Oatmeal Cream Pies are a nostalgic treat that brings back childhood memories for many. These soft, chewy oatmeal cookies, filled with a sweet marshmallow cream, are simply irresistible. While store-bought versions are convenient, nothing beats the taste of homemade, especially when you’re aiming for that perfect, comforting, Pioneer Woman style dessert. This recipe takes the classic Oatmeal Cream Pie to the next level, creating a truly delightful homemade version that’s even better than you remember.
A stack of filled oatmeal cookies on a wooden plate
These aren’t just any oatmeal cream pies; they are crafted with care, using simple ingredients to create a depth of flavor that pre-packaged cookies can only dream of. Imagine biting into a cookie with the warm spice of cinnamon, a hint of molasses, and a subtle touch of coconut, all surrounding a luscious, creamy marshmallow filling. This recipe captures that homemade goodness that is reminiscent of Pioneer Woman’s comforting and approachable cooking style.
Did you know that Oatmeal Cream Pies have a history that stretches back decades? They were actually the first snack cake introduced by McKee Foods way back in 1960. For those who grew up near the McKee Foods headquarters, the aroma of baking treats was a familiar and comforting part of life. The joy of getting to choose a box of Little Debbie snacks was a special treat. While those store-bought pies hold a nostalgic place, this homemade recipe elevates the experience, offering a richer flavor and a softer, chewier texture.
Oatmeal Cream Pies stacked on a wood plate with a bite out of the top cookie
To create these amazing Pioneer Woman style Oatmeal Cream Pies, you’ll need a few key ingredients for both the cookies and the creamy filling. The cookie component focuses on bringing out those warm, comforting flavors, while the filling provides the perfect sweet and gooey contrast.
Ingredients for Oatmeal Cream Pies
For the Oatmeal Cookies:
- Old-fashioned rolled oats: The heart of our cookies, providing texture and nutty flavor.
- All-purpose flour: Provides structure to the cookies.
- Baking powder & Baking soda: Leavening agents for soft and chewy cookies.
- Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
- Cinnamon & Nutmeg: Warm spices that define the oatmeal cookie flavor profile.
- Butter: For richness and tenderness in the cookies.
- Dark brown sugar & Granulated sugar: A combination for moisture, sweetness, and depth of flavor.
- Eggs: Bind the ingredients and add richness.
- Molasses: Adds a distinctive warm, slightly smoky flavor.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall sweetness.
- Coconut extract: Our secret ingredient for a unique and delightful twist!
For the Marshmallow Cream Filling:
- Butter: The base for a rich and creamy filling.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the filling.
- Vanilla extract: Complements the marshmallow flavor.
- Salt: Balances the sweetness.
- Marshmallow fluff: The key ingredient for that signature gooey marshmallow cream filling.
Baking Your Pioneer Woman Oatmeal Cream Pies: Step-by-Step
Creating these homemade Oatmeal Cream Pies is easier than you might think. Follow these simple steps to bake up a batch of deliciousness.
Making the Oatmeal Cookie Dough:
- Prepare the Oats: In a food processor, pulse the rolled oats a few times. You want to break them down slightly but still maintain some texture. Combine these pulsed oats in a large bowl with the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Whisk to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a stand mixer, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step is crucial for creating soft cookies.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing until each yolk is just incorporated. Then, add the molasses, vanilla extract, and coconut extract. Mix on low speed until everything is well combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, which can lead to tougher cookies.
- Scoop and Bake: Using a cookie scoop, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto parchment-lined baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown and the centers are set. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Preparing the Marshmallow Cream Filling:
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a medium bowl, beat together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add Flavorings: Stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
- Fold in Marshmallow Fluff: Gently fold in the marshmallow fluff until the filling is smooth and creamy.
Assembling the Oatmeal Cream Pies:
- Pair Cookies: Once the cookies are completely cool, pair them up by size.
- Fill and Sandwich: Spread a generous amount of marshmallow cream filling on the flat side of one cookie and top with another cookie, pressing gently to create a sandwich. The filling should spread slightly to the edges.
A stack of homemade Oatmeal Cream Pie Cookies
Tips for Freezing and Storing Your Oatmeal Cream Pies
Want to make these ahead of time or save some for later? Here’s how to properly freeze and store your homemade Oatmeal Cream Pies.
Freezing Options:
- Freeze Dough Balls: Scoop the cookie dough into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. You can bake them directly from frozen, just add a minute or two to the baking time.
- Freeze Baked Cookies (Unfilled): Bake the cookies, let them cool completely, and then freeze them in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Freeze Filled Cookies: While it’s best to freeze the cookies and filling separately, you can freeze assembled Oatmeal Cream Pies. They freeze well, but the texture might be slightly better if frozen unfilled.
Storage:
These Oatmeal Cream Pies are best stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator due to the butter-based filling. They will keep for up to 5 days. Refrigeration also helps maintain the filling’s consistency, especially in warmer temperatures.
Imagine the smiles on faces when you present these homemade Pioneer Woman style Oatmeal Cream Pies! They are perfect for an after-school treat, a lunchbox surprise, or simply a comforting dessert any time of day. The warm spices and creamy filling are a delightful combination that’s sure to please everyone. Enjoy the process of baking and the even greater joy of sharing these delicious homemade cookies!
Let’s get baking and bring some homemade happiness to your kitchen!
Enjoy!
