Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal Cream Pies: A Must-Try Delight!

Introduction to Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal Cream Pies

As the crisp autumn air sweeps in, I can’t help but crave those cozy flavors that define the season. Enter my delightful Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal Cream Pies! These sweet treats are not just a pretty face; they’re a warm hug on a chilly day. Picture soft, spiced oatmeal cookies with a luscious marshmallow filling, ready to impress your loved ones or serve as a quick treat after a busy day. Plus, they’re simple enough to make, even on your busiest evenings, giving you a delicious taste of fall that everyone will adore.

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal Cream Pies

These Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal Cream Pies are perfect for busy moms like me who want to whip up something scrumptious without spending all day in the kitchen. With a delightful balance of spice and sweetness, these cookies will have your family asking for seconds. They’re not only quick to prepare but leave your home smelling like a warm autumn dream, making every bite feel like a moment of cozy bliss.

Ingredients for Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal Cream Pies

When it comes to crafting my Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal Cream Pies, I lean on some really familiar ingredients, each with its own charm that adds to the magic of the cookies.

• Pumpkin Purée: The heart of this recipe! Choose canned pumpkin or make your own from fresh pumpkins. Make sure to remove excess moisture for the best texture.
• Unsalted Butter: Softened for mixing. A must for that rich, buttery flavor and tender texture.
• Light Brown Sugar: This adds warmth and depth to the cookies, pairing beautifully with the pumpkin spice.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetness is crucial! It balances well with the molasses in the dough.
• Eggs: They act as a binder and add moisture, making the cookies soft and chewy.
• Molasses: A splash of this gives the cookies their rich flavor and color, making it a delightful fall treat.
• Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla enhances every other flavor. It’s a secret weapon in desserts!
• All-Purpose Flour: The backbone of my cookie dough. It provides structure and balances the chewiness of the oats.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice: The ultimate fall flavor. This combination of spices will envelop you in autumn’s embrace.
• Baking Soda and Baking Powder: These leavening agents help the cookies rise to fluffy perfection.
• Salt: Just a hint to balance the sweetness and enhance flavors.
• Quick Oats: They add texture and pleasant chewiness to the cookies, making them hearty.
• Marshmallow Fluff: This heavenly filling transforms the cream pies into something truly special and delightful.
• Powdered Sugar: For sweetening the filling without adding graininess. It helps achieve a light, airy texture.
• Heavy Cream: A splash of this in the filling makes it smooth and rich, resulting in an indulgent treat.

For exact measurements, check the end of the article where you can also find a handy printable version of this recipe!

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal Cream Pies

Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet

Before diving into mixing, let’s get our workspace ready. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. The warmth of the oven will be essential for those perfectly baked cookies. Next, prepare your baking sheet with silicone mats or parchment paper. This not only prevents sticking but also makes clean-up easier. Think of it as giving your cookies a cozy place to bake! A little prep goes a long way in ensuring your cookies come out just right. Besides, the anticipation will make your kitchen feel like a warm, inviting space, filled with the scent of fall.

Prepare the Pumpkin Purée

Now onto the pumpkin purée! If you’ve selected canned pumpkin, you’re halfway there. Just remember, moisture is the enemy of cookie texture! Spread 1 cup of pumpkin purée onto paper towels in a thin layer. Gently blot with more paper towels until you have about ½ cup of dried pumpkin purée. This key step will infuse flavor without turning your cookies into a soggy mess. Your patience here will pay off when you take that first bite of soft, spiced goodness. Embrace this step as an important ritual in your baking adventure.

Mix the Cookie Dough

Here’s where the magic begins! In a large mixing bowl, cream together your unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. It should look and feel like a cloud of sweetness! Now, add your eggs, molasses, and vanilla extract to the mix. Follow this by gently folding in your dried pumpkin purée until it’s beautifully blended. This dough will be your blank canvas, ready to soak in all the deliciousness. The smell alone is enough to put a smile on your face—bright, cozy, and oh-so-autumnal!

Combine Dry Ingredients

With your dough ready, it’s time to tackle the dry ingredients. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. This will ensure everything is evenly distributed. Now, slowly add these dry ingredients to your pumpkin mixture. Stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix. The dough should be thick and fragrant, almost like a warm hug from the fall! Finally, fold in those quick oats, adding texture and heartiness. You’re on your way to cookies that are both soft and chewy.

Shape and Bake the Cookies

Now for the fun part—shaping and baking! Use a large cookie scoop to portion out dough onto your prepared baking sheet. Make sure to leave enough space for spreading, about 2 inches apart. You want your cookies to have plenty of room to grow and puff up! Bake them in your preheated oven for around 12-13 minutes until they are golden brown at the edges. When you take them out, let them cool on a wire rack for a few minutes. This is when your house will start smelling like an autumn festival, and trust me, you won’t be able to resist sneaking a taste before they’re even filled!

Make the Cream Filling

While the cookies cool, it’s time to whip up the marshmallow cream filling! In a clean mixing bowl, start by creaming the unsalted butter until it’s smooth and fluffy. Then, gradually incorporate the marshmallow fluff, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. The filling should be airy and light, capturing that fall sweetness in each swirl. For an extra touch of indulgence, add the heavy cream and whip the mixture for just 2-3 minutes. You want this filling to be dreamy and spreadable, perfect for sandwiching between your delicious cookies! Taste it—trust me, you might want to save some for yourself!

Assemble the Cream Pies

Now, let’s bring it all together! Take one cooled oatmeal cookie and pipe or spread a generous amount of the marshmallow cream filling on the flat side. Place another cookie on top, creating a delightful sandwich. Give it a light press to let the filling spread out a bit, making sure it oozes just a little over the sides—that’s half the fun! Repeat until you’ve filled all your cookies. Keep these delightful treats in an airtight container, and watch your family flock around them like bees to honey. Each bite is a celebration of fall!

Tips for Success

• Always measure your pumpkin purée accurately to ensure the right texture.
• Cool the cookies completely before adding the filling to prevent melting.
• For best flavor, let the assembled cream pies sit for a few hours.
• Experiment with different spices, like nutmeg or cinnamon, for a unique twist.
• Store leftover cream pies in the fridge for a refreshing snack later!

Equipment Needed

• Baking sheets: Use any large, flat tray. If you don’t have one, an oven-safe dish will work in a pinch.
• Mixing bowls: A medium bowl can be used in place of a large one for mixing ingredients.
• Electric mixer: A whisk can substitute if you’re in a workout mood!
• Cookie scoop: A spoon can do the job; just keep your portions even.
• Parchment paper: It’s okay to use aluminum foil or a greased baking sheet instead.

Variations

• For a healthier twist, use whole wheat flour in place of all-purpose flour.
• Try adding chocolate chips to the cookie dough for a delightful chocolatey surprise!
• If you’re gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend.
• Consider adding chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for extra texture and nutrients.
• Swap the marshmallow fluff for cream cheese frosting for a tangy version!

Serving Suggestions

• Serve these Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal Cream Pies with a hot cup of spiced tea or coffee for the ultimate cozy combination.
• Pair with fresh apple slices drizzled with caramel sauce for a delightful contrast.
• For a festive presentation, dust the cream pies with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or cinnamon.
• Wrap them in cute cellophane bags for homemade gifts to friends or neighbors.
• Enjoy them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert experience!

FAQs about Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal Cream Pies

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin purée?

Absolutely! If you’re feeling adventurous, using fresh pumpkin can add a great depth of flavor. Just make sure to remove the moisture, following the steps I shared earlier. It’s a bit of extra work, but totally worth it!

What can I substitute for marshmallow fluff in the filling?

If marshmallow fluff isn’t available, you can use cream cheese frosting. It’ll give a tangy twist to your Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal Cream Pies while still being delicious.

How do I store these cream pies for the best freshness?

These delightful treats are best kept in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for up to five days, although I doubt they’ll last that long!

Can I freeze the cookies for later?

You can definitely freeze the cookies! Just freeze them before adding the filling. They’ll be good for up to three months, and you can fill them whenever you’re ready for a fall treat.

What temperature should I bake these cookies at?

Bake your Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal Cream Pies at 350°F. It’s the perfect temperature for achieving those golden-brown edges and soft centers that we all love!

Final Thoughts

As the last crumbs of my Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal Cream Pies disappear, I can only smile at the joy they bring. Each bite is an embrace of fall, pairing soft cookies with a cloud of fluffy filling. Making these treats is more than just baking; it’s about creating memories with family during cozy afternoons. Whether you share them at gatherings or indulge during a quiet moment, they encapsulate the essence of autumn. So, gather your loved ones and let this delightful recipe fill your home with warmth and laughter. Joy truly comes in each delicious bite!

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