Apple Cider Whoopie Pie Recipe for Fall Treats

Updated On: October 12, 2025

There’s something undeniably charming about whoopie pies—those soft, cake-like cookies sandwiched around a luscious filling. When you add the warm, tangy flavor of apple cider into the mix, you elevate this classic treat into a cozy, autumn-inspired delight perfect for chilly evenings or festive gatherings.

The apple cider infuses the batter with subtle fruitiness and spice, while the creamy filling balances the flavors with just the right amount of sweetness.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a curious newbie, this apple cider whoopie pie recipe is approachable and rewarding. It’s a wonderful way to bring the crisp, comforting tastes of fall into your kitchen.

Plus, these pies keep well, making them ideal for prepping ahead of time or sharing as homemade gifts. Let’s dive in and bake these irresistible treats that your family and friends will keep asking for again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines the best of both worlds: a moist, spiced cake with the nostalgic charm of apple cider, and a smooth, fluffy filling that melts in your mouth. The cake portion is perfectly tender thanks to the apple cider and a touch of buttermilk, while cinnamon and nutmeg add just the right amount of warmth.

It’s also incredibly versatile—you can adjust the spices or filling to suit your taste or occasion. The recipe is straightforward, with simple ingredients you likely have on hand, and it yields about 12 whoopie pies, making it perfect for parties or cozy family snacks.

Plus, baking these pies fills your home with the wonderful aroma of fall, setting the perfect mood for any gathering.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
  • 1 cup apple cider, preferably fresh or unfiltered
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • For the filling:
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened (optional but recommended)
  • 2 tablespoons heavy cream or milk

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls (at least two)
  • Electric mixer or stand mixer
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Whisk
  • Cooling rack
  • Baking sheets
  • Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
  • Spoon or cookie scoop for batter
  • Spatula
  • Small bowl for filling preparation

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking.
  2. Prepare the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Set aside.
  3. Reduce the apple cider: Pour the apple cider into a small saucepan and heat over medium heat until it reduces to about 1/2 cup, roughly 10-15 minutes. This intensifies the flavor and prevents excess liquid in the batter. Allow to cool slightly.
  4. Mix the wet ingredients: In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes). Add the egg and vanilla extract, beating well to combine.
  5. Combine the liquids: Stir the reduced apple cider and buttermilk into the wet mixture until fully incorporated.
  6. Add dry ingredients slowly: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cakes tender.
  7. Portion the batter: Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop tablespoon-sized mounds of batter onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart as they will spread slightly.
  8. Bake: Place the trays in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the tops spring back lightly when touched. Remove from oven and let cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
  9. Prepare the filling: In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until smooth. Add vanilla extract and heavy cream, mixing until fluffy and spreadable. Adjust consistency with more cream or sugar as needed.
  10. Assemble the whoopie pies: Match cake tops and bottoms by size. Spread or pipe a generous dollop of filling onto the flat side of one cake and sandwich with its partner. Press gently to spread the filling evenly.
  11. Chill and serve: For best results, refrigerate assembled whoopie pies for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the filling set.

Tips & Variations

Tip: If you prefer a dairy-free version, substitute the butter and cream cheese in the filling with vegan alternatives, and use plant-based milk for the wet ingredients. The flavor and texture remain delightfully close to the original!

Variation: Add finely chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the batter for extra crunch and autumnal flair. Or, mix in dried cranberries for a tart contrast that complements the apple cider beautifully.

Storage: These whoopie pies keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. They also freeze beautifully—just thaw at room temperature before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per Serving (1 whoopie pie)
Calories 250 kcal
Total Fat 12 g
Saturated Fat 7 g
Cholesterol 40 mg
Sodium 150 mg
Total Carbohydrates 32 g
Dietary Fiber 1 g
Sugars 21 g
Protein 2 g

Serving Suggestions

Apple cider whoopie pies are delightful on their own, but here are some ideas to enhance your serving experience:

  • Serve slightly chilled with a warm cup of spiced chai or hot apple cider for a cozy treat.
  • Pair with vanilla bean ice cream for a decadent dessert.
  • Dust lightly with powdered sugar or drizzle with caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
  • Include them as part of a fall-themed dessert platter with pumpkin bread, cinnamon cookies, and salted caramel popcorn.

Conclusion

Making apple cider whoopie pies is a rewarding and fun way to celebrate the flavors of the season. These treats bring together the best of soft, spiced cake and a creamy, luscious filling that will have everyone asking for seconds.

The recipe is beginner-friendly but yields professional-level results, perfect for any occasion from holiday parties to simple family desserts.

Not only do these pies taste incredible, but they also fill your kitchen with the nostalgic aroma of fall spices and cider. If you love experimenting with seasonal ingredients, this recipe is a must-try.

For more delicious and easy recipes, check out our posts on Berry Cobbler Recipe Vegan: Easy, Delicious, and Healthy, Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious, and Black Bean Sauce Recipe Vegetarian: Easy & Delicious Guide.

📖 Recipe Card: Apple Cider Whoopie Pie

Description: A delightful fall treat featuring soft, spiced apple cider cakes sandwiched with creamy cinnamon frosting. Perfect for cozy gatherings or a sweet snack.

Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT15M
Total Time: PT35M

Servings: 12 whoopie pies

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 cup apple cider
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
  3. In a separate bowl, cream butter and brown sugar until fluffy.
  4. Beat in egg, then add apple cider and vanilla extract.
  5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until combined.
  6. Spoon batter onto baking sheets forming 24 rounds.
  7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  8. Let cakes cool completely.
  9. For frosting, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
  10. Add powdered sugar and cinnamon, beating until fluffy.
  11. Spread frosting on half the cakes and sandwich with remaining cakes.
  12. Serve and enjoy.

Nutrition: Calories: 280 kcal | Protein: 3 g | Fat: 12 g | Carbs: 38 g

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Marta K

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