Pumpkin Whoopie Pies
Are you a fan of delicious fall treats? Look no further than Pumpkin Whoopie Pies! These delightful desserts are a perfect combination of soft, cake-like cookies and creamy, spiced filling. In this article, we will explore the history of Pumpkin Whoopie Pies, share some tips on how to make them, and discuss their popularity among both kids and adults. Get ready to indulge in this seasonal delight!
The History of Pumpkin Whoopie Pies
Pumpkin Whoopie Pies have a rich history that dates back to the Amish and Pennsylvania Dutch communities. Legend has it that these treats were originally made from leftover cake batter. The name “Whoopie Pie” is said to come from the exclamation of delight when someone discovered these delicious sandwiches. Over time, Pumpkin Whoopie Pies have become a beloved fall dessert, enjoyed by many during Halloween and Thanksgiving.
Making Pumpkin Whoopie Pies
Making Pumpkin Whoopie Pies is a fun and rewarding experience. The process begins by mixing together the dry ingredients, such as flour, baking powder, and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. In a separate bowl, the wet ingredients, including pumpkin puree and eggs, are combined. The two mixtures are then combined to create a smooth batter. The batter is dropped onto a baking sheet and baked until the cookies are soft and fluffy. Once cooled, a delicious cream cheese filling is sandwiched between two cookies, creating the perfect Pumpkin Whoopie Pie.
Pumpkin Whoopie Pies for All Ages
Pumpkin Whoopie Pies are a dessert that appeals to both kids and adults. Children love the soft texture of the cookies and the sweet cream cheese filling, while adults appreciate the nostalgic flavors and the warmth of the fall spices. This is a treat that can be enjoyed by the whole family, whether it’s served as an after-school snack or as a grand finale to a holiday feast. So why not gather your loved ones and share the joy of Pumpkin Whoopie Pies together?
FAQs about Pumpkin Whoopie Pies
1. Can I use canned pumpkin puree for Pumpkin Whoopie Pies?
Yes, canned pumpkin puree works perfectly fine for this recipe. Just make sure it’s 100% pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling.
2. How long do Pumpkin Whoopie Pies stay fresh?
When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, Pumpkin Whoopie Pies can stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
3. Can I freeze Pumpkin Whoopie Pies?
Yes, you can freeze Pumpkin Whoopie Pies. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.
4. Can I make Pumpkin Whoopie Pies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the cookies and filling in advance and assemble the Pumpkin Whoopie Pies just before serving. This makes them a convenient dessert option for gatherings and parties.
5. Can I use a different filling for Pumpkin Whoopie Pies?
While traditional Pumpkin Whoopie Pies use cream cheese filling, you can experiment with different fillings like marshmallow fluff or chocolate ganache for a unique twist.
6. Are Pumpkin Whoopie Pies gluten-free?
By using gluten-free flour and ensuring all other ingredients are gluten-free, you can make Pumpkin Whoopie Pies that are suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
7. Can I add nuts or raisins to the Pumpkin Whoopie Pie batter?
Yes, you can add chopped nuts or raisins to the batter for added texture and flavor. Just make sure to fold them in gently.
8. Are there any vegan alternatives for Pumpkin Whoopie Pies?
Yes, you can find vegan recipes for Pumpkin Whoopie Pies that use plant-based ingredients such as almond milk and vegan cream cheese for the filling.
In Conclusion
Pumpkin Whoopie Pies are a delightful fall treat that brings joy to both kids and adults. Whether you’re making them for a festive gathering or simply enjoying them as a sweet indulgence, these sandwich-like cookies are sure to satisfy your cravings. With their rich history and versatility, Pumpkin Whoopie Pies have become a beloved dessert that captures the essence of the autumn season. So, why not try making them yourself and experience the delight of Pumpkin Whoopie Pies firsthand?
Pumpkin Whoopie Pies
Ingredients
- 3 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- 1 teaspoon of baking soda
- 2 tablespoons of cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon of ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon of ground cloves
- 2 cups of packed dark-brown sugar
- 1 cup of vegetable oil
- 3 cups of chilled pumpkin puree
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 3 cups of confectioners
sugar - 1/2 cup (1 stick) of unsalted butter , softened
- 8 ounces of cream cheese , softened
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves. Set aside.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the brown sugar and oil until well combined. Add the pumpkin puree and whisk until thoroughly combined. Then, add the eggs and vanilla and whisk until combined.
- Sprinkle the flour mixture over the pumpkin mixture and whisk until completely combined.
- Use a medium ice cream scoop with a release mechanism to drop the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about one inch apart.
- Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, until the cookies start to crack on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool completely on the pan.
- For the Cream Cheese Filling: Sift the confectioners' sugar into a medium bowl and set aside.
- In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the butter until smooth. Add the cream cheese and beat until combined.
- Add the confectioners' sugar and vanilla and beat until smooth. Do not overbeat the filling.
- Assembling the Whoopie Pies: Turn half of the cooled cookies upside down.
- Use an ice cream scoop or a tablespoon to drop a large dollop of filling onto the flat
