving gatherings.

You’ll find that both kids and adults adore them, making them a perfect addition to your dessert table. To guarantee their freshness, store your whoopie pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Keep in mind that they’ve a short shelf life because of their soft and moist texture.

When assembling, use a spoon or a piping bag to apply the cream cheese filling for best results. If you want to get creative, feel free to dust them with powdered sugar or add other toppings for extra flair. Additionally, consider making pumpkin spice caramels to complement your whoopie pies for a truly festive spread.

Remember to let the frosting chill for about 10-15 minutes for easier handling.

To avoid common challenges, like overly moist pies, monitor your baking time closely and verify all your ingredients are at room temperature.

By following these tips, you’ll achieve delicious whoopie pies that everyone will love. Enjoy the delightful combination of pumpkin and cream cheese, and don’t hesitate to customize them to suit your taste.

Happy baking!

FAQ

Frequently, bakers have questions about making pumpkin whoopie pies, whether it’s about storage, baking times, or filling options.

To keep your whoopie pies fresh, store them in the refrigerator. This not only prevents melting but also helps them hold their shape better. If you find your whoopie pies a bit sticky, chilling them can help with that too.

When it comes to baking, mini whoopie pies typically require about 7 minutes, while larger ones take around 10 to 12 minutes at 350°F. For the best results, drop two tablespoons of batter for each pie. Remember to let them cool completely on a wire rack before frosting. Chilling time is crucial for optimal flavor and texture, so be sure to allow your assembled pies to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

For the filling, cream cheese frosting works great. You can enhance the flavor by adding maple extract or syrup. To achieve a smooth frosting, sift your powdered sugar before mixing.

If you’re considering doubling the recipe, go ahead! Just increase all the ingredients and use multiple sheet pans.

To avoid flat whoopie pies, refrigerate the batter before baking. By following these tips, you’ll make delicious pumpkin whoopie pies every time!