There’s nothing quite like the comforting flavors of fall in a bite-sized treat, and these Apple Cider Whoopie Pies deliver just that. Inspired by classic apple cider doughnuts, these soft, tender cookies are flavored with apple cider, cinnamon, apple butter, and warm spices. Coated in a delicate cinnamon sugar and filled with either Bourbon Caramel Buttercream or Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Icing, they’re the ultimate seasonal indulgence.
Perfect for autumn gatherings, Halloween parties, or a cozy treat on a chilly evening, these whoopie pies are as fun to make as they are to eat. The combination of spiced cookies and luscious fillings creates a flavor that’s rich, comforting, and impossible to resist.
Ingredients for Apple Cider Whoopie Pies
For the Apple Cider Cookies:
- 2 cups apple cider, reduced to ¼ cup
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 ½ teaspoons cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ginger
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup plus 2 teaspoons packed brown sugar (light or dark)
- ¼ cup apple butter or applesauce
- 2 eggs
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup sugar
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
For the Bourbon Caramel Buttercream (optional):
- ½ cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1 ¼–1 ½ cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 2 tablespoons plus 2 teaspoons Bourbon Caramel Sauce, cooled
- 1 pinch salt
For the Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Icing (optional):
- 4 ½ ounces cream cheese, room temperature
- 3 tablespoons butter, room temperature
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 pinch salt
How to Make Apple Cider Whoopie PiesStep
1: Reduce the Apple Cider
In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of apple cider to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat and simmer until it’s reduced to ¼ cup, about 30-35 minutes. Let cool before using.
Step 2: Prepare the Cookie Dough
Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices. In a large mixing bowl, beat butter with granulated and brown sugar until combined. Add the vanilla, eggs, apple cider, and apple butter or applesauce, then mix in the dry ingredients on low speed until just combined.
Step 3: Bake the Cookies
Scoop dough into 1 ½ tablespoon mounds and place them 3 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. Bake for 11-13 minutes, until the cookies spring back when lightly touched. Let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Brush with melted butter and coat with cinnamon sugar while still slightly warm.
Step 4: Prepare the Fillings
Bourbon Caramel Buttercream: Beat butter and salt until light and fluffy. Add cooled Bourbon Caramel and mix until incorporated. Gradually add powdered sugar until desired consistency is reached. Adjust thickness with more powdered sugar or a little milk/heavy cream if needed.
Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Icing: Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add brown sugar and vanilla, then gradually fold in powdered sugar. The frosting should be thick enough to pipe or spread easily.
Step 5: Assemble the Whoopie Pies
Once the cookies are completely cool, pipe or spread about 1 ½ tablespoons of your chosen filling on one cookie and top with another cookie. For extra indulgence, drizzle a teaspoon of Bourbon Caramel in the center. Refrigerate the whoopie pies for 30 minutes before serving to set the filling.
Tips for Perfect Whoopie Pies
- Cool the Apple Cider: Reducing cider intensifies the flavor and ensures your cookies stay soft.
- Spacing: Give cookies enough room to spread on the baking sheet for perfectly round whoopie pies.
- Optional Fillings: Bourbon Caramel Buttercream adds a rich, boozy flavor, while Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Icing offers a tangy-sweet balance.
- Make Ahead: Cookies and fillings can be prepared ahead of time. Store assembled whoopie pies in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Serving Suggestions
These Apple Cider Whoopie Pies are ideal for fall-themed parties, afternoon tea, or as a homemade gift. Serve them chilled, slightly warm, or at room temperature alongside a hot apple cider, coffee, or chai latte. They’re a true celebration of autumn flavors in every bite.
