Apple Cider Whoopie Pie cookies with Caramel Filling

Apple Cider Whoopie Pie cookies with Caramel Filling are a delightful treat that perfectly blend the warm flavors of fall with a creamy, indulgent filling. These cookies are soft, cake-like, and filled with a luscious caramel that will leave you wanting more. Ideal for gatherings, holidays, or just a cozy afternoon snack, these whoopie pies showcase the sweet essence of apple cider in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of apple cider and spices creates a unique taste that is both comforting and exciting.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can enjoy making these treats.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a casual get-together, these whoopie pies are sure to impress your guests.
• Customizable Filling: You can use store-bought caramel or make your own to suit your tastes.
• Soft and Chewy Texture: The cookies remain soft and chewy, making them perfect for biting into.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin baking your Apple Cider Whoopie Pie cookies with Caramel Filling, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will streamline your baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheets: Ensures even cooking and browning of the cookies.
• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugar together.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to successful baking.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground nutmeg
• ¼ tsp ground cloves
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup apple cider, reduced to ¼ cup (boil down 1 cup until it reduces)

For the Filling

• ½ cup whole milk
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• ¼ cup reduced apple cider (see note above)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• ½ cup store-bought caramel sauce (or homemade if you prefer)
• Pinch of flaky sea salt (optional)

How to Make Apple Cider Whoopie Pie cookies with Caramel Filling

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare the cookie dough. This ensures that your cookies bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Sheets

Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This will prevent the cookies from sticking during baking.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine:
* 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
* 1 tsp baking soda
* 1 tsp baking powder
* ½ tsp salt
* 1 tsp ground cinnamon
* ½ tsp ground nutmeg
* ¼ tsp ground cloves

Whisk together until well combined.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, beat together:
* ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
* 1 cup light brown sugar (packed)

Mix until light and fluffy. Add in:
* 1 large egg (room temperature)
* 1 tsp vanilla extract

Mix until fully incorporated.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Pour in:
* ¼ cup reduced apple cider

Stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 6: Scoop Dough onto Baking Sheets

Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets. Leave space between each ball as they will spread while baking.

Step 7: Bake Cookies

Bake for about 10 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. Remove from oven and cool on racks before filling.

Step 8: Prepare Caramel Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine:
* ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
* 3 cups powdered sugar
* Pinch of salt
Add in:
* ½ cup whole milk
And mix until smooth. Stir in:
* ¼ cup reduced apple cider
And:
* 1 tsp vanilla extract

Mix well until creamy.

Step 9: Assemble Whoopie Pies

Take one cookie and spread a generous amount of caramel filling on its flat side. Top with another cookie, flat side down. Repeat until all cookies are filled.

Step 10: Optional Garnish

Drizzle with additional caramel sauce on top of each assembled whoopie pie if desired. Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt for an extra touch!

Now you’re ready to enjoy your delicious Apple Cider Whoopie Pie cookies with Caramel Filling!

How to Serve Apple Cider Whoopie Pie cookies with Caramel Filling

Serving Apple Cider Whoopie Pie cookies with Caramel Filling is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with the right accompaniments. These cookies are perfect for gatherings, dessert tables, or even a cozy evening at home.

Pair with Coffee or Tea

• Coffee: The rich flavors of coffee complement the sweetness of the whoopie pies perfectly.
• Chai Tea: Spiced chai adds warmth and pairs beautifully with the cinnamon in the cookies.
• Herbal Tea: A light herbal tea offers a refreshing contrast to the caramel filling.

Add a Scoop of Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: Classic vanilla enhances the flavors without overpowering them.
• Cinnamon Ice Cream: This adds an extra layer of spice and creaminess.
• Caramel Swirl Ice Cream: For an indulgent treat, this pairs perfectly with the caramel filling.

Create a Dessert Platter

• Mini Pumpkin Pies: Their spiced flavor complements the whoopie pies well.
• Apple Slices with Caramel Dip: Fresh apples echo the apple cider theme and are great for dipping.
• Chocolate-Covered Pretzels: The salty-sweet combination works nicely alongside these sweet treats.

How to Perfect Apple Cider Whoopie Pie cookies with Caramel Filling

To create the best Apple Cider Whoopie Pie cookies with Caramel Filling, consider these helpful tips:

• Boldly reduce your apple cider: Boil down the apple cider until it’s concentrated. This enhances its flavor in your cookies.
• Boldly use room temperature ingredients: Using ingredients like eggs and butter at room temperature helps create a smoother batter.
• Boldly measure flour accurately: Spoon flour into your measuring cup rather than scooping to avoid dense cookies.
• Boldly let them cool completely: Ensure your cookies are fully cooled before adding caramel filling; this prevents melting and messiness.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Cider Whoopie Pie cookies with Caramel Filling

When serving Apple Cider Whoopie Pie cookies, pairing them with side dishes can elevate your dessert experience. Choose sides that complement their flavors for a balanced menu.

1. Pumpkin Spice Muffins: These moist muffins add a seasonal touch that pairs well with your whoopie pies.
2. Apple Crisp: A warm apple crisp provides a comforting texture and flavor contrast.
3. Cheese Board: Include sharp cheddar or brie to balance the sweetness of the whoopie pies.
4. Pecan Pie Bars: Rich and nutty, these bars enhance the autumnal theme of your dessert table.
5. Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad offers a light and refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the cookies.
6. Maple Glazed Nuts: Sweet and crunchy nuts add a delightful crunch next to soft whoopie pies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Apple Cider Whoopie Pie cookies with Caramel Filling, it’s easy to slip up. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Skipping the reduction: Failing to reduce the apple cider can lead to a watery filling. Always boil down 1 cup of apple cider to ¼ cup for the best flavor.
• Incorrect measuring of flour: Using too much flour will make your whoopie pies dense. Spoon and level your flour instead of scooping directly from the bag.
• Not using room temperature ingredients: Cold butter and eggs can cause uneven mixing. Let these ingredients sit out for about 30 minutes before you start.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too long can create tough cookies. Stop mixing as soon as the dry ingredients are incorporated.
• Ignoring baking times: Different ovens may vary in temperature. Keep an eye on your cookies and take them out when they are just set, even if it’s a minute or two earlier than expected.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Apple Cider Whoopie Pie cookies with Caramel Filling in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Apple Cider Whoopie Pie cookies with Caramel Filling

• Wrap each whoopie pie individually in plastic wrap for best results.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container; they can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Apple Cider Whoopie Pie cookies with Caramel Filling

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place on a baking sheet and warm for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time on medium power for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally for about 5 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different spices in my Apple Cider Whoopie Pie cookies with Caramel Filling?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with spices like ginger or allspice to customize the flavor profile of your whoopie pies.

How do I make homemade caramel sauce?

You can make caramel sauce by melting sugar until golden brown and then adding cream and butter. Stir until smooth and let cool before use.

Can I substitute whole milk in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use any milk alternative, such as almond milk or oat milk, though it may slightly alter the taste and texture.

How do I know when my whoopie pies are done baking?

They should be set around the edges and slightly soft in the center. A toothpick inserted should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.

What other fillings can I use besides caramel?

Cream cheese frosting, chocolate ganache, or even fruit preserves work wonderfully as alternatives to caramel filling.

Final Thoughts

Apple Cider Whoopie Pie cookies with Caramel Filling offer a delightful blend of flavors that are perfect for fall gatherings or cozy evenings at home. Their versatility allows for various fillings and spice adjustments, making them suitable for anyone’s taste preferences. Give this recipe a try, and don’t hesitate to customize it to make it uniquely yours!

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Apple Cider Whoopie Pie cookies with Caramel Filling

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• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the cozy flavors of fall with our Apple Cider Whoopie Pie cookies filled with creamy caramel. These delightful treats feature soft, cake-like cookies infused with rich apple cider and warm spices, making them a perfect addition to any gathering or simply as a sweet afternoon snack. The luscious caramel filling adds an indulgent touch that will keep you coming back for more. Easy to make and customizable, these whoopie pies are a must-try for anyone who loves fall-inspired desserts!

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Ingredients

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• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup light brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup apple cider (reduced)
• For the Filling: ½ cup whole milk
• ½ cup unsalted butter
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• ¼ cup reduced apple cider
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• ½ cup store-bought caramel sauce or homemade

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon.
3. In another bowl, cream together butter and brown sugar until fluffy. Add egg and vanilla; mix well.
4. Gradually incorporate dry ingredients and reduced apple cider into wet mixture until just combined.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions onto prepared sheets; bake for about 10 minutes until edges are golden.
6. Cool cookies before filling them with caramel mixture made from butter, powdered sugar, milk, reduced apple cider, and vanilla.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 22g
• Sodium: 130mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 33g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 30mg