Introduction
Embrace the cozy flavors of autumn with our Pumpkin Spice Whoopie Pies, where the warmth of pumpkin, the spice of cinnamon, and the sweetness of cream cheese filling come together in a delightful handheld treat. These whoopie pies are not just a dessert; they’re a celebration of fall’s most beloved flavors. Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering, planning a Thanksgiving dessert spread, or simply craving a taste of the season, these whoopie pies promise a mouthful of pumpkin-spiced bliss.
For Whom and Why?
Pumpkin Spice Whoopie Pies are designed for those who want to savor the essence of fall in a portable and delectable form. Perfect for pumpkin enthusiasts, fall bakers, or anyone looking to add a touch of spice to their dessert repertoire, these whoopie pies offer a perfect blend of comforting flavors. The moist and spiced pumpkin cakes sandwiched with a luscious cream cheese filling create a treat that is both visually appealing and irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients
For the Pumpkin Spice Cakes:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cream Cheese Filling:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions
Making the Pumpkin Spice Cakes:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add canned pumpkin, egg, and vanilla extract, beating until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Drop tablespoon-sized portions of batter onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set. Allow the cakes to cool completely.
Making the Cream Cheese Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until the filling is creamy and well combined.
Assembling the Whoopie Pies:
- Match up the cooled pumpkin spice cakes in pairs of similar sizes.
- Spoon or pipe a generous dollop of cream cheese filling onto the flat side of one cake.
- Place the flat side of another cake on top of the filling to create a sandwich.
- Repeat the process with the remaining cakes and filling.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
Ensure you have the following tools for a successful whoopie pie creation:
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Piping bag or spoon for filling
Tips and Shortcuts
- Quick Filling: Use store-bought cream cheese frosting as a time-saving alternative for the filling.
- Uniform Sizes: Use a cookie scoop or piping bag to ensure consistent sizes for the whoopie pie cakes.
Recipe Swaps and Variations
Customize your Pumpkin Spice Whoopie Pies to suit your taste:
- Maple Twist: Add a teaspoon of maple extract to the cream cheese filling for a hint of autumn sweetness.
- Pecan Crunch: Roll the edges of the filled whoopie pies in chopped pecans for added texture.
How to Store Leftovers
If, by some miracle, there are leftover whoopie pies, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Bring them to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Food and Drink Pairings
Pair these Pumpkin Spice Whoopie Pies with a cup of spiced chai tea for the ultimate fall indulgence. The warm spices in the tea complement the pumpkin flavors, creating a cozy and delightful combination.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
A: Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree. Ensure it’s well-drained and has a similar consistency to canned puree.
Q: Can I freeze the whoopie pies?
A: Absolutely! Freeze the assembled whoopie pies in an airtight container for up to a month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Q: Can I make the cakes ahead of time?
A: Certainly! Bake the pumpkin spice cakes in advance and store them in an airtight container. Fill them with the cream cheese filling just before serving for the freshest taste.
Conclusion and Call to Action
In conclusion, these Pumpkin Spice Whoopie Pies are a delightful way to celebrate the flavors of fall. Share your baking adventures on social media and subscribe to our blog for more seasonal recipes that bring warmth to your kitchen. Happy baking!