If you love soft, chewy cookies with a rich, creamy filling, this homemade oatmeal cream pies recipe is the perfect treat for you. These classic sandwich cookies feature tender oatmeal cookies paired with a fluffy vanilla cream filling — delivering nostalgic flavors with better texture and freshness than store-bought versions.
Why You’ll Love This Homemade Oatmeal Cream Pies Recipe
Making oatmeal cream pies at home has many advantages over packaged snacks. Here’s why this recipe is worth trying:
- Soft and chewy texture made with fresh ingredients
- No preservatives or artificial flavors
- Simple pantry ingredients
- Customizable filling and sweetness level
- Perfect for lunchboxes, parties, or everyday treats
- Easy to prepare for beginners
The combination of warm cinnamon, brown sugar, and creamy filling creates a comforting dessert that both kids and adults enjoy.
Ingredients for Homemade Oatmeal Cream Pies
For the Oatmeal Cookies
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon molasses
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 3 cups quick oats
For the Cream Filling
- ¾ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 jar marshmallow fluff (about 7 oz)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1–2 tablespoons milk or heavy cream (if needed)
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
Preparing homemade oatmeal cream pies is simple when you have the right tools:
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or hand whisk
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Cookie scoop or spoon
- Cooling rack
- Spatula
These basic tools help ensure consistent cookie size and smooth cream filling.
How to Make Homemade Oatmeal Cream Pies
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheets
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough
In a large bowl, cream together softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2–3 minutes using an electric mixer.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in molasses and vanilla extract until fully combined.
In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients. Fold in the oats until evenly incorporated.
Step 3: Shape and Bake the Cookies
Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto prepared baking sheets. Leave space between cookies because they spread during baking.
Bake for 10–12 minutes until the edges are lightly golden and centers remain soft. Avoid overbaking to maintain chewiness.
Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 4: Prepare the Cream Filling
In a mixing bowl, beat softened butter until smooth and creamy. Add powdered sugar gradually and mix until fluffy.
Beat in marshmallow fluff and vanilla extract until light and airy. If needed, add milk or cream for a smoother consistency.
Step 5: Assemble the Oatmeal Cream Pies
Match cookies into pairs of similar size. Spread or pipe a generous layer of cream filling onto the flat side of one cookie, then top with another cookie to form a sandwich.
Press gently so the filling spreads evenly.
Tips for Perfect Oatmeal Cream Pies
Follow these expert tips for the best homemade results:
Use Softened Butter
Soft butter creams more easily with sugar, creating a smoother cookie texture.
Don’t Overbake
Cookies should look slightly underbaked in the center when removed from the oven. They will continue to set as they cool.
Measure Flour Properly
Too much flour can make cookies dry. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurement.
Chill the Dough (Optional)
If your dough feels sticky, chill it for 20–30 minutes before baking to prevent spreading.
Let Cookies Cool Completely
Warm cookies will melt the filling, so always assemble after they have fully cooled.
Flavor Variations You Can Try
This homemade oatmeal cream pies recipe is easy to customize with different flavors.
Chocolate Oatmeal Cream Pies
Add mini chocolate chips to the cookie dough or mix cocoa powder into the filling.
Maple Cream Filling
Replace vanilla extract with maple extract for a warm, fall-inspired flavor.
Peanut Butter Filling
Add ¼ cup peanut butter to the cream filling for a rich twist.
Raisin Oatmeal Cream Pies
Mix raisins into the dough for a classic oatmeal raisin version.
Spiced Oatmeal Cookies
Add nutmeg or ginger for extra warmth and depth.
Storage and Shelf Life
Room Temperature
Store assembled oatmeal cream pies in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Refrigerator
Refrigerate for up to 1 week. Let them come to room temperature before serving for best texture.
Freezing Instructions
Freeze unfilled cookies or fully assembled pies in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before eating.
Nutritional Benefits of Oatmeal Cookies
While oatmeal cream pies are a dessert, they also contain oats that provide some nutritional benefits:
- Source of dietary fiber
- Helps support digestion
- Provides sustained energy
- Contains essential vitamins and minerals
Using homemade ingredients allows better control over sugar and fat content.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overmixing the Dough
Overmixing can make cookies dense instead of soft.
Using Old Baking Soda
Fresh baking soda ensures proper rise and texture.
Making Cookies Too Large
Uniform cookie sizes help create evenly baked sandwich cookies.
Adding Filling to Warm Cookies
This causes melting and messy assembly.
Serving Suggestions
Homemade oatmeal cream pies are versatile and perfect for many occasions:
- Serve with milk or coffee
- Pack in lunchboxes
- Offer as party desserts
- Enjoy as an afternoon snack
- Gift to friends or family
Their soft texture and sweet cream filling make them ideal for any celebration or casual treat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use old-fashioned oats instead of quick oats?
Yes, but the texture will be slightly chewier. Quick oats create softer cookies.
Can I make them gluten-free?
Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use certified gluten-free oats.
Can I reduce the sugar?
You can slightly reduce sugar, but it may affect texture and moisture.
What makes oatmeal cream pies soft?
The combination of butter, brown sugar, and molasses helps create their signature softness.
Conclusion
This homemade oatmeal cream pies recipe is the ultimate guide to creating soft, chewy oatmeal cookies filled with a rich, fluffy cream center. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can recreate this classic treat in your own kitchen with better flavor and freshness.
