Q1: Why do Amish make whoopie pies?

The Amish consider whoopie pies a traditional treat, often made for holidays, community events, or celebrations. Their soft, spiced cookies and creamy filling are perfect for sharing, and recipes are passed down through generations, much like my own family baking traditions with Apple Cider Whoopie Pies with Caramel .

Q2: What state is known for whoopie pies?

Pennsylvania is most famous for whoopie pies, particularly the Amish communities there. Maine also has a variation known as the “Maine whoopie pie,” which is slightly different in texture and filling but equally delicious.

Q3: How to keep whoopie pies from getting sticky?

To prevent stickiness, allow cookies to cool completely before filling. Store in an airtight container at room temperature, separating layers with parchment paper. Properly cooled and stored Apple Cider Whoopie Pies with Caramel will stay tender without sticking.

Q4: What is the difference between a whoopie pie and a moon pie?

Whoopie pies are soft, cake-like cookies with creamy filling, while moon pies are denser, cookie-like, and usually dipped in chocolate. The texture and flavor balance in Apple Cider Whoopie Pies with Caramel aligns more with traditional whoopie pies.

Q5: What is the difference between Maine whoopie pies and Pennsylvania whoopie pies?

Maine whoopie pies are often smaller, slightly firmer, and sometimes have a marshmallow-style filling. Pennsylvania whoopie pies, especially Amish versions, are softer with a creamy buttercream or frosting filling.

Q6: What is Maine's signature dessert?

Maine’s signature dessert is the whoopie pie, often chocolate with a marshmallow or cream filling. The spiced, apple-flavored twist in Apple Cider Whoopie Pies with Caramel gives a seasonal variation perfect for autumn.

Apple Cider Whoopie Pies with Caramel – The Ultimate Fall Dessert

Description

Apple Cider Whoopie Pies with Caramel are soft, spiced cookies filled with luscious caramel or cream cheese icing, perfect for cozy fall baking.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups apple cider (reduced to 1/4 cup)

½ cup unsalted butter, divided (6 tbsp for dough, 2 tbsp for brushing)

1 ¾ cups flour

½ tsp salt

1 tsp baking powder

¼ tsp baking soda

1 ½ tsp cinnamon

¼ tsp ginger

½ tsp nutmeg

½ cup granulated sugar

¼ cup + 2 tsp brown sugar

¼ cup apple butter or applesauce

2 eggs

¼ tsp vanilla

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment.

Reduce apple cider to ¼ cup over medium heat; set aside.

In a bowl, cream 6 tbsp butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy.

Beat in eggs, apple butter, and vanilla.

Whisk together flour, salt, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg.

Gradually fold dry ingredients into wet mixture, then stir in reduced cider.

Scoop dough onto sheets in 2-inch rounds; brush with 2 tbsp melted butter.

Bake 12–14 minutes until edges are set but centers soft; cool completely.

Prepare filling (bourbon caramel buttercream or brown sugar cream cheese) and sandwich cookies.

Notes

Ensure cookies are fully cooled before filling to prevent melting.

Use a cookie scoop for uniform sizes.

Optional: Roll cookies in cinnamon-sugar for extra flavor.

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 1 week.

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 12-14 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 whoopie pie
Calories: 235
Sugar: 20g
Sodium: 110mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: Apple Cider Whoopie Pies with Caramel, fall dessert, spiced cookies