pumpkin oatmeal cream pies

these pumpkin oatmeal cream pies are a fun fall remake of the classic childhood treat. They feature spiced chewy pumpkin oatmeal cookies sandwiched together with a delightful maple cream cheese buttercream. Perfect for gatherings and cozy nights in, these treats bring warmth and nostalgia to your dessert table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these cookies are manageable for bakers of any skill level.
• Flavorful: The combination of pumpkin, spices, and maple creates a rich taste that captures the essence of fall.
• Versatile: Enjoy these cream pies at celebrations, during family gatherings, or as a sweet snack at home.
• Chewy Texture: The old-fashioned rolled oats give these cookies a satisfying chewiness that pairs perfectly with the creamy filling.
• Impressive Presentation: Sandwiched cookies look beautiful on any dessert platter and are sure to impress your guests.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your pumpkin oatmeal cream pies, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: These tools save time and energy when creaming butter and sugar together for a fluffy texture.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple bowls allows you to prepare different components without mixing flavors unintentionally.
• Baking sheets: Proper baking sheets ensure even baking, which is crucial for achieving the right cookie texture.
• Parchment paper: This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze, allowing your cookies to slide off easily after baking.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

• 20 tbsp (283g) unsalted butter, browned and reduced down to 1 c (226g) cooled to softened but still cold (see recipe notes)
• 1 1/2 c (180g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp chai spice blend or pumpkin spice blend (see recipe notes)
• 1 tsp (5g) baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 3/4 c (150g) light brown sugar
• 3/4 c (150g) granulated sugar
• 1 (18g) large egg yolk, room temperature
• 1 c (230g) pumpkin puree, blotted (see recipe notes)
• 2 tsp (10ml) vanilla extract
• 2 1/4 c (191g) old-fashioned rolled oats

For the Cream Cheese Filling

• 10 tbsp (141g) unsalted butter, browned, reduced down to 8 tbsp (1/2 c, 113g), cooled to solid room temperature texture
• 4 oz. (113g) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
• 2 1/2 c (280g) powdered sugar, sifted
• 1 tsp (5ml) vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp maple extract, optional for maple flavor
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1-3 tbsp (15-45 ml) milk, as needed

How to Make pumpkin oatmeal cream pies

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients on the countertop. Measure out each item accurately for best results. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough

In a stand mixer bowl,
1. Combine the browned butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Beat until creamy.
2. Add the egg yolk, vanilla extract, and pumpkin puree. Mix until fully combined.
3. In another bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, chai spice blend, baking soda, and salt.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
5. Fold in the rolled oats gently.

Step 3: Bake the Cookies

1. Line your baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared sheets, spacing them about two inches apart.
3. Bake in preheated oven for about 10 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. Let cool completely on wire racks.

Step 4: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling

In a clean mixing bowl,
1. Beat together the browned butter and cream cheese until smooth.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing until fluffy.
3. Stir in vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, maple extract if using, salt, and milk as needed for desired consistency.

Step 5: Assemble Your Pies

Once cookies are cool:
1. Spread or pipe cream cheese filling onto the flat side of half of the cookies.
2. Top with remaining cookies to create sandwiches.

Enjoy your delicious homemade pumpkin oatmeal cream pies!

How to Serve pumpkin oatmeal cream pies

These delightful pumpkin oatmeal cream pies are perfect for fall gatherings and celebrations. You can serve them in various ways to enhance their flavor and presentation.

With a Glass of Milk

• A classic pairing, a cold glass of milk complements the sweetness of the cream filling and balances the spices in the cookies.

As a Dessert Platter

• Arrange several pumpkin oatmeal cream pies on a festive platter. Add some seasonal fruits like apples and pears for color and contrast.

Warmed with Whipped Cream

• Gently warm the pies in the microwave for a few seconds and top with a dollop of homemade whipped cream or dairy-free alternative for an indulgent treat.

Drizzled with Maple Syrup

• For added sweetness, drizzle pure maple syrup over the top just before serving. This enhances the maple flavor in the buttercream.

On a Cozy Fall Afternoon

• Serve these pies alongside a warm cup of your favorite herbal tea or spiced cider during afternoon gatherings. Their flavors fit perfectly with cozy moments.

How to Perfect pumpkin oatmeal cream pies

To ensure your pumpkin oatmeal cream pies turn out delicious every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Pumpkin Puree: Homemade pumpkin puree adds vibrant flavor compared to canned options. Choose quality pumpkins for the best results.
• Chill Your Dough: After mixing, chill your cookie dough for at least 30 minutes. This helps prevent spreading while baking, leading to thicker cookies.
• Brown Your Butter Properly: Ensure your butter is browned until it reaches a golden color and has a nutty aroma. This step elevates the depth of flavor in your cookies.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense cookies instead of chewy ones.
• Sift Powdered Sugar: For a smooth cream cheese buttercream, always sift your powdered sugar before adding it to avoid lumps.

Best Side Dishes for pumpkin oatmeal cream pies

Pairing side dishes with your pumpkin oatmeal cream pies can create an inviting dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Spiced Apple Cider: Warm spiced apple cider enhances the fall theme and pairs wonderfully with sweet treats.
2. Ginger Snap Cookies: The spicy flavors of ginger snaps complement the pumpkin nicely, creating a well-rounded dessert selection.
3. Caramel Popcorn: Sweet, crunchy caramel popcorn serves as a fun contrast to the soft texture of the cream pies.
4. Roasted Nuts: A mix of roasted pecans and walnuts offers a savory crunch that balances the sweetness of the cookies.
5. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad with seasonal fruits provides freshness and acidity that cuts through richness.
6. Chocolate Truffles: Rich chocolate truffles can be served alongside for those who want an extra indulgent option with their dessert spread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Make sure to avoid overmixing the dough. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined for a chewy texture.
• Don’t skip chilling the dough. Chilling helps the flavors meld and prevents spreading during baking. Aim for at least 30 minutes in the fridge.
• Use blotted pumpkin puree. Not blotting can add too much moisture, resulting in overly soft cookies. Pat the puree dry with paper towels before using.
• Pay attention to butter temperature. Using melted butter instead of cooled browned butter can alter the flavor and texture. Follow instructions carefully for best results.
• Adjust spices as needed. Ignoring spice balance may create a bland cookie. Feel free to increase or decrease spices based on your taste preference.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store pumpkin oatmeal cream pies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing pumpkin oatmeal cream pies

• Freeze individually wrapped cookies for up to 3 months.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating pumpkin oatmeal cream pies

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place in a pan over low heat, flipping gently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are pumpkin oatmeal cream pies?

Pumpkin oatmeal cream pies are delicious dessert sandwiches made with spiced pumpkin oatmeal cookies filled with a rich maple cream cheese buttercream.

How can I customize pumpkin oatmeal cream pies?

You can customize these pies by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits into the cookie dough for different flavors and textures.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Ensure that other ingredients are also gluten-free.

How do I achieve chewy cookies?

To get chewy pumpkin oatmeal cream pies, avoid overbaking them and ensure you chill the dough before baking.

How do I make the filling vegan?

To create a vegan filling, use plant-based cream cheese and substitute regular butter with vegan butter or coconut oil.

Final Thoughts

These pumpkin oatmeal cream pies are not only a delightful twist on a classic treat but also versatile enough to fit any occasion. You can easily customize them with different spices or fillings to suit your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for fall gatherings or as a sweet snack anytime!