Pumpkin whoopie pies are a delightful fall treat that combines the warm, comforting flavors of pumpkin spice with a soft, cake-like texture. These sweet, creamy-filled cakes are perfect for any autumn occasion, from Halloween parties to Thanksgiving desserts. Whoopie pies, often described as a cross between cookies and cakes, offer a unique way to enjoy seasonal flavors in a fun and portable format. With their soft pumpkin spice cake and luscious cream filling, they are sure to become a favorite for both kids and adults.
Making pumpkin whoopie pies is a straightforward process that yields impressive results. This recipe is designed to guide you through each step, from mixing the ingredients to baking the pies and assembling them with a delicious cream cheese filling. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe will help you create a batch of whoopie pies that are as tasty as they are beautiful.
Ingredients for Easy Pumpkin Whoopie Pies
For the Pumpkin Cake:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour – Provides the structure for the whoopie pies and helps achieve the right texture.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder – Leavens the cakes, making them light and fluffy.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda – Helps the cakes rise and become tender.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Adds a warm, spicy flavor characteristic of pumpkin desserts.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger – Enhances the spiciness and adds depth to the flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves – Contributes to the warm, aromatic spices in the whoopie pies.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature – Adds richness and helps create a tender crumb.
- 1 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the cakes and contributes to their moist texture.
- 1 cup packed brown sugar – Provides a deeper, molasses-like sweetness.
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree – The star ingredient, adding moisture and a rich pumpkin flavor.
- 2 large eggs – Bind the ingredients together and help with the structure.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor of the cakes.
For the Cream Cheese Filling:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature – Creates a creamy, smooth filling.
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened – Adds richness and tanginess to the filling.
- 4 cups powdered sugar – Sweetens the filling and gives it a smooth texture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor of the filling.
How to Make Easy Pumpkin Whoopie Pies
1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheets:
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to preheat.
- Line Baking Sheets: Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. This helps prevent the whoopie pies from sticking and ensures even baking.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger, 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Set aside.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugars:
- Beat the Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat 1/2 cup unsalted butter with 1 cup granulated sugar and 1 cup packed brown sugar until light and fluffy. This process should take about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add Pumpkin and Eggs:
- Incorporate Pumpkin and Eggs: Add 1 cup canned pumpkin puree and 2 large eggs to the butter-sugar mixture. Beat until well combined. Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to dense cakes.
6. Scoop and Bake:
- Scoop the Batter: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded spoonfuls of batter onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. The batter will spread slightly, so make sure to leave enough room between each dollop.
- Bake the Cakes: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers are just firm to the touch. The cakes should spring back slightly when touched.
7. Cool the Cakes:
- Cool on Wire Racks: Allow the whoopie pies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
8. Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling:
- Beat the Butter and Cream Cheese: In a medium bowl, beat 1/2 cup unsalted butter and 8 ounces softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Add Powdered Sugar and Vanilla: Gradually add 4 cups powdered sugar, beating until fully incorporated. Mix in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
9. Assemble the Whoopie Pies:
- Frost the Whoopie Pies: Once the cakes have cooled completely, spread or pipe a generous amount of cream cheese filling onto the flat side of one cake. Top with another cake to form a sandwich. Press down gently to spread the filling to the edges.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the Whoopie Pies: Enjoy the whoopie pies immediately, or store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just make sure to separate them with parchment paper before freezing.
About the Main Ingredients
Pumpkin Puree
Canned pumpkin puree is the key ingredient in these whoopie pies, giving them their distinctive flavor and moist texture. It is made from cooked and pureed pumpkin and is a staple in many fall recipes. Ensure you use pure pumpkin puree and not pumpkin pie filling, which contains additional spices and sweeteners.
Unsalted Butter
Unsalted butter provides the necessary fat for both the cakes and the filling, contributing to their rich flavor and tender texture. It is essential to use room-temperature butter for easy mixing and to achieve the right consistency.
Cream Cheese
Cream cheese is used in the filling to add a creamy, tangy flavor that complements the sweetness of the whoopie pies. It should be softened to ensure it mixes smoothly with the butter and powdered sugar.
Spices
Ground cinnamon, ginger, and cloves are essential for creating the warm, aromatic flavor profile of the pumpkin whoopie pies. These spices are traditional in fall baking and enhance the pumpkin’s natural sweetness.
These easy pumpkin whoopie pies are a delicious and festive treat perfect for celebrating the flavors of fall. With their soft pumpkin cake and rich cream cheese filling, they offer a delightful contrast in texture and flavor. Follow the steps outlined in this recipe to create a batch of whoopie pies that will impress your family and friends. Whether you’re serving them at a holiday gathering or enjoying them as a cozy snack, these whoopie pies are sure to be a hit. Enjoy the process of baking and savor every bite of these delightful autumn treats!
