Get ready to embrace the cozy flavors of fall with my Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies! These sweet treats are soft, chewy, and stuffed with a creamy filling that will warm your heart. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a delightful dessert that’s perfect for sharing or enjoying alone. Let’s dive into the recipe and make your fall baking dreams come true!
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Filling Ingredients
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
To make these pumpkin oatmeal cream pies, you need the right ingredients. Start with the dry ingredients. The rolled oats add texture. All-purpose flour gives structure. Baking soda and baking powder help them rise. Cinnamon and nutmeg offer warm, cozy flavors. Salt balances the sweetness.
Next, gather the wet ingredients. Softened butter makes the dough creamy. Brown sugar adds depth, while granulated sugar keeps it sweet. Canned pumpkin puree brings moisture and flavor. The egg helps bind everything together, and vanilla extract gives a lovely aroma.
Finally, prepare for the filling. Softened cream cheese creates a rich layer. Powdered sugar sweetens it up nicely. More vanilla extract adds a hint of flavor. With these ingredients, you’re set to create a tasty fall treat that everyone will love!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation
– Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Mixing the Dough
– In a medium bowl, combine rolled oats, flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
– In a large bowl, cream together softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
– Add pumpkin puree, egg, and vanilla to the butter mixture, then mix well.
Baking
– Gradually stir dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
– Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop heaping tablespoons of dough onto baking sheets. Space them about 2 inches apart.
– Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cookie edges are set and tops are lightly golden.
Preparing the Filling
– In a mixing bowl, beat together softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth and creamy.
Assembling the Cream Pies
– Once cookies are cool, spread a generous amount of cream cheese filling on the flat side of one cookie.
– Sandwich it with another cookie, flat sides together.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Texture
To get the best texture, avoid overmixing the dough. Mix until just combined. This keeps your cookies soft and chewy. For fluffy cookies, ensure your butter is softened but not melted. Cream the butter and sugars well until light and fluffy. This adds air, making the cookies rise nicely.
Enhancing Flavor
You can adjust the spices to fit your taste. If you love warmth, add more cinnamon or nutmeg. Want a twist? Try adding mix-ins like chopped nuts or chocolate chips. They bring extra texture and flavor. Just remember, don’t go overboard. A little goes a long way!
Presentation Suggestions
For a beautiful display, arrange the cream pies on a nice plate. Dust the tops with a sprinkle of cinnamon. This adds a pop of color and a hint of spice. Serve them with a side of whipped cream for a fun touch. Your friends and family will love it!
Variations
Gluten-Free Version
You can make these pumpkin oatmeal cream pies gluten-free. Use almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. This swap helps keep the same texture. You may need to adjust the amount of flour for a good dough consistency. Start with less flour and add more if needed.
Vegan Option
For a vegan twist, you can easily substitute the egg and butter. Use a flax egg instead of a real egg. To make the filling dairy-free, try using coconut cream or a vegan cream cheese. This keeps the cream pies rich and tasty while being plant-based.
Seasonal Flavors
Feel free to get creative with flavors! Add dried cranberries or chopped pecans for a nice fall crunch. You can also switch the filling to maple cream or caramel for a sweet twist. This way, you can enjoy different tastes while keeping the same great structure of the cream pies.
Storage Info
Short-term Storage
To keep your pumpkin oatmeal cream pies fresh, cool them completely. Place the pies in airtight containers. This helps retain moisture and flavor. Use parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking. Store them at room temperature for up to five days.
Long-term Storage
For longer storage, freezing is a great option. Place the cooled pies in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about two hours until firm. Once set, wrap each pie in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can last for up to three months in the freezer.
To reheat thawed cookies, first let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cookies on a baking sheet and warm them for about 5-7 minutes. This keeps them soft and chewy, just like fresh-baked cookies.
FAQs
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes, you can make these cookies ahead. Bake the cookies and let them cool. Then, store them in an airtight container. You can also freeze them for up to three months. Just remember to thaw them before adding the cream filling. This makes it easy to enjoy fresh treats later.
How do I know when the cookies are done?
Look for a few signs to check if your cookies are done. The edges should look set and the tops should be lightly golden. You can also gently touch the tops. They should spring back, not feel doughy. If they feel soft but springy, they are ready.
What can I serve with pumpkin oatmeal cream pies?
These cream pies taste great on their own. However, you can serve them with warm drinks like chai tea or apple cider. A scoop of vanilla ice cream also pairs well. For a fun twist, add a dollop of whipped cream on the side.
How long do these cookies last?
These cookies stay fresh for about a week at room temperature. Store them in an airtight container to keep them soft. If you want them to last longer, you can freeze them. Just make sure to wrap them well to avoid freezer burn.
Making pumpkin oatmeal cream pies is fun and easy. We covered dry and wet ingredients, mixing, and baking. You learned how to fill and assemble these tasty treats. I shared tips for perfect texture and flavor, plus some cool variations. Proper storage keeps them fresh longer. Enjoy experimenting with your own twists or serving them at gatherings. These cookies can warm anyone’s day with their taste and charm. Now, you have everything you need to make these delicious pies!
