✅ Prep time
15 minutes
✅ Cook time
12 minutes
✅ Total time
27 minutes
✅ Servings
12 servings
If you’re longing for a nostalgic treat that brings a smile to your face, then homemade oatmeal cream pies are the perfect dessert for you. The sweet aroma of baking cookies wafts through your kitchen as you prepare this delightful treat that combines chewy oatmeal cookies with rich, creamy filling. These little bites of joy are not just about fantastic taste; they embody simplicity and warmth—perfect for busy parents looking to whip up something sweet for the family or for beginner bakers wanting to impress loved ones.
In this article, you’ll learn how to make scrumptious homemade oatmeal cream pies from scratch. This recipe is not only simple and quick but also allows for customization and creative variations, ensuring that every batch can be a little different. Let’s dive in and discover the sweet world of oatmeal cream pies!
What Are Oatmeal Cream Pies?
Oatmeal cream pies are delightful sandwich cookies made from soft, chewy oatmeal cookies filled with a sweet and creamy filling. Originating as a popular snack in the United States, these cookies have become a beloved classic, often evoking fond memories of childhood snack time.
The texture is a perfect marriage of soft and chewy, thanks to the oats that give them a delightful chewiness. Meanwhile, the cream filling is rich and smooth, providing a lovely contrast to the hearty cookies. The wholesome flavors of cinnamon and oats intermingle beautifully, creating a nostalgic taste that leaves you longing for another bite. With this homemade recipe, you can have these delicious treats fresh out of your oven, resonating with warmth and comfort.
Why You’ll Love This Oatmeal Cream Pie Recipe
There are countless reasons to fall in love with homemade oatmeal cream pies. For starters, they are exceptionally easy to make, which is a big win for busy parents and novices alike! With just a few simple ingredients and quick preparation, you can create a batch that rivals any store-bought version.
Moreover, they are budget-friendly, allowing you to indulge without breaking the bank. The versatility of the recipe means you can modify it to suit your tastes or dietary needs, making it accessible to various diets. Whether you want to experiment with flavors, add extras like chocolate chips or raisins, or even create a gluten-free version, the possibilities are endless.
Furthermore, oatmeal cream pies hold a certain nostalgic charm. Many of us remember gobbling up these cookies as children, making them perfect for sharing with kids or friends during coffee breaks or family gatherings. These homemade treats are truly satisfying, blending flavor and texture seamlessly, and they’re sure to become a staple in your dessert repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
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1 cup unsalted butter
The star of the show, butter provides richness and helps to keep the cookies tender.
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1 cup granulated sugar
This adds sweetness and helps achieve the perfect cookie texture.
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1 cup brown sugar
Brown sugar incorporates moisture and a hint of caramel flavor that complements the oats beautifully.
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2 large eggs
Eggs act as binders, holding the cookie structure together and adding moisture.
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2 teaspoons vanilla extract
This enhances the flavor profile of the cookies, giving them a warm, aromatic quality.
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1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
The flour is essential for structure and balance in texture.
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1 teaspoon baking soda
Baking soda provides the necessary lift for the cookies, helping them stay soft and chewy.
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1 teaspoon cinnamon
A warm spice that pairs harmoniously with oats, adding depth to the flavor.
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½ teaspoon salt
Salt enhances sweetness and balances flavors, making the cookies more delicious.
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3 cups rolled oats
Oats deliver chewiness and hearty texture, which is key to the oatmeal cream pie experience.
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1 cup confectioners’ sugar
We’ll use this for making the cream filling sweet and fluffy.
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½ cup shortening
This creates a smooth and creamy filling, balancing perfectly with the cookies.
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2 tablespoons milk
Milk is used to achieve the desired consistency in the filling.
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½ teaspoon vanilla extract (for filling)
Just like the cookie dough, a dash of vanilla heightens the flavor in the filling.
How to Make Oatmeal Cream Pies
1. **Preheat Your Oven**: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). A well-preheated oven is essential for properly baking your cookies, ensuring they rise correctly and attain that lovely golden-brown hue.
2. **Cream the Butter and Sugars**: In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of unsalted butter, 1 cup of granulated sugar, and 1 cup of brown sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. The process of creaming incorporates air into the batter, contributing to the cookies’ texture.
3. **Add Eggs and Vanilla**: Once the butter and sugars are well combined, add 2 large eggs, one at a time, fully incorporating each before adding the next. Then, mix in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract until just combined. This will give your cookies an aromatic base.
4. **Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients**: In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as that can lead to tough cookies.
5. **Fold in the Oats**: Now, it’s time to add the star ingredient—3 cups of rolled oats. Gently fold the oats into the mixture with a spatula until evenly distributed. The chewiness of the oats is what makes oatmeal cookies so satisfying!
6. **Scoop and Bake**: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop equal amounts of cookie dough onto parchment-lined baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each dough ball for spreading. Bake in your preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers look slightly underbaked (they will firm up as they cool).
7. **Cool the Cookies**: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This ensures they maintain their shape and avoids becoming too crunchy.
8. **Prepare the Cream Filling**: While the cookies cool, make the filling by combining ½ cup of shortening, 1 cup of confectioners’ sugar, 2 tablespoons of milk, and ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract in a bowl. Beat on medium speed until fluffy and well combined.
9. **Assemble the Cream Pies**: Take one cookie and spread a generous amount of the cream filling on its bottom. Place another cookie on top, pressing down gently to create a sandwich. Repeat this process for all cookies.
10. **Enjoy Your Oatmeal Cream Pies**: Once assembled, let the cookies sit for about 10 minutes to allow the filling to set. Serve them warm, or store them in an airtight container for later. They taste even better the next day as the flavors meld together!
5 Variations & Substitutions
1. Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Cream Pies
For a twist on the classic flavor, add 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips to the cookie batter. The luscious chocolate pairs perfectly with the chewy oats, giving a delightful contrast in taste and texture. This variation is perfect for chocolate lovers and is guaranteed to be a hit among kids and adults alike.
2. Raisins or Dried Fruit
If you’re a fan of traditional oatmeal raisin cookies, feel free to substitute the chocolate chips with 1 cup of raisins or any favorite dried fruit such as cranberries or apricots. This option adds a natural sweetness and brings back memories of the classic bakery-style cookie.
3. Gluten-Free Oatmeal Cream Pies
To make this recipe gluten-free, swap the all-purpose flour for gluten-free all-purpose flour and ensure your oats are labeled gluten-free as well. This version maintains the same great taste and texture, allowing everyone to enjoy these cookies regardless of dietary restrictions.
4. Nut Butter Filling
Instead of a traditional cream filling, try using a smooth peanut butter or almond butter filling for a nutty flavor. Simply blend ½ cup of nut butter with 1 cup of confectioners’ sugar, and adjust the consistency with a little milk if necessary. This variation is especially appealing to those who love a nutty flair.
5. Spiced Oatmeal Cream Pies
For those who enjoy a bit of spice, you can incorporate spices like nutmeg or allspice into your dough. This adds a warm, aromatic kick. Using ½ teaspoon of nutmeg or allspice in addition to the cinnamon can elevate the flavor profile even further. This version is perfect for cozy fall days or holiday gatherings.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When baking oatmeal cream pies, a few mistakes could lead to less-than-ideal outcomes. **Forgetting the oats** is a straightforward but common oversight that will lead to cookies that don’t have the characteristic chewiness. Always double-check that you’ve mixed them into the dough before baking!
Another pitfall is **overbaking the cookies**. Remember that they’ll continue to cook on the baking sheet after being removed from the oven. For best results, remove them when they’re slightly underdone.
Finally, be careful when assembling the cookies. **Overfilling them with cream** can lead to a messy situation! A moderate layer of filling is perfect to hold the cookies together without oozing out from the sides.
Storage, Freezing & Reheating Tips
To keep your homemade oatmeal cream pies fresh longer, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them for an extended period, consider freezing them. Place the assembled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen treats, allow them to thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a couple of hours. If you prefer them warm, pop them in the microwave for a few seconds for that freshly-baked taste.
Frequently Asked Questions
**1. Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats for oatmeal cream pies?**
Yes! Quick oats can be used in place of rolled oats, but be aware that the texture will change slightly. Quick oats tend to yield a softer cookie, while rolled oats provide that desirable chewiness. Use what you have on hand, but if you want the classic texture, rolled oats are recommended.
**2. Can I make the cream filling ahead of time?**
Absolutely! You can prepare the cream filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just be sure to give it a good stir before using, as it may thicken in the fridge. This can save you time on busy days when you want delicious desserts without the hassle.
**3. How can I tell when the cookies are done?**
Look for the edges to be set and lightly golden brown while the centers still appear slightly soft. They will firm up as they cool on the baking sheet. If you wait for them to look fully baked, you risk losing that soft, chewy texture that makes oatmeal cream pies irresistible.
**4. Can I substitute coconut oil for butter?**
Yes, you can substitute melted coconut oil for butter in equal measure. However, keep in mind that this will change the flavor slightly, imparting a hint of coconut to the cookies. Make sure to use refined coconut oil if you want to eliminate the coconut flavor altogether.
**5. What’s the best way to pack oatmeal cream pies for lunch?**
For optimal freshness, wrap each oatmeal cream pie in parchment or wax paper and place them in a lunchbox. This keeps them from sticking together and maintains their soft texture. Alternatively, a sturdy container with dividers works well too!
In conclusion, homemade oatmeal cream pies are an exhilarating blend of nostalgia, ease, and deliciousness. As you whip up a batch, think about the memories they evoke and the smiles they’ll bring to those who indulge in them. I’ve found that these cookies have a remarkable way of bringing people together—whether it’s through sharing stories of childhood or celebration around a family table. If you’ve never tried making oatmeal cream pies before, there’s no better time than now. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to create a delightful treat that everyone will love. Enjoy!
