Apple Cider Whoopie Pies with Buttercream and Caramel Filling Recipe

If you’re craving something delightfully cozy with a perfect balance of sweet and spice, you’re going to adore this Apple Cider Whoopie Pies with Buttercream and Caramel Filling Recipe. These little sandwich cakes bring together the seasonal warmth of apple cider and warming spices with a luscious buttercream and silky caramel center. Every bite delivers a cakey softness with bursts of rich, creamy filling that feels like fall on a plate. Whether you’re sharing with friends or sneaking one for yourself, these whoopie pies are pure comfort and joy in dessert form.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that work together beautifully to create remarkable flavors and textures. Each one plays a crucial role, from the spices that bring warmth to the tender cake to the apple cider reduction that adds depth and a hint of sweetness—trust me, you’ll be amazed how these humble staples transform into something so special.

• All-purpose flour: The backbone of our whoopie pies, it creates the soft, cakey texture we love.
• Baking soda and baking powder: Essential leavening agents that help the cakes rise perfectly fluffy.
• Ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves: These warming spices evoke the comforting essence of fall in every bite.
• Unsalted butter: Adds richness and a tender crumb to both the cake and buttercream.
• Light brown sugar: Brings a subtle molasses flavor and moisture to the cake.
• Large egg: Binds the ingredients together and adds structure to the whoopie pies.
• Vanilla extract: Deepens the flavor with sweet, aromatic notes.
• Apple cider (reduced): The star ingredient, reduced to concentrate its flavor and sweetness, enriching both the cake and buttercream.
• Whole milk: Keeps the batter moist and tender.
• Powdered sugar: Creates a silky smooth texture in the buttercream.
• Caramel sauce: Adds decadent, gooey sweetness to the filling—store-bought or homemade works wonderfully.
• Flaky sea salt (optional): A pinch enhances flavors and adds a delightful salty crunch against the caramel’s sweetness.

How to Make Apple Cider Whoopie Pies with Buttercream and Caramel Filling Recipe

Step 1: Reduce the Apple Cider

To start, pour one cup of apple cider into a saucepan and let it simmer gently over medium heat. This step concentrates the delicious apple flavor by reducing the cider down to just a quarter cup, usually taking 10 to 15 minutes. Once thickened and fragrant, allow it to cool completely while you assemble the rest of your ingredients. This reduction is the secret ingredient that infuses both the cakes and frosting with that unmistakably rich cider essence.

Step 2: Make the Whoopie Pies

With your oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) and baking sheets lined with parchment paper, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and all those cozy spices. In a separate large bowl, beat together the softened butter and light brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy—that uplifting texture is key. Beat in the egg and vanilla until everything is well combined.

Next, gradually add the cooled apple cider reduction for that extra moistness and flavor punch. Alternate folding in the dry mixture and milk in thirds, starting and ending with the dry ingredients, to ensure the batter stays light.

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop generous spoonfuls of batter spaced apart on the baking sheets. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the tops feel firm and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool the whoopie pie halves completely on wire racks to prep for filling.

Step 3: Prepare the Buttercream

While the cakes cool, whip up your apple cider buttercream. Beat softened butter on its own first until creamy and smooth. Gradually incorporate powdered sugar, then add the cooled apple cider reduction, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Continue beating until the frosting is fluffy and spreadable—the cider-infused buttercream is what takes this recipe over the top!

Step 4: Assemble the Whoopie Pies

Match your cooled whoopie pie halves by size for perfect pairing. On the flat side of one half, pipe or spoon on a generous dollop of that luscious apple cider buttercream. Drizzle a spoonful of caramel sauce over the buttercream for an irresistible gooey center. If you love a bit of contrast, sprinkle a few flakes of sea salt atop the caramel to balance the sweetness. Gently press the second whoopie half on top, and you’ve got yourself a dreamy, sandwich-style treat ready to be devoured.

How to Serve Apple Cider Whoopie Pies with Buttercream and Caramel Filling Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle a light dusting of cinnamon or nutmeg over the assembled whoopie pies for an inviting aroma and festive look. Adding a few chopped toasted pecans or walnuts around the plate can add a lovely crunch that complements the soft pies. If you like, a drizzle of extra caramel on top gives a glossy, inviting finish and a little extra sweetness.

Side Dishes

These whoopie pies pair wonderfully with a hot cup of spiced chai tea or a creamy latte to enhance those warm autumn vibes. A scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream alongside the dessert also turns it into an indulgent after-dinner treat. For holiday gatherings, serve them with a simple fruit compote or fresh apple slices to keep things fresh and vibrant.

Creative Ways to Present

Bake mini versions for bite-sized treats perfect for a party platter or dessert buffet. Stack two or three pies for eye-catching presentation and extra wow factor. You can even experiment with colored sprinkles or edible gold dust on the caramel for a festive celebration twist. Serving on rustic wood boards or vintage plates can help underscore their charming, homemade appeal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Apple Cider Whoopie Pies with Buttercream and Caramel Filling Recipe keep best when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days. Be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to keep the frosting intact and prevent sticking.

Freezing

You can freeze these whoopie pies for longer storage. Wrap each pie individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They freeze well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving to preserve the perfect texture of both cake and filling.

Reheating

For serving, it’s best to enjoy the pies chilled or at room temperature to maintain the integrity of the buttercream and caramel filling. If desired, warm gently for a few seconds in the microwave just until the caramel softens, but avoid heating too long to prevent melting the buttercream.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought apple cider or does it need to be homemade?

Store-bought apple cider works perfectly for this Apple Cider Whoopie Pies with Buttercream and Caramel Filling Recipe, especially since the reduction process intensifies the flavor, so no need to make your own unless you want that extra fresh touch.

Is it okay to substitute the caramel sauce with something else?

Absolutely! While caramel sauce adds wonderful richness, you can swap it for chocolate ganache or a spiced apple jam to customize the filling according to your taste preferences.

Can I make these whoopie pies gluten-free?

Yes, with a reliable gluten-free flour blend that’s suitable for baking, you can make these pies gluten-free. Just be mindful that texture might vary slightly depending on the blend you use.

How do I know when the whoopie pies are baked perfectly?

The pies are ready when their tops feel firm to the touch and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This usually happens around 10 to 12 minutes in the oven.

Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?

Definitely! The Apple Cider Whoopie Pies with Buttercream and Caramel Filling Recipe scales well. Just be sure to mix batters thoroughly and bake in batches to keep the best texture and rise.

Final Thoughts

These Apple Cider Whoopie Pies with Buttercream and Caramel Filling Recipe are a true celebration of fall flavors wrapped up in one delicious bite. Whether for a festive gathering or a quiet moment of indulgence at home, this recipe is sure to become your new favorite. So roll up your sleeves and give it a try—you’ll wonder why you didn’t make them sooner!

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