Name: Delicious Apple Spice Cake Whoopie Pies for Cozy Fall Moments
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 39 min
Ingredients: 1 box Spice Cake Mix (High quality recommended.); 1 cup Apple Butter (Homemade can be a delightful substitute.); 1/3 cup Vegetable Oil (Coconut oil offers a unique twist.); 2 large Eggs (Use room temperature eggs.); 8 oz Cream Cheese (Swap for marshmallow crème for a sweeter version.); 2 cups Powdered Sugar (No direct substitutions recommended.); 2 tbsp Milk (Choose a favorite or non-dairy alternative.); 1 tsp Vanilla Extract (Optional but recommended.)

There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about the scent of spiced apples wafting through the kitchen. As the leaves turn and days grow cooler, I find myself craving comfort, and that’s where these Apple Spice Cake Whoopie Pies come into play. Enriched with sweet apple butter, these delightful treats infuse a burst of autumn flavor into a beloved classic, making them not just a dessert but a cozy experience. With quick prep and an unassuming air of indulgence, they’re the perfect remedy for those tired of fast food conveyor belts. Trust me, once you sink your teeth into that moist, fluffy goodness filled with creamy frosting, you’ll want to share them with everyone! So, are you ready to whip up this delightful fall dessert and take a bite out of autumn?

Why Are You Going to Love These Whoopie Pies?

Nostalgic Comfort: These Apple Spice Cake Whoopie Pies evoke childhood memories of cozy fall gatherings and scrumptious desserts. Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time, you can whip these up even on the busiest days. Moist and Fluffy: Thanks to apple butter, each pie is a cloud of spiced deliciousness, satisfying your cravings for comfort food. Customizable Options: Feel free to experiment with different frostings, like marshmallow crème or even chocolate ganache. Crowd-Plever: Perfect for parties, serve them alongside Tropical Pineapple Mango for an unforgettable fall treat spread!

Apple Spice Cake Whoopie Pies Ingredients

For the Whoopie Pies
• Spice Cake Mix – Provides the base structure and sweetness for the whoopie pies; don’t skimp on quality.
• Apple Butter – Adds moisture and rich apple flavor, elevating the fall essence; homemade can be a delightful substitute.
• Vegetable Oil – Keeps the pies moist and tender; coconut oil offers a unique twist if you’re feeling adventurous.
• Eggs – Essential for binding the ingredients and contributing to structure; use room temperature eggs for the best results.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting
• Cream Cheese – Brings tanginess and creaminess to the frosting; swap it out for marshmallow crème for a sweeter version.
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the frosting and provides a smooth texture; no direct substitutions recommended here.
• Milk – Adjusts the frosting’s consistency for spreading; choose your favorite milk or even a non-dairy alternative.
• Vanilla Extract – Adds depth to the frosting’s flavor; optional but highly recommended for a richer taste.

Embrace the cozy flavors of fall with these Apple Spice Cake Whoopie Pies that will surely warm your heart. Enjoy baking!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Apple Spice Cake Whoopie Pies

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the ideal baking temperature for your Apple Spice Cake Whoopie Pies. While the oven warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper, which will prevent the pies from sticking. This preparation guarantees a smooth baking process and ensures your whoopie pies come out perfectly shaped.

Step 2: Mix the Batter
In a large bowl, combine the spice cake mix, apple butter, vegetable oil, and eggs. Use a whisk or an electric mixer on low speed to combine these ingredients until smooth, being careful not to overmix. After mixing, let the batter sit for 3-4 minutes; this resting period allows the apple butter to fully incorporate, enhancing the overall flavor and texture of your whoopie pies.

Step 3: Portion the Batter
Using a large spoon or a cookie scoop, drop heaping tablespoons of the batter onto the prepared baking sheet. Space them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading as they bake. Aim for even portions to ensure all your Apple Spice Cake Whoopie Pies bake uniformly; this will help them rise correctly and maintain their delightful fluffiness.

Step 4: Bake the Whoopie Pies
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 14 minutes. You’ll know they are done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the tops are lightly golden. Keep a close eye on them, especially around the 12-minute mark, to avoid overbaking, which could lead to flat whoopie pies.

Step 5: Cool the Pies
Once baked, remove your whoopie pies from the oven, and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is essential as it sets the texture of the pies and prepares them for the scrumptious frosting that will elevate your Apple Spice Cake Whoopie Pies.

Step 6: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the whoopie pies cool, you can make the cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until fluffy and creamy. Gradually add in the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract, mixing until the frosting is smooth and spreadable. The perfect consistency will make the frosting easy to apply between the whoopie pie halves.

Step 7: Assemble the Whoopie Pies
Now it’s time to bring your Apple Spice Cake Whoopie Pies together! Frost the flat side of one cake half generously with your prepared cream cheese frosting. Place another cake half on top, flat side down, to create a delightful sandwich. Repeat this process until all the pies are filled, showcasing their lovely swirls of frosting.

Step 8: Store or Serve
If you’re not serving the whoopie pies right away, store them in a sealed container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. They can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature. Expect these scrumptious Apple Spice Cake Whoopie Pies to be a hit among family and friends, making them a delightful addition to any fall gathering!

What to Serve with Apple Spice Cake Whoopie Pies

These delightful treats are perfect for creating a cozy atmosphere, inviting warmth and laughter to your fall gatherings.

Hot Apple Cider: Warm and spiced, it’s a classic choice that enhances the apple flavors in the whoopie pies.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla adds a delightful contrast to the spiced sweetness, creating a comforting dessert experience.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: The rich, spiced coffee pairs beautifully with the whoopie pies, making your dessert feel even more seasonal.
Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai complement the apple spice cake whoopie pies, offering a comforting, aromatic experience.
Cinnamon Sugar Donuts: These soft, sugary delights add another layer of fall flavors to your dessert spread, perfect for sharing.
Caramel Dipping Sauce: Offer a side of smooth caramel for drizzling, adding a touch of indulgence that pairs perfectly with the spices.
Fresh Pear Slices: The fresh, juicy crunch of pears balances the sweetness of the whoopie pies and adds a refreshing contrast.
Cheese Board: Incorporate sharp cheddar or creamy brie to create a savory counterpoint to the sweet whoopie pies that elevates the overall treat.

Make Ahead Options

These Apple Spice Cake Whoopie Pies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the whoopie pie batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the spice cake mix, apple butter, vegetable oil, and eggs, then refrigerating it in an airtight container. Additionally, the baked whoopie pie shells can also be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days. Just let them cool completely before storing. When you’re ready to indulge, simply whip up the cream cheese frosting and assemble the pies. This approach will ensure your treats are just as delicious and maintain their moist bliss while saving you time on busy fall days!

Apple Spice Cake Whoopie Pies Variations

Feel free to make these delicious whoopie pies your own with these fun and flavorful twists!

Pumpkin Puree: Swap apple butter for pumpkin puree for a seasonal spin that’s equally delightful.
Coconut Oil: Use coconut oil instead of vegetable oil to add a hint of tropical flavor while keeping the pies moist.
Chocolate Ganache: Replace cream cheese frosting with rich chocolate ganache for an indulgent chocolatey twist.
Mini Treats: Create mini whoopie pies for easy snacking at parties or gatherings—perfect for sharing!
Spiced Frosting: Mix in cinnamon or nutmeg with your frosting for an extra flavor punch that complements the apple spice beautifully.
Nutty Addition: Add chopped pecans or walnuts into the batter for delightful crunch and texture—because who doesn’t love a little nut action?
Cinnamon Sugar Dusting: Before serving, dust the finished pies with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for a sweet and spicy finish.
Serve with Cider: Pair these whoopie pies with a warm cup of Tropical Pineapple Mango for a cozy afternoon treat reminiscent of fall gatherings.

How to Store and Freeze Apple Spice Cake Whoopie Pies

Fridge: Store the whoopie pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days to maintain their moistness and flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unfilled whoopie pie halves in a single layer; once solid, transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Frost after thawing for the best texture.

Reheating: If you prefer a warm treat, gently microwave the whoopie pies for about 10-15 seconds. This enhances the flavors and brings back that delightful freshly-baked essence.

Expert Tips for Apple Spice Cake Whoopie Pies

Avoid Overmixing: Mixing just until combined ensures the batter stays fluffy. Overmixing can lead to dense whoopie pies, so be gentle!
Check Doneness Early: Keep an eye on your whoopie pies around the 12-minute mark. Overbaking can flatten your pies, ruining that delightful puffiness.
Use Room Temperature Eggs: This helps to achieve a smoother batter and better rise. Cold eggs can affect the overall texture of your whoopie pies.
Experiment with Frosting: While cream cheese frosting is classic, try swapping it for marshmallow crème for a sweeter alternative or even chocolate ganache for a rich twist.
Cool Completely: Ensure your whoopie pies cool completely before frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting and ensures a perfect bite every time!

Apple Spice Cake Whoopie Pies Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best apples for apple butter?
Absolutely! When choosing apples for making apple butter, look for firm varieties such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. Aim for apples with a good balance of sweetness and tartness to enhance the flavor. Ideally, the apples should be free of dark spots and bruises for the best taste.

How should I store my whoopie pies?
Very! Store your Apple Spice Cake Whoopie Pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. This keeps them moist and delicious. If you plan to enjoy them later, you might want to freeze them for longer freshness.

Can I freeze unfilled whoopie pie halves?
Definitely! To freeze, lay the unfilled whoopie pie halves in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen solid (about an hour), transfer them to a freezer bag, where they can stay fresh for up to 3 months. Frost them after thawing to maintain that delightful texture.

What should I do if my whoopie pies flatten?
Oh no! If your Apple Spice Cake Whoopie Pies are flattening, it could be due to overbaking or overmixing the batter. Ensure to monitor them closely around the 12-minute mark. If you’re using room temperature ingredients and mix just until combined, this helps maintain that puffy texture.

Are these whoopie pies suitable for people with nut allergies?
Yes! This recipe is free from nuts, making it friendly for those with nut allergies. To ensure safety, always double-check your ingredient labels, especially for powdered sugar and any substitutes you choose to use. If you’re using marshmallow crème for the frosting, check that it doesn’t contain any allergens.

What should I do if my frosting is too thick?
Not to worry! If you find your cream cheese frosting is too thick to spread, simply add a teaspoon of milk at a time until you achieve your desired consistency. Mix thoroughly to ensure it’s smooth and spreadable. Remember, frosting should be creamy but not runny!