Get ready to delight your taste buds with my super easy Apple Butter Oatmeal Cream Pies recipe! These cookies blend hearty oats and sweet apple butter into a soft treat. You’ll love how the creamy filling pairs perfectly with the chewy cookie. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving a snack, these pies are a must-try. Let’s dive into the fun and simple steps to create this delicious dessert!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients Required
To make these tasty apple butter oatmeal cream pies, you need the following ingredients:
– 1 ½ cups rolled oats
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
– ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
– ½ cup packed brown sugar
– ¼ cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– ¾ cup apple butter
– 1 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (for cream filling)
Measurements and Substitutions
Each ingredient plays a key role in the recipe. Here are some tips for measurements and possible substitutions:
– Rolled oats: Use quick oats if you need a faster option, but rolled oats work best for texture.
– All-purpose flour: You can swap this with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor.
– Baking soda: This helps the cookies rise. Do not replace it with baking powder; they are not the same.
– Spices: Feel free to adjust the cinnamon and nutmeg to your taste. Use fresh spices for the best flavor.
– Butter: If you want a dairy-free option, try using coconut oil instead of butter.
Tips for Selecting Quality Ingredients
Choosing the right ingredients makes a big difference. Here’s how to select the best ones:
– Oats: Look for organic rolled oats without added sugars or flavors.
– Apple butter: Choose a brand with no added sugars or preservatives. Homemade apple butter is even better.
– Butter: Use unsalted butter for better control of the salt flavor.
– Cream cheese: Opt for full-fat cream cheese for a rich and creamy filling. Check the expiration date for freshness.
– Spices: Buy whole spices and grind them as needed for the best taste.
These tips will ensure your apple butter oatmeal cream pies are delicious and full of flavor. Enjoy making this delightful treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Overview
To start, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This helps the cookies not stick. Gather all your ingredients to make the process smooth.
Detailed Baking Process
1. In a medium bowl, mix together:
– 1 ½ cups rolled oats
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
– ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
– ½ teaspoon salt
Whisk until well combined, then set aside.
2. In a large bowl, cream together:
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
– ½ cup packed brown sugar
– ¼ cup granulated sugar
Beat this mixture on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes. It should look light and fluffy.
3. Add:
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Mix until smooth.
4. Gradually stir in the dry oat mixture. Use a spatula and mix gently. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies soft.
5. Fold in:
– ¾ cup apple butter
This adds a tasty apple flavor to your dough.
6. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared sheets. Leave space between each dollop, as they will spread while baking.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes. The edges should be golden and the tops set. Let them cool for 5 minutes on the sheet, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. For the cream filling, beat together:
– 1 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup powdered sugar
Mix until smooth, then add 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract and mix again.
9. Once cooled, pair the cookies by size. Spread cream filling on one cookie’s flat side. Top with another cookie to make a sandwich.
10. Continue this until all cookies are filled.
Tips for Ensuring Perfect Cookies
– Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing.
– Don’t overbake; keep an eye on the cookies.
– Let them cool fully before adding the cream filling. This prevents melting.
Enjoy making these tasty treats!
Tips & Tricks
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making these apple butter oatmeal cream pies, avoid overmixing your dough. Overmixing makes the cookies tough. Keep an eye on the baking time. If you bake them too long, they turn hard. Aim for cookies that are lightly golden on the edges but still soft in the center. Also, don’t skip the cooling step. Allowing the cookies to cool properly helps them hold their shape and flavor.
Storage Tips for Freshness
To keep your cream pies fresh, store them in an airtight container. This helps maintain their soft texture. Place parchment paper between layers if stacking them. They can last for about three days at room temperature. For longer storage, refrigerate them. In the fridge, they stay fresh for up to a week.
Enhancing Flavor and Texture
You can add more flavor to your pies. Try mixing in chopped nuts or dried fruit into the dough. Adding a hint of ginger or cloves can also give a warm taste. For a creamier filling, use mascarpone cheese instead of cream cheese. This change makes the filling rich and smooth. If you want a little crunch, sprinkle some cinnamon sugar on top before baking.
Variations
Alternative Fillings for Cream Pies
You can change the cream filling to mix things up. Try using chocolate ganache for a rich twist. You can also use flavored cream cheese, like strawberry or pumpkin, for a fun taste. Nut butters, like almond or peanut, can add a unique flavor. You can even use whipped cream for a lighter option. Each choice brings a new delight to your apple butter oatmeal cream pies.
Flavor Modifications (e.g., spices, extracts)
To add more warmth, try adding spices like ginger or cloves. You can also boost flavor with a splash of maple extract or almond extract. These small changes can give your pies a fresh twist that excites the taste buds. Don’t forget about adding orange or lemon zest for a bright touch. Each of these options enhances the overall flavor profile.
Gluten-Free or Vegan Options
If you need gluten-free pies, swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. Make sure it works well in cookies. For a vegan version, replace butter with coconut oil and use a flax egg instead of a regular egg. Cream cheese can be swapped for a vegan cream cheese option. These changes keep the pies delicious while meeting dietary needs. Enjoy your tasty variations!
Storage Info
Best Practices for Storing Pies
To keep your Apple Butter Oatmeal Cream Pies fresh, store them in an airtight container. This will help prevent them from getting dry or stale. Place parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking. Keep them at room temperature if you plan to eat them in a few days. For longer storage, the fridge is a good choice.
Freezing Tips for Long-Term Storage
If you want to save some for later, freezing works great. First, wrap each pie in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw them in the fridge overnight.
Reheating Instructions
For a warm treat, you can reheat the pies. Place them on a baking sheet and warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5-7 minutes. You can also use a microwave for 10-15 seconds. Enjoy that soft and gooey cream filling again!
FAQs
How to Make Apple Butter from Scratch?
To make apple butter from scratch, start with fresh apples. Core and chop about 6-8 medium apples. Place them in a slow cooker with 1 cup of sugar, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Cook on low for 8-10 hours until the apples are soft. Blend the mixture until smooth. Cook uncovered for another hour to thicken. You can enjoy this apple butter warm or store it in jars.
Can I Use Store-Bought Apple Butter?
Yes, using store-bought apple butter is a great option. It saves time and still gives your cookies a nice apple flavor. Choose a brand that uses real ingredients. Look for apple butter with no added preservatives. This option works well if you want to skip the cooking step.
How Do I Know When the Cookies are Done?
You’ll know the cookies are done when the edges are light golden brown. The tops should look set and not shiny. A good test is to touch the cookie lightly. If it springs back, it’s ready. Let them cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring them.
What Types of Oats Can I Use for the Recipe?
For this recipe, rolled oats work best. They give the cookies a great texture. You can also use quick oats if you prefer. Avoid instant oats, as they may make the cookies too mushy. Rolled oats will keep a nice chewiness in the final treat.
In this post, we explored the key ingredients for perfect cookies and pies, from measurements to quality selection. I shared step-by-step baking instructions and tips to help you avoid common mistakes. We also discussed various recipes, options for storage, and answers to your most pressing questions.
Baking can be simple and fun. With a few thoughtful choices, you can make your treats shine. Each idea adds flavor and joy to your kitchen. Enjoy creating delicious cookies and pies that everyone loves!
