Homemade Oatmeal Cream Pies

Introduction

Oatmeal cream pies are a beloved classic, combining soft, chewy oatmeal cookies with a sweet, creamy filling. This homemade recipe takes the traditional treat to the next level, offering a delightful twist that’s perfect for sharing or enjoying on your own. Whether you’re a fan of nostalgic flavors or looking for a new dessert to impress your friends and family, these homemade oatmeal cream pies are a delicious choice.

Ingredients

For the Oatmeal Cookies:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1 cup raisins or chocolate chips (optional)

For the Cream Filling:

• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Prepare the Oatmeal Cookies:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
• In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
• Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
• Stir in the rolled oats and, if desired, raisins or chocolate chips.
• Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
• Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. The centers should be soft but set.
• Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

2. Make the Cream Filling:

• In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth.
• Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition.
• Add the milk and vanilla extract, and continue to beat until the filling is smooth and fluffy.

3. Assemble the Oatmeal Cream Pies:

• Once the cookies have cooled, spread a generous amount of cream filling on the bottom side of one cookie.
• Top with another cookie, bottom side down, to create a sandwich.
• Gently press the cookies together to ensure the filling spreads evenly.
• Repeat with the remaining cookies and filling.

Tips for Success

• Butter Consistency: Make sure the butter is softened, not melted, for both the cookies and the cream filling. This ensures a perfect texture and helps the cookies maintain their shape.
• Oat Types: Use old-fashioned rolled oats for the best texture. Instant oats can be too fine and may affect the consistency of the cookies.
• Cooling Time: Let the cookies cool completely before assembling the cream pies. Warm cookies can cause the filling to melt and become messy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Homemade oatmeal cream pies offer a delightful blend of textures and flavors. The chewy oatmeal cookies are the perfect vehicle for the creamy, sweet filling, making each bite a satisfying treat. This recipe is easy to customize with add-ins like raisins or chocolate chips, allowing you to tailor the cookies to your taste.

Serving and Storage Tips for Homemade Oatmeal Cream Pies

Serving Tips:

1. Perfect Temperature: Serve oatmeal cream pies at room temperature for the best texture and flavor. If they have been refrigerated, allow them to come to room temperature before serving to soften the cookies and cream filling.
2. Presentation: Arrange the cream pies on a decorative platter or plate for a pleasing presentation. You can garnish with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted chocolate for an extra touch of elegance.
3. Pairings: These cream pies are delightful on their own, but they also pair well with a glass of milk, a cup of coffee, or a warm cup of tea. For a fun twist, serve them alongside vanilla or cinnamon ice cream.
4. Portion Control: If serving at a party or gathering, consider cutting the pies in half to create bite-sized pieces. This allows guests to enjoy a taste without overindulging.

Storage Tips:

1. Room Temperature: Store oatmeal cream pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4-5 days. Keeping them covered helps maintain their soft and chewy texture.
2. Refrigeration: For longer storage, you can refrigerate the cream pies. Place them in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out or absorbing odors from the fridge. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
3. Freezing: To freeze oatmeal cream pies, wrap each pie individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a resealable freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw them at room temperature for about 30 minutes or until soft.
4. Avoid Stale Cookies: If the cookies become a bit stale, you can revive their softness by placing a slice of bread in the container with them for a few hours. The moisture from the bread will help restore the cookies’ chewiness.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can keep your homemade oatmeal cream pies fresh and enjoyable for days to come.

1. Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned rolled oats? It’s best to use old-fashioned rolled oats for the best texture in your oatmeal cream pies. Quick oats can be too fine and might affect the consistency of the cookies, making them less chewy.
2. How can I prevent the cream filling from oozing out when I assemble the pies? To prevent the cream filling from oozing out, ensure that the cookies are completely cooled before adding the filling. Also, use a generous but not excessive amount of filling, and gently press the cookies together to avoid squeezing out the cream.
3. Can I make the cookies and filling ahead of time? Yes, you can make both the cookies and the cream filling ahead of time. Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature and keep the cream filling in the refrigerator. Assemble the cream pies just before serving for the best texture.
4. How do I store leftover oatmeal cream pies? Store leftover oatmeal cream pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4-5 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to 1 week or freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure they are well-wrapped to maintain freshness.