Name: Apple Cider Whoopie Pie Cookies with Caramel for Cozy Fall Treats
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Can substitute with gluten-free flour); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda; 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (Can substitute with ground allspice); 1/2 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg (Can omit if not available); 1/4 teaspoon Salt; 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (Can substitute with margarine for dairy-free version); 1 cup Brown Sugar (Light brown can replace dark brown); 2 large Eggs (Flax eggs can be used for vegan option); 1 cup Apple Cider (Can substitute with applesauce or apple juice); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Almond extract is a suitable alternative); 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (Can substitute with margarine); 1 cup Brown Sugar (Coconut sugar can be used as an alternative); 1/2 cup Heavy Cream (Use coconut cream for dairy-free version); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract

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There’s something magical about the scent of autumn wafting through the kitchen, isn’t there? It’s the perfect invitation to take out those beloved baking supplies and create something heartwarming. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Apple Cider Whoopie Pie Cookies with Caramel—soft, cake-like cookies filled with luscious caramel that just scream fall flavors. Not only are these indulgent treats a delightful way to celebrate the season, but they’re also quick to whip up, taking just 45 minutes from start to finish. Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering or simply treating yourself after a long day, these whoopie pies promise to wrap you in warmth and sweetness. Curious about how to make every moment of fall delicious? Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe!

Why are Apple Cider Whoopie Pies irresistible?

Warmth of autumn: With fragrant spices and apple cider, every bite offers seasonal comfort.
Quick Prep: Whip up these treats in just 45 minutes, making baking a breeze!
Chewy Texture: Enjoy soft cookies that meld perfectly with a gooey caramel filling—just divine!
Versatile Treat: Serve them at gatherings or cozy nights in; they’re loved by all. Pair them with a warm drink, and you have the perfect combo! For more delightful fall treats, check out my Tiramisu Cookies Melt or consider adding a twist with Lemon Raspberry Cookies.

Apple Cider Whoopie Pie Cookies Ingredients

Get ready to bake these flavorful autumn cookies with a delightful caramel twist!

For the Cookies
All-Purpose Flour – Structure for the cookies; you can substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
Baking Soda – The leavening agent that helps cookies rise; there are no alternatives if you want the same texture.
Ground Cinnamon – Adds warmth and classic flavor; substitute with ground allspice for a unique twist.
Ground Nutmeg – Enhances that cozy autumn flavor; feel free to omit if you don’t have any.
Salt – Balances sweetness and is essential for enhancing the flavor.
Unsalted Butter – Provides moisture and rich flavor; margarine works as a substitute for a dairy-free twist.
Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and moisture, contributing to a caramel-like flavor; light brown can replace dark brown if needed.
Large Eggs – Bind the ingredients together for a perfect dough; consider flax eggs for a vegan option.
Apple Cider – Imparts a distinctive flavor and moisture; you can substitute with applesauce or an equal amount of apple juice.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor; almond extract is a delightful alternative for a different taste.
For the Caramel Filling
Unsalted Butter – The base of the caramel filling; margarine can be used as a substitute.
Brown Sugar – Provides sweetness and that rich flavor; coconut sugar is a great less refined alternative.
Heavy Cream – Adds creaminess to the filling; use coconut cream to create a dairy-free version.
Vanilla Extract – Brings depth to the caramel’s flavor.

Now you’re all set with everything you need for making delightful Apple Cider Whoopie Pie Cookies with Caramel! Let’s get baking!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Apple Cider Whoopie Pie Cookies with Caramel

Step 1: Preheat Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), allowing it to reach the right temperature for baking. Meanwhile, line your baking sheets with parchment paper, ensuring a clean and easy release of the cookies once they are baked. This initial preparation is essential for achieving perfectly baked Apple Cider Whoopie Pie Cookies.

Step 2: Whisk Dry Ingredients
In a spacious mixing bowl, combine your all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Whisk them together until evenly blended, ensuring there are no lumps. This simple step lays the foundation for the rich flavor of your Apple Cider Whoopie Pie Cookies, while also promoting a light texture as they bake.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a separate large bowl, beat together softened unsalted butter and brown sugar using a hand mixer or stand mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. The fluffy texture will help create a soft, cake-like cookie. You’ll know it’s ready when the color lightens and the mixture has doubled in volume, setting the perfect stage for the rest of your ingredients.

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients
Next, carefully mix in the large eggs, apple cider, and vanilla extract into the creamed butter and sugar mixture. Continue blending until the mixture appears smooth and thick, ensuring everything is well incorporated. This step adds the delicious autumn flavor to your Apple Cider Whoopie Pie Cookies, infusing them with warmth and moisture.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, using a spatula or wooden spoon to fold them together gently. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the dough; you want the cookies to remain soft and tender. This is crucial in preventing any toughness, ensuring your whoopie pies are light and fluffy.

Step 6: Scoop Dough
Using a cookie scoop or two tablespoons, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets. Leave ample space between each scoop, allowing for spreading as the cookies bake. Each scoop should resemble a generous tablespoon, ensuring that your Apple Cider Whoopie Pie Cookies have a lovely rounded shape once baked.

Step 7: Bake
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them; the cookies should be lightly golden around the edges, while the centers may still appear soft. Remove them from the oven when they are set yet tender, as they will continue to firm up slightly while cooling on the baking sheets.

Step 8: Prepare Caramel Filling
As the cookies cool, begin preparing the caramel filling. In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar and heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil. Allow it to boil for 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, creating a luscious caramel filling for your whoopie pies.

Step 9: Assemble
Once your cookies are completely cooled, it’s time to assemble your Apple Cider Whoopie Pie Cookies. Spread a generous spoonful of the prepared caramel filling on the flat side of one cookie, then gently sandwich it with another cookie. Press down lightly to allow the gooey caramel to peek out, creating a delightful treat that’s perfect for sharing.

Make Ahead Options

These Apple Cider Whoopie Pie Cookies with Caramel are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by storing it in the refrigerator (this helps the flavors to meld beautifully). Simply scoop the dough onto baking sheets, cover, and chill. As for the baked cookies, they can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To keep the caramel filling fresh, prepare it ahead and refrigerate it for up to a week; just warm it slightly before using. When you’re ready to serve, simply assemble the cookies, and you’ll enjoy those delightful autumn flavors with minimal effort!

How to Store and Freeze Apple Cider Whoopie Pie Cookies

Fridge: Store assembled cookies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their soft texture and keeps the caramel filling fresh.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unfilled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Fill with caramel when ready to serve for the best taste.

Reheating: If you prefer warm cookies, reheat filled whoopie pies gently in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This will soften the cookies and warm the caramel without making them soggy.

Room Temperature: Assembled whoopie pies can be kept at room temperature for 1-2 days, but be sure to consume them quickly to avoid the caramel becoming too runny.

Apple Cider Whoopie Pie Cookies Variations

Feel free to get creative with these recipes, adding your personal touch to enhance flavor and texture!

Pumpkin Spice: Substitute the cinnamon and nutmeg with pumpkin spice for a cozy twist that screams fall. The blend of spices will elevate the seasonal vibe of these whoopie pies.
Chopped Nuts: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the dough for a delightful crunch. These nuts will not only add texture but also rich, nutty flavor with each bite.
Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream in the caramel filling for a dairy-free version, and swap butter with vegan margarine in the cookie dough for an all-inclusive treat.
Chocolate Drizzle: Add a drizzle of melted dark chocolate atop the assembled whoopie pies for an extra touch of decadence. The sweetness of chocolate complements the caramel beautifully.
Caramel Swirl: Mix a bit of the caramel into the cookie batter for a surprise flavor burst. As these bake, the caramel melts slightly, giving a deliciously gooey center.
Apple Filling: For a fruity punch, add small chunks of fresh apple mixed in with the cookie dough. It’ll add bursts of freshness that pair well with the caramel filling.
Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a little heat, add a dash of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the dry ingredients. This unexpected twist creates a delicious contrast to the sweet caramel.
Marshmallow Filling: Consider substituting the caramel filling with marshmallow fluff for a lighter, sweeter option. This fluffy filling can create an entirely new texture experience that’s oh-so-satisfying.

For more scrumptious recipes, don’t forget to try my Cajun Pasta with Sausage for a savory change or indulge in the rich flavors of a Beet Burrata Salad. Happy baking!

Expert Tips for Apple Cider Whoopie Pies

Soften Your Butter: Ensure your butter is at room temperature for creamy, fluffy dough. Cold butter leads to dense cookies instead of the tender Apple Cider Whoopie Pies you crave.
Measure Accurately: Use the spoon and level method for dry ingredients to avoid overly dense cookies. Too much flour can produce tough whoopie pies.
Don’t Overmix: Combine your wet and dry ingredients just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to gluten development, resulting in chewy cookies instead of soft, cake-like Apple Cider Whoopie Pie Cookies.
Watch the Bake Time: Remove the cookies from the oven when they’re still soft in the center; they will firm up while cooling. Overbaking results in dry cookies.
Cool Completely: Let the cookies cool completely before filling. This prevents the caramel from melting too quickly and allows for a better cookie sandwich experience.

What to Serve with Apple Cider Whoopie Pie Cookies with Caramel

Elevate your cozy fall gatherings with perfect pairings that enhance those rich, sweet flavors.

Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The smooth, cool texture contrasts beautifully with the warm whoopie pies, creating a delightful sensory experience.
Hot Apple Cider: This warm drink resonates with the apple notes in the cookies, making for a comforting, aromatic match perfect for chilly days.
Spiced Chai Latte: The aromatic spices in chai complement the cinnamon and nutmeg in the whoopie pies, enhancing the autumn feel of your meal.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds lightness and an airy texture to contrast the rich filling of the whoopie pies.
Candied Pecans: These crunchy, sweet nuts provide a lovely contrast in texture, enhancing the already delightful flavors of your cookies.
Pumpkin Soup: A warm bowl of pumpkin soup brings a savory balance to your dessert, making for an inviting fall feast.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the whoopie pies before serving for an indulgent finish that adds an extra layer of decadence.
Maple Syrup: A drizzle of maple syrup over the cookies adds a depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with the autumn essence of your whoopie pies.

Apple Cider Whoopie Pie Cookies with Caramel Recipe FAQs

What type of apples should I use for apple cider?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, opt for a mix of sweet and tart apples like Honeycrisp and Granny Smith. This balance brings out the richness in your whoopie pies, adding depth to the apple cider.

How should I store the assembled Apple Cider Whoopie Pie Cookies?
Store your assembled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping them covered is key to maintaining their soft texture and keeping the caramel filling deliciously gooey.

Can I freeze the Apple Cider Whoopie Pie Cookies?
Yes, you can! To freeze unfilled cookies, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply fill with caramel and let the cookies thaw at room temperature before serving.

What if my cookie dough is too dry or too wet?
No worries! If your dough is too dry, try adding a splash of apple cider, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the right consistency. If it’s too wet, mix in a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time, to balance it out. Just be sure not to overmix when adjusting!

Are these cookies suitable for anyone with nut allergies?
Yes, this recipe is free from nuts, making it a suitable treat for those with nut allergies. However, always double-check the ingredients, especially with pre-packaged items like caramel sauce, to ensure they are nut-free.

Can I make these whoopie pies vegan?
Certainly! You can replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg). Use dairy-free butter and coconut cream for the caramel, and your whoopie pies will be just as delightful and cruelty-free!