As I stood in my kitchen, inhaling the fragrant aroma of spiced pumpkin wafting through the air, I felt a wave of nostalgia wash over me. There’s something magical about the arrival of fall; it stirs a longing for cozy treats, especially these Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies. Nestled between two soft, spiced cookies lies a generous layer of maple brown butter cream cheese frosting that not only brings a creamy texture but also adds an irresistible richness. This delightful recipe is perfect for those with a busy lifestyle—quick to whip up and even more inviting to share. Whether you’re a pumpkin enthusiast or just someone seeking an escape from fast food, these cookies capture the essence of autumn in each bite. Curious about how to make these delectable delights? Let’s dive in!
Why are Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies irresistible?
Chewy Delight: These soft cookies offer a texture that’s both chewy and tender, making every bite comforting and satisfying.
Fall Flavors: Infused with aromatic spices, these treats capture the heart of autumn with every taste, creating a cozy atmosphere perfect for gatherings.
Simple Recipe: You don’t need to be a master baker; the easy-to-follow steps ensure success in your kitchen, allowing you more time to enjoy.
Perfect for Sharing: Whether for a family dessert or a gathering with friends, these cream pies are sure to impress—and disappear quickly!
Make Ahead: Plan your baking efficiently—freeze the dough or make the butter in advance for even easier preparation. Enjoy with a warm beverage, and elevate your dessert game! If you appreciate these flavors, you might also love our Pumpkin Swirl Brownies or Blueberry Cream Cake for your fall festivities.
Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pie Ingredients
• To create your delicious pumpkin oatmeal cream pies, check out this essential ingredient list!
For the Cookies
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and flavor; make sure to brown it for a deeper taste.
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; gluten-free blend can be a great substitute!
- Chai or Pumpkin Spice Blend – Funky spice flavors that heighten the fall vibes; you can use either store-bought or homemade.
- Baking Soda – Helps the cookies rise to chewy perfection.
- Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavors.
- Light Brown Sugar – Adds a soft texture and sweetness; coconut sugar is a fantastic alternative!
- Granulated Sugar – Contributes to that delightful sweetness.
- Egg Yolk – Ensures a rich and moist cookie; one egg is perfect for the chewy texture.
- Pumpkin Puree – The star of the show! Blot it to reduce excess moisture for better cookie consistency.
- Vanilla Extract – Adds warmth and enhances sweetness.
- Old Fashioned Rolled Oats – Provides the chewy texture; quick oats work in a pinch but may change the final result.
For the Frosting
- Cream Cheese – Offers creaminess and tang; opt for dairy-free cream cheese if needed.
- Powdered Sugar – Sweetness and thickening for that perfect frosting; powdered erythritol is an option for low-calorie treats.
- Milk – Adjusts the consistency of the frosting; any type is suitable.
These pumpkin oatmeal cream pie ingredients will have you crafting a cozy fall treat in no time!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies
Step 1: Prepare Brown Butter
Start by melting the unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously until the butter becomes foamy and develops a rich, golden-brown color, about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly while you prepare the other ingredients.
Step 2: Blot Pumpkin
Place pumpkin puree on a few layers of paper towels in a bowl to absorb any excess moisture. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture in your cookies. Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes, then gently pat the top dry with additional towels before measuring for the cookie batter.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, chai or pumpkin spice blend, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined. This step ensures that all the leavening and spices are distributed evenly. Set this bowl aside, as you’ll be adding it to the wet mixture later to create your pumpkin oatmeal cream pies.
Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, beat the cooled brown butter with light brown sugar and granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed. Continue mixing for about 2-3 minutes, until the mixture is light and fluffy, creating a delightful base for your cookies that brings out the warmth of the pumpkin.
Step 5: Combine Wet Ingredients
Add the egg yolk, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix on low speed until fully combined and smooth, ensuring that the wet ingredients are well incorporated. This step infuses the cookie dough with a rich, spiced flavor perfect for your pumpkin oatmeal cream pies.
Step 6: Incorporate Dry Mix and Oats
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Fold in the old-fashioned rolled oats with a spatula until evenly distributed throughout the dough. The oats will give your cookies that chewy texture that everyone loves in a pumpkin oatmeal cream pie.
Step 7: Chill Dough
Cover the cookie dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to overnight. Chilling the dough helps the flavors meld and results in a better texture when baked. This step is key to achieving the perfect chewy consistency in your pumpkin oatmeal cream pies.
Step 8: Bake Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the sheets, spacing them a couple of inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden. They will continue to firm up as they cool, so don’t over-bake.
Step 9: Cool Cookies
Allow the freshly baked cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before carefully transferring them to a wire rack. Let them cool completely; this step is vital so the cookies can set properly and develop their delightful chewy texture in your pumpkin oatmeal cream pies.
Step 10: Frost
In a mixing bowl, cream together the browned butter and cream cheese using an electric mixer until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and a splash of milk, mixing until the frosting reaches a spreadable consistency. Generously frost the flat side of half the cookies, then sandwich them with the remaining cookies for the perfect pumpkin oatmeal cream pies.
Make Ahead Options
These Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by chilling it in the refrigerator, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Alternatively, scoop the dough into individual cookie portions and freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring to an airtight container for up to 3 months. To maintain the delicious, chewy texture, make sure to let the dough thaw in the fridge before baking. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply bake from chilled for 10-12 minutes until golden, and then frost with the maple brown butter cream cheese frosting for a delightful treat that’s just as fresh as when you first made them!
Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies Variations
Feel free to explore unique twists and substitutions that will make these cookies even more delightful!
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Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a celiac-friendly treat.
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Add Nuts: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans to introduce a delightful crunch alongside the chewy texture.
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Choco-Pumpkin Layer: Mix in semi-sweet chocolate chips to the cookie dough for an indulgent chocolate-pumpkin fusion.
There’s something about a chocolatey twist that can make these cookies even more enjoyable.
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Spicier Kick: Incorporate extra cinnamon or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a warm, spicy flavor that enhances the fall vibe.
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Vegan-Friendly: Substitute eggs with a flaxseed meal or applesauce and use vegan butter for a plant-based version.
Creating a vegan option is a beautiful way to cater to different dietary preferences.
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Maple Sweetness: Replace granulated sugar with pure maple sugar to add a lovely caramel-rich sweetness to both cookies and frosting.
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Cream Cheese Alternatives: Use Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese for a lighter frosting option that still delivers creaminess.
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Frosting Flavors: Experiment with almond or peppermint extract in the frosting for an entirely new flavor experience.
If you’re inspired by these variations, you might also enjoy our Shortcake Ice Cream or Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Spinach to pair with your pumpkin oatmeal cream pies!
How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies
Room Temperature: Store unfrosted cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for optimal softness and flavor.
Fridge: To keep frosted pumpkin oatmeal cream pies fresh, place them in the fridge. They can last up to a week; just allow them to warm slightly before serving for the best texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unfrosted cookies in a single layer, then transfer to an airtight container. They can stay fresh for up to 3 months. Frost when ready to serve.
Reheating: If you prefer warm cookies, simply microwave them for about 10-15 seconds, but be cautious not to overheat and dry them out. Enjoy your delicious pumpkin oatmeal cream pies!
Expert Tips for Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies
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Brown Butter Care: Keep a close eye on the butter while browning; it can go from perfect to burnt quickly. Stir continuously to achieve that rich, nutty flavor for your cream pies.
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Moisture Management: Don’t skip blotting the pumpkin puree! Excess moisture can lead to cookies that are too soggy, affecting your chewy texture.
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Chill for Chewiness: Always chill the dough for the best results. This step not only enhances flavor but ensures your pumpkin oatmeal cream pies have the perfect chewy bite.
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Baking Sheet Tips: Space the cookie dough balls a couple of inches apart to allow for even spreading while baking. This ensures that each cream pie maintains a nice shape.
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Frosting Consistency: If your frosting is too thick, add a bit of milk to reach your desired spreadable consistency. It should be creamy enough to highlight the delicious flavors without being overly runny.
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Storage Tips: To preserve freshness, store frosted pumpkin oatmeal cream pies in the fridge, but let them come to room temperature before serving for the best taste.
What to Serve with Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies
As the comforting scent of spiced pumpkin fills your home, consider these delightful pairings that will elevate your dessert experience.
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Warm Apple Cider: The sweet and spiced notes of apple cider complement the fall flavors in the cream pies brilliantly, creating a cozy atmosphere. A steaming cup or a chilled version both work wonders.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: This classic pairing adds a creamy contrast to the rich frosting, softening each bite and offering a delightful temperature play that tantalizes the taste buds.
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Creamy Hot Chocolate: Rich and velvety hot chocolate makes for a perfect cozy beverage to sip alongside your pumpkin treats, inviting memories of chilly autumn evenings.
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Chai Tea: The aromatic spices in chai echo the flavors of your cookies while providing a slightly lighter alternative to other drinks—a lovely way to enhance the overall warmth of your dessert spread.
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Pecan Pie Bars: For a festive touch, add some pecan pie bars! Their crunchy texture and sweet nuttiness pair seamlessly with the soft cream pies, offering variety and excitement to the dessert table.
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Maple Syrup Drizzle: For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle pure maple syrup over your pumpkin oatmeal cream pies before serving. This not only amplifies the flavor but creates an adorable presentation!
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Spiced Nuts: The crunch and warmth of spiced nuts add an interesting texture and flavor contrast, bridging the gap between sweet and savory. Perfect for snacking!
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Coffee or Espresso: Pair your sweet treats with a robust cup of coffee or a shot of espresso to balance the sweetness and invigorate the senses, making it a delicious combination every time.
Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! When selecting pumpkin puree, opt for pure canned pumpkin or freshly roasted pumpkin that is smooth and thick. Avoid pumpkin pie filling, as it contains added sugars and spices that can alter the flavor of your cream pies. For homemade, you can roast sugar pumpkins until tender, scoop the flesh, and blend until smooth.
How should I store my pumpkin oatmeal cream pies?
I often recommend storing unfrosted cookies at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. However, if you’ve frosted them, keep them refrigerated; they can last up to a week. Just be sure to let them sit out for a few minutes before enjoying for the best flavor and texture!
Can I freeze pumpkin oatmeal cream pies?
Certainly! To freeze your pumpkin oatmeal cream pies, first, allow the unfrosted cookies to cool completely. Then, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, and transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag to keep them fresh for up to 3 months. Frost them once you’re ready to serve!
What should I do if my cookies are too dry?
If your cookies turn out dry, there are a couple of adjustments you can make in future batches. Ensure not to overbake them; they should be soft in the center when you remove them from the oven. Another tip is to measure your flour accurately—using a scale is ideal. If you find yourself needing moisture, consider adding an additional egg yolk in the next round, as the extra fat will help maintain that chewiness.
Are pumpkin oatmeal cream pies safe for pets?
Very! While pure pumpkin is safe for pets in small amounts, the sugar and cream cheese in these pies are not recommended for animals. If your furry friend shows interest, you might share a plain, unfrosted cookie, but keep the indulgent treats away from them for their health!
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure it has a binding agent, like xanthan gum, to maintain proper structure in your cookies. Additionally, be mindful of cross-contamination if you have dietary restrictions!
Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cream Pies for Cozy Fall Indulgence
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare Brown Butter: Melt the unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat, stirring until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Let cool slightly.
- Blot Pumpkin: Place pumpkin puree on paper towels to absorb moisture for 10-15 minutes, then pat dry.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: Whisk flour, spice blend, baking soda, and salt in a bowl.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: Beat cooled brown butter with light brown and granulated sugars for 2-3 minutes until fluffy.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: Add egg yolk, pumpkin puree, and vanilla to the butter mixture and mix until smooth.
- Incorporate Dry Mix and Oats: Gradually mix in dry ingredients and fold in oats until evenly distributed.
- Chill Dough: Refrigerate dough, covered, for at least 1 hour.
- Bake Cookies: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Scoop dough onto lined baking sheets and bake for 10-12 minutes.
- Cool Cookies: Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Frost: Mix browned butter with cream cheese and powdered sugar, adding milk to reach spreadable consistency. Frost half the cookies and sandwich together.
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