As I reached for a warm cookie fresh from the oven, the enticing aroma filled the air, whisking me back to my childhood. These soft and chewy homemade oatmeal cream pies not only bring back fond memories but also offer the joy of creating something special from scratch. With a delightful balance of spices and a creamy filling that can be adjusted to fit your sweetness preference, this recipe is a perfect choice for family gatherings or quiet evenings at home. Crafting these cookies eliminates the need for preservatives found in store-bought versions, making them a much healthier and tastier alternative when cravings arise. Are you ready to indulge in a delightful slice of nostalgia? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why Are These Cookies So Irresistible?
Nostalgic charm: Each bite of these homemade oatmeal cream pies transports you back to cherished childhood moments, combining warm spices and creamy sweetness.
Easy preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these cookies are accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
Customizable sweetness: Adjust the filling to your taste—whether you prefer it subtly sweet or indulgently rich, you’re in control!
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for parties or family gatherings, these cookies are sure to impress both kids and adults alike.
Versatile variations: Feel free to experiment by adding chocolate chips or nuts, making them your own unique creation. Enjoy them alongside a cozy cup of coffee for a delightful treat, or check out our recipe for Pumpkin Cream Cheese bread for another homemade indulgence.
Homemade Oatmeal Cream Pies Ingredients
For the Cookies
- Unsalted Butter (2 sticks, softened) – Ensures a rich flavor and moist texture; be sure it’s room temperature for easy creaming.
- Brown Sugar (1 cup, packed) – Adds moisture and a delicious caramel undertone; can swap with coconut sugar for a healthier option.
- Granulated Sugar (½ cup) – Sweetens the cookies and helps create the perfect structure.
- Molasses (1 tablespoon) – Deepens the flavor and boosts moisture; dark corn syrup makes a fine substitute if needed.
- Salt (1 teaspoon) – Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
- Pure Vanilla Extract (2 teaspoons) – Infuses warmth and depth; essential for that comforting flavor.
- Large Egg (1, room temperature) – Binds the ingredients and provides additional moisture for chewy cookies.
- Baking Soda (1 teaspoon) – Acts as a leavening agent, helping the cookies puff up beautifully.
- Ground Cinnamon (¾ teaspoon) – Adds warmth and a welcoming spice; a must-have in oatmeal cookies!
- Quick Oats (2 ½ cups) – Gives that classic chewy texture; do not substitute with rolled oats for best results.
- All-Purpose Flour (1 ½ cups) – Provides the structure; feel free to use a gluten-free blend if necessary.
For the Oatmeal Cream Pie Filling
- Powdered Sugar (5-6 cups) – Sweetens the filling; check for your preferred sweetness level or try marshmallow fluff for less sugar.
- Unsalted Butter (½ cup, softened) – Adds richness and smoothness to the filling; make sure it’s soft for easy mixing.
- Jet-Puffed Marshmallow Crème (1 container, 7-ounce) – Brings in a light, fluffy texture that’s utterly delightful.
- Salt (pinch) – A tiny boost to enhance the filling’s flavor profile.
- Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon) – Imparts a lovely flavor that ties the filling together.
- Heavy Whipping Cream (2-3 tablespoons) – Adjusts the filling’s consistency to your liking, making it perfect for piping.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Homemade Oatmeal Cream Pies
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a stand mixer, combine 2 sticks of softened unsalted butter, 1 cup of packed brown sugar, and ½ cup of granulated sugar. Beat on medium speed for about 3-5 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy, a pale creamy color is a good indicator. Scrape down the bowl to ensure everything is well mixed.
Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients
Add 1 large room-temperature egg, 1 tablespoon of molasses, and 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract to the creamed mixture. Mix on low until just combined, ensuring that the ingredients meld beautifully without overworking them. This step is crucial for the perfect texture of your homemade oatmeal cream pies.
Step 3: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, ¾ teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until fully incorporated. The dough will be slightly thick and sticky, which is ideal for creating chewy cookies.
Step 4: Fold in the Oats
Gently fold in 2½ cups of quick oats with a spatula until they are evenly distributed within the dough. This is where the hearty texture of the homemade oatmeal cream pies begins to develop. Be careful not to overmix; you want to preserve the chewiness of the oats.
Step 5: Portion the Dough
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Using an ice cream scoop, portion out dough balls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This allows the cookies to spread evenly while baking, ensuring each homemade oatmeal cream pie is perfectly shaped.
Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-14 minutes, rotating the sheet halfway through for even baking. The cookies should look slightly underbaked and soft to the touch with a golden-brown edge, perfect for the chewy texture we love in homemade oatmeal cream pies.
Step 7: Cool the Cookies
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is essential so that the cookies can set properly before adding the cream filling.
Step 8: Prepare the Cream Filling
In a mixing bowl, blend together ½ cup of softened unsalted butter, 5-6 cups of powdered sugar, 1 container (7 ounces) of Jet-Puffed Marshmallow Crème, a pinch of salt, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix until creamy and smooth, adjusting the consistency with 2-3 tablespoons of heavy whipping cream if needed.
Step 9: Assemble the Oatmeal Cream Pies
Once your cookies are completely cool, pipe a generous amount of the filling onto the flat side of one cookie. Top it with another cookie, pressing down gently to create a sandwich. Repeat this process until all cookies are filled, creating delightful homemade oatmeal cream pies ready to indulge in.
Step 10: Store the Cookies
Store your assembled homemade oatmeal cream pies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. They can be kept at room temperature for about a week, or you can refrigerate them for even longer-lasting enjoyment, making them the perfect sweet treat any day!
Homemade Oatmeal Cream Pies Variations
Feel free to make these oatmeal cream pies your own with delightful twists and substitutions!
-
Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a tasty variation that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
You won’t miss the wheat in these cookies; the resulting texture remains irresistibly chewy and satisfying. -
Lower Sugar: Use marshmallow fluff to replace half the powdered sugar in the filling, creating a gentler sweetness.
This subtle tweak lets you savor the creamy goodness without it being overly sweet; you might even prefer this lighter option! -
Add-ins: Incorporate chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the cookie dough for a delicious flavor boost.
This simple addition brings different textures and taste sensations, enhancing the overall cookie experience. -
Flavor Variations: Experiment with extracts like almond or peppermint in the cream filling to introduce new tastes.
A touch of mint can evoke the holiday spirit, while almond gives a delightful twist sure to please your palate. -
Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil instead of butter and almond milk instead of heavy cream in the filling for a dairy-free version.
This swap allows those with dietary restrictions to enjoy a nostalgic treat without missing out on any of that delicious creaminess. -
Cinnamon Swirl: Swirl in additional cinnamon or a sprinkle of nutmeg into the cookie batter for a warm spice kick.
This aromatic enhancement gives your cookies an even more comforting flavor profile, perfect for chilly evenings. -
Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle melted caramel over your assembled cookies for an indulgent touch that elevates the treat.
This decadent addition creates a delightful contrast of flavors, making each bite feel like a special occasion. -
Texture Play: For a chunkier cookie, add oats and chopped dried fruits, like cranberries or raisins, for a different chewiness.
These fruity bits add a surprising sweetness and enhance the homemade feel of your treats, ensuring they remain irresistible.
Feel inspired to customize these oatmeal cream pies to suit your taste and share them with family or enjoy them while curled up with your favorite book—happy baking!
Expert Tips for Homemade Oatmeal Cream Pies
-
Room Temperature Ingredients: Always use room-temperature butter and eggs to achieve the best creaming and texture in your cookies.
-
Quick Oats Only: For the ideal chewy texture in your homemade oatmeal cream pies, stick with quick oats; rolled oats won’t give you the same satisfying bite.
-
Baking Time Matters: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake; they should appear slightly underbaked, which helps retain their softness.
-
Let Them Cool: Allow cookies to cool completely before adding the filling. This ensures the cream doesn’t melt or make the cookies soggy.
-
Customize the Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet filling, consider substituting half of the powdered sugar with marshmallow fluff for a delightful twist.
-
Storage Tips: Store your homemade oatmeal cream pies in an airtight container to keep them soft, or freeze unfilled cookies for assembly later.
What to Serve with Soft & Chewy Homemade Oatmeal Cream Cookies
Savoring these delightful cookies invites the perfect opportunity to expand your treat experience with tempting pairings.
- Cold Glass of Milk: The classic choice, a refreshing glass of milk balances the sweetness of the cookies, enhancing each blissful bite.
- Rich Espresso: The bold flavors of a well-brewed espresso create a delightful contrast to the sweet cream filling, making it an unforgettable pairing.
- Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to amplify the dessert effect; the creaminess complements the chewy texture perfectly.
- Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries add a bright, tart flavor and a touch of freshness, balancing the cookies’ sweetness beautifully.
- Homemade Hot Chocolate: Cozy up with a rich hot chocolate, allowing the warmth and sweetness to mingle as you dunk your cookies for an irresistible treat.
- Nutty Trail Mix: For a crunchy contrast, pair with a nutty trail mix. The mix provides a delightful balance to the soft, chewy cookies.
- Cinnamon Tea: A warm cup of cinnamon tea echoes the spices in the cookies, creating a comforting and aromatic companion.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the cookies for an indulgent twist, elevating their sweetness to new heights.
- Apple Slices: Crisp apple slices with a sprinkle of cinnamon provide a fresh, crunchy element, offering a delightful contrast to the cookies’ rich texture.
- Chocolate Milkshake: Indulge in a thick chocolate milkshake to satisfy your sweet tooth and create a nostalgic treat reminiscent of childhood diners.
Storage Tips for Homemade Oatmeal Cream Pies
Room Temperature: Keep assembled oatmeal cream pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their delightful softness.
Fridge: For longer storage, place the cookies in the fridge. They can last up to 2 weeks, but make sure they are sealed tight to prevent drying out.
Freezer: You can freeze unfilled cookies for up to 3 months. Once entirely cool, layer them with parchment paper in an airtight container, and assemble them fresh when ready to enjoy.
Reheating: If you prefer your oatmeal cream pies warm, microwave them for about 10-15 seconds to revive their softness without compromising the texture.
Make Ahead Options
These homemade oatmeal cream pies are a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to save precious time during busy weeks! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover it tightly and refrigerate. The cream filling can also be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in an airtight container in the fridge—just be sure to give it a good stir before using. When you’re ready to bake, portion the chilled dough onto a baking sheet and follow the baking instructions. This way, you’ll enjoy soft, chewy cookies with delightful cream filling that taste just as fresh as if they were made that day!
Homemade Oatmeal Cream Pies Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting oats?
Use only quick oats for this recipe as they provide the best chewy texture. Old-fashioned oats or rolled oats will result in a different consistency and won’t give you those beloved soft and chewy oatmeal cream pies you’re aiming for!
How do I store these homemade oatmeal cream pies to keep them fresh?
Store assembled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you’d like to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks, ensuring they remain tightly sealed to avoid drying out.
Can I freeze homemade oatmeal cream pies?
Absolutely! You can freeze unfilled cookies for up to 3 months. Just make sure they are completely cool, layer them with parchment paper in an airtight container, and when you’re ready to enjoy, simply assemble them fresh.
What can I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If your cookies spread excessively, it might be due to overly warm ingredients, particularly the butter. Be sure to use cold or room temperature butter, chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking, and always check your oven temperature for accuracy.
Can I adjust the sweetness of the filling?
Very! For those who prefer a less sweet filling, consider replacing half of the powdered sugar with marshmallow fluff. This adds a delightful twist while keeping the creaminess intact. Taste as you go to find your perfect balance!
Is this recipe suitable for people with allergies?
While delicious, these oatmeal cream pies contain common allergens such as wheat and dairy. For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend and ensure that the oats are certified gluten-free. Always check ingredients for specific allergies before baking!
Soft & Chewy Homemade Oatmeal Cream Pies You'll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cream the butter and sugars by combining unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar in a stand mixer. Beat until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg, molasses, and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture. Mix until just combined.
- Whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt in a separate bowl. Gradually add to wet mix.
- Fold in quick oats gently with a spatula.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Scoop dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 12-14 minutes until slightly underbaked. Allow to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
- Prepare the cream filling by mixing together butter, powdered sugar, marshmallow crème, salt, and vanilla. Adjust with heavy cream.
- Once cookies are cool, pipe filling onto one cookie and top with another, pressing gently.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate.
Leave a Reply