Homemade Oatmeal Cream Pies

Homemade oatmeal cream pies are a delightful treat that combines soft, chewy cookies with a luscious cream filling. These nostalgic snacks are perfect for lunchboxes or as a sweet afternoon indulgence.

Ingredients

For the Oatmeal 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 baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
3 cups old-fashioned oats
1/2 cup raisins (optional)

For the Cream Filling:
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla extract.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add to the butter mixture, mixing until combined. Stir in the oats and raisins if using.
4. Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Flatten each dough ball slightly with the back of a spoon.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. For the cream filling, beat the softened butter in a bowl until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until combined. Add the heavy cream and vanilla extract, and beat until light and fluffy.
7. Once the cookies are completely cooled, spread a generous amount of cream filling on the flat side of one cookie and top with another cookie to make a sandwich.
8. Store the cream pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate for longer storage.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields approximately 12 cream pies. The prep time is about 20 minutes, with a cooking time of 10-12 minutes per batch, totaling around 45 minutes.

Variations

• Add-ins: Mix in chocolate chips or chopped nuts into the cookie dough for extra flavor.
• Filling Options: Experiment with flavored extracts or a different type of cream filling, like peanut butter or marshmallow fluff.
• Dried Fruits: Substitute raisins with dried cranberries or chopped dates for a different twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep the cream pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, refrigerate.
• Reheating: Enjoy at room temperature; no reheating is necessary.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
   Yes, but it may affect the texture and flavor slightly.
2. How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?
   Chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking.
3. Can I make the cookies without eggs?
   Yes, use a flax egg or applesauce as a substitute.
4. What can I substitute for heavy cream in the filling?
   You can use milk or half-and-half, but the filling may be less fluffy.
5. Are these cookies suitable for freezing?
   Yes, freeze the cookies before assembling and thaw them before adding the cream filling.
6. How do I get the cream filling fluffy?
   Beat the filling for a few minutes until light and airy.
7. Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?
   Yes, but the texture will be slightly different.
8. What if I don’t have brown sugar?
   You can substitute with granulated sugar; the flavor will be less caramel-like.
9. How can I enhance the flavor of the cookies?
   Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough.
10. What’s the best way to store leftover cream pies?
    Store in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge for longer freshness.

Conclusion

Homemade oatmeal cream pies are not only delicious but also a fun treat to make. With their soft, chewy texture and creamy filling, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy these delightful treats fresh or share them with friends and family!

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