Are you ready to indulge in a delightful treat? Amish pumpkin whoopie pies are not only tasty but also easy to make. With soft pumpkin cookies and creamy filling, they are perfect for any occasion. In this recipe, I’ll guide you step by step, so you can whip up these delicious snacks with ease. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get baking!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients for Amish Pumpkin Whoopie Pies
Dry Ingredients
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
– ½ teaspoon ground ginger
– ½ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– ½ cup packed brown sugar
– 1 cup vegetable oil
– 1 cup canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Cream Cheese Filling Ingredients
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Gather these ingredients for an easy and tasty treat. Each one plays a key role in making the best Amish Pumpkin Whoopie Pies. The mix of spices gives a warm flavor, while the cream cheese filling adds a rich touch. Using canned pumpkin puree ensures a smooth and sweet base for the cookies. You can find the full recipe to explore how to combine these ingredients into a delightful dessert.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Oven and Baking Sheets
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key for even baking. While the oven warms up, get your baking sheets ready. Line them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This will make clean-up easy later.
Combining Dry and Wet Ingredients
Next, grab a medium bowl. In it, whisk together the dry ingredients. This includes flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. Mixing these well helps the flavors blend, so set this bowl aside. Now, take a large mixing bowl. Combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil inside. Use a whisk or hand mixer to mix until it becomes smooth and creamy. Then, add in the pumpkin puree, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat these ingredients together until you have a smooth mixture.
After that, slowly add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix just until everything is combined. Be careful not to overmix; this keeps your whoopie pies light and fluffy.
Baking and Cooling the Whoopie Cookies
Now it’s time to scoop the dough! Use a cookie scoop or a tablespoon to drop rounded dollops onto the prepared baking sheets. Make sure to space them about 2 inches apart. This gives them room to spread while baking.
Place the baking sheets in the oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes. Check if they are done by pressing lightly on the tops. If they bounce back, they are ready! Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. After that, move them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is important for the best texture.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Texture
To get soft and fluffy whoopie pies, mix your wet ingredients well. This helps create a nice, airy batter. Avoid overmixing the batter once you add the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just mixed. This keeps the cookies light and tender. Bake them until the edges are set but the tops are soft. They will firm up as they cool.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is using pumpkin pie filling instead of pure pumpkin puree. Pumpkin pie filling has added spices and sugar that can change the taste. Another mistake is not spacing the cookies enough on the baking sheet. They need room to spread while baking. Lastly, let the cookies cool completely before adding the filling. This will prevent the filling from melting.
Presentation Tips for Serving
To make your whoopie pies look great, use a nice platter for serving. A sprinkle of cinnamon on top adds a festive touch. You can also wrap each pie in clear cellophane. Tie it with a colorful ribbon for a lovely gift. These small details make your whoopie pies stand out at any gathering.
Variations
Flavor Additions and Enhancements
You can easily change the flavor of your whoopie pies. Add chocolate chips for a sweet twist. A handful of chopped nuts can give a nice crunch. You can also mix in dried fruit like cranberries or raisins. For a spicier kick, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper. These small changes keep the recipe fresh and fun.
Substituting Ingredients
If you want to switch some ingredients, that’s easy too. You can use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. This will make the pies a bit denser but healthier. If you need a dairy-free option, use coconut cream instead of cream cheese. You can also swap granulated sugar with coconut sugar for a unique flavor.
Alternative Fillings
The classic cream cheese filling is great, but don’t stop there! Try a peanut butter filling for a nutty taste. You can also use whipped cream for a lighter touch. A chocolate ganache filling can create a rich dessert experience. Each filling brings a new layer of flavor to the whoopie pies.
For the full recipe, check out the instructions above and get baking!
Storage Info
Best Practices for Storing Whoopie Pies
To keep your whoopie pies fresh, store them in an airtight container. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. Keep them at room temperature for up to three days. If you live in a humid area, the fridge may be a better choice. Just remember to let them come back to room temperature before serving for the best taste.
How to Freeze Whoopie Pies
Freezing whoopie pies is a great way to save extras for later. Wrap each pie in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This helps prevent freezer burn. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just take them out and let them thaw on the counter.
Shelf Life Tips
Whoopie pies stay fresh for about three days at room temperature. In the fridge, they can last up to a week. If frozen, they can last three months. Always check for any signs of spoilage before enjoying. If they smell off or look strange, it’s best to toss them. Following these tips will keep your Amish pumpkin whoopie pies tasty and delightful for longer!
FAQs
What is the origin of Amish Pumpkin Whoopie Pies?
Amish Pumpkin Whoopie Pies come from the Amish community in Pennsylvania. The Amish are known for their simple, homemade foods. These whoopie pies use pumpkin, which is a staple in fall cooking. They are a fun treat and often appear at gatherings and fairs. Many believe these pies started as a way to use leftover pumpkin. The soft cookies and creamy filling create a delightful contrast.
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin. Fresh pumpkin adds a rich flavor to your whoopie pies. To use fresh pumpkin, you need to cook it first. Cut the pumpkin, remove the seeds, and bake it until soft. Then, scoop out the flesh and puree it. You will need about one cup of fresh puree for this recipe. Just make sure to drain any excess water. Using fresh pumpkin can give your pies a homemade touch.
What can I substitute for cream cheese in the filling?
If you need a substitute for cream cheese, use mascarpone cheese or Greek yogurt. Mascarpone adds a rich flavor, while Greek yogurt makes it lighter. For a dairy-free option, use coconut cream. Whip it until fluffy for a smooth filling. You can also mix powdered sugar with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. Each option gives a unique taste while keeping the filling creamy.
In this article, we covered how to make delicious Amish Pumpkin Whoopie Pies. We outlined the key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips for a perfect treat. We also discussed fun variations and storage tips to keep your pies fresh.
Remember, making whoopie pies can be simple and fun. With these tips, you can enjoy a tasty dessert that impresses everyone. Now it’s your turn to bake and share these delightful treats!
