Apple Cider Whoopie Pie Cookies with Caramel Filling

Apple Cider Whoopie Pie Cookies with Caramel Filling are the perfect autumn treat, combining the warm spices of apple cider with soft, cake-like cookies and a luscious caramel filling. These handheld delights bring cozy fall flavors together in a bite-sized dessert that’s great for seasonal gatherings, bake sales, or just indulging in a little comfort food.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Full of fall flavors – Warm apple cider, cinnamon, and caramel create the perfect seasonal dessert.
• Soft and fluffy texture – These cookies are light, moist, and cake-like.
• Decadent caramel filling – A creamy, rich caramel filling ties everything together.
• Great for sharing – Whoopie pies are the perfect handheld treat.
• Customizable – Swap the filling or add mix-ins for a unique twist.

this Recipe

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Apple Cider Whoopie Pie Cookies:

• Apple cider (reduced for concentrated flavor)
• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Ground cinnamon
• Ground nutmeg
• Unsalted butter (softened)
• Brown sugar
• Granulated sugar
• Egg
• Vanilla extract
• Buttermilk

For the Caramel Filling:

• Soft caramels (melted) or homemade caramel
• Heavy cream
• Powdered sugar
• Unsalted butter (softened)
• Vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Directions

Make the Cookies:

1. Reduce the Apple Cider
   • In a saucepan, simmer apple cider over medium heat until reduced to about ½ cup. Let cool.
2. Prepare the Dough
   • In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
   • In another bowl, beat butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
   • Mix in the egg, vanilla, and reduced apple cider.
3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
   • Alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
4. Bake the Cookies
   • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
   • Scoop tablespoon-sized portions onto the sheets, spacing them apart.
   • Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the tops spring back when touched.
   • Let cool completely before filling.

Make the Caramel Filling:

1. Melt the Caramel
   • Heat soft caramels with heavy cream in the microwave or on the stovetop until smooth. Let cool slightly.
2. Make the Buttercream
   • Beat butter until fluffy, then mix in powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt.
   • Slowly add the melted caramel, mixing until smooth.
3. Assemble the Whoopie Pies
   • Spread or pipe caramel filling onto the flat side of one cookie.
   • Top with another cookie to create a sandwich.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes about 12 whoopie pies
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Cooling Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: About 1 hour

Variations

• Salted Caramel Filling – Sprinkle flaky sea salt on the caramel for a sweet-salty twist.
• Cream Cheese Caramel Frosting – Mix softened cream cheese into the filling for a tangy contrast.
• Maple Glaze Drizzle – Drizzle maple glaze on top for extra fall flavor.
• Nutty Crunch – Add finely chopped pecans or walnuts to the cookie batter.
• Gluten-Free Version – Use a gluten-free flour blend.

Storage/Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Refrigeration: Keeps fresh for up to a week in the fridge.
• Freezing: Freeze unfilled cookies for up to 3 months. Thaw before adding filling.
• Reheating: Let refrigerated whoopie pies sit at room temperature before serving.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?

Yes, but thick caramel works best for the filling.

How do I keep the cookies soft?

Store them in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours before baking.

What if my caramel filling is too runny?

Let it cool slightly before spreading, or add more powdered sugar for thickness.

Can I make mini whoopie pies?

Yes, use a smaller scoop and adjust the baking time.

What can I serve with these?

They pair well with hot apple cider, tea, or coffee.

Can I add apples to the cookies?

Finely diced apples can be mixed into the batter for extra texture.

How do I get evenly shaped cookies?

Use a cookie scoop to ensure uniform sizes.

Can I make these dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free butter, coconut milk, and a vegan caramel alternative.

Can I drizzle chocolate over the top?

Yes, a drizzle of melted dark chocolate adds a delicious finishing touch.

Conclusion

Apple Cider Whoopie Pie Cookies with Caramel Filling are the perfect autumn-inspired dessert. With their soft, spiced cookies

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