Irresistible Gingerbread Whoopie Pies for the Holidays

Name: Gingerbread Whoopie Pies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp ground ginger; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1 tsp baking soda; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened); 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 3/4 cup brown sugar (packed); 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup molasses; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 8 oz cream cheese (softened); 2 cups powdered sugar; 2 tbsp milk

Published: July 21, 2025

by Molly white

Why You'll Love This Recipe

The ease of preparation means even beginner bakers can whip these up without breaking a sweat.
The flavor profile combines nostalgic spiciness with creamy sweetness that will leave you craving more.
Their charming appearance makes them the star of any holiday dessert table, while their versatility allows for endless flavor variations.

Ingredients for Gingerbread Whoopie Pies

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

All-Purpose Flour: Essential for structure, choose unbleached flour for better flavor and texture.
Ground Ginger: This spice gives the whoopie pies their signature flavor; opt for fresh ground if possible for maximum potency.
Cinnamon: Adds warmth and sweetness; fresh cinnamon is always preferable for depth of taste.
Baking Soda: A leavening agent that helps your cookies rise to fluffy perfection.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the other flavors in the recipe. comforting rice bowl recipe.
Unsalted Butter: Room temperature butter creates a rich and creamy base for both the cookies and filling.
Granulated Sugar: Sweetness is key; this will create that lovely balance against the spices.
Brown Sugar: Adds moisture and depth; light or dark brown sugar works well here.
Eggs: They provide moisture and act as a binder to hold everything together.
Molasses: The secret ingredient! It adds richness and that deep flavor we love about gingerbread.
Vanilla Extract: Enhances sweetness and adds complexity to the flavor profile.
Cream Cheese: For the filling, this adds tanginess and creaminess that perfectly complements the spices.
Powdered Sugar: Used in the filling to sweeten things up nicely without graininess.
Milk: A splash here helps achieve the desired consistency in your filling.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for Gingerbread Whoopie Pies

How to Make Gingerbread Whoopie Pies

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, line two baking sheets with parchment paper so they are ready when you are.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, ginger, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt until well combined. This step is crucial as it ensures even distribution of spices throughout your batter.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, beat together unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes don’t rush it!

Step 4: Add Eggs and Molasses

Add eggs one at a time to your butter mixture, mixing well after each addition. Then pour in molasses and vanilla extract. Beat until everything is smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add your dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients while mixing on low speed. Scrape down sides as needed until everything is just combined don’t overmix!

Step 6: Bake Those Cookies

Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop mounds of batter onto prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart. Bake in preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until they spring back when touched lightly.

Let them cool completely before moving on to make that dreamy cream cheese filling.

Once cooled: In another bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth; gradually add powdered sugar followed by milk until reaching desired consistency. Spread or pipe this delightful filling between two whoopie pie halves.

Transfer to plates or platters and watch them disappear faster than you can say “Gingerbread Whoopie Pies”! Enjoy every rich bite as they fill your home and heart with warmth this season!

You Must Know

These delightful gingerbread whoopie pies pack a punch of flavor with their spiced filling and soft cookie texture.
They are perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in.
You can easily customize the flavors and fillings to suit your taste, making them a versatile dessert option.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve perfect gingerbread whoopie pies, start by baking the cookies first. While they’re cooling, whip up your cream cheese filling. This sequencing ensures everything is fresh and ready to go when you assemble your tasty treats. For more inspiration, check out this Easter Shortbread Cookies recipe.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize your gingerbread whoopie pies! Swap out the cream cheese filling for chocolate ganache or add a sprinkle of nutmeg for extra warmth. You can even incorporate crushed candy canes for a festive twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store your gingerbread whoopie pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to enjoy them later, refrigerate them for up to a week, but allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best taste.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For perfectly shaped whoopie pies, use a cookie scoop to ensure even sizes.
Don’t skip chilling the dough; it helps prevent spreading during baking.
Always let the cookies cool completely before adding the filling for better assembly.

Sometimes, my kitchen turns into a battlefield when I bake these whoopie pies. One year, my friends devoured them so quickly that I barely got one! But their smiles made all the flour mess worth it!

FAQs :

What are Gingerbread Whoopie Pies?

Gingerbread whoopie pies are delightful, soft cookies made from gingerbread dough, filled with a creamy filling. These treats combine the classic flavors of ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg, making them perfect for the holiday season or any time you crave warm spices. delicious cinnamon rolls recipe The cookies are typically baked in round shapes and sandwiched together with a sweet filling that often includes cream cheese or buttercream. They’re easy to make and offer a fun twist on traditional gingerbread cookies.

How do I store Gingerbread Whoopie Pies?

To keep your gingerbread whoopie pies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for about 3 to 5 days this way. If you want to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them; they can last up to a week in the fridge. For even longer storage, you can freeze them. Just wrap each pie individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will maintain their delicious flavor for up to three months when frozen.

Can I make Gingerbread Whoopie Pies ahead of time?

Yes, you can make gingerbread whoopie pies ahead of time! You can bake the cookie halves and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days before assembling them with the filling. If you prefer, you can also freeze the baked cookie halves separately. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw and assemble with your favorite filling. This makes it convenient for holiday gatherings or special occasions without last-minute stress.

What variations can I try for Gingerbread Whoopie Pies?

You can experiment with various fillings for your gingerbread whoopie pies to suit your taste preferences. Cream cheese frosting adds a tangy sweetness that complements the spiced cookies beautifully. Alternatively, try vanilla buttercream or a maple-flavored filling for a unique twist. chocolate vegetable pot pie You could even incorporate chocolate ganache or whipped cream if you’re feeling adventurous! Adding spices like cardamom or cloves to the cookie batter is another way to create personalized flavors in these delightful treats.

Conclusion for Gingerbread Whoopie Pies :

Gingerbread whoopie pies are a charming treat that combines soft spiced cookies with creamy fillings. They are perfect for festive occasions and easy to customize with various fillings. Storing them properly ensures they remain fresh and enjoyable for several days or even weeks when frozen. With their delightful flavors and fun presentation, these whoopie pies are sure to impress family and friends alike. Make sure to experiment with different fillings to find your favorite combination!

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