Gluten-Free Pumpkin Whoopie Pies

Our homemade Gluten-Free Pumpkin Whoopie Pies are a perfect fall treat! With fluffy cake-like pumpkin cookies and a delicious cream cheese filling, they offer a delightful twist on traditional pie. Ideal for gatherings, parties, or cozy family evenings, these whoopie pies stand out with their rich pumpkin flavor and creamy texture. Enjoying them is like tasting autumn in every bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: These whoopie pies come together quickly with simple steps, perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of warm spices and pumpkin creates a comforting taste that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Treat: Suitable for various occasions, from holiday gatherings to casual snacks.
• Gluten-Free Delight: Everyone can enjoy these tasty treats without worrying about gluten.
• Perfectly Sweet: The cream cheese filling balances the sweetness of the cookies, creating a delightful contrast.

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking experience smooth and hassle-free, gather the essential tools before starting. Having everything at your fingertips ensures you can focus on creating these delicious whoopie pies.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer or whisk: Essential for achieving the right texture in both the cookie batter and cream cheese filling.
• Baking sheets: Provide even heat distribution for perfectly baked whoopie pies.
• Cooling rack: Helps cool the whoopie pies evenly, preventing sogginess.

Ingredients

• 3 cups gluten-free measure for measure flour (like King Arthur), weighed or scooped & leveled
• 5 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 3/4 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 2 cups brown sugar (400 grams)
• 1 cup oil
• 1 (15 oz.) can unsweetened pumpkin puree
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup butter (1 stick/8 Tablespoons)
• 4 oz. cream cheese (full-fat)
• 3 cups powdered sugar (360 grams, plus more if needed)
• 2 Tablespoons pure maple syrup or caramel sauce
• 2 Tablespoons heavy cream
• pinch salt (less than 1/8 teaspoon)

How to Make Gluten-Free Pumpkin Whoopie Pies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper for easy clean-up and to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Cookie Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients:
1. Whisk together gluten-free flour, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, kosher salt, baking soda, baking powder, and ground cloves until evenly mixed.

In another bowl:
2. Beat together brown sugar and oil until well combined.
3. Add pumpkin puree, eggs, and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.
4. Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined.

Step 3: Bake the Cookies

Using a spoon or cookie scoop:
5. Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto prepared baking sheets about two inches apart.
6. Bake in preheated oven for about 15–20 minutes or until cookies are set and slightly golden.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on baking sheets for about five minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.

Step 4: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling

In a medium bowl:
8. Beat together softened butter and cream cheese until creamy.
9. Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing until smooth.
10. Stir in pure maple syrup or caramel sauce, heavy cream, and a pinch of salt.

Step 5: Assemble Whoopie Pies

Once cookies are completely cooled:
11. Spread or pipe a generous layer of cream cheese filling onto the flat side of one cookie.
12. Top with another cookie to create a sandwich.
13. Repeat until all cookies are filled.

Enjoy your homemade Gluten-Free Pumpkin Whoopie Pies, perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself!

How to Serve Gluten-Free Pumpkin Whoopie Pies

These delightful treats are perfect for any gathering or cozy evening. Their soft texture and rich flavor make them an ideal dessert to share with friends and family.

With a Cup of Warm Beverage

• Coffee: Pair your whoopie pies with a hot cup of coffee for a classic combination.
• Tea: A soothing herbal tea complements the spices in the pies beautifully.
• Hot Chocolate: Indulge in a sweet treat by serving these pies alongside rich hot chocolate.

As an Afternoon Snack

• Fruit Platter: A colorful assortment of fresh fruits offers a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the pies.
• Cheese Board: Add some mild cheeses to balance the dessert flavors.
• Nuts: A handful of roasted nuts can enhance the overall snacking experience.

For Special Occasions

• Dessert Table: Include these whoopie pies on a festive dessert table during holidays or gatherings.
• Party Favors: Package individual whoopie pies as thoughtful take-home gifts for guests.

How to Perfect Gluten-Free Pumpkin Whoopie Pies

To ensure your whoopie pies turn out perfectly, follow these helpful tips.

• Bold Ingredient Measurement: Accurate measurements are crucial. Use a kitchen scale for precision, especially with gluten-free flour.
• Bold Temperature Control: Ensure your oven is preheated properly. An accurate temperature guarantees even baking.
• Bold Cooling Time: Let the cookies cool fully before adding filling. This prevents melting and ensures they hold their shape.
• Bold Consistency in Filling: Adjust the cream cheese filling consistency as needed. It should be smooth but thick enough to hold between cookie halves.

Best Side Dishes for Gluten-Free Pumpkin Whoopie Pies

Complementing your whoopie pies with side dishes can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Bold Apple Slices: Fresh apple slices add crispness and a hint of tartness.
2. Bold Spiced Nuts: A mix of spiced nuts brings warmth and crunch that pairs nicely with the soft pie texture.
3. Bold Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a light, creamy contrast.
4. Bold Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of caramel sauce enhances flavor and adds richness when served alongside.
5. Bold Whipped Cream: Light whipped cream can be dolloped on top for an extra touch of indulgence.
6. Bold Pumpkin Soup: Start your meal with a warm bowl of pumpkin soup to embrace fall flavors fully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Gluten-Free Pumpkin Whoopie Pies from good to great. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Incorrect flour measurement: Using too much or too little gluten-free flour can affect texture. Always weigh or scoop and level the flour accurately.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to tough cookies. Blend just until ingredients are combined for a light, fluffy texture.
• Skipping the chill time: Not allowing the batter to rest can result in spread-out cookies. Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes for better shape and texture.
• Not checking oven temperature: An inaccurate oven temperature can ruin your whoopie pies. Use an oven thermometer to ensure proper baking conditions.
• Neglecting cream cheese filling consistency: A runny filling can make assembling difficult. Beat the cream cheese until smooth and add powdered sugar gradually for ideal thickness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Gluten-Free Pumpkin Whoopie Pies

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container for up to 2 months.
• Separate layers with wax paper to maintain freshness.

Reheating Gluten-Free Pumpkin Whoopie Pies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes until soft.
• Microwave: Heat one whoopie pie at a time for 15-20 seconds on low power.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Gluten-Free Pumpkin Whoopie Pies?

To make these delightful treats, combine gluten-free flour, spices, sugar, oil, pumpkin puree, eggs, and vanilla. Bake until set and cool before adding the cream cheese filling.

Can I use other sweeteners in my Gluten-Free Pumpkin Whoopie Pies?

Yes! You can substitute brown sugar with coconut sugar or maple syrup; just adjust the liquid ingredients accordingly.

How long do Gluten-Free Pumpkin Whoopie Pies last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, they can last up to 5 days. If frozen, they maintain quality for about 2 months.

What if I don’t have cream cheese?

You can replace cream cheese with mascarpone or a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream mixed with powdered sugar.

Are there any gluten-free substitutes I can use?

Yes! Using gluten-free measure-for-measure flour is essential. Brands like King Arthur or Bob’s Red Mill work well.

Final Thoughts

These Gluten-Free Pumpkin Whoopie Pies are not just delicious but also versatile! Perfect as a fall dessert or sweet treat anytime, they can be customized with different fillings or spices. We encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy every fluffy bite!