Name: Maple Pumpkin Whoopie Pies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup pumpkin puree 1 cup brown sugar; 0.5 cup vegetable oil 1 large egg 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 2 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking powder; 0.5 teaspoon baking soda 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice; 0.5 teaspoon salt 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 0.25 cup unsalted butter, softened; 0.25 cup pure maple syrup 2 cups powdered sugar

Soft, cakey pumpkin cookies sandwiched with luscious maple cream cheese filling – these Maple Pumpkin Whoopie Pies are fall perfection in every bite. Whether you’re cozying up for a chilly afternoon treat or looking for a show-stopping dessert to bring to the table, these handheld delights strike just the right balance of spiced warmth and creamy sweetness.

The cookie layers are rich with pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a touch of ginger, offering that classic autumn flavor we all crave. The star, though, is the maple-infused filling – smooth, sweet, and decadent, with just enough tang to cut through the cookie’s richness. Easy to make and fun to eat, these whoopie pies are destined to become your favorite seasonal indulgence.

Why You’ll Love This Maple Pumpkin Whoopie Pies

Ultimate Fall Flavor: Spiced pumpkin cookies and maple cream make the perfect autumn dessert.
Soft & Pillowy Texture: Like a cake and a cookie had a delicious baby.
Make-Ahead Friendly: These store well, so they’re perfect for parties or holiday prep.
Family-Favorite Treat: Both kids and adults love these sandwich-style cookies.
Customizable: Add a handful of chopped pecans to the batter or a pinch of cinnamon to the frosting for a little twist.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To ensure your Maple Pumpkin Whoopie Pies come out perfectly, having the right tools and preparation in place is key:

Mixing Bowls: One for dry ingredients and one for wet. Helps with efficient prep and even blending.
Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer: Essential for whipping the filling until fluffy and smooth.
Cookie Scoop: Keeps your cookies uniform in size so they bake evenly and pair up perfectly.
Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mats: Prevents sticking and promotes even baking.
Cooling Rack: Let your cookies cool completely before adding the filling.
Spatula or Piping Bag: For spreading or piping the creamy maple filling onto the cookies with ease.

Taking a few minutes to prep your tools will make the entire baking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Ingredients for the Maple Pumpkin Whoopie Pies

Pumpkin Puree: The heart of the cookie; gives moistness and that beloved autumn flavor.
Brown Sugar: Adds warmth and a caramel-like depth to the cookie base.
Vegetable Oil: Keeps the cookie soft and moist.
Egg: Helps bind the ingredients and adds structure.
Vanilla Extract: Enhances all the cozy flavors.
All-Purpose Flour: The base for the cookies, providing a sturdy yet soft structure.
Baking Powder & Baking Soda: For just the right rise and fluff.
Pumpkin Pie Spice (or cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger mix): The spice mix that brings the cookies to life.
Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
Cream Cheese: Forms the base of the rich and tangy filling.
Butter: Adds creaminess to the frosting.
Maple Syrup: The star flavor in the filling, natural and aromatic.
Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and thickens the maple filling.

How To Make the Maple Pumpkin Whoopie Pies

Step 1: Prep the Oven & Line the Sheets

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, brown sugar, vegetable oil, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk the flour, baking powder, baking soda, spices, and salt.

Step 4: Combine Wet & Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, mixing just until combined. Don’t overmix to keep the cookies tender.

Step 5: Scoop & Bake

Use a cookie scoop to drop evenly-sized mounds onto the baking sheets. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the tops spring back lightly. Cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 6: Make the Maple Filling

Beat the softened cream cheese and butter until fluffy. Add maple syrup and powdered sugar, and beat until smooth and thick.

Step 7: Assemble the Whoopie Pies

Pair up cookies of similar size. Pipe or spread the filling onto one half, then gently press the other cookie on top to sandwich.

Serving and Storing Maple Pumpkin Whoopie Pies

These whoopie pies are best served slightly chilled – the filling sets up nicely in the fridge, giving each bite a clean, satisfying texture. Serve them on a platter for autumn parties, after-dinner desserts, or as a cozy afternoon treat with tea or coffee.

To store, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them (individually wrapped) for up to 1 month. Let them thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep the cookies from spreading too much?

Make sure the dough is not overmixed and the baking sheet is not greased. Using parchment or silicone mats helps cookies hold their shape.

Can I use canned pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?

No – pumpkin pie filling has added sugar and spices, which can throw off the flavor and texture of the cookies. Stick with plain pumpkin puree.

Is there a substitute for maple syrup in the filling?

For a different twist, try honey or agave, but maple really gives the classic fall taste.

Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Absolutely! Store the maple filling in the fridge for up to 3 days, and let it come to room temp before spreading.

How do I freeze whoopie pies?

Wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw in the refrigerator.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the batter?

Yes! Chopped pecans or mini chocolate chips are a lovely way to add extra texture and flavor.

Want More Cookie Ideas with a Twist?

If you love these Maple Pumpkin Whoopie Pies, you might also want to try these:

Salted Caramel Pecan Cookies for a deeper caramel crunch.
Lemon Churro Cookies if you’re craving tangy meets warm spice.
Chocolate Crinkle Sandwich Cookies with a soft ganache center.
Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies for a nostalgic favorite.
Brown Sugar Maple Cookies with cozy fall flavor.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add pecans? Did you go extra on the maple? Or maybe tried them with a cinnamon frosting instead?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake smarter.