Pumpkin Whoopie Pies are a delightful autumn treat that combines the warm flavors of pumpkin with the sweetness of cream cheese filling. These soft, cake-like cookies are sandwiched together, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Ideal for fall gatherings, these whoopie pies are sure to become a favorite among family and friends.
Origin of Pumpkin Whoopie Pies
Whoopie pies have their roots in New England, particularly in Maine and Pennsylvania, where they were traditionally made with chocolate or vanilla cookies. The pumpkin variation emerged as pumpkin became a popular ingredient in fall baking, especially in the United States. Today, Pumpkin Whoopie Pies are celebrated as a seasonal delicacy that captures the essence of autumn.
Ingredients
For the Pumpkin Cookies:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 1 ½ cups canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cream Cheese Filling:
- 4 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Method of Preparation
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves until well combined.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
- In a large bowl, mix the brown sugar, granulated sugar, and vegetable oil until smooth. Add the pumpkin puree, eggs, and vanilla extract; mix until fully combined.
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
Step 5: Bake Cookies
- Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded tablespoons of batter onto the prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart. Bake for 12–15 minutes or until the edges are set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool Cookies
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 7: Make Filling
- In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt; mix until creamy.
Step 8: Assemble Whoopie Pies
- Once cookies are completely cooled, spread or pipe a generous amount of cream cheese filling onto the flat side of one cookie and sandwich it with another cookie.
Cooking Tips
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and cream cheese are at room temperature for better mixing.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to keep your cookies light and fluffy.
- Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground spices will enhance the flavor profile of your whoopie pies.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using Pumpkin Pie Filling: Always use pure pumpkin puree; pie filling contains added sugars and spices that can alter the taste.
- Not Cooling Completely: Allow cookies to cool completely before frosting; otherwise, the filling may melt.
- Overbaking: Keep an eye on your cookies; they should be soft and cakey rather than dry.
Serving Tips
Pumpkin Whoopie Pies are best served fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. They can also be frozen for longer storage—simply thaw before serving. For an extra touch, dust with powdered sugar before serving or drizzle with caramel sauce for added sweetness.
Health Benefits of Ingredients
- Pumpkin Puree: Rich in vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants that support overall health.
- Cream Cheese: Provides calcium and protein but should be consumed in moderation due to its fat content.
- Spices: Cinnamon and ginger have anti-inflammatory properties and may help regulate blood sugar levels.
Why Everyone Loves This Dish
Pumpkin Whoopie Pies are adored for their unique combination of flavors—sweet pumpkin paired with creamy filling creates an irresistible treat that evokes feelings of warmth and nostalgia during fall. Their soft texture makes them easy to eat while delivering a burst of seasonal flavor that appeals to both children and adults alike.
Interesting Facts About Pumpkin Whoopie Pies
- Versatile Variations: You can experiment with different fillings such as marshmallow fluff or flavored buttercream.
- Perfect for Parties: These treats are ideal for potlucks or holiday gatherings due to their shareable size.
- Freezing Friendly: Pumpkin Whoopie Pies freeze well; wrap them individually for easy snacks later on!
Summarized Recipe
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and spices.
- In another bowl, mix sugars and oil; add pumpkin puree, eggs, and vanilla.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients; mix until just combined.
- Drop rounded tablespoons onto baking sheets; bake for 12–15 minutes.
- Cool cookies completely before frosting with cream cheese filling.
- Assemble by sandwiching two cookies with filling.
Pumpkin Whoopie Pies are not just desserts; they embody the spirit of fall! Enjoy these delightful treats at your next gathering or as a cozy snack at home!
