Pumpkin Whoopie Pies

Kick off autumn by embracing the season's signature flavor with tender, spiced pumpkin whoopie pies.

It's no secret that Southerners are enthusiastic about all things pumpkin dessert. In fact, we can't seem to get enough of it. With pumpkin in mind, we've created the ultimate fall treat: pumpkin whoopie pies.

Similar to a classic whoopie pie, but made with light brown sugar, pumpkin spice, and pumpkin puree, these certainly pack in the flavors of the season. This tasty confection consists of two soft pumpkin cookies that are bonded together by velvety and rich cream cheese frosting.

This seasonal cookie transforms pumpkin spice into a highly prized grab-and-go treat that's perfect to serve at holiday or fall gatherings. Eat this sweet day or night, we won't judge! They are so good that you can't help but to scream "Whoopie!" after eating this special pumpkin dessert.

Ingredients for Pumpkin Whoopie Pies

For these whoopie pies, you'll need:

• All-purpose flour: The base of the whoopie pies.
• Ground cinnamon: A little extra spice to amp up the pumpkin pie spice.
• Pumpkin pie spice: Grab store-bought or make your own.
• Baking soda: Gives the whoopies their rise and spread.
• Kosher salt: Salt is key to balance the sweetness.
• Light brown sugar: Adds a hint of molasses.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the mix.
• Canola oil: Adds moisture and tenderness.
• Canned pumpkin puree: Make sure to use canned pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, which comes pre-sweetened.
• Eggs: Binds the batter.
• Vanilla extract: Adds a floral note. Can substitute with rum or bourbon in a pinch.

For the cream cheese frosting, you'll need:

• Cream cheese: At room temperature for a smooth finish.
• Salted butter: If using unsalted, add a pinch or two of kosher salt to amp up the flavor of the frosting.
• Powdered sugar: Melts easily into the frosting for a smooth mix.
• Ground cinnamon: A hint of spice.
• Vanilla extract: See note above.
  

How To Make Pumpkin Whoopie Pies

Full instructions are below, but here's a brief recap before you get started:

• Step 1. Make batter: Preheat oven to 350°F. Whisk to combine flour, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, baking soda, and salt; set aside. Beat sugars, oil, and pumpkin to combine. Beat in eggs one at time; stir in vanilla. Gradually beat in flour mixture on low speed until just combined.
• Step 2. Bake cookies: Pipe batter in 2-inch circles, 2 inches apart onto parchment-lined baking sheets. Bake 11 minutes or until tops are set, rotating halfway through. Cool on baking sheets 5 minutes, then cool completely on a wire rack.
• Step 3. Prepare the frosting: Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually beat in powdered sugar; stir in vanilla and cinnamon.
• Step 4. Build whoopie pies: Pipe frosting onto the flat side of half of the cookies. Sandwich with remaining whoopie pies.
  

What Type of Canned Pumpkin is Best?

We could go on and on about Libby's 100% Pure Pumpkin Puree, but we’ll just say this: it’ll never let you down. While other brands may vary in terms of moisture content and flavor, Libby’s is consistently smooth, thick, and deeply pumpkin-y.

That said, you can also make your own pumpkin puree, which is a great option if you pick up too many pumpkins at the farmers' market or visit a pumpkin patch and bring home more than you can use for decorations.

Want to know more? Check out how it stacked up against its competitors.

How To Store Pumpkin Whoopie Pies

Once filled, refrigerate whoopie pies until serving (and leftovers up to four days), or freeze in an airtight container for up to one month.

For picture-perfect whoopie pies, make the cookies ahead, stack and freeze between layers of parchment paper in an airtight container. Prepare the frosting and assemble fresh before serving.

Filling Variations

The tanginess of the cream cheese frosting is a classic pairing that helps bring pumpkin flavor to life, and balances the rich sweetness of these whoopie pies. If you're looking for alternatives, store-bought frostings, marshmallow fluff, or any of these delicious buttercreams will pair nicely:

• Bourbon-Vanilla Bean Buttercream
• Browned Buttercream Frosting
• Caramel Buttercream
• Rum Buttercream
• Seven-Minute Frosting
• Orange Buttercream

Editorial contributions by Katie Rosenhouse.