Homemade Oatmeal Cream Pies are a nostalgic treat that brings comfort and joy with every bite. These delightful cookies boast a soft and chewy texture, perfectly complemented by a sweet and creamy filling. Often associated with childhood memories, making these treats at home allows you to customize flavors and ingredients to your liking. This recipe is incredibly straightforward, making it suitable for bakers of all skill levels. Whether you’re preparing them for a special occasion or simply to enjoy at home, these homemade oatmeal cream pies are sure to impress family and friends alike.
Not only do they taste fantastic, but they also fill your kitchen with the warm aroma of freshly baked cookies. The combination of oats and creamy filling creates a delightful contrast that is hard to resist. In just a few simple steps, you can whip up a batch that rivals your favorite store-bought version. Grab your mixing bowl and let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Homemade Oatmeal Cream Pies
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
- Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners
Ingredients for Homemade Oatmeal Cream Pies
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats: Use rolled oats for the best texture; they provide chewiness and depth of flavor.
- All-Purpose Flour: This forms the base of the cookie dough; ensure it’s sifted to avoid lumps.
- Baking Soda: This leavening agent helps the cookies rise properly in the oven.
- Ground Cinnamon: Adds warmth and spice; adjust based on personal preference.
- Unsalted Butter: Use softened butter for easier mixing; it contributes to the rich flavor.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cookie dough; feel free to use brown sugar for added moisture.
- Eggs: Bind the ingredients together; fresh eggs work best in this recipe.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile of your cookies.
For the Filling:
- Powdered Sugar: Provides sweetness and smoothness to the filling; sift before using for a lump-free texture.
- Cream Cheese: Adds tanginess and richness to the filling; ensure it’s softened for easy blending.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Homemade Oatmeal Cream Pies
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Prepare Cookie Dough
In a large bowl, mix together rolled oats, flour, baking soda, cinnamon, salt, softened butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar (if using), eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 3: Scoop Dough onto Baking Sheets
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets about two inches apart.
Step 4: Bake Cookies
Bake in preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. Let cool on baking sheets for five minutes before transferring them to wire racks.
Step 5: Prepare Filling
While cookies cool down, beat together softened cream cheese and powdered sugar in another bowl until smooth. Mix well until creamy consistency is achieved.
Step 6: Assemble Cookies
Once cooled completely, spread a generous amount of filling on the flat side of one cookie and top it with another cookie. Press gently to create a sandwich.
Transfer your assembled homemade oatmeal cream pies onto a serving platter and enjoy!
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Chill Your Dough: For thicker cookies that hold their shape better during baking, chill the dough in the refrigerator for about an hour before scooping.
- Add-ins Galore: Feel free to add chocolate chips or nuts into your cookie dough for extra texture and flavor.
- Storage Tips: Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days or freeze them for longer storage.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair these treats with milk or coffee for an indulgent snack any time of day!
How to Serve Homemade Oatmeal Cream Pies
This Homemade Oatmeal Cream Pies is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- A Glass of Milk: This classic pairing enhances the soft, creamy texture of the pies, making each bite more enjoyable.
- Coffee: The rich flavors of coffee perfectly complement the sweetness of the cream filling, creating a delightful experience any time of day.
- Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream adds a rich creaminess that contrasts beautifully with the chewy oatmeal cookies.
Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the oatmeal cookies up to two days in advance. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature. The cream filling can also be made ahead and kept in the refrigerator for up to one week. Just assemble right before serving for the best texture.
- Storing: To store leftovers, place the assembled Homemade Oatmeal Cream Pies in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for about three days at room temperature or up to a week in the refrigerator.
- Reheating: If you’d like to enjoy them warm, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and heat for about 5-7 minutes until they are warmed through but not melted.
Suggestions for Homemade Oatmeal Cream Pies
Avoid Overmixing the Dough
When making homemade oatmeal cream pies, it’s essential to avoid overmixing your dough. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies rather than the soft, chewy texture you desire. Mix the wet ingredients with the dry just until combined. This will help maintain a tender crumb and ensure that your cookies remain deliciously soft after baking. Gently folding in the oats and flour is key. Remember, the less you handle the dough once the flour is added, the better your oatmeal cream pies will turn out.
Use Fresh Ingredients
Using fresh ingredients is crucial for making homemade oatmeal cream pies that taste great. Old or stale oats can affect the flavor and texture of your cookies. Always check the expiration dates on your ingredients, particularly baking powder and spices. Fresh butter and vanilla extract also enhance the overall taste of your pies. For best results, use high-quality butter and pure vanilla extract instead of imitation flavoring. Fresh ingredients yield superior flavor and improve your baked goods significantly.
Don’t Skip Chilling the Dough
Chilling your dough before baking is a step many bakers overlook but can greatly impact your homemade oatmeal cream pies. Refrigerating the dough allows it to firm up, which helps prevent spreading during baking. This results in thicker cookies with a chewy texture that perfectly holds their shape. Aim to chill your dough for at least 30 minutes before scooping it onto baking sheets. If time permits, chilling overnight can elevate the flavors even more, allowing them to meld beautifully.
Choose the Right Oats
Selecting the right type of oats is vital when preparing homemade oatmeal cream pies. While quick oats may seem convenient, they do not provide the same chewiness as old-fashioned rolled oats. Rolled oats create a heartier texture and better structure in your cookies. If you want an extra boost in texture, consider using a mix of both types of oats for added complexity in each bite. The right oat choice ensures that your oatmeal cream pies are both delicious and satisfyingly chewy.
FAQs
What are homemade oatmeal cream pies made of?
Homemade oatmeal cream pies consist primarily of two components: soft oatmeal cookies and a creamy filling. The cookie base typically includes rolled oats, flour, butter, sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, baking powder, and spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for added warmth. The filling usually features a blend of butter, powdered sugar, marshmallow fluff or cream cheese paired with vanilla extract for sweetness and richness. This combination creates a delightful contrast between chewy cookies and creamy filling.
Can I make homemade oatmeal cream pies ahead of time?
Yes! You can make homemade oatmeal cream pies ahead of time without sacrificing quality or flavor. One effective method is to prepare the cookie dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to three days before baking. Alternatively, you can bake the cookies ahead of time and freeze them without filling for up to three months. Just remember to let them cool completely before storing them in an airtight container or freezer bag to maintain freshness.
How should I store homemade oatmeal cream pies?
To keep your homemade oatmeal cream pies fresh longer, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you live in a warm climate or plan to keep them longer than that, consider refrigerating them to prolong their shelf life by several days. For even longer storage options, freeze unfilled cookies separated by parchment paper in an airtight container for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before adding filling for a delightful treat anytime.
Can I customize my homemade oatmeal cream pies?
Absolutely! Customizing homemade oatmeal cream pies is easy and fun! You can add various mix-ins such as chocolate chips, dried fruits like raisins or cranberries, nuts like walnuts or pecans, or even coconut flakes for extra flavor and texture variations. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different fillings; try flavored creams like peanut butter or chocolate ganache instead of traditional vanilla filling for a unique twist on this classic dessert.
Conclusion for Homemade Oatmeal Cream Pies
In summary, creating delicious homemade oatmeal cream pies involves avoiding common mistakes while focusing on fresh ingredients and correct techniques. Key points include avoiding overmixing to maintain tenderness in your cookies and ensuring you select high-quality rolled oats for optimal texture. Chilling the dough enhances cookie shape while allowing flavors to develop fully before baking contributes to their irresistible taste profile. With proper storage methods and room for customization through various mix-ins or fillings, these delightful treats are perfect for sharing or enjoying any day of the week!
Homemade Oatmeal Cream Pies
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 10 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Homemade Oatmeal Cream Pies are a delightful twist on a beloved classic, combining soft and chewy oatmeal cookies with a rich, creamy filling. Each bite is a nostalgic treat that brings comfort and joy, making them perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a sweet snack any time of day.
Ingredients
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (optional)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 2 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, flour, baking soda, cinnamon, softened butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar (if using), egg, and vanilla extract until well mixed.
- Scoop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about two inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden; let cool on sheets for five minutes before transferring to wire racks.
- While cooling, beat together cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth to create the filling.
- Once cookies are completely cool, spread filling on one cookie and top with another to form a sandwich.
Notes
Chill your dough for at least 30 minutes before scooping for thicker cookies.
Feel free to add chocolate chips or nuts for extra texture.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Chill your dough for at least 30 minutes before scooping for thicker cookies. Feel free to add chocolate chips or nuts for extra texture. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days.
