Step-by-step Instructions
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will ensure that your whoopie pies don’t stick to the pan.
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the almond flour, baking soda, salt, and pumpkin spice until fully blended.
In a separate large bowl, mix together the pumpkin puree, eggs, melted coconut oil, and maple syrup. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Gently stir until just combined; be careful not to overmix as this can lead to denser cookies.
Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop dollops of batter onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each dollop.
Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the tops are set and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let them cool completely on a wire rack.
For the filling, beat together the softened cream cheese with maple syrup and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Assemble your whoopie pies by spreading a generous amount of filling onto the flat side of one cookie and sandwiching it with another cookie. Repeat this process for the remaining cookies.
You can serve them immediately or refrigerate to let the filling firm up a bit for optimal flavor and texture.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
These healthy pumpkin whoopie pies make for a delightful dessert on their own, but consider enhancing the experience by serving them with a warm cup of spiced chai or a scoop of vanilla ice cream! For a festive touch, garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or even some chopped nuts on the plate. Their vibrant orange color and fluffy texture make them a feast for the eyes as well!
How to Store & Freeze
To keep your healthy pumpkin whoopie pies fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator where they can last for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to enjoy them beyond that, consider freezing them! Wrap the whoopie pies individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They will remain tasty for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- Mixing: When combining your wet and dry ingredients, take care to mix gently to keep your cookies light and airy.
- Pumpkin Puree: Ensure you’re using pure pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling) for the best flavor and texture.
- Egg Substitution: For those looking for an egg replacement, a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) works effectively!
Creative Twists
Feel free to customize your whoopie pies! Try adding chocolate chips or nuts to the batter for extra texture. You can also experiment with different fillings, such as whipped coconut cream or a spiced cream cheese filling infused with maple syrup and chopped pecans. The possibilities are endless when it comes to making these delightful treats your own!
FAQs
How long does it take to prepare these whoopie pies?
Prep time takes about 15 minutes, and baking requires an additional 12 to 15 minutes. So, you can have delicious whoopie pies ready in roughly 30 minutes!
Can I make these whoopie pies vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute the eggs with flax eggs and use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for the filling.
Can I freeze leftover whoopie pies?
Yes! Just wrap them individually and store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Enjoy these healthy pumpkin whoopie pies, knowing they’re made with wholesome ingredients while still satisfying your sweet tooth!
