pumpkin oatmeal cream pies

these pumpkin oatmeal cream pies are a fun fall remake of the classic childhood treat. they’re made from spiced chewy pumpkin oatmeal cookies sandwiched together with a maple cream cheese buttercream. Perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in, these delightful treats capture the essence of autumn and are sure to please everyone.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unique Flavor – The combination of pumpkin and warm spices creates a deliciously comforting taste that is perfect for fall.
• Versatile Treat – Great for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to festive celebrations, making them a crowd-pleaser.
• Easy to Make – With simple steps and common ingredients, anyone can whip up these delightful pies without hassle.
• Chewy and Creamy – The spiced pumpkin cookies paired with creamy filling offer a fantastic texture contrast that is simply irresistible.
• Customizable – You can easily adjust spices or fillings to suit your preferences, ensuring everyone enjoys them.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the baking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls – These are essential for combining ingredients thoroughly, ensuring even flavor throughout your cookies.
• Baking sheets – A sturdy baking sheet ensures even heat distribution, helping your cookies bake perfectly every time.
• Electric mixer or whisk – This tool makes it easy to achieve creamy buttercream consistency without tiring out your arms!

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) alcohol-free vanilla extract
• 2 1/4 c (191g) old fashioned rolled oats

For the Buttercream Filling

• 10 tbsp (141g) unsalted butter, browned, reduced down to 8 tbsp (1/2 c, 113g), cooled to a solid room temperature texture
• 4 oz. (113g) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
• 2 1/2 c (280g) powdered sugar, sifted
• 1 tsp (5ml) alcohol-free 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 ingredients listed above. It’s important that the butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for easy mixing.

Step 2: Mix the Cookie Dough

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Cream together the browned butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar until fluffy.
2. Add in the egg yolk and alcohol-free vanilla extract; mix well.
3. Incorporate the pumpkin puree until fully blended.
4. In another bowl, whisk together flour, chai spice blend, baking soda, and salt.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture while stirring in oats; combine until just mixed.

Step 3: Bake the Cookies

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
3. Drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared sheets, spacing them evenly apart.
4. Bake for about 10 minutes or until edges start to turn golden brown.
5. Allow cookies to cool on sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks.

Step 4: Make the Maple Cream Cheese Buttercream

In a medium mixing bowl:
1. Beat together browned butter and cream cheese until creamy.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until smooth.
3. Stir in alcohol-free vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, maple extract if using, salt, and enough milk for desired consistency.

Step 5: Assemble Your Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies

Once cookies are completely cool:
1. Spread a generous amount of buttercream on the flat side of one cookie.
2. Top with another cookie to form a sandwich.
3. Repeat with remaining cookies.

Enjoy your delicious pumpkin oatmeal cream pies!

How to Serve pumpkin oatmeal cream pies

These pumpkin oatmeal cream pies are perfect for any occasion, especially during the fall. They can be enjoyed as a cozy snack or as a delightful dessert at gatherings.

With a Cup of Warm Beverage

• Coffee: The rich flavor of coffee pairs well with the spices in the cookies.
• Tea: A warm cup of chai or herbal tea complements the sweetness of the cream filling perfectly.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Mini Cheesecakes: Include small cheesecake bites to balance the flavors.
• Fruit Tartlets: Brighten up your platter with colorful fruit tartlets for freshness.

For Celebrations

• Harvest celebration Dessert Table: These pies add a festive touch to any Harvest celebration spread.
• Autumn celebration Treats: Perfect for Autumn celebration parties, they can be decorated with fun toppings.

How to Perfect pumpkin oatmeal cream pies

To achieve the best results with your pumpkin oatmeal cream pies, follow these simple tips that enhance flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Pumpkin Puree: Fresh puree provides a richer taste compared to canned options.
• Brown Butter Carefully: Take care not to burn the butter while browning; it should have a nutty aroma and golden color.
• Chill Dough Before Baking: Chilling helps the cookies hold their shape and enhances flavor.
• Don’t Overbake: Aim for a soft center; they will firm up as they cool.
• Sift Powdered Sugar: This ensures a smooth buttercream without lumps.
• Adjust Milk Gradually: Add milk to the frosting little by little until you reach your desired consistency.

Best Side Dishes for pumpkin oatmeal cream pies

These side dishes complement pumpkin oatmeal cream pies beautifully, making them even more enjoyable.

1. Spiced Apple Cider: A warm drink that echoes fall flavors and pairs wonderfully with dessert.
2. Roasted Butternut Squash Salad: Adds a healthy element with its sweet and savory combinations.
3. Maple Glazed Carrots: These sweet carrots provide a nice contrast to the cookie’s spice.
4. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their richness balances the sweetness of the pies well.
5. Cranberry Sauce: A tangy side that cuts through the sweetness of the dessert.
6. Pecan Pie Bites: Mini versions of pecan pie offer an additional nutty flavor experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• When making pumpkin oatmeal cream pies, one common mistake is not measuring ingredients accurately. Always use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision to ensure the right texture and flavor.
• Another mistake is skipping the browning of butter. This step adds depth to the cookies, so take the time to brown it properly for a richer taste.
• Not allowing the cookies to cool completely before assembling is a mistake; this can cause the filling to melt. Make sure cookies are at room temperature to keep your cream filling intact.
• Using cold ingredients can also affect your dough consistency. Ensure that butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for better mixing and fluffiness in your cream filling.
• A frequent error is overbaking the cookies. Keep an eye on them while baking; they should be soft in the center and firm around the edges for optimal chewiness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store pumpkin oatmeal cream pies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing pumpkin oatmeal cream pies

• Freeze unassembled cookie halves in a single layer for up to 3 months.
• Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper.

Reheating pumpkin oatmeal cream pies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), wrap pies in foil, and heat for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individually on medium power for 15-20 seconds, but watch closely to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 5 minutes, flipping once.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are pumpkin oatmeal cream pies?
Pumpkin oatmeal cream pies are delightful desserts featuring spiced chewy pumpkin cookies filled with a creamy maple-flavored filling.

How long do homemade pumpkin oatmeal cream pies last?
Homemade pumpkin oatmeal cream pies can last up to 5 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Can I customize the filling of my pumpkin oatmeal cream pies?
Yes! You can experiment with different extracts or add spices like nutmeg or ginger for unique flavors in your filling.

Are pumpkin oatmeal cream pies suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! You can freeze unassembled cookie halves for up to three months and assemble them later when ready to enjoy.

Can I use gluten-free flour in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend suitable for baking, keeping in mind that texture may vary slightly.

Final Thoughts

These pumpkin oatmeal cream pies are not only delicious but also versatile. They make perfect treats for fall gatherings or cozy evenings at home. Feel free to customize flavors or toppings according to your preference—add nuts or swap out spices as you desire!