Gingerbread Oatmeal Cream Pies

Gingerbread Oatmeal Cream Pies are a delightful treat that brings warmth and comfort to any occasion. These sweet sandwich cookies feature soft gingerbread oatmeal cookies filled with a rich cream cheese frosting. Perfect for holiday gatherings, cozy afternoons, or just because, these pies will satisfy your sweet tooth and impress your friends and family with their unique flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of ginger, cinnamon, and molasses creates a warm, spiced flavor that is perfect for any time of year.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these cream pies can be whipped up in no time.
• Perfectly Soft Cookies: The blend of oats and butter results in wonderfully soft cookies that hold the creamy filling perfectly.
• Versatile Treat: Whether served as a dessert or an afternoon snack, these pies fit many occasions.
• Customizable Filling: Feel free to adjust the sweetness or add flavors like lemon zest to the cream cheese frosting for a twist!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this recipe, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: This tool simplifies the process of blending butter and sugar, ensuring a light and fluffy filling.
• Baking sheets: A good quality baking sheet provides even heat distribution for perfectly baked cookies.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

• 1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour (166 grams)
• 1 1/2 teaspoon ginger powder
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (112 grams) (softened)
• 3/4 cup brown sugar (158 grams) (I used dark)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (100 grams)
• 3 tablespoons molasses
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup rolled oats (about 100 grams) (I used quick oats)

For the Cream Filling

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (112 grams) (softened)
• 4 ounces cream cheese (112 grams) (brick style, full fat)
• 1 1/2 – 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar (165 – 275 grams)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon whipping cream (if needed, half and half works too)

How to Make Gingerbread Oatmeal Cream Pies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Ginger powder
3. Cinnamon
4. Nutmeg
5. Ground cloves
6. Baking soda
7. Salt

Set aside once combined.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In another bowl, use an electric mixer to beat together:
1. Softened unsalted butter
2. Brown sugar
3. Granulated sugar

Mix until light and fluffy.

Step 4: Add Molasses and Egg

To the butter mixture, add:
– Molasses
– Vanilla extract
– Egg

Mix until well combined.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet mixture:
– Mix until just incorporated.
– Stir in rolled oats gently until evenly distributed.

Step 6: Bake Cookies

Scoop tablespoon-sized portions onto prepared baking sheets:
– Space them about two inches apart.
– Bake in preheated oven for about 9 minutes or until edges are set.

Step 7: Prepare Cream Filling

While cookies cool, prepare the filling by beating together:
– Softened unsalted butter
– Cream cheese

Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing until smooth. Adjust consistency with whipping cream if necessary.

Step 8: Assemble Cream Pies

Once cookies have cooled:
– Spread or pipe frosting onto the flat side of one cookie.
– Top with another cookie to create a sandwich.

Enjoy your delicious Gingerbread Oatmeal Cream Pies!

How to Serve Gingerbread Oatmeal Cream Pies

Gingerbread oatmeal cream pies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether at a festive gathering or a cozy evening at home, these pies offer something special for everyone.

With a Glass of Milk

• Enjoying these pies with a cold glass of milk enhances the flavors and provides a classic pairing that brings out the creaminess of the filling.

As an Afternoon Snack

• These cookies make for a perfect afternoon pick-me-up. Pair them with your favorite tea or coffee for a delightful break during the day.

At Holiday Parties

• Present these gingerbread oatmeal cream pies as a festive dessert option at holiday gatherings. Their seasonal flavors will surely impress your guests.

With Fresh Fruit

• Serve alongside fresh fruit like apples or pears to balance the sweetness of the cookies. The crispness of the fruit complements the soft texture of the pies.

In Dessert Boxes

• Pack these treats into dessert boxes as thoughtful gifts for friends and family. They are great for sharing and spreading holiday cheer.

How to Perfect Gingerbread Oatmeal Cream Pies

To achieve the best results with your gingerbread oatmeal cream pies, follow these helpful tips. Each step will enhance the flavor and texture of your cookies.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your butter and eggs are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter and better texture.

• Don’t Overmix: When combining ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of soft ones.

• Chill the Dough: Allowing your cookie dough to chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes can help develop flavors and prevent spreading during baking.

• Check Your Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures. An incorrect temperature can affect how well your cookies rise.

• Adjust Frosting Consistency: If your cream cheese frosting is too thick, add whipping cream gradually until you reach your desired consistency for easy spreading.

Best Side Dishes for Gingerbread Oatmeal Cream Pies

Pairing side dishes with gingerbread oatmeal cream pies can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some delightful options to consider:

1. Spiced Apple Sauce: This warm, spiced apple sauce complements the ginger flavor perfectly and adds moisture to your meal.

2. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream provides a creamy contrast and balances out the spices in the cookies beautifully.

3. Caramel Sauce: Drizzling caramel sauce over each pie adds an extra layer of sweetness that pairs wonderfully with their rich flavors.

4. Whipped Coconut Cream: For a lighter option, use whipped coconut cream as a topping. It offers a subtle sweetness while keeping things dairy-free.

5. Chai Tea Latte: The spiced notes in chai tea enhance the gingerbread flavor and create a cozy beverage pairing.

6. Pumpkin Spice Latte: This seasonal favorite works well with ginger flavors, making it an excellent choice alongside your cookies, especially in cooler months.

7. Roasted Nuts: A small bowl of roasted nuts provides crunch and rich flavor that contrasts nicely with the softness of the gingerbread oatmeal cream pies.

8. Cheese Platter: Include some mild cheeses on a platter to balance sweetness with savory notes, offering variety during dessert time.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Gingerbread Oatmeal Cream Pies even better. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using cold ingredients: Cold butter and eggs can lead to a dense cookie. Always use softened butter and room temperature eggs for the best texture.
• Overmixing the dough: This can result in tough cookies. Mix just until combined to keep your Gingerbread Oatmeal Cream Pies tender.
• Ignoring ingredient measurements: Accurate measurements are key in baking. Use a kitchen scale for precision, especially with flour and sugar.
• Skipping the chilling step: Chilling your cookie dough helps them maintain their shape. Don’t skip this step if your dough feels too soft.
• Not testing for doneness: Cookies may look underbaked but will continue to cook on the tray. Check them after the minimum baking time for perfect results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Gingerbread Oatmeal Cream Pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Layer parchment paper between the cookies if stacking, to prevent sticking.

Freezing Gingerbread Oatmeal Cream Pies

• Wrap each pie individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating Gingerbread Oatmeal Cream Pies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place on a baking sheet, and warm for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one pie at a time on low power for about 10-15 seconds. Watch closely to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place a cookie in a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for around 2-3 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Gingerbread Oatmeal Cream Pies:

Can I use gluten-free flour for Gingerbread Oatmeal Cream Pies?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Make sure it contains xanthan gum for better texture.

How can I customize my Gingerbread Oatmeal Cream Pies?

You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits to the dough for added flavor and texture variations.

What is the best way to store leftover Gingerbread Oatmeal Cream Pies?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freeze them individually wrapped for long-term storage.

Can I make these pies vegan?

Yes, substitute butter with plant-based margarine and replace egg with flaxseed meal mixed with water or applesauce.

How do I ensure my cream filling is smooth?

Beat cream cheese thoroughly before adding powdered sugar and other ingredients. Gradually add sugar until desired sweetness and consistency are achieved.

Final Thoughts

Gingerbread Oatmeal Cream Pies are not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to customize them according to your taste preferences. Whether you enjoy them as a sweet snack or dessert, they are sure to impress family and friends. Try experimenting with different fillings or mix-ins to make these treats your own!