Apple Cider Whoopie Pie Cookies with Caramel offer a delightful blend of autumn flavors, capturing the essence of cozy cider mills and fall festivals. These pillowy cookies come together effortlessly, creating a perfect bite of sweet caramel sandwiched between tender spiced cookie halves. Whether you enjoy them with a cup of warm cider or share them at your next gathering, these whoopie pies are sure to be a favorite among family and friends.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Servings: 12 cookies
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 160
- Protein: 1.5 grams
- Carbohydrates: 25 grams
- Fat: 6 grams
- Fiber: 0.5 grams
- Sugar: 13 grams
- Sodium: 100 mg
Why Make This Apple Cider Whoopie Pie Cookies with Caramel
These Apple Cider Whoopie Pie Cookies with Caramel are the perfect treat for any occasion. Their soft, cake-like texture combined with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg makes them a cozy dessert for chilly days. The addition of caramel sauce not only enhances the flavor but also provides a delightful surprise in every bite. Plus, they’re relatively easy to prepare, making them a great option for baking beginners or those short on time!
How to Make Apple Cider Whoopie Pie Cookies with Caramel
Step 1: Preparation
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step ensures your cookies won’t stick, making cleanup much easier.
Step 2: Mixing
In a bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. In another bowl, cream together 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened), 1 cup brown sugar, and 1/2 cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air, which helps create a lighter cookie.
Step 3: Cooking
Beat in 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, then add 1/2 cup apple cider and mix until well combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until set, and your kitchen will smell heavenly during this time!
Step 4: Finishing
Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, spread caramel sauce on the flat side of one cookie and sandwich it with another cookie. These delectable bites are now ready for enjoyment!
How to Serve Apple Cider Whoopie Pie Cookies with Caramel
These cookies are best served fresh but can be enjoyed any time. Pair them with a warm mug of apple cider or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. They also make great offerings at parties or potlucks, where their unique flavor will surely impress guests.
How to Store Apple Cider Whoopie Pie Cookies with Caramel
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them! Just separate the layers with parchment paper, place them in a freezer-safe container, and they will last up to 2 months in the freezer.
Expert Tips for Perfect Apple Cider Whoopie Pie Cookies with Caramel
- Make sure your butter is at room temperature for the best creaming results.
- Don’t overmix your dough once you add the dry ingredients; this will help keep the cookies soft and tender.
- Feel free to experiment with different fillings! Chocolate ganache or whipped cream can also provide a fun twist.
- For added texture, consider sprinkling a pinch of coarse sea salt on the caramel filling to contrast with the sweetness.
Delicious Variations
- Spiced Apple Cider: Add a dash of ginger or allspice to the dry mixture for more depth of flavor.
- Nutty Crunch: Fold in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for added crunch.
- Pumpkin Spice: Substitute 1/2 cup of apple cider with pureed pumpkin for a fall-inspired treat.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Q: Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?
A: Absolutely! Store-bought caramel works wonderfully and saves time. -
Q: Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
A: Yes! Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, and the cookies will turn out just as delicious. -
Q: How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
A: The edges will be set and the center should look slightly soft. They’ll firm up as they cool. -
Q: Is there a way to make these cookies dairy-free?
A: Substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative and use a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk. -
Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the dough a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just let it come to room temperature before baking.
Conclusion
Biting into an Apple Cider Whoopie Pie Cookie filled with warm caramel is truly a blissful experience! They are not only simple to make but also pack a flavorful punch that celebrates autumn in every bite. So why not gather your ingredients and bake a batch? Your family and friends will thank you for sharing these delightful treats made with love! Enjoy your baking adventure!
