Name: Apple Cider Whoopie Pies Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 1 h
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

Imagine a pillowy-soft treat that tastes like the essence of fall, layered with silky buttercream and drizzled caramel—that’s exactly what you get with these Apple Cider Whoopie Pies. Each bite bursts with cozy spices, fragrant apple cider reduction, and a rich apple buttercream that proves irresistible. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying something new for the season, these handheld delights will win over everyone with their nostalgic flavor and playful appearance. If you’re seeking a sweet centerpiece for your autumn table or just a special afternoon treat, you need to give this recipe a spot on your must-bake list.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every part of these Apple Cider Whoopie Pies is crafted from simple, flavorful ingredients that work in harmony to deliver the ultimate bite. Each one plays a unique role—enhancing the pies’ flavor, keeping the texture moist and tender, or adding that beautiful touch of color that screams comfort. Here’s what you’ll want to gather before you start baking.

All-purpose flour: The foundation for a soft, cake-like texture in each whoopie pie.
Baking soda: Ensures your pies rise nicely, creating that signature domed shape.
Baking powder: Adds extra lift and fluffiness to the cakes.
Salt: Enhances the flavors of the spices and balances the sweetness.
Ground cinnamon: Brings warming spice and unmistakable fall aroma.
Ground nutmeg: Adds a toasty, nutty note that complements the apples.
Ground cloves: Lends a hint of depth and earthiness—a little goes a long way.
Unsalted butter (softened): Provides richness and that melt-in-your-mouth bite.
Light brown sugar (packed): Gives moisture and delicate caramel notes to the cakes.
Egg (room temperature): Helps bind everything together and makes the cakes tender.
Vanilla extract: Adds sweet fragrance and rounds out the flavors.
Apple cider (reduced): Concentrated apple flavor brings a tangy punch—don’t skip the reduction step!
Whole milk: Makes the batter smooth and keeps the pies soft.
Powdered sugar: Key for making the buttercream light and airy.
Caramel sauce: Brings sweet, gooey decadence between each pie—store-bought or homemade works.
Flaky sea salt (optional): A pinch on the caramel takes things to a whole new level of deliciousness.

How to Make Apple Cider Whoopie Pies

Step 1: Reduce the Apple Cider

Start by pouring 1 cup of apple cider into a small saucepan. Set it over medium heat and let it gently simmer—you’ll notice the aroma fill your kitchen almost instantly as the cider reduces and intensifies. This takes about 10 to 15 minutes. Keep an eye on it, swirling occasionally, until you’re left with a sticky, syrupy quarter cup. Let it cool completely before using it in your batter, or else it could melt your butter and affect the texture.

Step 2: Make the Whoopie Pies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper for easy release. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and those cozy spices—cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar together until the mixture is fluffy and much lighter in color. Add the egg and vanilla, beating until smooth, then pour in your cooled apple cider reduction for that punch of apple flavor. Alternate adding your dry ingredients with the milk in three batches—beginning and ending with the dry mix—to avoid overmixing and create the ultimate tender crumb. Scoop mounds of batter (about 2 tablespoons each) onto your baking sheets, spacing them generously. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until they’re just set and a toothpick comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool fully on a wire rack.

Step 3: Prepare the Apple Cider Buttercream

In a clean bowl, whip the softened butter until creamy and light. Gradually add the powdered sugar, whisking until fully incorporated. Pour in your cooled, reduced apple cider, vanilla extract, and just a pinch of salt (it highlights all the sweet, tart flavors). Beat until the buttercream is lush, smooth, and spreadable. The apple cider brings an unmistakable tang, turning ordinary buttercream into something truly special.

Step 4: Assemble the Whoopie Pies

Pair up your whoopie pie halves so each sandwich has a twin. Pipe or spoon a generous swirl of apple cider buttercream onto the flat side of one whoopie pie. Now for the magic—drizzle a spoonful of caramel sauce right on top of the buttercream, and if you want that next-level hit, sprinkle on a few flakes of sea salt. Place the second half of the pie on top and press gently, just until the filling peeks out the sides. Repeat with the rest, and watch your tray fill up with irresistible, bakery-worthy Apple Cider Whoopie Pies.

How to Serve Apple Cider Whoopie Pies

Apple Cider Whoopie Pies Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

For a festive touch, try dusting your Apple Cider Whoopie Pies with extra powdered sugar or cinnamon. If you’re entertaining, a drizzle of extra caramel or a tiny apple chip perched on top makes them especially eye-catching. Even a pinch more flaky sea salt can turn them from tasty into legendary—a little sparkle is all it takes!

Side Dishes

These whoopie pies are the star of the show, but they pair beautifully with crisp slices of fresh apple, mugs of spiced hot cider, or even a scoop of cinnamon ice cream for a fall-inspired dessert plate. A small bowl of roasted, salted nuts on the side provides a delightful salty crunch that brings out the best in the pies’ sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack your Apple Cider Whoopie Pies on a rustic cake stand for major wow factor, or wrap each one in parchment and twine for a charming, bakery-style look—perfect for gifting! If you want to go all-out, set up a whoopie pie bar with bowls of assorted drizzles and toppings so everyone can personalize their own creation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once assembled, keep your Apple Cider Whoopie Pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or store them in the refrigerator for up to a week. The cakes stay tender, and the buttercream sets nicely, ensuring each bite is as dreamy as the first.

Freezing

You can freeze the assembled whoopie pies by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap, then placing them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep well for up to two months—just thaw overnight in the fridge, and they’re ready to enjoy whenever a craving strikes!

Reheating

There’s no need to reheat Apple Cider Whoopie Pies, but if you love that just-baked softness, let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes after chilling. You can even give them a very quick (5-second) zap in the microwave—but watch closely so the buttercream doesn’t melt.

FAQs

Can I make Apple Cider Whoopie Pies ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, the flavors meld beautifully after a night in the fridge. Just hold off on assembling until the day you plan to serve for extra freshness, or store filled pies in the refrigerator in a sealed container.

Can I use apple juice instead of apple cider?

While you can technically use apple juice, it’s best to seek out real apple cider for that robust, tart apple punch. Juice tends to be sweeter and less complex, so your finished pies may taste a bit lighter.

What if I don’t have caramel sauce?

No worries! You can skip the caramel entirely, or substitute with apple butter or cinnamon honey for a lovely twist. If you want to make homemade caramel, a quick stovetop recipe is all you need.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Yes, this recipe doubles beautifully, and you’ll be amazed at how quickly a big batch disappears! Just be sure to bake in batches so all your pies cook evenly and stay perfectly fluffy.

Do Apple Cider Whoopie Pies need to be refrigerated?

You can store them at room temperature in cool, dry weather for up to two days. For longer storage or warmer kitchens, pop them in the refrigerator to keep the buttercream stable and the cakes at their softest.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a new fall favorite or thinking about impressing friends and family, look no further than these Apple Cider Whoopie Pies. Their irresistible blend of spice, tender cake, and creamy filling will make them a hit at any table. Give them a try—your kitchen is about to smell amazing, and your dessert game is sure to level up in the most delicious way.