Copycat Oatmeal Creme Pies: A Homemade Delight!
Are you a fan of those soft, chewy, and oh-so-delicious Oatmeal Creme Pies you find at the store? Well, get ready to ditch the store-bought version and embrace the joy of baking your own! This copycat recipe captures the essence of the original, delivering a homemade treat that’s even better. We’re talking perfectly spiced oatmeal cookies sandwiching a creamy, dreamy filling. This recipe will guide you through every step, ensuring you create Oatmeal Creme Pies that are a guaranteed hit. Get ready to impress your friends and family with these delightful homemade goodies!
## Why Make Copycat Oatmeal Creme Pies?
* **Superior Taste:** Homemade always tastes better! You control the ingredients, ensuring fresh flavors and no artificial additives.
* **Customization:** Adjust the spices, sweetness, and even the filling to suit your personal preferences.
* **Fun Baking Project:** Baking is a therapeutic and rewarding activity. Gather your family and make it a fun experience!
* **Impress Your Loved Ones:** Show your baking skills and create a delightful treat that everyone will adore.
* **Cost-Effective:** Making these at home can be more affordable than buying pre-packaged versions, especially if you already have common baking ingredients on hand.
## Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s break down the ingredients needed for both the oatmeal cookies and the creamy filling. Having everything measured and ready to go before you start baking makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.
### For the Oatmeal Cookies:
* **1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened:** The butter should be soft enough to cream easily with the sugars. Take it out of the refrigerator an hour or two before baking.
* **1 cup packed light brown sugar:** Brown sugar adds a molasses-like flavor and contributes to the cookie’s chewy texture. Make sure it’s packed when measuring.
* **1/2 cup granulated sugar:** Granulated sugar provides sweetness and helps with the cookie’s structure.
* **2 large eggs:** Eggs bind the ingredients together and add moisture and richness to the cookies. Use large eggs at room temperature for better emulsification.
* **1 teaspoon vanilla extract:** Vanilla extract enhances the other flavors in the cookies.
* **1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour:** All-purpose flour provides the structure for the cookies. Measure accurately by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off.
* **1 teaspoon baking soda:** Baking soda helps the cookies rise and become soft.
* **1 teaspoon ground cinnamon:** Cinnamon adds warmth and spice to the cookies.
* **1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg:** Nutmeg complements the cinnamon and adds a subtle warmth.
* **1/4 teaspoon salt:** Salt enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
* **3 cups rolled oats (not instant):** Rolled oats give the cookies their signature texture and flavor. Make sure to use rolled oats, not instant oats, for the best results.
### For the Cream Filling:
* **1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened:** Similar to the cookie dough, the butter should be soft for easy creaming.
* **3 1/2 cups powdered sugar:** Powdered sugar provides sweetness and structure to the filling. Sift it before using to remove any lumps.
* **2 tablespoons milk:** Milk adds moisture and helps to create a smooth and creamy filling. You can use whole milk, 2% milk, or even non-dairy milk.
* **2 teaspoons vanilla extract:** Vanilla extract enhances the flavor of the filling.
* **1/4 teaspoon salt:** A pinch of salt balances the sweetness.
## Equipment You’ll Need
Having the right equipment on hand makes baking easier and more efficient. Here’s a list of essential tools for this recipe:
* **Mixing Bowls:** You’ll need at least two mixing bowls: one for the wet ingredients and one for the dry ingredients.
* **Electric Mixer:** An electric mixer (stand mixer or hand mixer) is essential for creaming the butter and sugars and for making the filling. If you don’t have one, you can cream the butter and sugars by hand, but it will require more effort.
* **Measuring Cups and Spoons:** Accurate measurements are crucial for baking success.
* **Baking Sheets:** You’ll need at least two baking sheets to bake the cookies.
* **Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mats:** Lining the baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats prevents the cookies from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
* **Cookie Scoop (Optional):** A cookie scoop helps to create uniform cookies that bake evenly. A 1.5 inch scoop is ideal.
* **Wire Rack:** A wire rack is essential for cooling the cookies after baking.
* **Offset Spatula or Butter Knife:** Use an offset spatula or butter knife to spread the filling evenly on the cookies.
## Step-by-Step Instructions
Now, let’s get to the fun part: baking! Follow these detailed instructions to create perfect Copycat Oatmeal Creme Pies.
### Making the Oatmeal Cookies:
1. **Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).** Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
2. **Cream together the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar** in a large mixing bowl until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer.
3. **Beat in the eggs one at a time,** then stir in the vanilla extract.
4. **In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.** This ensures that the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
5. **Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients,** mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough cookies.
6. **Stir in the rolled oats** until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
7. **Drop by rounded tablespoons (or use a cookie scoop) onto the prepared baking sheets,** leaving about 2 inches between each cookie. Remember a 1.5 inch scoop is ideal.
8. **Bake for 9-11 minutes,** or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set. The cookies will continue to set as they cool.
9. **Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes** before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents them from breaking.
### Making the Cream Filling:
1. **In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter** until light and fluffy.
2. **Gradually add the powdered sugar,** beating on low speed until combined. Sift the powdered sugar beforehand to avoid lumps.
3. **Add the milk, vanilla extract, and salt,** and beat until smooth and creamy.
### Assembling the Oatmeal Creme Pies:
1. **Once the cookies are completely cool,** pair them up based on size and shape.
2. **Spread a generous amount of cream filling** on the flat side of one cookie.
3. **Top with another cookie, flat side down,** and gently press to sandwich the filling.
4. **Repeat with the remaining cookies and filling.**
5. **Optional: Wrap each Oatmeal Creme Pie individually in plastic wrap** for easier storage and portability.
## Tips for Perfect Oatmeal Creme Pies
* **Use room temperature ingredients:** Room temperature butter and eggs emulsify better, resulting in a smoother dough and filling.
* **Don’t overmix the dough:** Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough cookies. Mix until just combined.
* **Measure accurately:** Baking is a science, so accurate measurements are crucial for success. Use measuring cups and spoons designed for baking.
* **Cool the cookies completely:** The cookies must be completely cool before assembling the Oatmeal Creme Pies. Otherwise, the filling will melt.
* **Chill the assembled pies:** Chilling the assembled pies for at least 30 minutes allows the filling to set and the flavors to meld together.
* **Adjust the sweetness:** If you prefer a less sweet filling, reduce the amount of powdered sugar. If you like a sweeter filling, add more.
* **Add a pinch of salt to the filling:** Salt enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
* **Use good quality vanilla extract:** Vanilla extract adds a subtle but important flavor to both the cookies and the filling.
* **Experiment with flavors:** Try adding different spices to the cookies, such as ginger, cardamom, or cloves. You can also add chocolate chips, raisins, or nuts.
* **Store properly:** Store the Oatmeal Creme Pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
## Variations and Add-Ins
Want to put your own spin on these Copycat Oatmeal Creme Pies? Here are a few ideas:
* **Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Creme Pies:** Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the oatmeal cookie dough.
* **Raisin Oatmeal Creme Pies:** Add 1/2 cup of raisins to the oatmeal cookie dough.
* **Nutty Oatmeal Creme Pies:** Add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts (such as walnuts, pecans, or almonds) to the oatmeal cookie dough.
* **Peanut Butter Filling:** Substitute 1/2 cup of peanut butter for 1/2 cup of the butter in the cream filling.
* **Maple Cream Filling:** Add 1 tablespoon of maple syrup to the cream filling.
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of ginger, cardamom, or cloves to the cookie dough.
* **Espresso Powder:** Add 1 teaspoon of espresso powder to the cookie dough for a deeper, richer flavor.
## Serving Suggestions
These Copycat Oatmeal Creme Pies are perfect for:
* **Snacks:** Enjoy them as a satisfying afternoon snack.
* **Desserts:** Serve them as a delightful dessert after a meal.
* **Parties:** Bring them to parties or gatherings for a crowd-pleasing treat.
* **Lunchboxes:** Pack them in lunchboxes for a special treat.
* **Gifts:** Wrap them up and give them as a thoughtful homemade gift.
Pair them with a glass of cold milk, a cup of coffee, or a scoop of ice cream for an extra-special treat.
## Storage Instructions
To keep your Oatmeal Creme Pies fresh and delicious, store them properly:
* **Room Temperature:** Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
* **Refrigerator:** Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They may become slightly firmer in the refrigerator.
* **Freezer:** For longer storage, wrap each Oatmeal Creme Pie individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.
## Nutritional Information (Approximate)
*Note: Nutritional information is approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.*
* **Serving Size:** 1 Oatmeal Creme Pie
* **Calories:** 350-450
* **Fat:** 20-25g
* **Saturated Fat:** 12-15g
* **Cholesterol:** 50-70mg
* **Sodium:** 150-200mg
* **Carbohydrates:** 40-50g
* **Sugar:** 25-35g
* **Protein:** 3-5g
## Troubleshooting
* **Cookies are too flat:** This could be due to using melted butter or overmixing the dough. Make sure to use softened butter and mix until just combined.
* **Cookies are too dry:** This could be due to overbaking or using too much flour. Bake the cookies until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set, and measure the flour accurately.
* **Cookies are too tough:** This could be due to overmixing the dough. Mix until just combined.
* **Filling is too runny:** This could be due to using too much milk or not enough powdered sugar. Gradually add the powdered sugar until the filling reaches the desired consistency.
* **Filling is too stiff:** This could be due to using too much powdered sugar or not enough milk. Add a little more milk until the filling reaches the desired consistency.
## Final Thoughts
Making these Copycat Oatmeal Creme Pies is a rewarding experience that will fill your home with the aroma of warm spices and sweet vanilla. With these detailed instructions and helpful tips, you’ll be able to create homemade treats that are even better than the store-bought version. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake a batch of these irresistible Oatmeal Creme Pies! Your family and friends will thank you.
Enjoy the process, experiment with flavors, and most importantly, have fun baking! These Copycat Oatmeal Creme Pies are a perfect treat for any occasion, and they’re sure to become a family favorite.
## Recipe Card
**Yields:** Approximately 12-15 Oatmeal Creme Pies
**Prep time:** 30 minutes
**Cook time:** 9-11 minutes
**Ingredients:**
* **Oatmeal Cookies:**
* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
* 1 cup packed light brown sugar
* 1/2 cup granulated sugar
* 2 large eggs
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon baking soda
* 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 3 cups rolled oats (not instant)
* **Cream Filling:**
* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
* 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
* 2 tablespoons milk
* 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Cream together butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Stir in rolled oats.
7. Drop by rounded tablespoons onto prepared baking sheets, leaving space between cookies.
8. Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until edges are golden brown.
9. Let cookies cool on baking sheets for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. For the cream filling, cream together softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
11. Add milk, vanilla extract, and salt; beat until smooth and creamy.
12. Once cookies are completely cool, pair them up.
13. Spread a generous amount of cream filling on the flat side of one cookie.
14. Top with another cookie, flat side down, and gently press to sandwich the filling.
15. Repeat with remaining cookies and filling.
Enjoy your homemade Copycat Oatmeal Creme Pies!