Oatmeal Cream Pies

Oatmeal cream pies are the perfect combination of chewy and creamy, bringing together the wholesome goodness of oats with a sweet, creamy filling. These nostalgic treats remind many of their childhood, often enjoyed as a midday snack or a dessert. The soft, spiced oatmeal cookies are not only comforting but also versatile, allowing you to customize the filling to suit your taste. Made with a blend of cinnamon and nutmeg, these cookies have a wonderful depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with the fluffy, sweet cream filling. The best part about making oatmeal cream pies at home is that you can control the ingredients, ensuring a fresh and satisfying experience. With a few simple steps, you can create a batch that rivals any store-bought version, perfect for sharing or enjoying all on your own. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet treat, oatmeal cream pies are bound to please everyone.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

There are countless reasons to fall in love with oatmeal cream pies, but here are a few highlights that make this recipe stand out. First, the taste is simply irresistible; the warm spices from the oatmeal cookies combined with the sweet, fluffy filling create a flavor explosion in every bite. The contrast between the chewy cookies and the creamy filling adds an enjoyable texture that keeps you coming back for more. Second, the preparation is straightforward and doesn’t require any complicated techniques. Even if you’re a novice in the kitchen, you can easily whip up these treats without stress. Third, the appearance of oatmeal cream pies is sure to impress. Their rustic, homemade look, combined with the luscious cream filling peeking out from between the cookies, creates an inviting presentation that’s perfect for any gathering. Lastly, they are incredibly versatile; you can play around with the filling and add in various flavors or mix-ins, making each batch uniquely yours. These reasons combine to create a recipe that you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients:

To create your homemade oatmeal cream pies, you will need the following ingredients, each playing an essential role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture. Here’s a comprehensive list of what you’ll need:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: The base for your cookies, providing moisture and richness.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and contributes to the cookie’s texture.
• 1 cup packed brown sugar: This adds depth of flavor and a hint of caramel to the cookies.
• 2 large eggs: These bind the ingredients together and help the cookies rise.
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile of the cookies.
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: The main structure of your cookies, giving them body.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise and become fluffy.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and spice to the cookie dough.
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Complements the cinnamon and enhances the flavor.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors.
• 3 cups old-fashioned oats: The star of the recipe, providing chewiness and heartiness.
• 1 cup powdered sugar: Used for the sweet cream filling, giving it a smooth texture.
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened: A key ingredient for the creamy filling, adding richness.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds flavor to the filling, making it irresistible.
• 1 tablespoon milk: Helps achieve the desired consistency of the filling.

These ingredients combine to create a delicious treat that is both comforting and satisfying. Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor, and feel free to gather your family and friends to join in the baking fun!

How To Make Oatmeal Cream Pies?

Making oatmeal cream pies from scratch is a rewarding experience that begins with preparing the cookie dough. Follow these detailed steps to create your own delicious treats:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process should take about 3-5 minutes.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract until combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined.
5. Fold in the old-fashioned oats using a spatula, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
6. Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading during baking.
7. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked, but they will continue to firm up as they cool. Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
8. While the cookies are cooling, prepare the cream filling. In a medium mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and milk, mixing until well combined and the filling is creamy.
9. Once the cookies are completely cool, spread a generous amount of the cream filling on the flat side of half of the cookies. Top with the remaining cookies, flat side down, to create sandwiches.
10. For the best flavor and texture, let the assembled oatmeal cream pies sit for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the cookies to soften slightly from the filling.
11. Enjoy your homemade oatmeal cream pies with a glass of milk or your favorite beverage!

Tips For Variations:

While the classic oatmeal cream pie is a beloved treat on its own, there are countless ways to customize this recipe to suit your preferences or to experiment with new flavors. Here are some unique ideas for variations:

• Chocolate Chip Addition: Add 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips to the cookie dough for a delicious chocolatey twist. The combination of chocolate and oatmeal is always a crowd-pleaser.
• Dried Fruit: Incorporate 1 cup of dried cranberries or raisins into the dough. This adds a chewy texture and a burst of sweetness that complements the spices in the cookies.
• Nutty Flavor: For added crunch, consider mixing in ½ cup of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, into the cookie dough. This provides a delightful contrast to the soft cookies.
• Spiced Cream Filling: Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cream filling for an extra layer of flavor. You can also incorporate a splash of maple syrup for a rich sweetness.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that is designed for baking. Ensure that your oats are certified gluten-free as well.
• Frosting Style: Instead of a cream filling, try using a buttercream frosting. This can be flavored with various extracts such as almond or coconut for a unique twist.

These variations not only enhance the flavor of your oatmeal cream pies but also allow you to cater to different tastes and dietary preferences. Don’t hesitate to get creative and make these pies your own!

Serving Suggestions:

Oatmeal cream pies can be enjoyed in a variety of settings, making them perfect for any occasion. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your experience:

• Picnic Treat: Pack oatmeal cream pies in a picnic basket alongside fresh fruit and beverages for a delightful outdoor meal. Their sturdy structure makes them easy to transport and enjoy in the great outdoors.
• Dessert Platter: Create a dessert platter with an assortment of treats, including oatmeal cream pies. This is perfect for parties or gatherings, allowing guests to sample a variety of sweets.
• Ice Cream Sandwich: For a fun twist, use oatmeal cream pies as the base for ice cream sandwiches. Simply place a scoop of your favorite ice cream between two cookies for a deliciously indulgent treat.
• Gift Giving: Package oatmeal cream pies in a decorative box or tin as a thoughtful gift for friends, family, or coworkers. They make a wonderful homemade gift for birthdays or holidays.
• With Beverages: Pair oatmeal cream pies with a warm beverage like tea or coffee. The combination of flavors enhances the overall experience and makes for a cozy treat during colder months.

These serving suggestions not only highlight the versatility of oatmeal cream pies but also encourage you to enjoy them in various settings, adding to their charm as a beloved treat.

FAQ:

Can I freeze oatmeal cream pies?

Yes, you can freeze oatmeal cream pies! Simply wrap each pie individually in plastic wrap or foil, and place them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to three months. To enjoy, thaw them at room temperature for a few hours.

How long do oatmeal cream pies last?

Oatmeal cream pies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for about 5-7 days. If you want them to last longer, consider refrigerating them, which can extend their freshness for up to two weeks.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the cookie dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just make sure to cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying out.

Are oatmeal cream pies suitable for kids?

Oatmeal cream pies are a great treat for kids! They are fun to eat and can be enjoyed as a snack or dessert. Plus, you can involve kids in the baking process, making it a fun family activity.

What is the best way to store leftover cream filling?

If you have leftover cream filling, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. You can use it as a spread on toast or as a filling for other baked goods!