Apple Cider Whoopie Pie Cookies with Caramel Filling

Apple Cider Whoopie Pie Cookies with Caramel Filling

If you love the warm flavors of fall, these Apple Cider Whoopie Pies with rich caramel filling are the perfect treat. With a soft and spiced cake-like texture, they capture the essence of autumn in every bite. These cookies bring together the nostalgic taste of Amish cookies with the decadence of cookies with caramel, making them a must-try for any dessert lover.

Why You’ll Love These Whoopie Pies

• A unique twist on traditional holiday whoopie pies
• Perfectly spiced with apple cider and cinnamon
• Filled with a creamy and luscious caramel buttercream
• Soft, fluffy texture similar to spice cake whoopie pies

Ingredients

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup apple cider (reduced for a more intense flavor)
• 1/2 cup buttermilk

For the Caramel Filling:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup caramel sauce
• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/8 teaspoon salt

Instructions

For the Whoopie Pie Cookies:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. In a separate large bowl, beat the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.
5. Pour in the reduced apple cider and buttermilk, mixing well.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a thick batter forms.
7. Using a cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of batter onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cookies are set and slightly golden.
9. Let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

For the Caramel Filling:

1. In a mixing bowl, beat the butter until creamy.
2. Add caramel sauce, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt, beating until light and fluffy.
3. If the frosting is too thick, add a teaspoon of milk to reach the desired consistency.

Assembling the Whoopie Pies:

1. Pair cookies of similar size together.
2. Pipe or spread a generous amount of caramel filling onto the flat side of one cookie.
3. Top with another cookie, pressing lightly to create a sandwich.
4. Repeat with remaining cookies and filling.

Prep Time

• Preparation: 20 minutes
• Baking: 12 minutes
• Cooling & Assembly: 15 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 50 minutes

Tips & Variations

• Reduce the apple cider by simmering it on low heat until concentrated for deeper flavor.
• Add a dash of ginger or cloves for extra warmth in the cookie batter.
• Swap the caramel filling for apple cider buttercream for an extra apple-infused touch.
• For a festive twist, try variations like eggnog whoopie pies during the holiday season.

These Apple Cider Whoopie Pies are a delightful mix of autumn flavors and indulgent sweetness, making them perfect for any fall gathering or cozy evening treat. Whether you enjoy them with a cup of tea or as part of your holiday whoopie pies collection, they’re sure to impress!