Gingerbread Oatmeal Cream Pies
There’s something truly magical about the aroma of gingerbread wafting through the kitchen on a chilly day. Wrapped in the coziness of our homes, these delightful treats embody the essence of the season—warm, sweet, and oh-so-comforting. Whenever I pull out this recipe for Gingerbread Oatmeal Cream Pies, I’m instantly transported back to my grandmother’s kitchen, where the scent of spices danced with laughter and love over warm mugs of cider.
Why make this recipe?
There’s no better way to bring warmth to the cold months than with these decadent gingerbread oatmeal cream pies. They’re not just cookies; they are a hug in dessert form. With the perfect balance of spiced cookies and a creamy filling that melts in your mouth, every bite brings back those cherished memories of sharing sweets with loved ones. Plus, they are a crowd-pleaser—ideal for holiday gatherings, cozy get-togethers, or simply indulging in some me-time.
How to make Gingerbread Oatmeal Cream Pies
Ingredients:
- 1 cup oatmeal
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for filling)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Feel the warmth already?
- In a spacious bowl, mix together the oatmeal, flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt, transforming your kitchen into a fragrant haven.
- In another bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until you achieve a light and fluffy texture, like clouds in a sunlit sky.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until the mixture is luxuriously smooth, ready to embrace those spices.
- Gradually introduce the dry ingredients to the wet, mixing until just combined. Don’t overdo it; the dough should be tender, like a friendly pat on the back.
- Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving enough space between for each cookie to spread its wings.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and your kitchen is filled with scents of the season.
- Let them cool completely on a wire rack, tempting as they may be.
- For the luscious filling, beat together the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth like silk.
- Spread this creamy goodness between two gingerbread cookies to create a delightful sandwich.
- Enjoy your Gingerbread Oatmeal Cream Pies, preferably while snuggled under a blanket with a good book!
How to serve Gingerbread Oatmeal Cream Pies
Pair these wonderful treats with a steaming cup of spiced tea or coffee for a moment of pure bliss. They can also be prettily displayed on a holiday platter, garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a few chocolate shavings, bringing festive smiles to the table.
How to store Gingerbread Oatmeal Cream Pies
Keep your gingerbread oatmeal cream pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. Alternatively, if you want to save them for a rainy day, pop them in the freezer. Just remember to separate the cookies with wax paper to avoid sticking!
Tips to make Gingerbread Oatmeal Cream Pies
- For extra spice, feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg or mace to the flour mixture.
- If you like a chewier texture, let the cookies rest for a couple of minutes on the baking sheet before transferring them to the rack.
- Use a handheld mixer for beating the cream cheese filling to achieve a light, airy consistency.
Variations
Feel free to experiment! Swap out some of the oatmeal for chopped nuts, or add a handful of dried cranberries or chocolate chips for added texture and sweetness. The possibilities are endless!
FAQs
Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the dough, refrigerate it, and bake it just before serving. This makes for freshly baked pies without the fuss!
Q: How can I make the filling dairy-free?
A: Substitute the cream cheese with a non-dairy alternative, like vegan cream cheese, and use powdered coconut sugar for a delicious twist.
Q: What if I have leftover filling?
A: You can easily use it as a dip for fruit or simply enjoy it on its own. It makes a fantastic fruit dip for sliced apples!
Baking these Gingerbread Oatmeal Cream Pies is not just about the delicious end result; it’s about filling your home with warmth, laughter, and joy. Each bite is a reminder of treasured moments, bringing us all closer together during the chillier months. So gather your loved ones, adjust your oven temperature, and let’s create some delicious memories. Happy baking!
Gingerbread Oatmeal Cream Pies
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a spacious bowl, mix together the oatmeal, flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
- In another bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until a light and fluffy texture is achieved.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving enough space between each cookie.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
- Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack.
- Beat together the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Spread the creamy filling between two cookies to create a sandwich.