Oatmeal Cream Pies
Introduction
Homemade oatmeal cream pies are a delightful treat that combines soft, chewy oatmeal cookies with a luscious cream filling. These classic snacks are perfect for sharing or enjoying with a cup of coffee. With a handful of accessible ingredients, you can create this nostalgic dessert that captures the essence of childhood treats while satisfying your sweet tooth.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Oatmeal cookies:
– Rolled oats: 1 cup
– All-purpose flour: 3/4 cup
– Baking soda: 1/2 teaspoon
– Baking powder: 1/4 teaspoon
– Salt: 1/4 teaspoon
– Ground cinnamon: 1 teaspoon
– Unsalted butter: 1/2 cup (softened)
– Brown sugar: 1 cup (packed)
– Granulated sugar: 1/4 cup
– Large egg: 1
– Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
– Raisins or chocolate chips: optional
Cream filling:
– Unsalted butter: 1/4 cup (softened)
– Powdered sugar: 2 cups
– Marshmallow fluff: 1/2 cup
– Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Total Time: 25-30 minutes
Yield: Approximately 12-14 cream pies
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the oatmeal cookies.
Prepare the Baking Sheets
Line two baking sheets with parchment paper for easy removal of the cookies.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, combine the oats, flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Stir well to ensure even distribution of the ingredients.
Cream Butter and Sugars
In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Add Egg and Vanilla
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture until fully incorporated.
Combine Dry Ingredients with Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until the dough is well combined.
Drop Dough onto Baking Sheets
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake the Cookies
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked.
Cool the Cookies
Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prepare the Cream Filling
In a bowl, beat the softened butter and shortening together until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until smooth and fluffy.
Assemble the Oatmeal Cream Pies
Once the cookies have cooled completely, spread a generous amount of cream filling onto the flat side of one cookie and top it with another cookie, pressing them together gently.
Notes
Storage Tips
Store the assembled oatmeal cream pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Freezing Instructions
For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies before assembling. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Customization Options
Feel free to add chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit to the cookie dough for additional flavors and textures.
Ingredient Quality
Using high-quality vanilla extract and fresh ingredients will enhance the overall taste of your oatmeal cream pies.
Cook techniques
Use of Room Temperature Ingredients
Using room temperature butter and eggs ensures that they combine more easily and create a smoother batter, which contributes to a better texture in the cookies.
Proper Mixing Technique
Mixing the butter and sugars until light and fluffy is essential for incorporating air into the batter. This helps create a tender and chewy cookie texture.
Chilling the Dough
Chilling the cookie dough before baking allows the flavors to meld and results in thicker cookies that spread less during baking.
Evenly Portioning the Dough
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion out the dough ensures that the cookies bake evenly, resulting in uniform size and texture.
Baking at the Right Temperature
Baking the cookies at 350°F (175°C) helps achieve a nicely golden color and prevents them from becoming too crispy.
FAQ
Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?
Quick oats can be used, but they will give a different texture. Old-fashioned oats provide a chewiness that is ideal for oatmeal cream pies.
How do I store leftover oatmeal cream pies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Can I freeze oatmeal cream pies?
Yes, you can freeze them. Wrap each pie tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
What can I use instead of vanilla extract?
If you don’t have vanilla extract, you can substitute it with an equal amount of other extracts like almond or maple, though the flavor profile will change.
How can I make the cream filling thicker?
To thicken the cream filling, add a bit more powdered sugar until the desired consistency is reached.
Conclusion
These homemade oatmeal cream pies are a delightful treat that combines the perfect balance of chewy oatmeal cookies and creamy filling. Whether enjoyed as a snack or a dessert, they are sure to bring a smile to anyone’s face. With their satisfying texture and comforting flavors, these cookies can become a staple in your baking repertoire. Don’t hesitate to share them with friends and family, or indulge in a few for yourself!
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chocolate Chip Oat Cookies
Combine the traditional oatmeal cookie flavors with rich chocolate chips for a delightful variation on the classic recipe.
Peanut Butter Cream Filling
Swap out the original cream filling for a peanut butter cream filling to add a nutty twist to your oatmeal pies.
Spiced Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies
Incorporate pumpkin puree and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg for a seasonal treat that perfectly complements the oatmeal base.
Maple Pecan Oatmeal Cream Pies
Add a touch of maple syrup and chopped pecans to the dough for a nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste of the pies.
Oatmeal Cranberry Cookies
Mix in dried cranberries for a fruity pop and a hint of tartness that balances the sweetness of the cream filling.
