Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Whoopie Pies Recipe

If you’re searching for a cozy treat that combines fall warmth with a touch of indulgence, look no further than these incredible Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Whoopie Pies. Imagine tender, spiced pumpkin cookies studded with melty chocolate chips, sandwiched around a rich, creamy filling that’s just the perfect balance of sweet and tangy. These treats are not just delicious—they’re the kind of dessert that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, and once you try them, they’ll become an instant favorite in your recipe collection.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. The pumpkin puree adds moisture and that unmistakable autumnal essence, while spices enhance the warmth. The chocolate chips bring bursts of sweetness, and that luscious cream cheese filling ties it all together beautifully.

• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree: Provides moistness and the signature pumpkin flavor essential to these whoopie pies.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and helps keep the texture tender.
• 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar: Offers deep, caramel notes that complement the pumpkin perfectly.
• 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients together and adds structure.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a sweet, fragrant note.
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The base that gives the cookies their gentle hold and soft crumb.
• 1 tsp baking powder: Ensures a light and airy texture.
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon: Brings warm, spicy depth synonymous with pumpkin desserts.
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger: Adds a subtle spicy kick that lingers pleasantly.
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg: Complements the cinnamon and ginger for a classic spice blend.
• 1/4 tsp salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all flavors.
• 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: Delivers melty pockets of chocolate, elevating the pie experience.
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened: Forms the tangy, creamy base of the filling.
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds smoothness and richness to the cream cheese filling.
• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the filling for the perfect consistency.
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract: Adds a final touch of aromatic sweetness to the frosting.

How to Make Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Whoopie Pies

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet

Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures a clean surface for perfect baking and easy cleanup, setting the stage for your delicious whoopie pies.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, melted butter, brown sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until everything is smooth and well combined. This mixture is the heart of your cookies, providing moisture and rich flavor.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, stir together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt. Gradually incorporate these dry ingredients into your wet mixture, mixing until everything is just blended to avoid overworking the batter, which keeps the pies tender.

Step 4: Fold in Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips, distributing them evenly so every bite has those delightful melted chocolate surprises that make Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Whoopie Pies so special.

Step 5: Shape and Bake

Drop heaping tablespoons of the batter onto your prepared pan, spacing each about 2 inches apart. Pop them in the oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops spring back lightly. Once baked, transfer the cookies to a wire rack and let them cool completely—this step is crucial for assembling the whoopie pies later.

Step 6: Prepare the Filling

While the cookies cool, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until fluffy. Slowly add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until the filling is smooth and creamy. This creamy filling is the perfect balance to the spiced pumpkin cookies.

Step 7: Assemble the Whoopie Pies

Pair your cookies by size and spread a generous spoonful of the cream cheese filling onto the flat side of one cookie. Top it with its matching cookie to create that classic whoopie pie sandwich. Repeat with the rest, and either serve right away or refrigerate until you’re ready to indulge.

How to Serve Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Whoopie Pies

Garnishes

Consider dusting your Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Whoopie Pies with a light sprinkle of cinnamon sugar or a drizzle of melted white chocolate, adding a festive touch that makes them look as delightful as they taste. A few pumpkin seeds or a dash of powdered sugar also make lovely accents.

Side Dishes

These whoopie pies pair wonderfully with a hot cup of spiced tea, rich coffee, or even a creamy chai latte. For a fun dessert platter, serve alongside cinnamon-dusted apple slices or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream to add contrast in temperature and texture.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress guests? Stack the Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Whoopie Pies on a tiered cake stand or elegantly wrap each in parchment and tie with a rustic ribbon for gift-giving. You could even slice them in half for mini whoopie pie sliders, perfect for parties or a playful twist at family gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once assembled, store your whoopie pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This keeps the filling fresh and the cookies moist, ensuring each bite stays as delicious as the first.

Freezing

You can freeze these delightful treats! Wrap each Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Whoopie Pie individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen whoopie pies will stay fresh for up to 2 months—perfect for making ahead of seasonal celebrations.

Reheating

Before serving frozen whoopie pies, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight. If you prefer them slightly warm, let them come to room temperature and then warm gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. This enhances the melty chocolate chips without melting the creamy filling too much.

FAQs

Can I substitute fresh pumpkin for canned pumpkin puree?

While fresh pumpkin can work, canned pumpkin puree is more consistent in moisture and flavor. If using fresh pumpkin, make sure to cook and puree it thoroughly, then strain out excess water to avoid affecting the texture of the whoopie pies.

Are these Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Whoopie Pies suitable for freezing before assembling?

Yes! You can freeze the unfilled cookies on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer bag. Assemble with filling after thawing for the best texture and freshness.

Can I use a different type of chocolate instead of semi-sweet chips?

Absolutely. Milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate chips would all be lovely. Just choose your favorite to customize the dessert to your taste.

How long do Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Whoopie Pies keep in the refrigerator?

Stored properly in an airtight container, these whoopie pies are best eaten within 4 days to enjoy their optimal freshness and flavor.

Is it possible to make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, by swapping the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking, you can enjoy gluten-free Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Whoopie Pies. Just keep an eye on the batter consistency, adding a bit more liquid if needed.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Whoopie Pies—the way they capture the essence of fall while delivering moments of pure indulgence in every bite. Whether you’re making them to enjoy on a crisp afternoon or sharing with loved ones around the holidays, these whoopie pies promise comfort and joy in equal measure. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe; once you do, I’m confident it will become one of your favorite go-to sweets for seasons to come.

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