As the days grow shorter and cooler, my kitchen transforms into a cozy haven filled with the rich scents of autumn. There’s something undeniably heartwarming about whipping up a batch of Maple Pumpkin Whoopie Pies—each bite is like a hug wrapped in sweetness. These delightful treats are not only a feast for the senses, but they also serve as the perfect antidote to fast-food monotony.
I remember the first time I served these whoopie pies at a gathering; they disappeared faster than any other dessert on the table! With layers of soft, spiced pumpkin cake nestled around a creamy, maple-infused filling, they embody everything we love about fall. Whether you’re celebrating a festive occasion or just looking to indulge on a cozy night in, this easy recipe is bound to impress. Let’s dive into making these moorish delights that are sure to become a staple in your dessert repertoire.
Why You'll Love This Maple Pumpkin Whoopie Pies
- These Maple Pumpkin Whoopie Pies are incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple steps and minimal effort.
- The delightful combination of spiced pumpkin cake and creamy maple filling delivers a flavor that perfectly captures the essence of fall.
- Their versatility makes them suitable for any occasion, whether it's a festive gathering or a quiet evening at home.
- Visually, they are a treat for the eyes, with their fluffy texture and inviting colors making them a charming addition to any dessert table.
Maple Pumpkin Whoopie Pie Ingredients
• Discover the essentials for your delicious Maple Pumpkin Whoopie Pies!
For the Cake
- All-purpose flour – essential for structure and stability in your whoopie pies.
- Baking powder – helps the cakes rise, ensuring they are light and fluffy.
- Baking soda – works with the acidity of the pumpkin puree for a nice lift.
- Salt – balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
- Pumpkin pie spice – adds a warm, autumnal flavor that compliments the pumpkin perfectly.
- Canned pumpkin puree – brings moisture and that classic pumpkin taste you love.
- Brown sugar – imparts a rich flavor and adds moisture to the cake.
- Granulated sugar – sweetens the batter while helping to create a tender texture.
- Vegetable oil – keeps the cakes moist without adding any flavor interference.
- Large eggs – binds the ingredients together, providing structure and richness.
- Vanilla extract – enhances the sweetness and rounds out the flavor profile.
For the Filling
- Cream cheese – creates a rich, creamy base for your delicious filling.
- Unsalted butter – adds smoothness and richness to the texture.
- Maple syrup – infuses the filling with a delightful sweetness and warm maple flavor.
- Vanilla extract – complements the maple, giving a lovely aromatic quality.
- Powdered sugar – sweetens the filling while giving it the right consistency for easy spreading or piping.
How to Make Maple Pumpkin Whoopie Pies
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare two baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper for easy removal later.
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Whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and pumpkin pie spice in a mixing bowl. This dry mixture is essential for a light and fluffy cake.
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Combine the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and oil in a separate bowl. Beat in the eggs and vanilla until everything is well blended and smooth.
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Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your cakes light and airy!
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Scoop dollops of batter onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This allows them to spread without touching during baking.
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Bake for 11–13 minutes, or until the tops spring back when gently pressed. Allow them to cool completely on a wire rack.
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Make the filling: In a bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add the maple syrup and vanilla, then gradually mix in the powdered sugar until creamy and spreadable.
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Assemble the whoopie pies by spreading or piping the filling onto one half of a cooled cake. Sandwich it with another cake to create a delightful treat.
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Repeat the process with the remaining cakes until all are filled and assembled. Enjoy these scrumptious little delights!
Optional: Dust with a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra touch of fall flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Maple Pumpkin Whoopie Pies are perfect for busy bakers who want to save time! You can prepare the whoopie pie cakes up to 24 hours in advance by baking them, and then store them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their soft texture. For the filling, make it ahead and refrigerate it for up to 3 days; just give it a good stir before using to smooth it out. When you're ready to indulge, simply sandwich the filling between the cooled cakes, and enjoy the deliciousness that remains just as fresh and delightful! Embrace the ease of meal prep and savor the joys of fall with these delightful treats.
What to Serve with Maple Pumpkin Whoopie Pies?
Looking to create the perfect dessert experience that complements your delightful whoopie pies? Let's elevate your fall flavors!
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Cinnamon Hot Chocolate: Warm and velvety, this rich drink highlights the spices in your whoopie pies, making for a cozy pairing.
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Spiced Apple Cider: The sweet and tart notes of apple cider with a hint of cinnamon provide a refreshing contrast to the indulgent pies.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop adds creaminess that balances the soft texture of the whoopie pies, enhancing every bite with delightful coldness.
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Coffee: A warm cup of coffee with its bitter undertones creates a beautiful contrast to the sweetness of the whoopie pies, perfect for an afternoon treat.
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Pumpkin Soup: Start your meal with a warming bowl of pumpkin soup to create a delightful autumn-themed experience. Its silken texture sets a lovely stage.
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Pecan Pie: The nutty flavor and rich sweetness of pecan pie celebrate the best of fall desserts, creating a harmonious dessert duo.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel over a whoopie pie adds an extra layer of indulgence, turning each bite into a luxurious delight.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream on the side can elevate the flavor, bringing out the creaminess of the filling.
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Chai Tea: The aromatic spices in chai pair nicely with the flavors of the whoopie pies, creating a comforting experience.
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Pumpkin Spice Latte: This classic seasonal beverage enhances the cozy vibe of your meal, tying together the flavors beautifully.
Maple Pumpkin Whoopie Pies Variations
Feel free to explore these scrumptious adaptations to make this recipe your own and delight your taste buds!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free treat!
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Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream in place of cream cheese and almond milk instead of butter to keep it dairy-free and delicious.
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Nutty Crunch: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for an extra layer of crunch and flavor. This adds a delightful texture that complements the soft pie perfectly.
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Maple Cream Filling: Swap traditional filling with maple cream called for in your local bakery; it intensifies maple flavor in every bite.
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Spicy Kick: For a little heat, incorporate a dash of cayenne or chili powder into the pumpkin batter. This unexpected twist tantalizes the taste buds!
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Chocolate Drizzle: Melt some dark chocolate and drizzle it over finished whoopie pies for a decadent touch. This rich addition elevates the dessert to another level of indulgence.
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Apple Pie Spice: Replace pumpkin pie spice with apple pie spice for a different autumn flavor experience. This subtle change brings a new twist to your favorite dessert.
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Mini Whoopies: Make bite-sized versions using a mini cookie scoop and adjust bake time to about 8-10 minutes. Perfect for parties and sharing!
Let your creativity shine as you mix and match these variations to create your perfect Maple Pumpkin Whoopie Pies!
Storage Tips for Maple Pumpkin Whoopie Pies
Room Temperature: Store leftover whoopie pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them soft and fresh for your next treat!
Fridge: If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate in a tightly sealed container for up to 1 week. Just remember to let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before enjoying.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap each whoopie pie individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can stay fresh for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the fridge overnight before serving.
Reheating: If you prefer a warm treat, pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Each bite of your Maple Pumpkin Whoopie Pies will taste just as delightful as the day they were made!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Maple Pumpkin Whoopie Pies, ensure your ingredients are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
- A common mistake is overmixing the batter, which can lead to dense pies instead of light and fluffy ones, so mix until just combined.
- For perfect cakes, use a cookie scoop for even mounds that will bake uniformly.
- Remember to rotate your baking sheets halfway through baking to achieve an even color and texture on both pans.
Maple Pumpkin Whoopie Pies Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best pumpkin puree for my Maple Pumpkin Whoopie Pies?
Absolutely! When choosing pumpkin puree, look for 100% pure pumpkin with no added sugars or spices on the label. Brands like Libby's are often a favorite for their creamy texture and rich flavor. Additionally, ensure the can is not dented or damaged, as that could affect the quality of the puree inside.
What is the best way to store Maple Pumpkin Whoopie Pies?
For room temperature storage, keep the whoopie pies in an airtight container for up to 3 days. If you'd like to extend their freshness, refrigerate them in a tightly sealed container for up to 1 week. However, make sure to let them warm up to room temperature before enjoying for the best taste!
Can I freeze Maple Pumpkin Whoopie Pies?
Absolutely! To freeze them, individually wrap each whoopie pie in plastic wrap, ensuring they’re airtight, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you're ready to indulge, thaw them in the fridge overnight, or let them sit at room temperature for a couple of hours.
What should I do if my whoopie pies are too dense?
If your whoopie pies turn out dense, it’s likely due to overmixing the batter. To avoid this, mix the wet and dry ingredients until just combined—some lumps are perfectly fine! Also, ensure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh, as expired leavening agents can inhibit rise.
Are Maple Pumpkin Whoopie Pies safe for pets?
Very! However, it's important to note that while pumpkin in small amounts is safe for dogs, the cream cheese and sugar in the filling may not be suitable for them. Avoid sharing these treats with your furry friends, and look for healthier pet-friendly treats instead.
Can I make these whoopie pies gluten-free?
Certainly! To make gluten-free Maple Pumpkin Whoopie Pies, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. I often recommend using one that includes xanthan gum for better texture. Keep in mind the baking time may slightly vary, so keep an eye on them as they bake!
Maple Pumpkin Whoopie Pies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare two baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper for easy removal later.
- Whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and pumpkin pie spice in a mixing bowl.
- Combine the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and oil in a separate bowl. Beat in the eggs and vanilla until well blended.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Scoop dollops of batter onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 11–13 minutes, or until the tops spring back when gently pressed. Allow them to cool completely on a wire rack.
- Make the filling: In a bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add the maple syrup and vanilla, then mix in the powdered sugar until creamy.
- Assemble the whoopie pies by spreading the filling onto one half of a cooled cake. Sandwich it with another cake.
- Repeat with the remaining cakes until all are filled and assembled. Enjoy!
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