As the leaves turn golden and the chill of autumn fills the air, my kitchen transforms into a cozy haven, redolent with the scents of cinnamon and nutmeg. There’s something irresistibly enchanting about baking during this season, especially when it comes to creating Halloween Pumpkin Whoopie Pies. These delightful treats are like a bite-sized hug, featuring soft and fluffy pumpkin spice cakes that sandwich a luscious cream cheese filling.
I stumbled upon this joyful recipe while reminiscing about childhood Halloween festivities, and it quickly became a seasonal favorite in my home. Perfect for sharing during spooky gatherings or cozy movie nights, these whoopie pies deliver a whimsical mix of flavors and fun, bringing out the inner child in all of us. Say goodbye to mundane desserts and let these spooktacular delights elevate your fall baking!
Why Love These Pumpkin Whoopie Pies?
Comforting and delightful, these Pumpkin Whoopie Pies are the perfect homage to fall! Rich flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg create a warm, nostalgic experience, making each bite a seasonal treat. Easy to make, this recipe is approachable for bakers of any skill level, ensuring you can whip them up in no time. Whimsical in appearance, they add a fun touch to your Halloween gatherings, delighting both kids and adults alike. Tasty variations are a cinch to create—try adding chocolate chips for a twist or swapping the filling with flavored whipped cream for a unique touch! Check out our variation ideas to customize your spooky sweets!
Discover the Pumpkin Whoopie Pie Ingredients
Get ready to bake up a fall favorite!
For the Cake
- Canned Pumpkin Puree – Provides moisture and rich pumpkin flavor; make sure to use pure pumpkin puree, not pie filling.
- All-Purpose Flour – The backbone of your whoopie pies, creating the perfect sponge-like structure.
- Baking Soda & Baking Powder – Essential leaveners that ensure a light, fluffy texture for your cakes.
- Spices (Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Ginger) – Bring the cozy, warm flavors that define this delightful fall treat.
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness to the batter and enhances moisture for a soft texture.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens your whoopie pies perfectly, balancing the warmth of the spices.
For the Filling
- Powdered Sugar – Provides the desired sweetness and smoothness for your creamy filling.
- Cream Cheese – Offers a rich, tangy flavor that beautifully complements the pumpkin cake, elevating the overall taste experience.
Dive into baking these Pumpkin Whoopie Pies and enjoy the comfort of fall flavors in every bite!
How to Make Pumpkin Whoopie Pies
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper for easy removal of the whoopie pies after baking.
- Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger until well combined. This will ensure even distribution of the spices!
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter with granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Then, add in the canned pumpkin puree and mix until combined.
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Be careful not to overmix—just combine until you see no dry flour left. This keeps your cakes tender and fluffy!
- Scoop & Bake: Using a tablespoon, scoop dollops of the batter onto your lined baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between them. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until they spring back lightly when touched.
- Make the Filling: Once your cake cookies have cooled completely, whip together cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Sandwich the filling between two whoopie pie halves, creating delicious treats!
Optional: Dust with additional powdered sugar for a sweet finishing touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Whoopie Pies
- Soften Butter: Ensure your unsalted butter is at room temperature for easy creaming with sugar, ensuring your whoopie pies are fluffy and moist.
- Don’t Overmix: After combining wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can make your pumpkin whoopie pies tough instead of tender.
- Cool Completely: Allow the whoopie cakes to cool fully before adding the cream cheese filling. This prevents the filling from melting into the cakes and ensures a delightful texture.
- Use Pure Pumpkin: Make sure to use pure canned pumpkin puree rather than pumpkin pie filling, as the latter contains added sugars and spices that can alter the recipe.
- Space Them Out: When scooping dollops onto the baking sheet, leave enough space between them to allow for spreading during baking—this helps create those lovely rounded shapes!
Make Ahead Options
These Pumpkin Whoopie Pies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the whoopie pie cakes up to 24 hours in advance by baking them and allowing them to cool completely. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their moisture and softness. The cream cheese filling can also be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your delightful treats, simply sandwich the filling between the cakes. This way, you’ll have fresh-tasting whoopie pies with minimal effort, making your autumn gatherings a breeze!
What to Serve with Pumpkin Whoopie Pies?
Indulge in a delightful array of pairings that enhance your seasonal adventure with flavors and textures.
- Warm Apple Cider: A classic fall drink, its sweet and spiced notes perfectly complement the rich flavors of pumpkin.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy and cool, it contrasts well with the fluffy whoopie pies, creating a delightful harmony of temperatures.
Pair your pumpkin treats with homemade caramel popcorn for a sweet crunch—it’s like a cozy blanket of nostalgia on chilly evenings.
- Nutty Brownies: Their fudgy richness balances the fluffy whoopie pies, making for a satisfyingly indulgent dessert spread.
- Sweet Cream Cheese Dip: A creamy, sweet dip adds a fun twist, perfect for pairing with apple slices or graham crackers alongside whoopie pies.
Don’t forget to pair them with a hot chocolate topped with whipped cream for a cozy, indulgent treat during movie nights.
- Pumpkin Spice Latte: This seasonal favorite elevates the pumpkin experience, showcasing the fall flavors in a comforting drink form.
- Ginger Snap Cookies: Their spicy crunch contrasts beautifully with the soft whoopie pies, adding variety to your dessert platter.
Serve these alongside a warm cup of your favorite tea for a picture-perfect autumn afternoon treat!
Pumpkin Whoopie Pie Variations
Elevate your baking experience with delightful twists that will surprise and delight your taste buds!
- Chocolate Chip: Fold in semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for a rich, sweet surprise in every bite. The blend of pumpkin and chocolate creates a heavenly experience!
- Nutty Addition: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a delightful crunch that perfectly complements the soft whoopie pies. These nutty bites bring an added layer of texture, making every nibble more interesting.
- Dairy-Free: Swap cream cheese for a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and use coconut oil instead of butter for a delicious vegan twist on this classic dessert. It maintains the creaminess that everyone loves while catering to dietary needs.
- Spiced Maple Filling: Stir in maple syrup and a dash of cinnamon for a unique twist on the traditional cream cheese filling. This adds a deliciously sweet and aromatic flavor reminiscent of fall mornings.
- Red Velvet Twist: Replace pumpkin with equal parts red velvet cake mix for a spooky Halloween-themed treat that will have everyone talking! The vibrant color adds an extra festive touch to your gathering.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these whoopie pies suitable for gluten-sensitive guests. The flavors will remain intact, ensuring no one misses out on the deliciousness!
- Pumpkin Spice Latte: Mix instant espresso powder into the filling to bring a coffee kick to your whoopie pies! This delightful addition will make your pumpkin treats cozy and perfect for your morning coffee break.
- Fiery Flavor: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the batter for an unexpected kick of heat. This bold variation brings a unique flavor adventure that pairs exquisitely with the sweetness of the filling.
How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Whoopie Pies
- Room Temperature: Store your pumpkin whoopie pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them soft and fresh.
- Fridge: If you need a little extra time, refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to a week. Just let them come to room temperature before enjoying!
- Freezer: For longer storage, individually wrap each whoopie pie in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: To revive the tasty treat, simply let them thaw in the fridge overnight or microwave one for about 10-15 seconds, just until softened.
Pumpkin Whoopie Pies Recipe FAQs
What type of pumpkin puree should I use?
Absolutely! You should use pure canned pumpkin puree for the best results. Avoid pumpkin pie filling, as it contains added sugars and spices that may alter the flavor and texture of your whoopie pies.
How should I store my leftover whoopie pies?
Store your pumpkin whoopie pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them soft and fresh. If you need to keep them longer, refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to a week. Just let them warm to room temperature before enjoying!
Can I freeze pumpkin whoopie pies? How?
Very! Freezing your pumpkin whoopie pies is a great option if you want to enjoy them later. Individually wrap each whoopie pie in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To enjoy, let them thaw in the fridge overnight, or microwave one for about 10-15 seconds until just softened.
What if my whoopie pie batter is too thick?
If your batter seems too thick, don’t panic! Sometimes, additional moisture is needed. You can add a tablespoon of milk or extra pumpkin puree to loosen the batter slightly. Be cautious not to add too much at once; aim for a thick yet scoopable consistency.
Are pumpkin whoopie pies safe for pets?
While pumpkin itself is safe for dogs in moderation, you should avoid giving your pets whoopie pies. The cream cheese filling contains sugar and other ingredients that may not be good for them. If you want to share the pumpkin goodness, a spoonful of pure pumpkin puree is a much better option!
Irresistibly Soft Pumpkin Whoopie Pies: A Fall Delight
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment Paper
- Whisk
- spoon
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 1 cup Canned Pumpkin Puree Use pure pumpkin puree, not pie filling
- 2 cups All-Purpose Flour
- 1 teaspoon Baking Soda
- 1 teaspoon Baking Powder
- 1 teaspoon Cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon Nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon Ginger
- 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter Softened
- 1 cup Granulated Sugar
For the Filling
- 1 cup Powdered Sugar
- 8 ounces Cream Cheese Softened
Instructions
Baking Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter with granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the canned pumpkin puree and mix until combined.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
- Using a tablespoon, scoop dollops of the batter onto your lined baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between them. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until they spring back lightly when touched.
- Cool completely, then whip together cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Sandwich the filling between two whoopie pie halves.
Notes
Nutrition
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