There is something so comforting and irresistibly delicious about the Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Cream Pies Recipe that makes it an instant favorite for any season. Imagine soft, chewy oatmeal cookies bursting with warm cinnamon and sweet apple bits, all lovingly sandwiched together with a creamy, vanilla-infused filling that melts in your mouth. This recipe brings together cozy flavors and delightful textures in a way that makes each bite a little celebration, perfect for sharing with friends or savoring as an afternoon treat. Trust me, once you make these, they will quickly become a staple in your baking rotation!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Cream Pies Recipe are wonderfully simple but each one plays a crucial role. From the rich butter that ensures tender cookies to the cinnamon that adds that essential warmth, every item contributes to the perfect harmony of taste and texture.
- All-purpose flour: The base that gives the cookies structure and a soft crumb.
- Ground cinnamon: Offers that classic warm spice that pairs beautifully with apples.
- Baking soda: Helps the cookies rise and become perfectly airy.
- Salt: Enhances every flavor for a balanced taste.
- Unsalted butter (softened): Adds richness and moisture to both cookies and filling.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cookies without overpowering other flavors.
- Brown sugar (packed): Brings a subtle molasses depth and chewiness to the cookie.
- Large egg: Binds ingredients for that perfect cookie texture.
- Vanilla extract: Adds a fragrant note that complements the cinnamon and apples.
- Old-fashioned rolled oats: Provide heartiness and chew, creating classic oatmeal cookie appeal.
- Dried apples, finely chopped: Concentrated apple flavor that brings bursts of fruity sweetness.
- Raisins (optional): An additional touch of sweet chewiness for those who like a bit more texture.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens and smooths the cream filling to a fluffy perfection.
- Heavy cream or milk: Creates the creamy texture in the filling.
- Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness in the cream filling beautifully.
How to Make Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Cream Pies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), and line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. This simple step is key for ensuring your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick, so you get that perfect golden finish every time.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, ground cinnamon, baking soda, and salt. This ensures that your spices and leavening agents are evenly distributed in the dough, setting the foundation for evenly flavored cookies.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars
Use a large mixing bowl to cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture looks light and fluffy—this usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes with an electric mixer. This step incorporates air, helping to keep your cookies tender and irresistible.
Step 4: Add Egg and Vanilla
Beat in the large egg and vanilla extract until fully combined. This brings binder and flavor to the dough, making sure each bite has the delicious vanilla hint that pairs so well with cinnamon and apple.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet, mixing just until the flour disappears. Overmixing can make the cookies tough, so it’s important to stop as soon as everything is incorporated for that tender crumb.
Step 6: Stir in Oats, Apples, and Raisins
Gently fold in the oats, finely chopped dried apples, and raisins if using. These add heartiness and bursts of sweet apple flavor that are the hallmark of these oatmeal cream pies.
Step 7: Form and Bake the Cookies
Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the baking sheets, spacing them about two inches apart. Give each mound a slight press with the back of a spoon to flatten. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges turn golden and the centers are set but still soft. Let the cookies rest a few minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
Step 8: Prepare the Cream Filling
In a medium bowl, beat together the softened butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, heavy cream or milk, and a pinch of salt until smooth and fluffy. The key here is to adjust the cream or milk so your filling spreads easily but holds its shape, creating that luscious sandwich center.
Step 9: Assemble the Cream Pies
Once the cookies are completely cooled, spread a generous amount of cream filling onto the bottom of one cookie. Top with a second cookie and press gently to make a sandwich. Repeat with all cookies and filling.
Step 10: Enjoy Your Creation
You can serve these immediately or store them in an airtight container for up to three days. Either way, digging into your homemade Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Cream Pies Recipe is a guaranteed treat that will have everyone asking for seconds.
How to Serve Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Cream Pies Recipe
Garnishes
A light dusting of powdered sugar or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top adds a charming touch and a hint of extra sweetness. For a festive occasion, try adding tiny apple slices or a drizzle of caramel sauce for a show-stopping presentation.
Side Dishes
Pair these cream pies with warm spiced tea or a cup of creamy hot cider for a cozy afternoon snack. They also pair nicely with a simple scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream if you’re in the mood for a luxe dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to wow your guests? Serve the cream pies on a rustic wooden board surrounded by fresh apples and cinnamon sticks for a beautiful autumnal display. For kids’ parties, wrap each pie in a colorful cupcake liner or cellophane bag tied with ribbon for a fun, grab-and-go treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your leftover cinnamon apple oatmeal cream pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This keeps the cookies soft and the cream filling fresh, making it easy to enjoy a sweet bite anytime.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, freeze the assembled cream pies individually wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer bag. They can last up to a month. Just thaw them in the fridge overnight before serving for best results.
Reheating
These pies are best enjoyed fresh or chilled, but if you prefer them slightly warm, let them sit at room temperature for a bit instead of microwaving. This prevents the cream filling from melting and losing its lovely texture.
FAQs
Can I use fresh apples instead of dried?
Absolutely! Just be sure to finely chop your fresh apples and drain any excess moisture before adding them to the dough to avoid soggy cookies. This swap brings a fresher, juicier apple burst in every bite.
Can I make these cream pies vegan or dairy-free?
Yes, by substituting vegan butter and using a plant-based milk such as almond or oat, you can create a dairy-free version. Just ensure your powdered sugar is also vegan-friendly. The texture and flavor will still be deliciously close to the original!
How do I keep the oatmeal cookies soft?
The combination of brown sugar and proper baking time helps keep the cookies soft and chewy. Make sure not to overbake them and store the finished pies in an airtight container to retain moisture.
Is it okay to skip the raisins?
Definitely! Raisins add a nice chewiness but aren’t mandatory. If you’re not a fan, you can omit them without compromising the overall flavor and texture of your cream pies.
What’s the best way to achieve a fluffy cream filling?
Use softened butter and beat it well with powdered sugar, adding cream or milk gradually. This whipping process incorporates air, creating that light, fluffy texture that makes the filling irresistible.
Final Thoughts
Sharing the Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Cream Pies Recipe with you has been such a joy because it truly captures the spirit of cozy baking and indulgent flavors. These pies are easy to make, satisfying to eat, and perfect for sharing or keeping all to yourself. Give them a try and watch how quickly they disappear—they might just become your new favorite dessert tradition!
Print
Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Cream Pies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Cream Pies are a delightful treat combining chewy oatmeal cookies studded with dried apples and raisins, sandwiched with a smooth, fluffy vanilla cream filling. Perfectly spiced with cinnamon and baked to golden perfection, these homemade cream pies make a comforting dessert or snack that serves 12.
Ingredients
Oatmeal Cookies
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 cup dried apples, finely chopped (or fresh apples, finely chopped and drained)
- 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
Cream Filling
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the cookies.
- Prepare Baking Sheets: Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, ground cinnamon, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the large egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated into the mixture.
- Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined without overmixing.
- Add Oats and Fruit: Stir in the rolled oats, chopped dried apples, and raisins if using, ensuring an even distribution throughout the dough.
- Form the Cookies: Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
- Flatten Cookies Slightly: Use the back of a spoon to gently flatten each cookie dough mound into a round shape.
- Bake the Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown and the cookies are set.
- Cool the Cookies: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
- Prepare the Cream Filling: In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, heavy cream or milk, and a pinch of salt until the filling is smooth and fluffy. Adjust cream or milk quantity as needed to achieve your desired consistency.
- Assemble the Cream Pies: Spread a generous amount of the cream filling on the bottom side of one cooled cookie, then top with a second cookie to form a sandwich. Repeat with remaining cookies and filling.
- Serve and Store: Serve the cream pies immediately or store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days, enjoying the flavors fresh and delicious.
Notes
- Use dried apples for the best texture and avoid excess moisture. If using fresh apples, drain them well before adding.
- Raisins are optional but add a nice chewy contrast; you can omit or substitute with other dried fruits like cranberries.
- Make sure cookies are completely cool before assembling to prevent the cream filling from melting.
- Store cream pies in a single layer to avoid crushing and keep them fresh up to 3 days.
- For a lighter version, substitute half the butter in the filling with cream cheese.
