Spiced Eggnog Oatmeal Cream Pies

As the holiday season approaches, the air fills with the enticing aroma of spices, and our cravings shift toward festive flavors. One beloved treat that truly embodies the comfort of winter is the Spiced Eggnog Oatmeal Cream Pie. This delicious dessert combines the rich, creamy flavor of eggnog with the warm spices of cinnamon and nutmeg, all nestled between soft oatmeal cookies. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, baking for friends, or simply treating yourself, these cookies are sure to bring smiles and warmth to everyone who indulges in them.

The Spiced Eggnog Oatmeal Cream Pies not only offer a unique taste but also provide a nostalgic feeling, reminiscent of classic holiday desserts. The chewy oatmeal cookies are tender and infused with spices, while the buttery cream filling brings an added layer of sweetness. This cookie pie creation is a fantastic way to celebrate the season, making it a must-try recipe for anyone looking to spice up their holiday baking.

Let’s dive deeper into the essential elements that make this dessert a holiday favorite.

Ingredients for Spiced Eggnog Oatmeal Cream Pies

To create these delightful Spiced Eggnog Oatmeal Cream Pies, you’ll need a variety of ingredients that work together to bring out the flavors of the season.

List of Ingredients with Measurements

• 1 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 2/3 cup old-fashioned whole rolled oats
• 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 1 cup packed light or dark brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons eggnog, at room temperature
• 1 large egg, at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

For the filling:

• 10 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 2 cups confectioners sugar
• 3 tablespoons eggnog, at room temperature
• 1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• A pinch each of salt, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg

Optional Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re looking to customize your cookies or if you have dietary restrictions, here are some substitutions you could consider:

• Flour: If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Butter: You can use coconut oil or vegan butter to make it dairy-free.
• Brown Sugar: If you prefer a less sweet option, try using coconut sugar or a sugar substitute.
• Eggnog: You can make a homemade eggnog alternative using non-dairy milk with nutmeg and vanilla.

How to Make Spiced Eggnog Oatmeal Cream Pies

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s go through the steps to make these delicious Spiced Eggnog Oatmeal Cream Pies!

Step 1: Whisk the Dry Ingredients

Start by preparing the dry ingredients. In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, rolled oats, baking soda, and salt. Make sure everything is well combined before setting it aside. This step ensures that the spices and leavening agents are evenly distributed in your cookie dough, contributing to the overall flavor and texture of your cookies.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, use a hand mixer or a stand mixer to beat the softened unsalted butter and packed brown sugar together on medium-high speed until the mixture becomes creamy and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Next, add the room temperature egg, eggnog, and pure vanilla extract. Beat on high speed until everything is well mixed. Remember to scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl to ensure there are no lumps of butter or sugar stuck.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Once your butter-sugar mixture is fluffy, it’s time to incorporate the dry ingredients. Slowly add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients and mix on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies. The dough will appear very sticky, which is perfectly normal.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

To get the right texture for your cookies, you need to chill the dough. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. Chilling the dough helps the flavors to meld and ensures that the cookies hold their shape while baking.

Step 5: Preheat and Prepare for Baking

Once your dough has chilled, preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). While the oven is heating, line large baking sheets with parchment paper. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and make cleanup easy.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies

After preheating the oven, take the chilled dough out of the refrigerator. Roll the dough into balls, about 1 heaping tablespoon each, and place them on the lined baking sheets, making sure to leave about 3 inches between each cookie. Bake the cookies for 11-12 minutes or until they are very lightly browned around the edges.

Step 7: Cool the Cookies

Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes. This step is crucial as it helps the cookies firm up. After cooling slightly, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 8: Make the Buttercream Filling

While the cookies are cooling, prepare the buttercream filling. In a clean mixing bowl, beat the softened butter on high speed until creamy. Gradually add in the confectioners’ sugar and mix on medium speed until partially combined. Then pour in the eggnog and vanilla extract along with a pinch each of salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Beat everything on high for 2-3 minutes until you achieve a fluffy and creamy filling.

Step 9: Assemble the Cookie Pies

To assemble your Spiced Eggnog Oatmeal Cream Pies, take half of the cooled cookies and pipe or spread a generous amount of the cream filling on the bottom side of each. Place the remaining cookies on top to create a sandwich.

Now that you’ve successfully made your Spiced Eggnog Oatmeal Cream Pies, it’s time to share them with family and friends!

How to Serve Spiced Eggnog Oatmeal Cream Pies

When it comes to enjoying your Spiced Eggnog Oatmeal Cream Pies, there are various delightful ways to serve them.

Best Ways to Serve Spiced Eggnog Oatmeal Cream Pies

These cookie pies are a treat on their own, but they can be even more enjoyable when served with a few extras. Consider dusting the finished pies with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant touch. Alternatively, you can place them on a decorative platter alongside a warm cup of eggnog or a comforting hot chocolate.

Serving Suggestions or Pairings

For a festive flair, serve your Spiced Eggnog Oatmeal Cream Pies with a side of whipped cream or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They also pair beautifully with coffee or spiced tea, enhancing the cozy feeling that comes with these seasonal treats.

How to Store Spiced Eggnog Oatmeal Cream Pies

After your delightful baking session, you might have some leftover Spiced Eggnog Oatmeal Cream Pies. Here’s how to store them properly.

Proper Storage Methods

To keep your cookie pies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them, which can extend their shelf life for up to a week.

Tips for Reheating or Freezing

If you want to enjoy them warm, you can reheat your Spiced Eggnog Oatmeal Cream Pies in the microwave for a few seconds. Alternatively, if you freeze them, wrap each pie individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, just let them sit at room temperature or warm them gently in the microwave.

Tips to Make Spiced Eggnog Oatmeal Cream Pies

Making Spiced Eggnog Oatmeal Cream Pies is relatively straightforward, but a few tips can help you avoid common pitfalls and achieve the best results.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One common mistake is not chilling the dough long enough. Skipping this step can lead to cookies that spread too much, resulting in flat pies instead of the perfect texture. Additionally, be cautious about overmixing once you add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, as this can yield tough cookies.

Helpful Tips for Better Results

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the cookie dough. You can also play around with the spices; adding a bit of ginger or allspice can create a delightful twist. If the dough appears too sticky at any point, dust your hands and work surface lightly with flour while shaping the cookies.

Variations of Spiced Eggnog Oatmeal Cream Pies

Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, you can explore various fun variations to keep things exciting.

Suggested Variations or Twists on the Recipe

• Jumbo Edition: Make larger cookies for a more significant treat! Simply adjust the baking time accordingly.
• Chocolate Drizzle: After assembling the pies, drizzle melted chocolate over the tops for an elegant finish.
• Nutty Surprise: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the dough for a delicious crunch and additional flavor.

Adjustments for Dietary Preferences

For those who may be vegan or have allergies, feel free to make ingredient swaps. Use plant-based butter and replace the egg with flaxseed meal or an egg substitute. You can also opt for nut-free spreads and ensure your toppings or fillings comply with dietary needs.

FAQs

As you embark on your journey of making Spiced Eggnog Oatmeal Cream Pies, you might have a few questions. Here are some common FAQs to guide you along the way.

What Can I Do If the Dish Isn’t Turning Out Right?

If you notice that the dough is too sticky and not forming well into shapes, try adding a bit more flour, but be careful not to overdo it. If the cookies spread too much in the oven, remember that chilling them longer can often help.

Can I Make This Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! The dough can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for a couple of days. You can also bake the cookies ahead of time and assemble them right before serving to keep them fresh.

What Can I Substitute for Ingredients?

If you don’t have eggnog on hand, you can make a simple substitute by mixing milk with a bit of vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Other ingredient substitutions, like using alternative flours, sweeteners, or butter, are also suitable depending on your dietary needs.

With this comprehensive guide, you are now ready to create delicious Spiced Eggnog Oatmeal Cream Pies that will brighten up your holiday festivities. Happy baking!

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