Apple Cider Whoopie Pie cookies with Caramel Filling
If you’re looking for a cozy treat that captures the essence of fall, then you’ve stumbled upon the right recipe! These Apple Cider Whoopie Pie cookies with Caramel Filling are not only delicious but also incredibly fun to make. Picture soft, spiced cookies filled with a luscious caramel filling that will warm your heart and bring smiles to everyone around the table. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dessert or a sweet addition to a family gathering, these whoopie pies are sure to be a hit!
What makes this recipe even more special is how simple it is. The familiar flavors of apple cider and warm spices create a delightful experience that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family. Trust me, once you take your first bite, you’ll understand why this recipe has become one of my favorites!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, you can whip these up in no time, making them perfect for any occasion.
- Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet, spiced flavor and the fun of assembling their own whoopie pies!
- Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake the cookies in advance and fill them just before serving for an easy dessert option.
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The combination of apple cider and caramel is simply irresistible, creating a comforting treat you’ll crave again.

Ingredients You’ll Need
These Apple Cider Whoopie Pie cookies with Caramel Filling use simple and wholesome ingredients that you may already have at home. Let’s gather everything we need to create this delightful treat!
For the Cookies:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
- ÂĽ tsp ground cloves
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup apple cider (reduced to ÂĽ cup)
For the Filling:
- ½ cup whole milk
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- ÂĽ cup reduced apple cider (see note above)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- ½ cup store-bought caramel sauce (or homemade if you prefer)
- Pinch of flaky sea salt (optional)
Variations
This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative and mix things up based on your preferences or dietary needs.
- Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts for added texture and flavor.
- Change the Spice: Experiment with different spices like ginger or allspice for a unique twist.
- Use Different Fillings: Swap out caramel for cream cheese frosting or chocolate ganache for a rich alternative.
- Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
How to Make Apple Cider Whoopie Pie cookies with Caramel Filling
Step 1: Prepare the Reduced Cider
Start by boiling down your apple cider. This step is crucial as it concentrates the flavor. Pour 1 cup of apple cider into a saucepan over medium heat. Allow it to simmer until it reduces down to about ÂĽ cup. This reduced cider will infuse your cookies with an intense apple flavor.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and spices—cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. This step ensures that everything is evenly distributed throughout your cookie dough.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In another bowl, beat together the softened butter and light brown sugar until creamy. This process introduces air into the mixture and gives your cookies that wonderful light texture we all love.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
Next, add in the egg, vanilla extract, and reduced apple cider. Mix until combined. The wet ingredients help bind everything together while adding moisture.
Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gradually add your dry mixture into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want our cookies tender!
Step 6: Bake Your Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Drop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto lined baking sheets. Bake for about 10 minutes or until they are lightly golden around the edges. Allow them to cool on wire racks before filling.
Step 7: Prepare Your Filling
While your cookies are cooling, let’s make that luscious filling! In a bowl, beat together softened butter and powdered sugar until fluffy. Slowly add in whole milk, reduced apple cider, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth.
Step 8: Assemble Your Whoopie Pies
Take one cookie and spread or pipe some filling onto its flat side. Top it with another cookie to create a sandwich. Drizzle caramel sauce over each pie and sprinkle with flaky sea salt if desired.
And there you have it—delicious Apple Cider Whoopie Pie cookies with Caramel Filling! Enjoy every bite!
Pro Tips for Making Apple Cider Whoopie Pie Cookies with Caramel Filling
Making these delightful treats is a breeze when you keep a few essential tips in mind!
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Use fresh apple cider: Fresh cider will enhance the flavor of your whoopie pies, giving them that authentic fall taste that pairs perfectly with the spices.
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Chill the dough: If your dough feels too sticky, chilling it for about 30 minutes can make it easier to scoop and bake, resulting in perfectly shaped cookies.
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Don’t skip the reduction: Reducing the apple cider concentrates its sweetness and flavor, so don’t rush this step. It’s what makes your filling truly sing!
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Sift the powdered sugar: Sifting helps eliminate lumps, ensuring a smooth and creamy caramel filling that spreads easily between those luscious cookies.
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Experiment with fillings: While caramel is divine, feel free to try different fillings like cream cheese frosting or even a spiced apple butter for a unique twist!
How to Serve Apple Cider Whoopie Pie Cookies with Caramel Filling
These whoopie pies not only taste amazing but also look beautiful on a dessert table. Here are some fun ways to present them!
Garnishes
- Flaky sea salt: A sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top of your filled pies enhances the sweet and savory balance.
- Cinnamon dusting: A light dusting of cinnamon powder just before serving adds an extra kick of warmth and visual appeal.
- Caramel drizzle: Drizzling additional caramel sauce over the top can elevate their presentation while adding even more deliciousness.
Side Dishes
- Warm spiced apple cider: Perfect for fall gatherings, serving warm spiced apple cider alongside your whoopie pies complements the flavors beautifully.
- Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with these cookies, especially if served slightly warmed.
- Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with apples, pears, and pomegranate seeds balances the sweetness of the whoopie pies and adds texture.
- Pumpkin soup: For a cozy touch, consider serving these cookies as a sweet finish after a hearty bowl of pumpkin soup—perfect for chilly days!
Enjoy making (and eating) your Apple Cider Whoopie Pie Cookies with Caramel Filling! They’re sure to bring smiles all around.

Make Ahead and Storage
These Apple Cider Whoopie Pie cookies with Caramel Filling are perfect for meal prep! You can bake them in advance and store them for later enjoyment, making them a delightful treat whenever the craving strikes.
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the cookies to cool completely before storing.
- Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- For longer freshness, consider refrigerating them, where they can last about a week.
Freezing
- To freeze, place individual whoopie pies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
- Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just remember to label with the date!
Reheating
- If you want to enjoy them warm, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the whoopie pies on a baking sheet and warm for about 5-7 minutes.
- Alternatively, you can microwave each pie for about 15 seconds for a quick warm-up.
FAQs
Here are some common questions you might have about these delicious treats!
Can I substitute the apple cider in Apple Cider Whoopie Pie cookies with Caramel Filling?
Yes! If you’re unable to find apple cider, you can use apple juice as a substitute. Just remember that it may not have the same depth of flavor.
How do I make Apple Cider Whoopie Pie cookies with Caramel Filling vegan?
To make these whoopie pies vegan, replace the butter with a plant-based alternative and use flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tbsp water per egg) instead of regular eggs. Ensure that all other ingredients are vegan-friendly.
Can I use homemade caramel sauce in my Apple Cider Whoopie Pie cookies?
Absolutely! Homemade caramel sauce will add a personal touch and enhance the flavor even more. Just ensure it has cooled before using it as filling.
How should I store leftover Apple Cider Whoopie Pie cookies with Caramel Filling?
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for up to a week. For long-term storage, freezing is an excellent option!
Final Thoughts
I hope this recipe brings warmth and joy into your kitchen as much as it does mine! The combination of spiced apple cider and sweet caramel creates a nostalgic treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy making these delightful whoopie pies and share them with loved ones—there’s nothing quite like homemade sweets! Happy baking!
Apple Cider Whoopie Pie cookies with Caramel Filling
Indulge in the cozy flavors of fall with these delightful Apple Cider Whoopie Pie cookies filled with a luscious caramel filling. These sweet, spiced cookie sandwiches capture the essence of autumn, making them the perfect treat for any gathering or family dessert night. Each bite brings a warmth that will surely create smiles all around your table. With easy-to-follow instructions and simple ingredients, this recipe is not only fun to make but also a great way to share seasonal joy with loved ones. Whether served at a festive gathering or enjoyed as an after-school snack, these whoopie pies are destined to become a new favorite!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 whoopie pies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
- ÂĽ tsp ground cloves
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup apple cider (reduced to ÂĽ cup)
- ½ cup whole milk
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- ÂĽ cup reduced apple cider
- ½ cup store-bought caramel sauce (or homemade if you prefer)
- Pinch of salt
- Pinch of flaky sea salt (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Reduced Cider: Start by boiling down your apple cider until it reduces to about ÂĽ cup.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and spices.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: Beat together the softened butter and light brown sugar until creamy.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: Add in the egg, vanilla extract, and reduced apple cider, mixing until combined.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add your dry mixture into the wet mixture until just combined.
- Bake Your Cookies: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Drop tablespoon-sized portions onto lined baking sheets and bake for about 10 minutes.
- Prepare Your Filling: Beat together softened butter and powdered sugar, then add milk, reduced cider, and a pinch of salt until smooth.
- Assemble Your Whoopie Pies: Spread or pipe filling onto one cookie's flat side, top with another cookie, and drizzle caramel sauce over each pie.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 whoopie pie (62g)
- Calories: 245
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg