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Homemade oatmeal cream pies are a nostalgic and indulgent treat that combines the hearty goodness of oatmeal cookies with the sweet, creamy filling sandwiched in between. This recipe allows you to recreate the classic snack at home, ensuring fresh ingredients, no preservatives, and a flavor that beats anything store-bought.
This article will guide you through the process of making your own oatmeal cream pies from scratch. We’ll cover everything, including prep time, cooking time, tips, benefits, and even answer common FAQs. Get ready for a comprehensive dive into this delightful recipe!
Ingredients for Homemade Oatmeal Cream Pies
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
Wet Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup butter (softened)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Filling Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup marshmallow fluff
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Other Essentials
| Prep Time | Cooking Time | Total Time | Servings | Calories per Serving |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20 minutes | 10-12 minutes | 35 minutes | 8 pies | 260 kcal |
Directions for Homemade Oatmeal Cream Pies
1. Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. This prevents the cookies from sticking and ensures easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the rolled oats, all-purpose flour, cinnamon, and baking soda. Whisk these ingredients until evenly combined.
Pro Tip: Sift the flour before measuring to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth dough.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream the softened butter and brown sugar together. Mix until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving the right texture in your cookies.
Why it matters: Creaming the butter and sugar incorporates air, which helps the cookies spread evenly and gives them a soft, chewy texture.
4. Add Egg and Vanilla Extract
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract to the creamed butter mixture. Ensure that the mixture is smooth and well-combined.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Mix until all the flour is incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies tough.
6. Shape the Cookies
Use a spoon or small cookie scoop to drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Space them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading during baking.
Tip: For uniform-sized cookies, weigh each scoop of dough.
7. Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until they are golden brown around the edges. Remove them from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Prepare the Cream Filling
In a small bowl, whisk together the marshmallow fluff and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. The filling should be thick but spreadable.
Tip: If the filling is too thick, add a teaspoon of milk to loosen it slightly.
9. Assemble the Oatmeal Cream Pies
Take one cookie and spread a generous layer of the filling on its flat side. Top it with another cookie to create a sandwich. Repeat with the remaining cookies and filling.
Tips for the Perfect Homemade Oatmeal Cream Pies
- Use Old-Fashioned Oats: Rolled oats provide the best texture. Avoid quick oats, as they can make the cookies too dense.
- Chill the Dough: If your dough is too soft, refrigerate it for 15 minutes before shaping the cookies.
- Don’t Overbake: The cookies will continue to cook as they cool on the baking sheet. Remove them when the edges are set, but the centers are still soft.
- Experiment with Filling Flavors: Add a drop of almond or coconut extract to the filling for a unique twist.
Benefits of Homemade Oatmeal Cream Pies
- Healthier Ingredients: Homemade recipes allow you to control the quality of ingredients and reduce additives.
- Customizable: You can tweak the recipe to suit your preferences, such as adding raisins or chopped nuts to the dough.
- Cost-Effective: Making your own pies is often cheaper than buying pre-packaged snacks.
- Fun Activity: Baking is a great activity to enjoy with family or friends.
FAQs About Homemade Oatmeal Cream Pies
1. Can I Store Oatmeal Cream Pies?
Yes! Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week.
2. Can I Freeze the Cookies?
Absolutely. Wrap each assembled pie in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months.
3. What Can I Use Instead of Marshmallow Fluff?
You can substitute marshmallow fluff with a cream cheese-based filling for a tangy twist.
4. Can I Make Them Gluten-Free?
Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and ensure your oats are certified gluten-free.
Conclusion
Homemade oatmeal cream pies are the perfect blend of nostalgia and indulgence. They’re easy to make, packed with flavor, and completely customizable to your taste. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply treating yourself, these oatmeal cream pies are sure to delight.
Now that you have the complete guide, it’s time to preheat your oven and get baking. Enjoy the process and the delicious reward at the end!
