### Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies Recipe | Soft & Chewy Fall Dessert
You know that feeling when you bite into a cookie and instantly find yourself enveloped in a warm, comforting embrace? That’s exactly what you get with these Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies. With the crispness of autumn in the air and the aroma of spices igniting fond memories, there’s nothing quite like the sweetness of pumpkin, the chewiness of oats, and a luscious cream filling to bring that seasonal joy to life. These delightful treats are not just cookies; they are a slice of fall wrapped in deliciousness!
In this article, you’re going to discover the magic behind these pumpkin oatmeal cream pies. I’ll walk you through what makes this recipe so special, all the ingredients you’ll need, and detailed instructions to ensure your cookies turn out soft and chewy every time. Let’s get cozy in the kitchen!
What is Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies?
At its heart, a **Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pie** is a delightful cookie sandwich where two soft and chewy oatmeal cookies meet a sweet and creamy filling. This variation pays homage to the classic oatmeal cream pie, but with a seasonal twist that incorporates **pumpkin puree** and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.
These cookies capture the essence of fall with their golden-brown hue and inviting aroma. The oats add a hearty texture while the pumpkin brings moisture and a subtle earthiness. The combination of these flavors creates a dynamic interplay with the sweet cream filling that makes each bite a delight. It’s no wonder these treats are beloved during the autumn season and especially during Thanksgiving!
Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies Recipe
There are countless reasons to fall in love with this recipe, but let’s highlight a few key ones:
1. **Comforting Flavor**: The fusion of pumpkin and warm spices leads to a nostalgic flavor similar to your favorite pumpkin pie but in cookie form. Every bite evokes warmth and comfort; it’s the hug you never knew you needed.
2. **Soft and Chewy Texture**: The incorporation of oats ensures that these cookies remain soft and chewy, making them addictive!
3. **Easy to Make**: This recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have a batch ready to impress in no time.
4. **Family-Friendly**: These pies are sure to please everyone at the table, from kiddos to adults. They’re great for parties, family gatherings, or cozy nights in.
5. **Perfect for Meal Prep**: You can make these in advance and enjoy them for days. They also freeze well, allowing you to savor fall flavors long past the season.
With these qualities, it’s clear you’ll want to whip up a batch (or two) of these delightful pumpkin oatmeal cream pies right away.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make these scrumptious pies, along with tips on selecting the best quality ingredients:
– **1 cup unsalted butter** (softened): Butter is crucial for achieving a rich flavor and tender cookie texture. Be sure to use unsalted butter, as this allows you to control the salt in the recipe.
– **1 cup brown sugar** (packed): Brown sugar contributes to the moistness and adds a depth of flavor due to its molasses content. Avoid using granulated sugar as a substitute, as it won’t provide the same chewy texture.
– **1 cup granulated sugar**: This sugar will enhance sweetness and help create a lovely, slightly crisp exterior on the cookies.
– **1 cup pumpkin puree** (not pumpkin pie filling): Look for 100% pure pumpkin for the best results. The puree adds moisture while also giving those cookies that iconic pumpkin flavor.
– **2 large eggs**: Make sure your eggs are at room temperature—they help the batter come together more smoothly.
– **1 teaspoon vanilla extract**: It’s the little things like quality vanilla that elevate flavors in baked goods.
– **3 cups rolled oats**: Oats provide chewiness and are an excellent source of fiber. Ensure you choose old-fashioned rolled oats or quick oats for the best texture. Steel-cut oats won’t yield the desired softness.
– **2 cups all-purpose flour**: This is your structure! For gluten-free options, consider using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
– **1 teaspoon baking soda**: This helps the cookies rise to a delightful fluffy texture.
– **1 teaspoon baking powder**: The combination with baking soda promotes a perfect balance of fluffiness and chew.
– **1 teaspoon cinnamon**: Cinnamon is a staple fall spice, adding warmth to every bite.
– **½ teaspoon nutmeg**: This spice enhances the pumpkin flavor beautifully, making it rich and aromatic.
– **½ teaspoon salt**: A pinch of salt enhances sweetness and flavor throughout the cookies.
– **½ cup powdered sugar**: For the cream filling! It’s essential for that dreamy, sweet consistency.
– **4 ounces cream cheese** (softened): The cream cheese provides a rich, tangy filling that offsets the sweetness beautifully.
– **1 teaspoon vanilla extract** (for the filling): Just like in the cookies, quality vanilla extract is key to a delightful filling.
With these ingredients in hand, you’re well on your way to baking up something fabulous!
How to Make Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies
Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of crafting these delightful desserts. You’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) before you get started!
1. **Cream the Butters and Sugars**: In a large bowl, combine the softened **unsalted butter**, **brown sugar**, and **granulated sugar**. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, cream together until the mixture is light and fluffy—this usually takes about 2-3 minutes. The texture should be airy, which will help create soft cookies.
2. **Add Pumpkins and Eggs**: Next, blend in the **pumpkin puree** and **eggs**—one at a time—ensuring they are fully incorporated before adding the next. Follow this with the **vanilla extract**. The batter should look smooth and creamy at this stage, with the pumpkin lending a beautiful orange hue.
3. **Mix the Dry Ingredients**: In another bowl, whisk together the **flour**, **baking soda**, **baking powder**, **cinnamon**, **nutmeg**, and **salt**. Gradually add this dry mix to the pumpkin mixture, stirring gently using a spatula or wooden spoon until just blended. Be careful not to overmix as this can lead to tougher cookies.
4. **Fold in the Oats**: Gently fold in the **rolled oats** using a spatula. This step is crucial—be careful to distribute the oats evenly without losing too much air from the batter.
5. **Scoop and Bake**: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop heaping tablespoons of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them a few inches apart. Bake in your preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly undercooked; they will firm up as they cool.
6. **Let Cool Completely**: Once out of the oven, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. **Prepare the Cream Filling**: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the **cream cheese**, **powdered sugar**, and **vanilla extract**. Mix until smooth and creamy. If you desire a slight tanginess, feel free to add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
8. **Assemble the Cream Pies**: Once the cookies are completely cool, spread a generous amount of cream filling on the flat side of one cookie and top it with another. Press gently to adhere.
9. **Chill and Serve**: For an even firmer filling, consider refrigerating the assembled pies for about 30 minutes before serving. This will make them a dream to bite into!
There you have it—your Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies are ready to share (or keep all to yourself!).
Tips, Tricks & Variations
To ensure your pumpkin oatmeal cream pies are perfect, here are some helpful tips:
– **Storage**: Keep your pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. They taste even better on the second day as the flavors meld!
– **Freezing**: You can freeze the assembled pies for up to 3 months. Just make sure to separate them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
– **Spice It Up**: Feel free to experiment with different spices. A pinch of ginger or allspice can add an exciting twist!
– **Dairy-Free Version**: Substitute the cream cheese with a plant-based cream cheese, and use coconut oil in place of butter for a dairy-free alternative!
– **Gluten-Free Option**: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to enjoy gluten-free pumpkin oatmeal cream pies.
What to Serve With Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies
These delightful desserts pair beautifully with various beverages. A hot cup of spiced chai or a latte adds warmth and complements the pumpkin flavors wonderfully. Additionally, they are a sumptuous treat to offer alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for that decadent touch.
For an added crunch, serve them with a handful of spiced nuts or pumpkin seeds on the side; the different textures will elevate the experience.
Nutrition & Health Benefits
While these pumpkin oatmeal cream pies are an indulgent treat, they also boast some nutritional benefits. Pumpkin is a fantastic source of vitamins A and C, helping to boost your immune system, and the oats provide fiber, assisting in digestion. However, moderation is key; enjoy them alongside a balanced diet.
For more information on pumpkin’s health benefits, check out articles from [Healthline](https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/pumpkin-benefits) or the [USDA](https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/).
Frequently Asked Questions
**1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?**
Absolutely! You can make the pumpkin dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking. Just let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping and baking.
**2. What can I substitute for pumpkin puree if I can’t find any?**
If pumpkin puree is unavailable, you can use **sweet potato puree** as a substitute. The flavor will differ slightly, but the texture will remain similar.
**3. How long will these cookies last?**
When stored correctly in an airtight container, pumpkin oatmeal cream pies can stay fresh in the fridge for about a week. They also freeze well, extending their shelf life to about three months.
**4. Can I add chocolate chips to the cookie batter?**
Definitely! Adding half a cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips can enhance the flavors and add a delicious richness. Just fold them in with the oats.
**5. How do I prevent the filling from being too runny?**
Ensure your cream cheese is fully softened before mixing with the sugar, which helps create a thicker filling. If it’s still runny, try adding a bit more powdered sugar until you reach your desired consistency.
Conclusion
And there you have it! Your pumpkin oatmeal cream pies are not just a delight to eat but also a joyful creation to make. As the aroma fills your kitchen, you’ll find it impossible to resist stealing a taste or two before they’ve even cooled down.
Embrace the flavors of fall and enjoy these delightful treats during your next family gathering or cozy night in. If you loved making these pies, I would love to hear from you! Please leave a comment or tag me on Instagram with your baking adventures! Happy baking!
