Introduction to Incredible Gingerbread Oatmeal Cream Pies
Gingerbread is synonymous with warmth and nostalgia, especially during the holiday season. If you’re looking to elevate your seasonal baking, incredible gingerbread oatmeal cream pies should be on your must-try list. These delightful treats combine the spiced flavors of gingerbread with the chewy goodness of oatmeal cookies, creating a perfect balance of textures and tastes that will impress your family and friends.
Why settle for store-bought cookies when you can craft an irresistible homemade version? With a crisp exterior and a soft center filled with creamy frosting, each bite is a little piece of heaven! Not only do they taste fantastic, but they also fill your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas that can make anyone feel at home.
Plus, you have complete control over the ingredients, allowing you to cater to any dietary preferences. Want less sugar or a gluten-free option? No problem! For tips on customizations, check out Ambitious Kitchen. It's undeniably rewarding to share something homemade—and trust us, these gingerbread oatmeal cream pies will disappear faster than you can say “holiday baking fun!” So let’s dive into the recipe—it’s easier than you think!
Ingredients for Incredible Gingerbread Oatmeal Cream Pies
Creating these incredible gingerbread oatmeal cream pies is a delightful experience, and having the right ingredients makes all the difference. Here’s a quick breakdown of what you’ll need:
Wet Ingredients
- ½ cup butter at room temperature — this lends a rich flavor.
- 1 cup packed brown sugar — dark brown sugar enhances the molasses depth.
- ¼ cup blackstrap molasses — gives that iconic gingerbread taste.
- 1 egg — brings everything together.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract — for added warmth and richness.
Dry Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour — forms the base of your cookies.
- ¾ cup old-fashioned rolled oats — the chewy texture we love!
- ½ teaspoon baking soda — helps the cookies rise perfectly.
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground ginger, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, 1 teaspoon allspice — these spices aren’t just flavorful; they bring that holiday cheer.
- ¼ teaspoon salt — enhances the overall sweetness.
For the Cream Pie Filling
- ¾ cup butter at room temperature — creamy and dreamy!
- 1 ½ cups powdered sugar — sweetness and smoothness.
- ¾ teaspoon vanilla extract — because who doesn’t love that vanilla essence?
- 1-2 teaspoons milk — for that perfect creamy filling consistency.
These ingredients will set you up for gorgeous gingerbread oatmeal cream pies that are sure to impress! For more tips and even a few variations, check out Ambitious Kitchen. Happy baking!
Step-by-step Preparation of Incredible Gingerbread Oatmeal Cream Pies
Creating your own incredible gingerbread oatmeal cream pies at home is not only fun, but it also fills your kitchen with the warm, inviting aroma of spices that will put you in the holiday spirit. Let's dive into the step-by-step process of making these delightful treats.
Cream the butter and sugar
Start by gathering your ingredients and placing room temperature butter and packed brown sugar into the bowl of your electric mixer. Beat them together on medium speed for about a minute until the mixture is light and fluffy. The key here is to ensure the butter and sugar are well integrated, as this will create a beautiful base for your cookies.
Combine wet ingredients
Once your butter and sugar are nicely creamed, it’s time to add the wet ingredients. Incorporate the blackstrap molasses, egg, and vanilla extract, mixing everything together until the texture is smooth and creamy. This should take about another minute. The molasses not only adds sweetness but also lends that characteristic gingerbread flavor!
Whisk dry ingredients separately
In a separate large bowl, combine the dry ingredients—all-purpose flour, rolled oats, baking soda, spices, and salt. Whisk them together thoroughly. Ensuring your dry ingredients are mixed prevents any clumps and guarantees even flavor distribution in your cookies. If you want to dive deeper into the spices of gingerbread, check out this informative guide.
Mix wet and dry ingredients
Now it's time to bring it all together. Slowly add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Mix on low speed just until combined; avoid overmixing to maintain a chewy texture.
Chill the dough
Chill the dough in the fridge for at least an hour. This vital step allows the spices to meld and will help shape the cookie texture once baked. Trust me—the extra time is worth it!
Preheat and prepare the baking sheets
While your dough chills, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper. These steps save precious time when you’re ready to bake.
Shape and bake the cookies
Roll large tablespoons of dough into balls and place them two inches apart on your prepared sheets. Bake for 9-12 minutes depending on whether you prefer crispy or soft cookies. Keep an eye on them as they bake, ensuring they don’t over-brown.
Cool the cookies
Once out of the oven, let the cookies cool on the sheet for about five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This will help them maintain their soft centers while developing a nice outer texture.
Prepare the cream filling
When your cookies are completely cool, start on the cream filling. Beat together the room-temp butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in your mixer. Gradually add milk to achieve your desired creaminess. This filling is the perfect sweet counterpart to your gingerbread oatmeal cookies.
Assemble the oatmeal cream pies
Finally, it’s time to put everything together! Spread a generous spoonful of filling on one cookie, place another cookie on top, and gently press down. Continue until all cookies are assembled. For the best experience, let the assembled pies sit at room temperature for about an hour. This wait ensures the filling firms up slightly.
And there you have it! The complete process to creating your own incredible gingerbread oatmeal cream pies. Enjoy them with a warm drink or share with friends and family during the festive season!
Variations on Gingerbread Oatmeal Cream Pies
Add-in options for extra flavor
For incredible gingerbread oatmeal cream pies, consider tossing in add-ins that elevate your cookies. Think about adding chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or chopped pecans for delightful textures and bursts of flavor. You could even mix in some crystallized ginger for an extra ginger kick! Don’t hesitate to experiment with nutmeg or cloves for a unique twist on that classic gingerbread taste.
Alternative fillings for a twist
Looking for something beyond the traditional cream filling? Try using a cinnamon cream cheese filling for a tangy depth or a spiced maple frosting for a holiday flair. You can also whip up a vanilla buttercream or even a nut butter spread if you want a different take. These variations can transform your gingerbread oatmeal cream pies into something uniquely yours.
For more inspiration, check out The Spruce Eats for creative cookie variations!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Gingerbread Oatmeal Cream Pies
How to achieve the perfect texture
To create incredible gingerbread oatmeal cream pies, be sure to chill your dough for at least one hour. This crucial step allows the flavors to meld and ensures a perfectly chewy yet slightly crisp texture. When baking, consider your preference for softness or crispiness: an extra minute or two in the oven will yield a delightful crunch around the edges.
Storing and freezing tips
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week — they taste even better after a day! If you want to prepare ahead, freeze the uncooked dough by wrapping it tightly in plastic. When ready, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and bake. For baked cookies, place them in a freezer-safe container with parchment between layers, allowing you to enjoy your gingerbread oatmeal cream pies anytime! For more tips on freezing cookies, check out this helpful resource.
Serving Suggestions for Gingerbread Oatmeal Cream Pies
Pairing Ideas for the Ultimate Treat
To elevate your incredible gingerbread oatmeal cream pies, consider pairing them with a warm cup of spiced chai or a cozy hot cocoa. The fragrant spices in these drinks beautifully complement the flavors of your cream pies. For an extra touch, serve them alongside cream cheese frosting or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert platter.
Creative Serving Options for Gatherings
If you’re hosting a gathering, present your cream pies as part of a festive dessert table. Stack them on a tiered platter, garnished with candied ginger and sprigs of rosemary for a chic touch. Alternatively, cut them into bite-sized pieces and serve them on cocktail skewers for a fun twist that encourages mingling.
For more creative serving ideas, check out this article on entertaining or holiday dessert inspirations.
Time Breakdown for Making Gingerbread Oatmeal Cream Pies
Preparation time
Gathering ingredients and chilling the dough will take approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. Don't rush this step; it's crucial for achieving that perfect cookie texture!
Baking time
Once the dough is ready, baking the incredible gingerbread oatmeal cream pies will take about 10 minutes. Keep an eye on them to ensure they reach your desired level of crispiness.
Total time
In total, you’ll spend about 1 hour and 40 minutes from start to finish. Your patience will definitely pay off when you take that first bite of these delightful holiday treats!
For more tips on perfecting your cookie-making skills, be sure to check out Baking Basics. Happy baking!
Nutritional Facts for Gingerbread Oatmeal Cream Pies
Calories per sandwich
Each serving of these incredible gingerbread oatmeal cream pies has approximately 312 calories. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth during the holiday season, these treats offer a delightful balance of flavor and nutrition.
Breakdown of key nutrients
When indulging, it's good to know what you're enjoying. Here’s a quick look at the key nutrients:
- Carbohydrates: 46.8g – Providing energy, perfect for busy days.
- Protein: 2.3g – A little boost to your diet.
- Fat: 16g (Saturated Fat: 9.6g) – For flavor and texture.
- Sugar: 26.2g – Sweetness that satisfies.
- Fiber: 0.9g – Doesn’t hurt to help with digestion!
These ingredients come together for a treat that's not just delicious but also offers some nutritional value. For more insights on healthy baking, check out resources from the American Heart Association or the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.
Keep these nutritional facts in mind as you indulge in these incredible gingerbread oatmeal cream pies!
FAQs about Gingerbread Oatmeal Cream Pies
Can I use gluten-free flour?
Absolutely! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum or add a bit yourself to help bind the ingredients. This way, you can enjoy these incredible gingerbread oatmeal cream pies without worry.
How do I store leftover cream pies?
To keep your gingerbread oatmeal cream pies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. If you want to prolong their freshness even longer, you can refrigerate them. For best taste and texture, let them sit at room temperature for about an hour before enjoying!
What variations can I try for the filling?
Get creative with the filling! While classic vanilla is delicious, try adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth, or even peppermint extract for a festive twist. You could also fold in some chopped nuts or dried fruit for added texture and flavor. Feel free to experiment until you find your perfect match!
For more tips, check out Ambitious Kitchen’s post.
Conclusion on Incredible Gingerbread Oatmeal Cream Pies
Incredible gingerbread oatmeal cream pies are the perfect holiday treat to share with loved ones. Their delightful blend of spices and creamy filling makes for an unforgettable dessert experience. So, gather your ingredients and enjoy baking these festive cookies that will surely bring warmth and joy to your gatherings!
Incredible Gingerbread Oatmeal Cream Pies
Equipment
- electric mixer
- baking sheet
- parchment paper
- Wire Rack
Ingredients
Wet ingredients
- ½ cup butter at room temperature
- 1 cup packed brown sugar dark is great, but light also works!
- ¼ cup blackstrap molasses
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Dry ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup old fashioned rolled oats
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon allspice
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For cream pie middle
- ¾ cup butter at room temperature
- 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
- ¾ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1-2 teaspoons milk to make the filling creamy
Instructions
Preparation
- Add room temperature butter and brown sugar to the bowl of an electric mixer and beat the butter and sugar together for 1 minute. Next, add in the molasses, egg, and vanilla and beat again until well combined, smooth and creamy, about 1 more minute.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, oats, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, allspice, and salt. Slowly add dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix on low-speed just until combined. Chill dough in fridge for 1 hour.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Use hands or a tablespoon to scoop a large tablespoonful of dough and roll into a ball. Place dough balls 2 inches apart on the cookie sheet. Bake for 9-12 minutes.
- Remove from oven and cool the cookies on sheets about 5 minutes then transfer to a wire rack. Repeat with remaining dough. Makes about 30 cookies total (or 15 cookie sandwiches).
- Once cookies have cooled, make the filling: Add room temperature butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk to an electric mixer. Beat on low, then gradually increase speed to high for about 1 minute until smooth and creamy.
- Top one cookie sandwich with a spoonful of filling, leaving a nice edge, and top with another cookie sandwich, then gently press down. Repeat with all cookies to get about 15 oatmeal cream pies.
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