As I was flipping through my grandmother’s old recipe book, I stumbled upon a worn-out page that beckoned nostalgia—the smell of warm spices and pumpkin pie filled the air. That’s when inspiration struck! I knew I had to recreate her cherished Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies, with the added twist of a luscious maple cream cheese filling. These cookies perfectly capture the essence of fall, blending chewy oatmeal texture and rich pumpkin flavor into a delectable treat. What I love most about this recipe is how quick and easy it is to whip up, making it ideal for those cozy gatherings or a delightful afternoon snack. Plus, they’re freezer-friendly, so you can savor the taste of autumn even on the busiest days. Ready to bring the warmth of fall into your kitchen? Let’s dive in!
Why are Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies irresistible?
Delightful flavors: The combination of pumpkin and spices creates a nostalgic taste that’s perfect for fall gatherings.
Chewy texture: The oatmeal cookies provide a soft yet satisfying bite that pairs wonderfully with the cream cheese filling.
Quick to prepare: With easy steps, you can whip these up in no time, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings.
Versatile treats: Enjoy them alone or pair them with coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack—just like with our Banana Cream Pies for an extra sweet option!
Freezer-friendly: These cookies can be stored effortlessly, so you can indulge in fall flavors any time—just like our Fiery Chicken Ramen is great for meal prep!
Creative variations: Swap ingredients to create your unique twist, like using apple sauce instead of pumpkin for a refreshing take!
Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies Ingredients
For the Cookies
- Unsalted Butter (20 tbsp / 283g) – Adds richness and tenderness; brown it for a deeper flavor.
- All-Purpose Flour (1.5 cups / 180g) – Provides the perfect structure to the cookies; no substitutions required.
- Chai Spice Blend or Pumpkin Spice Blend (1 tbsp) – Elevates the flavor profile; can be homemade or store-bought.
- Baking Soda (1 tsp / 5g) – Acts as a leavening agent, ensuring your cookies rise beautifully.
- Salt (0.5 tsp) – Balances the sweetness perfectly; using kosher or sea salt is ideal.
- Light Brown Sugar (0.75 cup / 150g) – Infuses moisture and flavor; coconut sugar is a lovely alternative.
- Granulated Sugar (0.75 cup / 150g) – Sweetens the cookies; cane sugar works just fine as well.
- Egg Yolk (1 large) – Adds richness and helps bind your delightful dough.
- Pumpkin Purée (1 cup / 230g) – Imparts that mouthwatering pumpkin flavor; be sure to blot excess moisture for chewy cookies.
- Vanilla Extract (2 tsp / 10ml) – Enhances overall flavor, adding warmth to the cookies.
- Old Fashioned Rolled Oats (2.25 cups / 191g) – Gives a wonderfully chewy texture; quick oats can be used but will affect the texture.
For the Maple Brown Butter Cream Cheese Frosting
- Unsalted Butter (10 tbsp / 141g) – Brown it for a rich flavor that complements the frosting.
- Cream Cheese (4 oz / 113g) – Adds creamy tanginess; full-fat is best for texture.
- Powdered Sugar (2.5 cups / 280g) – Sweetens and structures the frosting; no substitutes recommended.
- Vanilla Extract (1 tsp / 5ml) – Same great flavor-boosting properties as above.
- Ground Cinnamon (0.5 tsp) – Adds cozy spice; can reduce or omit based on your preference.
- Maple Extract (0.25 tsp, optional) – Intensifies the maple flavor; optional but recommended.
- Salt (0.25 tsp) – Balances sweetness; fine or kosher salt can be used.
- Milk (1-3 tbsp / 15-45 ml) – Adjust to achieve the perfect frosting consistency.
With these Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies ingredients, you’re already on your way to creating something truly special this fall! Let’s keep the warmth of autumn alive in every delicious bite!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies
Step 1: Prepare Brown Butter
Begin by melting 20 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Continuously whisk for about 8-10 minutes until the butter turns a golden brown and develops a nutty aroma. Remove from heat and allow it to cool for 1-2 hours; this browned butter will infuse your Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies with rich flavor.
Step 2: Blot Pumpkin
While the brown butter cools, take 1 cup of pumpkin purée and spread it on paper towels. This step is crucial to remove excess moisture, which ensures your cookies remain chewy. Allow the pumpkin to sit for approximately 10-15 minutes, then gather the blotted purée for later use in the cookie dough.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together 1.5 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of chai or pumpkin spice blend, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 0.5 teaspoons of salt. This mixture will help ensure a balanced flavor in your Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies. Set the bowl aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Using a large mixing bowl, cream the cooled brown butter with 0.75 cups each of light brown sugar and granulated sugar until well combined. Next, add in 1 egg yolk, the prepared pumpkin purée, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Mix until the ingredients are cohesive and smooth, creating a flavorful base for your cookies.
Step 5: Form Dough
Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture along with 2.25 cups of old-fashioned rolled oats. Stir until just combined; the dough should be thick but well-mixed. Once completed, cover the dough with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1-2 hours, or overnight for the best texture in your Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies.
Step 6: Prep for Baking
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. This preparation creates a non-stick surface for the baking process. As the oven warms, you’ll ensure your Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies bake evenly and come out with that perfect golden hue.
Step 7: Shape and Bake Cookies
Scoop the chilled cookie dough into rounded balls and place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing each ball about 3 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers look set but soft. This will achieve that delightful chewy texture.
Step 8: Cool Cookies
Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes. This step is important to let them firm up before transferring them to wire racks for complete cooling. Keep an eye on their visual doneness to ensure they maintain their tender and chewy texture.
Step 9: Make Frosting
As the cookies cool, prepare the maple brown butter cream cheese frosting. Begin by browning 10 tablespoons of unsalted butter and allow it to cool slightly. In a bowl, beat the browned butter with 4 ounces of cream cheese until smooth, then slowly add in 2.5 cups of powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and optional spices until the frosting achieves a creamy consistency.
Step 10: Assemble Cookies
To assemble your delicious Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies, spread a generous layer of the maple cream cheese frosting on the bottom of one cookie, then place another on top to create a sandwich. Repeat this process until all cookies are frosted, and enjoy the satisfying combination of chewy cookie and creamy filling!
What to Serve with Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies
A cozy fall gathering isn’t complete without delightful pairings that elevate these sweet treats to new heights.
- Warm Spiced Chai: This aromatic tea enhances the warm spices in the cookies, creating a comforting flavor profile that’s perfect for autumn.
- Creamy Hot Chocolate: Rich and velvety, a cup of hot chocolate complements the cookie’s flavors beautifully, adding indulgence to any dessert experience.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream serves as a delightful contrast to the chewy texture of the cookies, making each bite extra special.
- Apple Cider: Serving warm apple cider adds a hint of fruit flavor that pairs perfectly with the pumpkin spices, making for a well-rounded experience.
- Pumpkin Spice Latte: Embrace the true essence of fall by pairing these cookies with a pumpkin spice latte for the ultimate seasonal treat.
- Maple Pecan Pie: For dessert lovers, pairing these cream pies with a slice of maple pecan pie introduces a delightful extra serving of sweetness and texture.
- Cheese Platter: A variety of cheeses, especially creamy brie or sharp cheddar, offers a savory balance against the sweetness of the cookies.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzling caramel sauce over your cookie sandwich adds a layer of rich sweetness, tempting your taste buds for that next bite.
- Chilled White Wine: A crisp, chilled white wine refreshes the palate and complements the creamy filling’s richness without overpowering it.
How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies
Room Temperature: Store unfrosted cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, perfectly preserving their chewy texture.
Fridge: Keep frosted Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 5 days to maintain the cream cheese filling’s freshness.
Freezer: Freeze unfrosted cookies by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw them before frosting.
Reheating: For the best taste, gently warm chilled cookies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or enjoy them straight from the fridge for a refreshing treat!
Make Ahead Options
These Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies are a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious treats on busy days! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by following the initial steps, and then refrigerate it covered. Alternatively, bake the cookies and store them unfrosted in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To maintain their softness, avoid placing them in the fridge unless frosted. When you’re ready to serve, simply whip up the maple cream cheese frosting while the cookies cool, assemble, and savor the cozy flavors of fall without the fuss!
Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies by trying out these delicious variations!
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Sugar-Free: Use maple sugar instead of brown and granulated sugar for a refined-sugar-free treat. It will give an extra depth of flavor without sacrificing sweetness.
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Fruit Purées: Swap pumpkin purée for apple sauce or even mashed bananas for a fruity twist. This will give your cookies a lighter, refreshing flavor that’s perfect for any occasion.
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Nutty Addition: Mix in chopped pecans or walnuts into the cookie dough for a delightful crunch. These nuts will enhance the texture and add a beautiful contrast to the creamy filling.
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Spice It Up: Amplify the warmth by adding a touch of nutmeg or ginger to your spice blend. These additional spices will elevate the cozy fall flavors even further!
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Different Frosting: Instead of cream cheese frosting, try a chocolate ganache or whipped cream. Each frosting will give your pies a completely different experience, making them even more exciting!
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Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend to accommodate dietary restrictions while still enjoying these delightful treats.
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Extra Sweetness: Add chocolate chips or chunks to the cookie dough for an indulgent twist. They’ll melt beautifully and create a rich, sweet layer in each bite.
These variations can take your Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies to exciting new heights, ensuring that every batch brings a fresh experience! Enjoy them alongside a warm cup of coffee, like with our White Lasagna Soup for a truly comforting fall experience.
Expert Tips for Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies
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Brown Your Butter: Make sure to brown the unsalted butter well. It adds a rich, nutty flavor that elevates your cookies.
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Blot the Pumpkin: Don’t skip the step of blotting the pumpkin purée to remove excess moisture; this is essential for achieving chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies!
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Chill the Dough: Allow the cookie dough to chill for at least 1-2 hours. This helps the flavors meld together and creates a chewier texture.
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Bake in Batches: Bake only one tray of cookies at a time to ensure even baking and perfectly golden edges.
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Cooling Time Matters: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet before transferring to wire racks. This allows them to set and achieve a delectable texture.
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Experiment with Spice: Feel free to customize your spice blend! Adding nutmeg or ginger can give a unique twist to your Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies.
Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies Recipe FAQs
What’s the best way to choose ripe pumpkin for the purée?
Absolutely! When selecting pumpkin for your purée, look for pumpkins that feel heavy for their size and have a smooth, blemish-free skin. A good rule of thumb is to choose small, sugar pumpkins, as these tend to be sweeter and have a creamier texture compared to larger varieties.
How should I store my Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies?
To keep your unfrosted cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. However, if you’ve frosted them with the maple cream cheese filling, I recommend refrigerating them in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This keeps that luscious filling fresh and delicious!
Can I freeze these cookies, and if so, how?
Yes! Freezing your Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies is very simple. First, ensure the cookies are unfrosted. Wrap each cookie tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature and frost as desired!
What can I do if my cookies turn out too dry?
If you find your cookies are drier than expected, it could be due to too much flour being added or not enough moisture remaining from the pumpkin purée. In the future, try gently spooning the flour into your measuring cup and leveling it off, rather than scooping directly from the bag. Also, remember to blot your pumkin well; excess moisture is key to keeping the cookies chewy!
Are there any allergens in this recipe I should be aware of?
Great question! The Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies do contain common allergens such as gluten (from the all-purpose flour) and dairy (from the butter and cream cheese). Always be cautious and check ingredient labels if you’re preparing these treats for someone with allergies. For dairy-free or gluten-free variations, you can substitute dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives and opt for gluten-free flour blends.
Can I use a different frosting instead of cream cheese?
The more the merrier! For those who prefer a different frosting, feel free to get creative. You can use whipped cream or even chocolate ganache for a unique twist on your Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies. Just keep in mind the flavor balance you want to achieve!
Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies: Cozy Fall Treats You'll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare Brown Butter: Melt 20 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Continuously whisk for about 8-10 minutes until the butter turns a golden brown and develops a nutty aroma. Remove from heat and allow it to cool for 1-2 hours.
- Blot Pumpkin: Spread 1 cup of pumpkin purée on paper towels and let sit for 10-15 minutes to remove excess moisture.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: Whisk together 1.5 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of chai or pumpkin spice blend, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 0.5 teaspoons of salt in a mixing bowl.
- Combine Mixtures: Cream the cooled brown butter with 0.75 cups each of light brown sugar and granulated sugar, then add in 1 egg yolk, the prepared pumpkin purée, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract.
- Form Dough: Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture along with 2.25 cups of old-fashioned rolled oats. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1-2 hours.
- Prep for Baking: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Shape and Bake Cookies: Scoop the chilled cookie dough into rounded balls and bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are golden brown.
- Cool Cookies: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks.
- Make Frosting: Brown 10 tablespoons of unsalted butter for the frosting, then beat with 4 ounces of cream cheese and gradually add in the other frosting ingredients.
- Assemble Cookies: Spread frosting on one cookie and sandwich with another, repeating until all are frosted.
