Homemade Oatmeal Cream Pies Recipe

If you grew up loving classic lunchbox treats, these Homemade Oatmeal Cream Pies are about to make your inner child jump for joy! Think soft, spiced oat-studded cookies that hug a dreamy layer of sweet, creamy filling—every bite is nostalgic perfection. Whether you’re making them for an after-school snack, a special bake sale, or simply to relive your favorite dessert memories, these pies deliver a gentle, cinnamon-kissed hug that’s so much better than anything wrapped in plastic. Get ready to savor why making Homemade Oatmeal Cream Pies from scratch is always worth it!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be amazed at how a handful of pantry staples turn into something so magical! Each ingredient pulls its weight, bringing tenderness, chew, sweetness, and that signature cozy flavor to these Homemade Oatmeal Cream Pies. Let’s break down each one so you know exactly how it shines.

• Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened): Gives both the cookies and the filling their rich, tender crumb and creamy flavor.
• Brown sugar (1 cup, packed): Adds moisture, caramel notes, and a gorgeous depth of flavor to the cookies.
• Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Balances out the brown sugar, providing sweetness and helping with that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Molasses (1 tablespoon): A dash of molasses brings real oatmeal creme pie nostalgia and intensifies the flavor.
• Vanilla extract (3 teaspoons, divided): Vanilla goes into both the cookies and the filling, giving everything a lovely fragrance and warmth.
• Eggs (2 large): They ensure structure and give the cookies a soft, chewy bite.
• All-purpose flour (2 cups): The sturdy base that holds the sandwich together.
• Cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon): Just a touch for that charming bakery aroma and taste.
• Baking soda (1 teaspoon): Makes sure your cookies puff up perfectly, just the way oatmeal cream pies should.
• Salt (1/4 teaspoon + 1/4 teaspoon): A pinch in both the cookies and the frosting makes flavors pop.
• Quick oats (3 cups): The heart and soul! Use quick oats for the iconic chewy texture.
• Unsalted butter (3/4 cup, softened): The base of your lush, creamy frosting.
• Cream cheese (2 ounces, full-fat, brick style): Adds tang and stability, so your filling stays fluffy yet rich.
• Powdered sugar (3-4 cups): Sifts the frosting into silky, sweet clouds.
• Cream (1 tablespoon, if needed): A splash for the smoothest, most spreadable filling.

How to Make Homemade Oatmeal Cream Pies

Step 1: Make the Oatmeal Cookie Dough

The first secret to unforgettable Homemade Oatmeal Cream Pies is starting with the softest, most flavorful cookies. Cream together your softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy—think the texture of whipped frosting. Add your molasses, vanilla, and eggs, blending until everything’s fully combined and the batter is dreamy and creamy.

Step 2: Add Dry Ingredients and Oats

Before you turn on your mixer, sprinkle the flour, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt right over your wet ingredients. Gently fold them in by hand to avoid any flour clouds, then finish mixing on low just until no dry streaks remain. Stir in the quick oats; the dough will become thick and nubby, exactly as you want! This is where all that wonderful oatty goodness comes in.

Step 3: Scoop and Bake the Cookies

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop dough balls—about 1 to 1.5 tablespoons each—onto a lined baking sheet. Remember, they’ll spread a little, so space them at least two inches apart. Bake one sheet at a time in the center of a 350F (180C) oven for 9 to 11 minutes, just until the tops look set and no longer shiny. Don’t overbake; we want these soft and tender! Let them cool on the tray for ten minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Step 4: Whip Up the Creamy Filling

Let the cookies fully cool while you make the luscious filling that holds Homemade Oatmeal Cream Pies together. Beat your softened butter until fluffy, then add the chopped cream cheese and mix until silky smooth. Start with 1.5 cups powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt, blending on low until combined, then gradually add more powdered sugar until you reach your preferred sweetness and consistency. If the frosting feels thick, a spoonful of cream will make it perfectly spreadable.

Step 5: Assemble Your Oatmeal Cream Pies

To assemble, pick matching pairs of cooled cookies. Spread about 1 to 1.5 tablespoons of the frosting onto the flat side of one cookie, then gently press a second cookie on top, bottom-side-down, to create a pillowy sandwich. Repeat the magic with the rest until you have a tray of glorious, nostalgic Homemade Oatmeal Cream Pies, ready for biting into!

How to Serve Homemade Oatmeal Cream Pies

Garnishes

For an extra pop, feel free to roll the edges of the filling in mini chocolate chips, colorful sprinkles, or even crushed toasted nuts. A light dusting of powdered sugar on top adds instant charm and makes each sandwich look bakery-worthy.

Side Dishes

Nothing pairs better than an ice-cold glass of milk or a steaming mug of coffee to cut through the richness. For something extra fun, serve alongside fresh fruit—think berries or apple slices—or some tangy yogurt, letting the sweet-and-spiced oatmeal pies take center stage.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack your Homemade Oatmeal Cream Pies on a pretty tiered stand for parties, wrap them individually in parchment with a ribbon for adorable lunchbox treats, or crumble pieces into a bowl with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an impromptu oatmeal cream pie sundae. Don’t be afraid to get playful—presentation is half the fun!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Homemade Oatmeal Cream Pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerate for up to a week. The cookies retain their perfect chewiness, and the filling stays creamy and fresh.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap assembled pies individually in plastic wrap or parchment and place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll stay delicious for up to two months—just thaw another batch whenever that oatmeal cream pie craving hits!

Reheating

No need to reheat these beauties, but if you want a softer cookie, let refrigerated or frozen pies come to room temperature before enjoying. A quick 10-second burst in the microwave will make the filling melt-in-your-mouth soft—just watch closely!

FAQs

Can I use old-fashioned rolled oats instead of quick oats?

Quick oats are best for the classic soft texture, but you can pulse rolled oats a few times in your food processor as a substitute. Avoid using them whole, as they’ll make the cookies a bit too hearty.

Why add molasses to Homemade Oatmeal Cream Pies?

Molasses adds a rich, subtle depth and that beloved caramel flavor. It’s the secret to getting that vintage snack cake taste we all remember!

Can I make these gluten free?

Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour for a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking blend, and make sure your oats are labeled gluten free. The results are just as soft and satisfying.

What’s the best way to ensure my cookies stay soft?

Don’t overbake—take them out just as the tops look set but not browned. Also, storing them in an airtight container with a slice of bread helps keep them extra tender.

Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Absolutely! Store the finished frosting in the fridge for up to three days. Let it soften at room temperature before spreading on your Homemade Oatmeal Cream Pies for the best texture.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve always loved the comforting sweetness of childhood treats, Homemade Oatmeal Cream Pies will bring pure joy to your kitchen. They’re easy, nostalgic, and guaranteed to draw smiles from anyone who takes a bite. Don’t wait—bake a batch soon and rediscover just how special these classic sandwiches can be!

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