Name: Apple Cider Whoopie Pies 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 (boil down 1 cup until it reduces); ½ cup whole milk; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 3 cups powdered sugar; ¼ cup reduced apple cider (see note above); 1 tsp vanilla extract; Pinch of salt; ½ cup store-bought caramel sauce (or homemade if you prefer); Pinch of flaky sea salt (optional)

Jump to Recipe

If you’re searching for a truly unforgettable autumn treat, these Apple Cider Whoopie Pies will sweep you right off your feet. Each plush, spiced cake is sandwiched together with lush apple cider buttercream and a ribbon of gooey caramel, creating a dessert that encapsulates all the magical coziness of the season. Whether you’re hosting friends, treating your family, or simply want to indulge in something special, Apple Cider Whoopie Pies strike the perfect balance between playful nostalgia and sophisticated flavor.

Apple Cider Whoopie Pies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Apple Cider Whoopie Pies is how simple pantry staples blend together to create layers of autumn flavor. Every ingredient pulls its weight, infusing the finished product with that signature texture, aroma, and golden color we crave in fall desserts.

All-purpose flour: This forms the sturdy, yet tender base for your whoopie pies.
Baking soda & baking powder: The dynamic duo that helps your pies rise and hold their fluffy shape.
Salt: Just a pinch sharpens all those rich, sweet flavors.
Ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves: The classic trio for warmth, depth, and that distinct cider spice.
Unsalted butter, softened: Essential for both the cakes and the buttercream, adding indulgent richness.
Light brown sugar, packed: For a caramel-like sweetness and soft crumb.
Large egg, room temperature: Brings structure and a gorgeous golden hue.
Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors with mellow sweetness.
Apple cider, reduced: Intensifies that signature apple flavor in both cake and frosting.
Whole milk: Keeps the cakes moist and tender.
Powdered sugar: The key to a silk-smooth buttercream filling.
Store-bought caramel sauce (or homemade): Adds an irresistible gooey, buttery center.
Flaky sea salt (optional): For those who love a little sweet-and-salty vibe in their treats.

How to Make Apple Cider Whoopie Pies

Step 1: Reduce the Apple Cider

Start by pouring 1 cup of apple cider into a saucepan and let it gently bubble away over medium heat. You want to reduce it down to 1/4 cup, concentrating all that apple flavor. This usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes. Once reduced, pop it off the heat and allow it to cool before mixing it into your whoopie pie batter and buttercream.

Step 2: Make the Whoopie Pies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment. In one bowl, whisk the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. In another, beat the softened butter and brown sugar until fluffy and pale. Beat in the egg and vanilla. Mix in your cooled apple cider reduction, then add the dry ingredients in three parts, alternating with whole milk for extra tenderness. Drop tablespoonfuls onto your baking sheets, spaced out, and bake for 10–12 minutes, until they spring back when touched. Let them cool completely before assembling.

Step 3: Prepare the Apple Cider Buttercream

Beat your softened butter until creamy, then gradually whip in powdered sugar until smooth. Drizzle in the remaining apple cider reduction, along with vanilla and a pinch of salt. Beat until it’s pale, fluffy, and beautifully spreadable—the fragrance alone will make your kitchen smell like a cozy bakery.

Step 4: Assemble the Apple Cider Whoopie Pies

Match up whoopie pie halves by size for perfect sandwiches. Either pipe or spoon a swirl of buttercream onto the flat side of one half, drizzle a spoonful of caramel, and sprinkle with flaky sea salt if desired. Cap it with the other half and press gently until the filling just peeks out the sides. Repeat until you have a tray of irresistible Apple Cider Whoopie Pies ready to enjoy.

How to Serve Apple Cider Whoopie Pies

Garnishes

If you’re dressing them up for a party, a dusting of powdered sugar or a few extra flakes of sea salt over the caramel make these pies extra inviting. For a real showstopper, try a drizzle of melted white chocolate or a little sprinkle of cinnamon right before serving.

Side Dishes

Apple Cider Whoopie Pies pair beautifully with warm spiced apple cider, a frothy chai latte, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. If you’re serving these at a fall gathering, a cheese board with sharp cheddar or slices of tart fresh apples makes a festive, palate-cleansing companion.

Creative Ways to Present

For an autumn wedding or bake sale, wrap each pie in parchment and tie with twine for rustic charm. Arrange them on a wooden platter with freshly picked apples for visual appeal, or set up a whoopie pie “bar” with extra caramel and toppings for a DIY dessert table. Kids and grownups alike will feel like they’re taking home a piece of fall magic.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Apple Cider Whoopie Pies will keep best in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If your kitchen is especially warm, it’s wise to refrigerate them; just bring them back to room temperature before serving for the softest, fluffiest texture.

Freezing

Whoopie pies freeze surprisingly well! Place assembled pies in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze until firm, then transfer to a zip-top bag or airtight container. They’ll keep for up to two months—just thaw in the fridge overnight before you’re ready to serve.

Reheating

For that fresh-baked sensation, allow the whoopie pies to reach room temperature naturally. If you really want a warm, gooey treat, pop one in the microwave for about 8–10 seconds, just until the buttercream softens and the caramel gets gooey again.

FAQs

Can I use apple juice instead of apple cider?

For the best flavor, stick to apple cider, which is less filtered and packs a richer apple taste. Apple juice can be used in a pinch, but you might find the pies taste a bit milder and less complex.

What if I don’t have a piping bag for the filling?

No worries! You can easily use a zip-top bag with the corner snipped off, or simply spread the buttercream and caramel with a spoon. These pies are all about enjoying rustic homemade charm.

Can I make the components in advance?

Absolutely. The whoopie pie cakes and the buttercream can be made a day ahead. Store the cakes at room temp wrapped tightly, and refrigerate the buttercream (bring it back to room temperature and re-whip before using).

How do I know when the pies are perfectly baked?

The tops should be gently springy when touched, and a toothpick inserted in the center will come out mostly clean. Avoid overbaking so the cakes stay soft and pillow-like.

Can I add fruit or nuts to the recipe?

Definitely! Finely diced apples or a handful of toasted pecans stirred into the batter or sprinkled on the filling can be a delicious twist, just keep add-ins small so you get even pies every time.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the first bite of these Apple Cider Whoopie Pies—fluffy, spicy, just a bit decadent, and truly heartwarming. If you’re searching for something new to make this fall or just want to indulge in a cozy treat, go ahead and give these lovelies a try. They might just become your new favorite seasonal bake!