Apple Cider Whoopie Pies

There’s something about the crisp air of fall that makes everyone crave cozy, spiced desserts. Apple Cider Whoopie Pies check every box of soft, cakey cookies, warm spices, and a creamy filling that melts in your mouth.

This guide is everything you need. From a traditional, made-from-scratch version to an ultra-easy cake mix shortcut, we’ve got every kind of baker covered. You’ll also find filling ideas that go beyond the usual think salted caramel buttercream or tangy cream cheese icing.

What Are Whoopie Pies? A Delicious Piece of History

Whoopie pies are dessert sandwiches made with two soft cookies and a creamy filling in between. The texture is more cake than cookie, which makes them light, moist, and irresistible.

These treats have deep roots. Originating in Amish communities, whoopie pies became a staple in lunchboxes and bake sales. The name supposedly came from the excitement bakers felt when finding one in their lunch  they’d shout, “Whoopie!”

Popularized later in New England, especially Maine, whoopie pies have taken on many forms. But few versions match the fall charm of Apple Cider Whoopie Pies.

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“Accurate ingredient lists and defined serving sizes are the foundation of dependable recipe nutrition profiles.” University of New Hampshire Dining Services, Nutrition Wellness resources

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The Secret to Intense Flavor: Reducing Apple Cider

One step makes or breaks the flavor of Apple Cider Whoopie Pies — reducing the apple cider.

Reducing cider means simmering it until the liquid evaporates and what’s left is a thick, syrupy concentrate. This boosts the apple flavor without adding extra moisture to the dough. Many recipes skip this, but it’s the difference between bland and bold.

How to Reduce Apple Cider

1. Pour 2 cups of apple cider into a medium saucepan.
2. Place the pan over medium-high heat and bring it to a boil.
3. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and let it gently simmer.
4. Stir occasionally and continue simmering until the cider reduces to about 1/4 cup. This usually takes 30 to 35 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and let it cool completely before adding it to your whoopie pie batter.
   

This simple step concentrates the tart-sweet apple flavor and brings your Apple Cider Whoopie Pies to life.

The Ultimate From-Scratch Apple Cider Whoopie Pies (Recipe 1)

This is the core recipe you need. Every bite of these soft cookies bursts with real apple flavor, thanks to the reduced cider and warm fall spices. The texture is soft, cakey, and perfect for sandwiching a rich filling.

Ingredients Needed

For the Apple Cider Whoopie Pies:

• 2 cups apple cider, reduced to 1/4 cup and cooled
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup plus 2 teaspoons packed brown sugar
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• ¼ cup apple butter or unsweetened applesauce
• ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter (reserved for brushing cookies after baking)

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:

• 3 tablespoons melted butter
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

For the Bourbon Caramel Buttercream (optional):

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ¼ to 1 ½ cups powdered sugar, sifted
• 2 tablespoons plus 2 teaspoons cooled bourbon caramel sauce
• Small pinch of salt

For the Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Icing (optional):

• 4 ½ ounces cream cheese, softened
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar
• 2 cups sifted powdered sugar
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

How to Make Apple Cider Whoopie Pies

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, simmer the apple cider until reduced to 1/4 cup. This should take about 30 to 35 minutes. Set it aside to cool completely.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg.
4. In a large mixing bowl, beat 6 tablespoons of softened butter with the granulated sugar and brown sugar until well combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl.
5. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla, reduced apple cider, and apple butter or applesauce.
6. With the mixer on low, slowly add the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
7. Scoop the dough into rounded mounds using about 1 ½ tablespoons per cookie. Place them 3 inches apart on the baking sheets.
8. Bake for 11 to 13 minutes. The cookies are ready when they spring back lightly when touched. Rotate the pan halfway through for even baking.
9. Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Once slightly cooled, brush each cookie with melted butter and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar.
10. Allow the cookies to cool completely before filling.
11. Fill each cookie with about 1 ½ tablespoons of your chosen filling. Sandwich with another cookie and add a small spoonful of bourbon caramel in the center if using.
    

Now your homemade Apple Cider Whoopie Pies are ready to impress. Soft, spiced, and packed with flavor, these cookies are pure autumn joy.

Anne Newgent

Apple Cider Whoopie Pies

Soft and spiced Apple Cider Whoopie Pies with creamy fillings are the ultimate fall dessert. Infused with reduced apple cider and warm spices, these cakey cookie sandwiches come together with your choice of rich buttercream, tangy cream cheese, or fluffy marshmallow filling.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 25 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings: 12 whoopie pies

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 498

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Apple Cider Whoopie Pies

• 2 cups apple cider reduced to 1/4 cup and cooled
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter softened
• 1.75 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 0.25 teaspoon baking soda
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 1.5 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 0.25 teaspoon ground ginger
• 0.5 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 0.5 cup granulated sugar
• 0.3125 cup packed brown sugar
• 2 large eggs room temperature
• 0.25 cup apple butter or unsweetened applesauce
• 0.25 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter reserved for brushing cookies

Cinnamon Sugar Coating

• 3 tablespoons melted butter
• 0.25 cup granulated sugar
• 0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Method

 

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Simmer 2 cups of apple cider in a saucepan until reduced to 1/4 cup (30–35 minutes). Let cool completely.
3. In a bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg.
4. In a large bowl, beat butter with granulated and brown sugar until combined. Add eggs one at a time. Mix in vanilla, reduced cider, and apple butter or applesauce.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
6. Scoop 1 ½ tablespoons of dough per cookie onto baking sheets, spacing 3 inches apart.
7. Bake for 11–13 minutes, rotating pans halfway. Cookies should spring back when touched.
8. Cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar while warm.
9. Once fully cooled, fill each cookie with 1 ½ tablespoons of filling and sandwich.

Notes

Try different fillings for unique flavors: Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Icing, Salted Caramel Buttercream, or Spiced Marshmallow. Store at room temp up to 2 days, refrigerate up to 5 days, or freeze up to 2 months. Let chilled pies come to room temp before serving.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Serving Size: 1 whoopie pie | Calories: 498 kcal | Carbohydrates: 74 g | Protein: 3 g | Fat: 22 g | Saturated Fat: 14 g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1 g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6 g | Trans Fat: 1 g | Cholesterol: 80 mg | Sodium: 231 mg | Potassium: 95 mg | Fiber: 1 g | Sugar: 60 g | Vitamin A: 716 IU | Vitamin C: 0.4 mg | Calcium: 51 mg | Iron: 1 mg

Nutrition Disclaimer

Nutritional information provided is an estimate and may vary based on the products and brands you use. Calculate the actual nutrition values using your preferred nutrition calculator and the exact ingredients you choose.

What You’ll Need

★ Mixing bowls
★ Measuring cups and measuring spoons
★ Hand mixer
★ Parchment paper
★ Baking sheets

Choose Your Perfect Filling (3 Options)

The filling is what takes Apple Cider Whoopie Pies from good to unforgettable. Each of these three options brings something different. Whether you like sweet, tangy, or light and fluffy, you’ll find a favorite here.

Option 1: Classic Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Icing

This filling is smooth, creamy, and not too sweet. The brown sugar adds a warm, caramel-like flavor that pairs beautifully with the spiced cookies.

Ingredients:

• 4 ½ ounces cream cheese, softened
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl or stand mixer, mix the cream cheese and butter on medium speed until smooth.
2. Add the brown sugar and continue mixing for one minute.
3. Mix in the vanilla extract.
4. Slowly add the powdered sugar and beat until thick and spreadable.
5. Use right away or chill for 15 minutes to firm up before piping.

Option 2: Decadent Salted Caramel Buttercream

If you love caramel, this rich buttercream is for you. It’s sweet, creamy, and perfectly balanced with a hint of salt.

Ingredients:

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ¼ to 1 ½ cups powdered sugar, sifted
• 2 tablespoons plus 2 teaspoons bourbon caramel sauce, cooled
• Small pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Beat the butter and salt on medium speed for 2 to 3 minutes until light and fluffy.
2. Add the caramel sauce and mix until smooth.
3. Gradually add the powdered sugar until you reach the desired texture.
4. If the frosting is too soft, add more sugar. If too thick, add a tiny splash of milk.

Option 3: Fluffy Spiced Marshmallow Filling

This filling is inspired by traditional whoopie pies but with a spiced twist. It’s airy and full of fall flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup marshmallow fluff
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, beat the butter until smooth.
2. Add the marshmallow fluff and beat until combined.
3. Mix in the powdered sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla.
4. Beat until light and fluffy. Chill briefly before using if needed.

Each of these fillings makes Apple Cider Whoopie Pies uniquely delicious. Try one or mix and match to find your favorite combo.

Baker’s Troubleshooting FAQ (Your Guide to Perfect Whoopie Pies)

Even seasoned bakers run into problems. This FAQ answers the most common issues people face when making Apple Cider Whoopie Pies. Use it as your quick fix guide for stress-free baking.

How to Store and Freeze Whoopie Pies

Proper storage keeps your Apple Cider Whoopie Pies soft and flavorful for days. Whether you plan to enjoy them now or save a batch for later, these tips help you keep them fresh.

Storing at Room Temperature and in the Refrigerator

For short-term storage, keep the assembled whoopie pies in an airtight container. Store them in a cool, dry spot for up to two days. If your filling is cream-based, like cream cheese or buttercream, it’s best to refrigerate them.

In the refrigerator, place the pies in a sealed container with parchment paper between layers. This prevents them from sticking together. They’ll stay fresh for up to five days.

Let refrigerated pies sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving for the best texture and flavor.

How to Freeze Whoopie Pies for Later

To freeze fully assembled Apple Cider Whoopie Pies, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap. Then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They will keep well for up to two months.

If you prefer to freeze the cookies and filling separately, let the cookies cool completely before freezing. Stack them with parchment paper in between and seal in an airtight container. Prepare and add the filling after thawing for the freshest taste.

When ready to enjoy, thaw the pies in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.

Medical Disclaimer

The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your physician or a qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

While these Apple Cider Whoopie Pies can be part of a joyful and satisfying lifestyle, they are still a treat. If you have specific health concerns or dietary restrictions, please seek personalized guidance from a healthcare professional.

Final Thoughts

Apple Cider Whoopie Pies offer the perfect balance of soft cookies, warm spices, and rich filling. Whether you choose the classic from-scratch version, the quick cake mix option, or mix and match your favorite fillings, this guide gives you everything you need for success.

With reduced cider for bold flavor, detailed tips, and creative fillings, this recipe stands out from the rest. It’s not just about baking; it’s about making something memorable.

If you tried this recipe, leave a comment and a star rating below. Share your creation on Pinterest or Facebook and tag us so we can see your results.

What filling did you love most? Let us know in the comments. Your feedback inspires future recipes and helps other readers too.

Anne Newgent

High-Protein Nutrition Specialist and Wellness Advocate with over a decade of experience.
My human-first approach blends science-backed guidance with real-life empathy, shaped by my own journey through fatigue and muscle loss. Today, I help people reclaim strength, energy, and confidence through high-protein nutrition that’s both practical and empowering.

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