Oatmeal Cream Pies
There’s something so nostalgic about Oatmeal Cream Pies that instantly takes me back to my childhood. I remember summer afternoons spent with friends, trading snacks and laughs, and these delightful treats were always a favorite. The chewy texture of the cookies paired with the sweet, creamy filling was irresistible. Whenever I would bite into one, it was like a mini celebration in my mouth! Now, as an adult, I love making these at home not just for myself, but for gatherings and special occasions. They bring a smile to everyone’s face, and I love seeing how a simple cookie can create such happiness.
Making Oatmeal Cream Pies is like a warm hug. The process itself is enjoyable, from mixing the ingredients to the moment those cookies come out of the oven. The aroma fills the kitchen, drawing everyone in. And who can resist that? They’re perfect for sharing, and there’s something special about handing a homemade treat to someone you care about. Whether it’s a picnic in the park or a cozy movie night at home, these pies are the ideal companion.
Let’s dive into the world of Oatmeal Cream Pies together. Once you try making them, you won’t want to stop! They’re easy, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. So, pull up your sleeves and let’s get baking!
Recipe Snapshot
25 mins
15 mins
10 mins
Easy
220 kcal
2 g
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
10 g
Food Processor, Frying Pan, Wooden Spoon, Oven, Whisk, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet
The Best Thing About This Oatmeal Cream Pies
Homemade Goodness
There’s nothing quite like the charm of homemade treats. These Oatmeal Cream Pies are a testament to that! The combination of the chewy, oat-filled cookies and the sweet, fluffy cream filling provides a delightful contrast that makes every bite memorable.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing for a family gathering, or just craving something sweet, these pies fit the bill perfectly. They are versatile enough for birthdays, holidays, or simply as an afternoon snack. You can even make them ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Childhood Nostalgia
For many, Oatmeal Cream Pies evoke fond childhood memories. Whenever I make them, I think about the joy they brought to my younger self and how they continue to delight others. It’s like passing down a piece of happiness from generation to generation.
Customizable Filling
The filling can be adapted to your taste! While the classic marshmallow cream is wonderful, feel free to experiment with different flavors. You could add a hint of cinnamon or even a touch of cocoa to create variations that suit your palate.
Simple Ingredients
The ingredients are pantry staples, which means you can whip them up whenever the craving strikes! With just a few simple components, you can create something extraordinary that impresses everyone.
Fun to Make
Involving kids in the baking process can turn this recipe into a fun family activity. Watching their faces light up as they scoop the dough or spread the filling makes it all the more special.
What to Gather for Oatmeal Cream Pies
When it comes to making Oatmeal Cream Pies, the ingredients play a crucial role in achieving that perfect balance of flavors and textures. Each component contributes uniquely to the final product, creating a delicious treat that embodies comfort and nostalgia.
- ¾ cup vegetable shortening: This provides the base for the cookies, giving them a tender texture.
- ¼ cup salted butter: Adds flavor and richness to the cookies.
- 1¼ cups sugar: Sweetens the cookies perfectly, creating that delightful balance.
- ¼ cup light brown sugar: Brings moisture and a lovely caramel flavor.
- 2 eggs: Essential for binding and providing structure.
- 4 teaspoons molasses: Adds depth and a hint of sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla: A classic flavor enhancer.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Forms the bulk of the cookie dough.
- 1½ cups quick-cooking oats (pulsed 20 times in food processor): Provides that signature chewy texture.
- 1 cup quick-cooking oats (not pulsed in food processor): Adds texture and bite.
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch: Ensures the cookies are soft and chewy.
- 2 teaspoons baking soda: Leavens the cookies, allowing them to rise properly.
- 2 teaspoons unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds a subtle chocolate flavor.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps to give the cookies a light texture.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Infuses warmth and flavor.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness.
- ½ cup salted butter: Used for the filling, adding creaminess.
- ½ cup vegetable shortening: Ensures the filling is smooth and spreadable.
- 7 ounces marshmallow cream: The star of the filling, providing that classic sweetness.
- 1¾ cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the filling.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors of the filling.
Making This Oatmeal Cream Pies
Creating your own Oatmeal Cream Pies is a straightforward and fun process. Follow these steps closely, and you’ll be rewarded with delicious cookies filled with creamy goodness that everyone will love!
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the vegetable shortening and butter on medium speed for around three minutes. This initial mixing is vital as it incorporates air into the fats, creating a light texture in your cookies.
- Once the mixture is creamy, reduce the speed to low. While the mixer is running, gradually add both sugars. Continue beating until everything is well combined and fluffy. This will ensure that your cookies have the perfect sweetness.
- Now, add in the eggs, molasses, and vanilla. Beat until these ingredients are fully integrated into the mixture. This step helps to create a rich and flavorful dough.
- In a separate medium bowl, combine the dry ingredients: all-purpose flour, oats, cornstarch, baking soda, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. Stir with a whisk to ensure no lumps form, as this will help maintain a smooth texture in your cookies.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients in the mixing bowl. Start mixing on low speed and slowly increase to medium. Mix until all components are well combined, and the dough forms a cohesive ball.
- Refrigerate the dough for at least twenty minutes. This chilling step is crucial as it helps the flavors meld and prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
- Preheat your oven to three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit. While the oven heats, prepare a cookie sheet by lining it with a baking mat or lightly spraying it with cooking spray.
- Using a one-tablespoon cookie scoop, place scoops of dough onto the cookie sheet, spacing them about two inches apart. To give your cookies a uniform shape, use the flat bottom of a glass to press them down to approximately half-inch thickness. Lightly spraying the bottom of the glass can prevent sticking.
- Bake the cookies for around ten minutes. They should be lightly golden around the edges but soft in the center. Remove them from the oven and let them cool completely on the pan.
- In a medium to large mixing bowl, beat the remaining butter and vegetable shortening on medium speed for about five minutes until creamy.
- Add in the marshmallow cream, powdered sugar, and a pinch of salt. Start on low speed, gradually increasing to medium, and mix until everything is thoroughly combined and fluffy.
- Once the cookies have cooled, take one cookie and spread two to three teaspoons of the filling onto the bottom side. Place a second cookie on top, with its bottom side facing the filling. This gives you that classic cream pie look and allows for the filling to squish out slightly.
Things to Remember
Things Worth Knowing
- Chill the Dough: This step is essential to prevent the cookies from spreading too thin during baking, helping them maintain their chewy texture.
- Cookie Consistency: Ensure your cookie dough has a cohesive texture. If it’s too crumbly, add a little milk to bring it together.
- Cooling Time: Allow cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack. This prevents them from breaking apart.
- Filling Variations: Feel free to add different flavors to the filling, such as a touch of cinnamon or a hint of cocoa, for a unique twist.
Substitutions and Tips
If you’re looking to customize or enhance your Oatmeal Cream Pies, here are some helpful tips to consider.
- Storage: Store leftover Oatmeal Cream Pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Freezing: These treats freeze beautifully! Wrap individual pies in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer bag for up to three months. Simply thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
- Pairing: Consider pairing Oatmeal Cream Pies with a glass of milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.
- Healthier Options: You can use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a healthier twist, and reduce the amount of sugar to suit your taste.
- Custom Flavors: Experiment with adding chocolate chips or dried fruit like raisins to the cookie dough for added texture and flavor.
- Presentation: For a fun touch, roll the edges of the filling in colored sprinkles or shredded coconut before serving to add visual appeal.
- Serving Sizes: If making for a crowd, consider making smaller pies with a teaspoon of filling for bite-sized treats.
What Complements This Oatmeal Cream Pies
When it comes to enjoying your delicious Oatmeal Cream Pies, there are plenty of ways to serve them that enhance the experience. Here are some ideas:
- Afternoon Snack: Perfect for a cozy afternoon break with a warm cup of tea or coffee.
- Picnic Treats: These pies are excellent for outdoor gatherings. Their portable nature makes them a hit at picnics and barbecues.
- School Lunches: Surprise the kids with a homemade snack in their lunchboxes. They’ll appreciate a sweet treat during the school day.
- Party Favors: Wrap individual Oatmeal Cream Pies in clear bags tied with a ribbon for a lovely party favor that guests can take home.
- Seasonal Occasions: Consider making themed versions for holidays, such as adding colored sprinkles for birthdays or festive decorations for Christmas.
- Ice Cream Sandwiches: For a fun twist, use Oatmeal Cream Pies to create ice cream sandwiches. Just add a scoop of your favorite ice cream between two pies!
- Storage Tips: Keep cookies in an airtight container to maintain their chewy texture, and consider using parchment paper to separate layers to avoid sticking.
FAQ
Conclusion
The beauty of Oatmeal Cream Pies lies in their warm, nostalgic flavors and delightful textures. These treats not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also bring back fond memories, making them a special addition to any occasion. I encourage you to try making these beloved pies yourself; you might just find that they become a new family favorite. With their perfect balance of chewy cookies and creamy filling, they are bound to create lasting smiles!
Oatmeal Cream Pies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the vegetable shortening and butter on medium speed for about three minutes until creamy. Reducing the speed to low, add both sugars and mix until well combined. Then, add the eggs, molasses, and vanilla, beating until fully integrated. In a separate bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking soda, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. Gradually combine the dry mix with the wet mixture until cohesive. Refrigerate the dough for at least twenty minutes. Preheat your oven to three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit. Scoop dough onto a lined cookie sheet and press to flatten slightly. Bake for around ten minutes until edges are golden. Let cool completely before preparing the filling.
- In another bowl, beat the remaining butter and vegetable shortening until creamy. Add the marshmallow cream, powdered sugar, and a pinch of salt. Mix gradually from low to medium speed until fluffy. Assemble by spreading filling on one cookie, topping with another cookie.
Notes
- Storage: Store leftover Oatmeal Cream Pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Freezing: These treats freeze beautifully! Wrap individual pies in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer bag for up to three months. Simply thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
- Pairing: Consider pairing Oatmeal Cream Pies with a glass of milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.
- Healthier Options: You can use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a healthier twist, and reduce the amount of sugar to suit your taste.
- Custom Flavors: Experiment with adding chocolate chips or dried fruit like raisins to the cookie dough for added texture and flavor.
- Presentation: For a fun touch, roll the edges of the filling in colored sprinkles or shredded coconut before serving to add visual appeal.
- Serving Sizes: If making for a crowd, consider making smaller pies with a teaspoon of filling for bite-sized treats.
