Name: Apple Cider Whoopie Pie cookies with Caramel Filling Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 42 min
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; ¼ 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 ¼ cup; ½ cup whole milk; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 3 cups powdered sugar; ¼ cup reduced apple cider; 1 tsp vanilla extract; Pinch of salt; ½ cup caramel sauce; Pinch of flaky sea salt (optional)

Jump to Recipe

Imagine the warm comfort of autumn, bundled into a hand-held treat – that’s exactly what you get with Apple Cider Whoopie Pie cookies with Caramel Filling. Each bite offers a tender, spiced cake sandwich with a pillowy apple cider buttercream and an irresistible swoosh of caramel at the center. They’re soft, fragrant, and absolutely perfect for cozy get-togethers or any time you want to bring a little fall festival flavor into your kitchen. This recipe has become a favorite for good reason: it’s as fun to make as it is to eat, and everyone reaches for seconds the moment the platter hits the table.

Apple Cider Whoopie Pie cookies with Caramel Filling Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You don’t need any fuss or fancy ingredients to create show-stopping Apple Cider Whoopie Pie cookies with Caramel Filling – just pantry staples that magically come together. Each ingredient is essential: from the brown sugar that brings chewy caramel notes, to reduced apple cider for real orchard flavor, to the gentle kick of warm spices.

All-purpose flour: The sturdy backbone, making sure your pies are cake-like but never dry.
Baking soda & baking powder: This fluffy duo gives just the right rise for a tender bite.
Salt: A tiny pinch, but it brightens every autumn flavor in the cookie.
Ground cinnamon, nutmeg & cloves: The warm, spiced trio that brings cozy, seasonal depth in every mouthful.
Unsalted butter: Softened and creamy, it adds richness to both the cakes and the buttercream.
Light brown sugar: Sweetens and lends a moist, caramelized texture you’ll notice immediately.
Egg (room temperature): Helps bind the cookies and gives a bit of lift; don’t skip this step for structure!
Vanilla extract: Adds classic flavor and a subtle aroma to complement both cookie and filling.
Apple cider (for reduction): Real, fresh cider gets simmered to a concentrated syrup, packing every bite with apple flavor.
Whole milk: Keeps the cake moist and the texture incredibly soft.
Powdered sugar: For the dreamy buttercream filling that’s sweet without being heavy.
Store-bought or homemade caramel sauce: Silky, gooey caramel makes these pies absolutely irresistible.
Flaky sea salt (optional): A sprinkle here really makes the caramel pop – trust me, don’t skip it if you love salted caramel!

How to Make Apple Cider Whoopie Pie cookies with Caramel Filling

Step 1: Reduce the Apple Cider

First, you’ll want to concentrate all that apple magic. Pour 1 cup of apple cider into a saucepan and simmer over medium heat until it reduces to just ¼ cup. This takes about 10 to 15 minutes, and as it bubbles away, the scent will fill your kitchen with autumn coziness. Let this reduction cool completely before using, so the flavor can shine and you don’t scramble your eggs later!

Step 2: Make the Whoopie Pies

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. In one bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and your trio of spices. In another large bowl, beat the butter and brown sugar until they’re light and fluffy, then mix in the egg and vanilla. Gradually add your cooled apple cider reduction—don’t skip this step, as that syrup is where all the flavor is! Alternate adding the dry mix and milk in thirds, finishing just when the dough comes together, and try not to overmix for best softness. Use a scoop or tablespoon to drop even mounds onto your sheets, leaving space for spreading. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, just until the cakes are set and a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely on a wire rack (anticipation is half the fun).

Step 3: Prepare the Buttercream

While your pies are cooling, whip up a dreamy apple cider buttercream. Beat the softened butter until it’s creamy and light, then gradually add powdered sugar for structure and sweetness. Pour in the rest of your cooled cider reduction, plus a dash of vanilla and a pinch of salt. Mix until it’s fluffy, smooth, and spiked with apple flavor you can actually taste. This is the filling that truly sets your Apple Cider Whoopie Pie cookies with Caramel Filling apart!

Step 4: Assemble the Whoopie Pies

Once your whoopie halves are cool, match them up by size to make perfect sandwiches. Spread or pipe a generous layer of apple cider buttercream onto the flat side of one half, then drizzle with thick, golden caramel. If you love that salted caramel vibe, a sprinkle of flaky sea salt here is pure heaven! Top each with its twin and press gently to seal. Repeat for every single pie – and try not to nibble as you assemble!

How to Serve Apple Cider Whoopie Pie cookies with Caramel Filling

Garnishes

Give your Apple Cider Whoopie Pie cookies with Caramel Filling the final touch with extra caramel drizzled over the tops. A dusting of powdered sugar or just a finishing pinch of flaky salt is simple but festive. For a cozy presentation, tuck a cinnamon stick or apple slice alongside, and you’ll have an eye-catching treat that tastes as good as it looks!

Side Dishes

These indulgent cookies pair beautifully with mugs of hot apple cider (to double up on the coziness), a steaming latte, or a scoop of cinnamon or vanilla bean ice cream. A platter of crisp apple slices or a selection of fall-inspired teas can round out your dessert spread and balance the sweetness perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress, stack the cookies in a tall glass jar tied with rustic twine, or line them in cupcake liners on a wood board for sweet, snackable presentation. These also make adorable edible gifts: pack them in parchment bags with a caramel drizzle and gift tag. For parties, arrange the Apple Cider Whoopie Pie cookies with Caramel Filling on a tiered dessert stand and watch them disappear!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your assembled whoopie pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or tuck them in the fridge if you’d like to keep them extra fresh. The cookies stay soft, and the flavors mingle to get even better overnight. Just let chilled pies warm up at room temp for 10–15 minutes before serving.

Freezing

Both the finished Apple Cider Whoopie Pie cookies with Caramel Filling and the individual cookie halves freeze beautifully. Layer them between wax paper in a sturdy container to prevent sticking. Freeze for up to 1 month, then thaw at room temperature. You can even freeze just the cookies or just the filling for quick assembly down the line!

Reheating

Though these cookies are best enjoyed at room temperature, you can gently warm them for a few seconds in the microwave if you want the caramel a bit gooey. If they’re a little firm from the refrigerator, let them rest on the counter until they’re pillowy-soft again. Reheating in a low oven (200°F/95°C) for 2-3 minutes works too.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought apple cider, or does it need to be fresh?

Absolutely, you can use your favorite store-bought apple cider! The key is to reduce it slowly to concentrate the flavor, so whether it’s freshly pressed or from a carton, your cookies will turn out delicious. Just be sure to avoid apple juice, as it’s not quite as flavorful.

Is it possible to make these Apple Cider Whoopie Pie cookies with Caramel Filling gluten-free?

Yes, you can swap the all-purpose flour for your preferred cup-for-cup gluten-free baking mix. Keep in mind that texture might change ever-so-slightly, but the apple cider and caramel will keep them moist and irresistible.

Can I make the buttercream and caramel filling ahead of time?

Definitely! Whip up the buttercream and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Bring it to room temperature before assembling. The caramel sauce can also be made or purchased ahead and kept chilled—just stir well before using.

What’s the best way to get perfectly round, evenly sized cookies?

A cookie scoop or small ice cream scoop does wonders for uniform halves, ensuring your Apple Cider Whoopie Pie cookies with Caramel Filling all sandwich together perfectly. If you don’t have one, use a tablespoon and try to keep each mound the same size.

Could I use a different filling instead of caramel if I want to change things up?

Of course! While caramel is classic, you could try a cinnamon cream cheese filling, vanilla bean marshmallow fluff, or even a dollop of spiced apple butter for a fun twist. But honestly, the caramel is hard to beat with the spiced cakes and apple cider in this treat!

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about homemade Apple Cider Whoopie Pie cookies with Caramel Filling: the cider-spiced cakes, the dreamy buttercream, and that gooey caramel come together in every bite. If you’re looking for the ultimate fall dessert to share, these whoopie pies are pure joy on a plate. Gather your ingredients, invite a friend to help, and enjoy making (and eating) this cozy classic!

Apple Cider Whoopie Pie cookies with Caramel Filling Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 11 reviews

Author: Olivia
Total Time: 42 minutes
Yield: Makes about 12–14 whoopie pies 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the delightful flavors of fall with these Apple Cider Whoopie Pie cookies filled with a luscious caramel buttercream. Perfect for seasonal gatherings or a cozy treat at home.

Instructions

Step 1: Reduce the Apple Cider – Pour 1 cup of apple cider into a saucepan and simmer over medium heat until it reduces to ¼ cup. Let it cool.
Step 2: Make the Whoopie Pies – Preheat oven. Prepare dry ingredients. Cream butter and sugar, add egg, vanilla, and apple cider. Mix in dry ingredients and milk. Drop batter on baking sheets and bake.
Step 3: Prepare the Buttercream – Beat softened butter, add powdered sugar, apple cider reduction, vanilla, and salt. Beat until fluffy.
Step 4: Assemble the Whoopie Pies – Pair cake halves, add buttercream, caramel sauce, sea salt, and sandwich halves together.