Apple Cider Whoopie Pie cookies with Caramel Filling

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that captures the essence of fall, you’ve come to the right place! These Apple Cider Whoopie Pie cookies with Caramel Filling are not only delicious but also remind me of crisp autumn days and cozy gatherings. The combination of spiced apple cider in soft, cake-like cookies paired with a luscious caramel filling is simply irresistible. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or family get-togethers, making it a favorite in my home.

I especially love how these whoopie pies bring everyone together—they’re great for sharing at parties or enjoying with a warm cup of tea. Once you take your first bite, you’ll understand why this recipe holds a special place in my heart.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and ingredients, these cookies come together quickly, making baking a breeze.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves the sweet and spiced flavors—perfect for kids and adults alike!
• Versatile Treat: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or an everyday snack, these whoopie pies fit any occasion.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the cookies in advance and fill them just before serving for maximum freshness.
• Deliciously Unique: The blend of apple cider and spices offers a delightful twist on classic desserts.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients to make these delightful Apple Cider Whoopie Pie cookies with Caramel Filling. You might have most of these items in your kitchen already!

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)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add Chocolate Chips: Toss in some mini chocolate chips to the batter for an extra sweet surprise.
• Use Different Fillings: Swap out caramel for cream cheese frosting or even a chocolate ganache for your filling.
• Try Different Spices: Experiment with spices like ginger or cardamom for a unique flavor twist.
• Make Them Mini: Create smaller versions by using less dough per cookie—perfect for bite-sized treats!

How to Make Apple Cider Whoopie Pie cookies with Caramel Filling

Step 1: Prepare the Apple Cider

Start by reducing your apple cider. Pour one cup into a saucepan over medium heat and let it simmer until it reduces down to about ¼ cup. This step concentrates the flavor and sweetness of the cider, which is essential for our cookies.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. This blends all those lovely spices evenly throughout your cookies and ensures they rise beautifully.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, beat together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This step adds air into your mix, creating tender cookies that melt in your mouth.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

Add the egg and vanilla extract to your butter mixture. Then pour in the reduced apple cider. Mix well until everything is combined nicely. The combination will give your whoopie pies that lovely apple flavor we crave!

Step 5: Blend Together

Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want soft cookies!

Step 6: Bake Your Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Scoop out tablespoon-sized dollops of dough onto lined baking sheets. Bake them for about 10 minutes or until they’re set but still soft. Let them cool completely before adding filling.

Step 7: Make the Caramel Filling

In a mixing bowl, beat together softened butter and powdered sugar. Add in whole milk, reduced apple cider, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Whip until smooth and creamy—this filling will be heavenly!

Step 8: Assemble Your Whoopie Pies

Once your cookies have cooled completely, spread or pipe caramel filling onto half of them before topping with another cookie. If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle flaky sea salt on top!

Now you have perfect Apple Cider Whoopie Pie cookies with Caramel Filling ready to enjoy! These treats are sure to become favorites at every gathering.

Pro Tips for Making Apple Cider Whoopie Pie Cookies with Caramel Filling

Baking these delightful whoopie pies is a joy, and a few handy tips can make your experience even better!

• Use fresh apple cider – Opting for fresh cider enhances the flavor of your cookies, providing a more robust apple essence that pairs perfectly with the spices.

• Chill the dough – Allowing the dough to chill for about 30 minutes before baking helps to firm it up, resulting in a thicker, chewier cookie that holds its shape beautifully when baked.

• Don’t skip reducing the cider – Reducing apple cider intensifies its sweetness and flavor. This concentrated essence will elevate both your cookie batter and caramel filling.

• Experiment with spices – Feel free to adjust the spices based on your preference! Adding a touch more cinnamon or nutmeg can create a flavor profile that’s uniquely yours.

• Let them cool properly – Patience is key! Allowing the cookies to cool completely before filling them ensures that they maintain their structure and prevents the filling from melting away.

How to Serve Apple Cider Whoopie Pie Cookies with Caramel Filling

These whoopie pies are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s an autumn gathering or a cozy dessert after dinner. Present them beautifully to impress your guests!

Garnishes

• Flaky sea salt: A sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top of each pie adds a delightful contrast to the sweet caramel filling.
• Chopped nuts: Crushed pecans or walnuts can add a lovely crunch and extra flavor when sprinkled on top or mixed into the filling.
• Cinnamon dust: A light dusting of ground cinnamon over the finished pies enhances their aromatic quality and looks appealing.

Side Dishes

• Warm apple cider: Serve these cookies alongside warm apple cider for a comforting fall-themed pairing that complements the flavors beautifully.
• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream offers a creamy counterpart to the chewy texture of whoopie pies, creating a delightful contrast.
• Pumpkin soup: A bowl of creamy pumpkin soup provides a savory balance to the sweetness of the cookies, making for an inviting meal.
• Spiced chai: Enjoying these treats with a cup of spiced chai tea brings out all those lovely warming spices in both dishes, creating a cozy atmosphere.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Apple Cider Whoopie Pie cookies with Caramel Filling are sure to be both delicious and visually stunning! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Apple Cider Whoopie Pie cookies with Caramel Filling are perfect for meal prep. You can make them ahead of time and store them, allowing you to enjoy these delightful treats at your convenience.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any uneaten whoopie pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you prefer a firmer filling, refrigerate the whoopie pies for up to one week.
• Allow the cookies to come to room temperature before serving if stored in the fridge.

Freezing

• To freeze, place the assembled whoopie pies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before enjoying.

Reheating

• If you want to enjoy a warm whoopie pie, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-7 minutes.
• Alternatively, you can microwave one whoopie pie for about 10-15 seconds, but be cautious not to overheat it.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Apple Cider Whoopie Pie cookies with Caramel Filling:

Can I use store-bought apple cider for this recipe?

Yes! Store-bought apple cider works wonderfully as long as you reduce it down to the specified amount in the recipe.

How do I make these Apple Cider Whoopie Pie cookies with Caramel Filling gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that measures cup-for-cup. Make sure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

What can I use instead of caramel sauce?

If you’re looking for an alternative to caramel sauce, consider using homemade caramel or even a chocolate ganache for a different flavor twist!

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the whoopie pies?

Absolutely! Chopped nuts or chocolate chips can be added to the cookie batter before baking for extra texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

These Apple Cider Whoopie Pie cookies with Caramel Filling are more than just a treat; they’re a cozy reminder of fall flavors that bring warmth and joy. I hope you find delight in baking these delicious cookies, whether it’s for a special occasion or just because. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share this recipe with friends and family. Happy baking!