Apple Cider Whoopie Pie Cookies with Caramel Recipe

If you adore cozy flavors with a little twist, then wait until you try these Apple Cider Whoopie Pie Cookies with Caramel. Imagine soft, spiced apple cider cookies sandwiched together with a luscious, buttery caramel filling that melts in your mouth. These little gems combine the nostalgic comfort of classic fall flavors with a playful cookie-bite experience that’s perfect for sharing or savoring solo with a warm cup of tea. The combination of tart apple cider and rich caramel creates a unique balance that will have you reaching for one more way too soon.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to this delightfully simple but irresistible treat. Each component plays a special role: the spices bring that unmistakable warmth, the apple cider adds moisture and tang, and the caramel filling ties everything together with golden sweetness.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for soft, chewy cookies that hold the filling beautifully.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Gives just enough lift and lightness without overpowering the texture.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds that cozy spice punch essential for fall vibes.
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg: A subtle nutty warmth that deepens the flavor profile.
• ¼ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the spices.
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened: Creates richness and tenderness in the cookies.
• 1 cup brown sugar: Brings caramel notes and moisture for perfect chewiness.
• 2 large eggs: Binds everything together and adds lightness.
• 1 cup apple cider: The star ingredient that infuses the cookies with tangy juiciness.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors with sweet floral hints.
• ½ cup unsalted butter (for caramel filling): Provides the base for smooth, creamy caramel.
• 1 cup brown sugar (for caramel filling): Sweetens and thickens the caramel to a perfect consistency.
• ¼ cup heavy cream: Gives the caramel its luscious and creamy texture.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for caramel filling): Enhances the caramel with a lovely aromatic finish.

How to Make Apple Cider Whoopie Pie Cookies with Caramel

Step 1: Preheat and Combine Dry Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt in a medium bowl. This mixture sets the stage for the warm spices to evenly flavor each cookie.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the softened butter and brown sugar until the mixture is fluffy and creamy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air and creates the tender texture you’re after in these Apple Cider Whoopie Pie Cookies with Caramel.

Step 3: Incorporate Eggs, Apple Cider, and Vanilla

Next, add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, pour in the apple cider and vanilla extract. The cider brings that lovely moistness and tang, while the vanilla rounds out the flavor profile.

Step 4: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined. Overmixing can make the cookies tough, so keep it gentle to maintain that tender crumb that makes these cookies so special.

Step 5: Scoop and Bake

Drop rounded tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the edges turn a warm golden brown. These cookies will be soft and slightly puffy when you take them out — perfect!

Step 6: Make the Caramel Filling

While the cookies cool, prepare your caramel filling. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar and heavy cream, then bring the mixture to a boil. Let it cook for 3 to 5 minutes while stirring frequently until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract for that extra touch of decadence.

Step 7: Assemble the Whoopie Pie Cookies

Once the cookies have cooled completely, spread a generous spoonful of the warm caramel filling on the flat side of one cookie and sandwich it with another. The caramel will firm up slightly as it cools, creating a luscious filling that pulls beautifully apart with every bite.

How to Serve Apple Cider Whoopie Pie Cookies with Caramel

Garnishes

These cookies are stunning on their own, but a light dusting of powdered sugar adds a lovely visual appeal and a delicate sweetness. For a festive touch, sprinkle finely chopped toasted pecans on the caramel before sandwiching the cookies to add crunch and nuttiness that pairs beautifully with the apple and caramel flavors.

Side Dishes

Serve these Apple Cider Whoopie Pie Cookies with Caramel alongside a warm cup of chai latte or spiced apple cider for the ultimate seasonal pairing. If you’re feeling indulgent, a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream on the side makes this treat even more heavenly.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings, stack the cookies on a beautiful platter, perhaps with small apple slices or cinnamon sticks as decoration. Wrapping each cookie individually in parchment paper tied with twine makes for an adorable gift or party favor. You can also drizzle a little extra caramel sauce on top just before serving for an eye-catching finish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Apple Cider Whoopie Pie Cookies with Caramel fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If your kitchen is warm, refrigeration is fine, but bring them back to room temperature before serving to enjoy the caramel at its soft best.

Freezing

These cookies freeze wonderfully. Place the assembled whoopie pies in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating

If you want to enjoy the cookies warm, simply microwave them for about 10 to 15 seconds. This will soften the caramel and revive the softness of the cookie without making it too hot or melty.

FAQs

Can I use apple juice instead of apple cider?

Apple juice lacks the depth and spiced flavor of apple cider, but it can be substituted in a pinch. Your cookies may turn out a bit sweeter and less tangy, so you might want to adjust the spices slightly.

Is it possible to make these cookies dairy-free?

Yes! Use dairy-free butter alternatives and coconut cream instead of heavy cream for the caramel. The texture might vary slightly, but the flavor will still be delicious.

Can I make the caramel filling ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can prepare the caramel filling a day in advance. Just warm it gently before spreading so it’s easy to spread between the cookies.

What if my caramel becomes too thick?

If the caramel hardens or gets too thick, warm it up slightly on low heat while adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen it back up to a spreadable consistency.

Do these cookies keep their softness over time?

Yes, when stored properly, these whoopie pie cookies stay soft for several days. Keeping them in an airtight container helps maintain moisture and softness.

Final Thoughts

These Apple Cider Whoopie Pie Cookies with Caramel truly capture the spirit of fall in every bite. With their tender, spiced cookie and decadent caramel center, they’re sure to become a beloved treat whether you’re making them for a family gathering or just a cozy night in. I can’t wait for you to try them and experience that warm, happy feeling they bring — you’re going to adore every crumb!

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