Apple Cider Whoopie Pies Recipe

Oh, I absolutely love this Apple Cider Whoopie Pies Recipe because it brings all the cozy fall flavors into a fun, handheld treat that’s just perfect for sharing. The warm spices in the cake paired with the tangy-sweet apple cider reduction make every bite a little celebration of autumn’s best tastes.

When I bake these, they’re always a hit for gatherings or even a quiet afternoon snack with a cup of tea. You’ll find that this Apple Cider Whoopie Pies Recipe is both nostalgic and unique, offering you a dessert that’s as impressive as it is comforting.

this …

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients come together beautifully to create that distinctive apple cider flavor and just the right spice balance. Whether you pick light or dark brown sugar, or use applesauce instead of apple butter, the flavors hold strong and lovely.

• Apple cider: Reduce to intensify its natural sweetness and flavor; this is the star of the show.
• Unsalted butter: Using room temperature butter helps with a smooth batter and soft texture.
• Flour: Standard all-purpose flour keeps the whoopie pies sturdy but tender.
• Spices (cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg): Fresh or good quality spices make all the difference in warm flavor notes.
• Sugars (granulated and brown sugar): Provide a nice balance of sweetness and moisture.
• Apple butter or applesauce: Adds moisture and a subtle fruity depth—apple butter gives a richer flavor.
• Eggs: Bind everything together and contribute to a light texture.
• Cinnamon sugar coating: Adds a delightful crunchy finish when brushed with butter and sprinkled.
• Bourbon caramel and cream cheese (optional): These give you options for indulgent fillings that amp up the flavor.

Variations

I love how flexible this Apple Cider Whoopie Pies Recipe is — it’s easy to make it your own with a few tweaks depending on what your family loves or what you have on hand. Feel free to mix and match fillings or tweak spices to suit your tastes.

• Spiced Up: I once added a pinch of cloves for a little extra warmth that my family adored during the holidays.
• Dairy-Free: Swap butter for coconut oil and use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative to keep things vegan-friendly.
• Apple Variations: Sometimes I substitute apple butter with chunky homemade applesauce for a bit more texture.
• Filling Swap: You could even try a maple cream cheese frosting or a simple vanilla buttercream if bourbon isn’t your thing.

How to Make Apple Cider Whoopie Pies Recipe

Step 1: Reduce the Apple Cider

Start by bringing 2 cups of apple cider to a boil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Once boiling, lower the heat and let it simmer gently until it magically reduces to about 1/4 cup. This slow reduction, which takes around 30–35 minutes, intensifies the apple flavor and caramelizes the sugars, giving the whoopie pies their unique depth. Make sure to let it cool fully before adding it to the batter — trust me, this makes a huge difference in texture.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

While the cider reduces, sift together your flour, salt, baking powder, baking soda, and those lovely warm spices — cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg. Sifting helps distribute the leavening agents and spices evenly so your whoopie pies bake perfectly every time.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars, Then Add Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl (or your mixer’s bowl), beat 6 tablespoons room temperature butter with the granulated and brown sugars until silky and combined. Scrape down the sides so nothing is left behind, then beat in the vanilla and eggs one at a time. Follow with the cooled apple cider reduction and apple butter or applesauce for that extra fruity moisture.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Turn your mixer to low and slowly add the dry ingredients just until combined. It’s so tempting to overmix, but keep it gentle here to avoid tough whoopie pies. The batter will be soft and a bit thick — just right for scooping.

Step 5: Bake the Whoopie Pies

Use a tablespoon or small cookie scoop to drop 1 1/2 tablespoon portions onto parchment-lined baking sheets, spreading them about 3 inches apart — they puff up a bit! Halfway through baking, rotate your sheets for even color. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 11-13 minutes or until they spring back lightly when touched. Don’t overbake: you want soft and springy, not dry.

Step 6: Brush Butter and Add Cinnamon Sugar

As soon as they come out of the oven, let your whoopie pies cool on the sheet for five minutes. While still warm, brush with the reserved melted butter and generously sprinkle with the cinnamon sugar mixture. This little finish adds a subtle crunch and an extra layer of flavor that takes these from good to unforgettable.

Step 7: Make Your Filling and Assemble

Once the whoopie pies cool completely, it’s time to fill them. You can go for the decadently smooth Bourbon Caramel Buttercream or the rich Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Icing — both work beautifully. Spread or pipe about 1 1/2 tablespoons of filling on one cookie, add a teaspoon of bourbon caramel if you’re feeling fancy, and sandwich with another cookie. For best flavor, chill them for about 30 minutes before serving.

How to Serve Apple Cider Whoopie Pies Recipe

Garnishes

I usually keep it simple with a dusting of extra cinnamon sugar on top, but a light drizzle of warmed bourbon caramel or a sprinkle of finely chopped toasted pecans adds a lovely rustic touch. Adding a little edible gold leaf during holiday parties created a real “wow” moment once for me.

Side Dishes

These whoopie pies pair beautifully with a crisp apple slaw or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream to balance the warmth of the spices. I love serving them alongside a spiced chai latte or a hot mulled cider for that extra cozy feel.

Creative Ways to Present

For holiday parties, I like to stack them in a tiered dessert stand, dusted lightly with powdered sugar like falling snow. Another fun idea is to wrap each whoopie pie in parchment and tie it with a cinnamon stick and twine—makes the perfect gift or party favor!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, you can store the assembled whoopie pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I recommend layering them with parchment paper to avoid sticking and keeping them chilled to maintain freshness, especially if using cream cheese icing.

Freezing

I’ve frozen these whoopie pies successfully by assembling them first, then wrapping each one tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil, placing them in a freezer-safe container. They keep well for up to 2 months, so you can prep ahead for busy holiday seasons.

Reheating

To enjoy leftovers, take them out of the fridge about 30 minutes before serving for the best texture. You can also warm them gently in the microwave for 10–15 seconds if you’d like that slightly melty frosting effect—just be careful not to overheat.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Apple Cider Whoopie Pies Recipe is truly special to me—it always brings back the warmth of crisp autumn days and fills my kitchen with the most wonderful scents. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just yourself, these whoopie pies are a comforting delicious treat that feels like a big hug in every bite. Give this recipe a try—you won’t regret making these your seasonal go-to indulgence!

Print