As the crisp autumn air brings vibrant leaves cascading down from trees, my cravings turn towards nostalgic flavors that evoke warmth and comfort. One of my absolute favorite treats to whip up during this season is the Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Cream Pies. It’s hard to resist the delicious blend of brown sugar and apple spiced aromas wafting through the kitchen. Each bite reflects the essence of fall, featuring a delightful crunch from dried apples and a creamy, cinnamon-spiced filling that makes you long for cozy gatherings with friends and family.
I once stumbled upon this recipe while brainstorming ways to use up some apple butter and oats left from my pantry cleanout. Little did I know that I was about to create a cookie that would become a staple in my home. These cream pies strike the perfect balance between chewy and rich, making them a wonderful alternative to fast food desserts that often leave you wanting something more authentic. Let’s dive into this easy and fun recipe that celebrates the flavors of the season!
Why are Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Cream Pies irresistible?
Nostalgic flavors: These cream pies capture the essence of fall, blending sweet apples and warm spices.
Easy to make: With minimal effort, you can create an impressive dessert that delights everyone.
Chewy and creamy: The contrast of soft cookies filled with rich cream makes every bite delightful.
Perfect for gatherings: These pies are a crowd-pleaser at any autumn event, sparking joy among family and friends.
Plus, for an even more seasonal treat, consider pairing them with warm apple cider for the ultimate cozy experience!
Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Cream Pies Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
- All-purpose Flour – Provides structure; substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
- Old-fashioned Rolled Oats – Adds chewiness and texture; instant oats can be used in a pinch but will alter the texture.
- Ground Cinnamon – For warm spice flavor; use pumpkin pie spice as a substitute if needed.
- Baking Soda – Helps cookies rise; ensure it’s fresh for best results.
- Salt – Enhances sweetness; adjust quantity based on dietary needs.
- Ground Ginger – Adds depth to spice profile; optional for those preferring a milder flavor.
- Ground Allspice, Nutmeg – Both contribute to the fall flavor profile; can be omitted if unavailable.
- Unsalted Butter – For richness and flavor; substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
- Dark Brown Sugar – Sweetens cookies and provides moisture; light brown sugar could be used for a lighter flavor.
- Molasses – Adds moisture and deep flavor; can substitute with honey or maple syrup.
- Apple Butter – Enhances apple flavor and moisture; homemade or store-bought works well.
- Vanilla Extract – For additional flavor depth; almond extract is a great substitute.
- Large Eggs – Binds ingredients and provides structure; replace with “flax eggs” for a vegan version.
- Crunchy Dried Apples – Adds apple flavor without moisture; avoid fresh apples to prevent sogginess.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- Full-fat Cream Cheese – Provides richness; low-fat alternatives will change texture.
- Unsalted Butter – Adds smoothness and flavor; can use vegan butter for a dairy-free version.
- Confectioners’ Sugar – Sweetens and thickens frosting; try powdered erythritol for a low-carb option.
- Vanilla Extract, Milk, Ground Cinnamon – Enhance flavor; adjust milk for desired frosting consistency.
- Apple Butter – Incorporates apple flavor into frosting; optional for additional sweetness.
How to Make Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Cream Pies
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, oats, cinnamon, baking soda, salt, ginger, allspice, and nutmeg. This blend brings together the warm spices for that cozy flavor.
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Brown Butter: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter while stirring frequently. Allow it to cook until it becomes golden brown and emits a nutty aroma—this adds a rich depth of flavor to your cookies!
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Mix Wet Ingredients: Transfer the browned butter to a large mixing bowl. Stir in the brown sugar, molasses, apple butter, and vanilla until smooth and creamy.
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Incorporate Eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing until very well combined, which helps to create the perfect texture in your cookies.
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Combine Mixtures: Gently fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet mixture until just combined, then add the chopped dried apples. Be careful not to over-mix.
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Scoop Dough: Using a large cookie scoop, drop the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, making sure to space the dough balls about 2 inches apart for even baking.
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Bake: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for about 11 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly golden. They will firm up as they cool!
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Cool: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 10 minutes, then transfer them to wire racks to cool completely—this keeps them from getting soggy.
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Prepare Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add in the confectioners’ sugar, vanilla, milk, and cinnamon, mixing until fluffy.
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Assemble Cream Pies: Pipe or spread the cream cheese frosting onto the flat side of one cookie. Top with a teaspoon of apple butter, then gently press another cookie on top to create a sweet sandwich.
Optional: Drizzle a bit of caramel sauce on top for an indulgent touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Cream Pies are a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to save time on busy days. You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance—simply cover it and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Additionally, you can make the cream cheese frosting ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days; ensure it’s well-covered to maintain its freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy your cream pies, bake the cookies and allow them to cool before assembling with the frosting and apple butter. This way, you’ll have scrumptious, homemade treats ready to impress without the last-minute rush!
Expert Tips for Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Cream Pies
- Brown the Butter: Ensure the butter is browned properly by cooking until it turns golden and has a nutty aroma, enhancing the cookies’ flavor.
- Avoid Chilling Dough: Do not refrigerate the dough, as this can alter the cookies’ texture and lead to a less chewy result.
- Shape After Baking: If the cookies spread too much, press the edges in immediately after baking to achieve a more uniform shape.
- Cookie Size Matters: Smaller cookies can be easier to handle and enjoy; adjust the baking time slightly if you opt for mini pies to ensure they bake evenly.
- Storage Tips: Keep the filled Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Cream Pies in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for optimal freshness and flavor.
What to Serve with Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Cream Pies?
When tantalizing cookies like these are part of your dessert spread, complementing them with delightful sides adds to the cozy warmth of autumn.
- Warm Apple Cider: This classic fall beverage blends perfectly with the cinnamon and apple flavors, creating a nostalgic experience that warms your heart.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream offers a cool contrast to the chewy, spiced cookies, enhancing every bite with rich smoothness.
- Maple Pecan Tart: The crunchy pecan topping and sweet maple syrup echo the autumnal flavors while providing a delightful texture change alongside your cream pies.
- Cheesecake Bites: These small, tangy treats offer a refreshing balance to the cookies, with a creaminess that pairs well with the soft, chewy texture.
- Caramel Sauce Drizzle: A simple drizzle of caramel not only adds a sweet touch but also enhances the overall flavor profile, making every bite even more indulgent.
- Pumpkin Spice Latte: Embrace the ultimate fall beverage that echoes warm spices, creating a lovely pairing that keeps you cozied up during chilly evenings.
- Spiced Nuts: A small bowl of mixed spiced nuts provides a crunchy, savory contrast and adds an element of surprise beside the sweet treats.
- Chai Tea: This aromatic beverage, rich in spices, harmonizes beautifully with the flavors of the cookies, making for a heartwarming match.
Together, these delightful pairings elevate your dessert experience, making each gathering all the more special with enticing flavors everyone will love.
How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Cream Pies
- Room Temperature: Store unfilled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their moisture and flavor.
- Fridge: If filled, keep the Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Cream Pies in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, ensuring they are well-wrapped to maintain freshness.
- Freezer: Freeze the unfilled cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.
- Reheating: To refresh, warm the cookies lightly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before serving, reviving their texture and flavor beautifully.
Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Cream Pies Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and transform these cookies into something uniquely yours!
- Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for a deliciously chewy treat.
- Maple Flavor: Use pure maple syrup instead of molasses for a delightful twist that deepens the sweetness profile. It adds a lovely, seasonal vibe.
- Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the dough for an extra layer of crunch and earthy flavors. The added texture will make each bite even more satisfying.
- Coconut Cream: Substitute the cream cheese in your frosting with coconut cream for a tropical flair. It’ll complement the apple beautifully!
- Pumpkin Spice: Swap out the apple butter for pumpkin puree and adjust spices to create an instantly beloved seasonal favorite that’s just as cozy.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the assembled pies for a rich, decadent finish that elevates these cookies for special occasions.
- Heat it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cookie dough for a surprising kick that balances the sweetness, perfect for those who enjoy a slight heat.
- Fruit Explosion: Offer variety by using dried cranberries or cherries alongside apples for bursts of tartness that brighten each pie. The blend of flavors will feel truly festive.
Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Cream Pies Recipe FAQs
What are the best apples to use for this recipe?
I recommend using firm, sweet apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. They hold up well when dried and add a lovely flavor to your cookies. If you’re using fresh apples, be sure to dehydrate them first to avoid sogginess!
How should I store my Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Cream Pies?
You can store filled cookies in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure they are wrapped or placed in an airtight container to keep them fresh and prevent them from drying out.
Can I freeze Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Cream Pies?
Absolutely! For freezing, I suggest storing the unfilled cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature. If you like, you can also fill them with frosting just before serving for the best texture.
What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If you notice your cookies spreading too much during baking, simply press the edges in with a spatula once they come out of the oven. This helps maintain their shape. It’s important to keep an eye on your baking time as well—11 minutes should give you deliciously chewy cookies!
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Certainly! To adapt the Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Cream Pies for a gluten-free diet, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be mindful to check if your rolled oats are labeled gluten-free, as some oats can be cross-contaminated.
Do I need to chill the dough before baking?
No need to chill the dough! Chilling can affect the cookie’s texture, making them less chewy. You want to bake them fresh after mixing to ensure they retain that delightful texture.
Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Cream Pies That Warm Your Heart
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, oats, cinnamon, baking soda, salt, ginger, allspice, and nutmeg.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter, stirring frequently until it’s golden brown and emits a nutty aroma.
- Transfer the browned butter to a large mixing bowl. Stir in the brown sugar, molasses, apple butter, and vanilla until smooth.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing until very well combined.
- Gently fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet mixture, then add the chopped dried apples.
- Using a large cookie scoop, drop the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing the dough balls about 2 inches apart.
- Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for about 11 minutes, or until lightly golden.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add confectioners’ sugar, vanilla, milk, and cinnamon.
- Pipe or spread the cream cheese frosting onto one cookie and top with a teaspoon of apple butter. Press another cookie on top.
