Pumpkin Whoopie Pies with Maple-Spice Filling Magic
If you’re craving a cozy fall treat that combines soft, pillowy textures with warm, seasonal spices, these Pumpkin Whoopie Pies with Maple-Spice Filling are an absolute must-try. Delight in soft Pumpkin Whoopie Pies with Maple-Spice Filling, perfect for cozy fall treats bursting with warm, seasonal flavors that everyone will adore. This recipe beautifully balances the rich earthiness of pumpkin with a luscious maple-spiced cream that creates a comforting and indulgent dessert perfect for chilly afternoons or festive gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistibly Soft Texture: The pumpkin-infused cake is tender and moist, melting in your mouth with every bite.
- Seasonal Spice Harmony: Warm notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves make these whoopie pies the embodiment of fall flavors.
- Maple-Spice Filling Magic: A creamy filling infused with real maple syrup adds the perfect sweet and spiced balance.
- Perfect Portion Control: These individual-sized treats are easy to share and great for holiday parties or cozy nights at home.
- Simple but Impressive: Despite looking and tasting gourmet, this recipe is surprisingly easy for bakers of all levels.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in creating the iconic texture and flavor that make Pumpkin Whoopie Pies with Maple-Spice Filling so special. From the richness of pumpkin to the aromatic spices and the creamy, sweet filling, these elements come together effortlessly to create a memorable treat.
- Pure Pumpkin Puree: Adds moisture, natural sweetness, and that rich orange color essential for fall.
- All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure and softness to the cake rounds.
- Baking Soda & Baking Powder: Leavening agents that ensure light, fluffy texture.
- Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Cloves: Classic fall spices that warm up the flavor profile beautifully.
- Brown Sugar: Adds depth with its molasses notes and keeps the cakes tender.
- Butter and Vegetable Oil: A combo that balances richness and moisture.
- Eggs: Bind the ingredients with added moisture and structure.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a sweet, aromatic touch.
- Powdered Sugar: Key for smooth, creamy filling with just the right sweetness.
- Pure Maple Syrup: Infuses the filling with cozy, natural sweetness and spice.
- Cream Cheese or Butter: Makes the filling velvety and balanced in richness.
Variations for Pumpkin Whoopie Pies with Maple-Spice Filling
Feel free to customize this recipe to make it your own or to accommodate what you have in your pantry or dietary preferences. These variations are simple swaps or additions to enhance the flavor or texture without any fuss.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make the whoopie pies accessible to those with gluten sensitivities.
- Vegan Version: Substitute flax eggs and vegan butter or coconut oil, swapping cream cheese for a dairy-free alternative.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of ground ginger or cardamom to the batter for an extra kick of warmth.
- Chocolate Twist: Mix cocoa powder into the batter for a delightful chocolate-pumpkin fusion.
- Nutty Crunch: Incorporate finely chopped toasted pecans or walnuts into the filling or sprinkle on top for added texture.
How to Make Pumpkin Whoopie Pies with Maple-Spice Filling
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
Start by whisking together all your dry ingredients, including the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and warm spices in one bowl. In a separate bowl, cream together the butter, vegetable oil, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Then, beat in the eggs, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract until fully combined. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet, mixing gently until you have a smooth, thick batter.
Step 2: Bake the Whoopie Pie Rounds
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Using a cookie scoop or spoon, dollop the batter onto parchment-lined baking sheets, spacing them evenly. Bake for about 12 to 15 minutes, or until the edges are set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the rounds to cool completely on a wire rack before assembling.
Step 3: Make the Maple-Spice Filling
While the whoopie pies are cooling, prepare the filling by beating together cream cheese (or butter), powdered sugar, pure maple syrup, a pinch of cinnamon, and a splash of vanilla extract. Whip until light, fluffy, and spreadable, adjusting the sweetness or consistency by adding more powdered sugar or maple syrup if needed.
Step 4: Assemble the Pumpkin Whoopie Pies with Maple-Spice Filling
Once cooled, spread a generous spoonful of the maple-spice filling onto the flat side of one whoopie pie round. Top it with another round to form a sandwich. Press gently to spread the filling evenly to the edges. Repeat with remaining rounds.
Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Whoopie Pies with Maple-Spice Filling
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensures smoother batter and filling for better texture and flavor melding.
- Do Not Overmix: Combining wet and dry ingredients just until blended keeps the whoopie pies light and fluffy.
- Let Rounds Cool Completely: This prevents the filling from melting and sliding off during assembly.
- Adjust Spices to Taste: Feel free to increase or decrease spice amounts for your ideal fall flavor profile.
- Use Pure Maple Syrup: It makes all the difference in sweetness quality and depth of the filling.
How to Serve Pumpkin Whoopie Pies with Maple-Spice Filling
Garnishes
Top your Pumpkin Whoopie Pies with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a few crushed toasted pecans to enhance their autumnal charm and add a touch of texture and visual appeal.
Side Dishes
Pair these whoopie pies with warm beverages like spiced chai tea, hot apple cider, or a creamy latte to complement the cozy flavors and elevate your treat experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Stack whoopie pies on a festive platter lined with autumn leaves or serve them in rustic muffin liners for charming individual servings perfect for fall parties or holiday gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store assembled Pumpkin Whoopie Pies with Maple-Spice Filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to keep them fresh and delicious.
Freezing
Freeze the whoopie pie rounds separately for up to 3 months on a parchment-lined tray, then wrap tightly once frozen. Freeze completed whoopie pies for up to 1 month, wrapped in plastic and foil. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating
Allow refrigerated or thawed whoopie pies to come to room temperature before eating. If preferred warm, microwave for 10-15 seconds, but be cautious not to melt the filling.
FAQs
Can I use canned pumpkin for this recipe?
Yes, canned pumpkin puree works perfectly and is in fact the most convenient option for making Pumpkin Whoopie Pies with Maple-Spice Filling.
Are these whoopie pies suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! Both the rounds and fully assembled pies freeze well, making them an excellent make-ahead treat.
Can I substitute the cream cheese in the filling?
Yes, you can replace cream cheese with butter for a simpler filling or use dairy-free alternatives for dietary needs.
How do I prevent the filling from being too runny?
Adjust the powdered sugar amount to thicken the filling if it feels too loose; chilling it slightly before assembly also helps.
What is the best way to store whoopie pies if I’m taking them to a party?
Keep them chilled in an airtight container and transport them in a cooler bag to maintain freshness and structure.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly heartwarming about Pumpkin Whoopie Pies with Maple-Spice Filling that captures the essence of fall in every bite. Whether you’re sharing them with loved ones or enjoying a quiet moment with your favorite warm drink, these treats bring cozy comfort in the best way. Give this recipe a try, and let the magic of pumpkin and maple spice brighten your autumn baking adventures.
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Pumpkin Whoopie Pies with Maple-Spice Filling
Cozy Pumpkin Whoopie Pies with Maple-Spice Filling combine soft, moist pumpkin cake rounds infused with warm fall spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, sandwiched with a luscious maple-spiced cream cheese filling. These individual-sized treats are perfect for fall gatherings, offering a perfect balance of rich pumpkin flavor and sweet maple cream with an irresistibly tender texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 whoopie pies 1x
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free (with gluten-free flour substitution option)
Ingredients
For the Pumpkin Whoopie Pie Rounds
- 1 cup pure pumpkin puree
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup butter, softened
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Maple-Spice Filling
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened (or butter)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar, sifted
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Batter: Whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves in a bowl. In a separate large bowl, cream the softened butter, vegetable oil, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract until fully combined. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing gently until smooth and thick.
- Bake the Whoopie Pie Rounds: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Using a cookie scoop or spoon, dollop the batter onto the sheets, spacing evenly. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until edges are set and a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely on a wire rack.
- Make the Maple-Spice Filling: Beat together softened cream cheese (or butter), powdered sugar, maple syrup, cinnamon, and vanilla extract until light, fluffy, and spreadable. Adjust sweetness or consistency by adding more powdered sugar or maple syrup if needed.
- Assemble the Pumpkin Whoopie Pies: Spread a generous spoonful of filling onto the flat side of one cooled whoopie pie round. Top with another round, pressing gently to spread the filling evenly to the edges. Repeat with remaining rounds.
Notes
- Use room temperature ingredients for smoother batter and filling.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep it light and fluffy.
- Allow whoopie pie rounds to cool completely before assembling to prevent filling from melting.
- Adjust spice amounts to your taste for customized fall flavors.
- Use pure maple syrup for the best sweetness and flavor depth in the filling.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 whoopie pie
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 35 mg
Keywords: Pumpkin, Whoopie Pies, Maple-Spice Filling, Fall Dessert, Autumn Treat, Pumpkin Spice, Maple Syrup, Soft Cake, Cream Cheese Filling
