Introduction
Homemade Oatmeal Cream Pies are the epitome of nostalgic comfort in dessert form. These chewy, spiced oatmeal cookies sandwich a rich, creamy filling that’s just sweet enough to make every bite feel like a warm hug. The balance between the hearty oatmeal and the luscious filling creates a perfect texture contrast, making them incredibly satisfying. It’s the kind of treat that brings a comforting, homey feel with each mouthful, while still managing to feel like an indulgent treat.
These oatmeal cream pies hold a special memory for me. I first baked them with my grandmother, and they’ve been a family favorite ever since. The moment the cookies come out of the oven, they smell of cinnamon and brown sugar, filling the house with an irresistible warmth. The cream filling is simple, yet so delicious, creating a perfect sandwich that complements the spiced oats with just the right sweetness.
Homemade Oatmeal Cream Pies are ideal for any occasion, whether you’re sitting down for an afternoon snack or serving them at a gathering. They’re sturdy enough to travel, making them perfect for picnics or lunchboxes, yet they’re also comforting when enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee. If you want to bake something that will leave everyone smiling and asking for more, these oatmeal cream pies are the ultimate choice!
Perfect for:
- Family-friendly desserts
- School lunches
- Baking enthusiasts
- Nostalgic treats
- Homemade gifts
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here’s why Homemade Oatmeal Cream Pies will become your go-to sweet treat:
- Classic Comfort: These cream pies combine the iconic flavor of oatmeal cookies with a creamy filling that will take you back to childhood.
- Easy to Make: The recipe comes together quickly and requires simple ingredients you likely already have at home.
- Chewy and Sweet: The oatmeal cookies are perfectly soft and chewy, while the cream filling adds just the right amount of sweetness.
- Customizable: You can adjust the amount of spices or filling to your taste, or add chocolate chips, raisins, or nuts for extra flavor.
- Great for Sharing: These pies are perfect for gatherings or as a treat to share with friends and family.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 12 pies
- Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
- Key Nutrients: Protein: 3g, Carbs: 40g, Fat: 12g
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to make your Homemade Oatmeal Cream Pies:
For the Cookies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
For the Cream Filling:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1-2 tablespoons heavy cream (to reach desired consistency)
Ingredient Highlights
- Oats: Provide texture and flavor, making the cookies hearty and chewy.
- Brown Sugar: Adds a rich, molasses-like sweetness to the cookies.
- Butter: Ensures the cookies are soft and chewy.
- Cinnamon: Offers a warm, spiced flavor that pairs perfectly with the oats.
- Cream Filling: A simple yet sweet vanilla filling that brings the cookies together.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Make the Oatmeal Cookies:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until combined.
- Stir in the Oats: Fold in the rolled oats until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Scoop and Bake the Cookies: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing the cookies about 2 inches apart. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
- Cool the Cookies: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make the Cream Filling:
- Prepare the Filling: While the cookies are cooling, beat together the butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and heavy cream in a medium mixing bowl until smooth and creamy. Adjust the consistency by adding more cream, if needed.
- Assemble the Pies: Once the cookies have cooled, spread a generous amount of the cream filling on the flat side of one cookie. Top with a second cookie to create a sandwich. Press gently to spread the filling evenly.
How to Serve
Homemade Oatmeal Cream Pies are best served fresh but can be enjoyed in a variety of ways:
- On Their Own: Serve as a delicious standalone snack or dessert.
- With Milk: Pair with a cold glass of milk for the ultimate indulgence.
- At Parties: These pies make a great addition to dessert tables for gatherings and celebrations.
- Giftable: Package them in a cute box or tin as a thoughtful homemade gift.
- With Ice Cream: Make them extra special by adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream between the cookies for an oatmeal cream pie sundae.
Additional Tips
- Use Room Temperature Butter: For the best texture, make sure your butter is softened to room temperature before mixing.
- Customize the Spices: Feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for extra warmth.
- Don’t Overbake the Cookies: For chewy cookies, remove them from the oven when the edges are just golden. They’ll firm up as they cool.
- Make Mini Pies: If you prefer smaller treats, scoop smaller portions of dough and bake for about 6-8 minutes.
- Store Properly: Keep the pies in an airtight container for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage.
Recipe Variations
- Add Chocolate Chips: Stir in 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips for a chocolatey twist.
- Raisin Oatmeal Cream Pies: Add 1/2 cup of raisins for a traditional flavor.
- Nuts for Texture: Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the cookie dough for added crunch.
- Peanut Butter Cream Filling: Swap out the cream filling for a peanut butter filling for a savory contrast.
- Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle caramel sauce over the assembled pies for an indulgent touch.
- Coconut Oatmeal Cream Pies: Add shredded coconut to the cookie dough for extra flavor and texture.
Freezing and Storage
- Freezing: To freeze the oatmeal cream pies, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag and store for up to 2 months.
- Storage: Store assembled oatmeal cream pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Special Equipment
- Cookie Scoop: For evenly sized cookies and consistent results.
- Mixing Bowls: Essential for both the cookie dough and cream filling.
- Electric Mixer: Helps make the cream filling smooth and fluffy.
- Parchment Paper: Ensures the cookies don’t stick to the baking sheet.
- Cooling Rack: Allows the cookies to cool evenly and prevents them from becoming soggy.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For precise measurements of the ingredients.
- Cookie Sheets: A good-quality, non-stick baking sheet for even baking.
FAQ Section
- Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?
While you can use quick oats, the texture of the cookies will be different. Old-fashioned oats provide a chewier, heartier texture. - Can I make the cream filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cream filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Let it soften at room temperature before using. - Can I freeze the dough before baking?
Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough before baking. Scoop dough onto a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a minute or two to the baking time. - How do I make these gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour for a gluten-free version of the cookies. - Can I use margarine instead of butter?
While margarine can be used, butter will give the cookies a richer flavor and texture. - Can I use a different filling?
Absolutely! You can experiment with different fillings like cream cheese frosting, marshmallow fluff, or even a chocolate ganache. - How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover oatmeal cream pies in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to a week. - Can I make these without the filling?
Yes, you can bake the oatmeal cookies on their own for a simple oatmeal cookie snack. - Can I make these without eggs?
Yes, substitute the eggs with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) or a store-bought egg replacer. - Can I add other flavors to the cream filling?
Yes, you can flavor the filling with cinnamon, cocoa powder, or a splash of almond extract for a fun twist.
Conclusion
Homemade Oatmeal Cream Pies are the perfect nostalgic treat that combines the warmth and heartiness of oats with the sweetness of a creamy filling, creating a dessert that is both comforting and indulgent. The chewy texture of the oatmeal cookies, paired with the smooth and velvety cream center, results in a delightful contrast that will have you reaching for more with each bite.
What truly makes this recipe stand out is its simplicity and versatility. Whether you’re looking for a mid-afternoon snack or a homemade gift to share with friends and family, these oatmeal cream pies are always a crowd-pleaser. You can even customize the filling with different flavorings, such as vanilla, cinnamon, or even a dash of cocoa for a unique twist on this classic favorite.
Perfect for any occasion, Homemade Oatmeal Cream Pies are sure to become a staple in your dessert rotation. I can’t wait for you to experience the sweet, comforting flavors of this homemade delight! Be sure to share your creations and tag me on social media—I love seeing your personalized versions of this beloved treat. Enjoy every sweet, chewy bite!