If you’ve ever dreamed of recreating the nostalgic taste of your favorite snack, look no further than this Homemade Little Debbie Oatmeal Cream Pies Recipe. These delightful sandwich cookies bring together tender, chewy oatmeal cookies with a fluffy, sweet cream filling, delivering all the comfort of the original treat right from your own kitchen. Perfectly spiced with cinnamon and molasses, and filled with a dreamy vanilla cream, this recipe is a true labor of love that’s sure to become a household favorite.

Homemade Little Debbie Oatmeal Cream Pies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Homemade Little Debbie Oatmeal Cream Pies Recipe lies in its simple, pantry-friendly ingredients, each playing a vital role in creating that perfect balance of texture and flavor. From the rich butter that guarantees a tender bite to the aromatic cinnamon adding warmth, every component is essential.

Unsalted butter (1 cup for cookies, 1/2 cup for filling): Provides richness and moisture; softened for easy mixing and perfect texture.
Brown sugar (3/4 cup): Adds deep caramel notes and helps keep the cookies chewy.
Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Balances sweetness and contributes to cookie structure.
Large eggs (2): Bind ingredients and add richness.
Molasses (1 tablespoon): Infuses a classic oatmeal cookie flavor with a hint of earthiness.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon for cookies, 1 teaspoon for filling): Enhances all flavors with its fragrant warmth.
All-purpose flour (1 1/2 cups): Forms the sturdy base of the cookies.
Baking soda (1/2 teaspoon) and baking powder (1/2 teaspoon): Give the cookies just the right lift and fluffiness.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances sweetness and enhances the flavor profile.
Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Adds cozy warmth and character.
Quick oats (1 1/2 cups): Provide classic oatmeal texture and chewiness.
Vegetable shortening (1/2 cup for filling): Ensures a light, fluffy cream filling that holds its shape.
Powdered sugar (1 1/2 cups): Sweetens and lends the filling its signature smoothness.
Milk or cream (1–2 tablespoons): Adjusts the filling’s consistency for perfect spreadability.

How to Make Homemade Little Debbie Oatmeal Cream Pies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining two baking sheets with parchment paper, so your cookies come off easily. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter with both the brown and granulated sugars until your mixture is light and fluffy, about two to three minutes. This step is crucial for that tender texture and rich flavor. Next, beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the molasses and vanilla extract to infuse every bite with warmth and depth.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. This mix gives the cookies their structure and that hint of spice we all love. Gradually add these dry ingredients to your wet mixture and stir until just combined, making sure not to overmix. Finally, fold in the quick oats, which provide the characteristic chewy texture that sets this Homemade Little Debbie Oatmeal Cream Pies Recipe apart.

Step 3: Bake the Cookies

Use rounded tablespoons of dough and drop them onto your prepared baking sheets, spacing them about two inches apart to give the cookies room to spread. Bake in the preheated oven for 9 to 11 minutes. You want the edges to be set but the centers still slightly soft — this ensures a tender, melt-in-your-mouth cookie. After removing the cookies, let them cool on the baking sheets for five minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 4: Make the Cream Filling

While your cookies cool, whip up the luscious cream filling. Beat together the softened butter and vegetable shortening until creamy and smooth; this combo is what gives the filling its irresistible fluffiness. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until light and fluffy. Add milk or cream a tablespoon at a time to achieve a perfect spreadable consistency. This creamy filling is the heart of the Homemade Little Debbie Oatmeal Cream Pies Recipe, bringing that irresistible sweet goodness.

Step 5: Assemble the Oatmeal Cream Pies

Once everything is cooled and your filling is ready, it’s assembly time! Spread or pipe a generous dollop of the cream filling onto the flat side of half the cookies. Then gently press the remaining cookies on top to form perfect little sandwich pies. Each bite will be a nostalgic trip back to childhood with a fresh homemade twist.

How to Serve Homemade Little Debbie Oatmeal Cream Pies Recipe

Garnishes

While these oatmeal cream pies are lovely as they are, adding a little garnish can elevate the experience. A light dusting of powdered sugar on top adds a snowy touch and extra sweetness. For a fun twist, try dipping the edges in melted chocolate or rolling them in finely chopped nuts for texture and flavor contrast.

Side Dishes

These pies are best enjoyed as a sweet treat alongside a cold glass of milk or a steaming cup of coffee or tea. The creamy filling and chewy cookies pair beautifully with beverages that balance the sweetness and offer a comforting contrast. You might also serve them with fresh fruit like sliced apples or berries to add a refreshing note.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, arrange your Homemade Little Debbie Oatmeal Cream Pies Recipe on a decorative platter in layers or as a tower. Use colorful plates or wrap each sandwich individually with parchment paper tied with a ribbon to gift them. You can also cut the cookies smaller to create bite-sized versions, perfect for parties or snack platters.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

These oatmeal cream pies stay fresh when stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Keeping them in a cool, dry place ensures the cookies remain soft and the cream filling luscious. For longer storage, refrigerating the pies extends their shelf life up to one week, but bring them to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze these delicious treats to enjoy later. Wrap each assembled pie individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They freeze well for up to three months. When you’re ready to indulge, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature for a bit before enjoying.

Reheating

To refresh your pies after refrigeration or freezing, gently warm them in the microwave for about 10 seconds or until slightly soft. Avoid overheating to prevent the cream filling from melting too much. This quick step restores the soft, chewy texture that makes the Homemade Little Debbie Oatmeal Cream Pies Recipe so irresistible.

FAQs

Can I use old-fashioned oats instead of quick oats?

Yes, you can swap in old-fashioned oats, but your cookies will have a chewier, heartier texture. If you prefer a softer bite closer to the original, stick with quick oats for this recipe.

Is it okay to substitute shortening in the cookie dough?

Shortening can be used, but butter gives the cookies their rich flavor and tender texture. Using only shortening might lead to a less flavorful cookie with a different crumb.

How do I prevent the cream filling from being too runny?

Be sure not to add too much milk or cream. Add it gradually, stopping as soon as the filling is smooth and spreadable. If it gets too thin, you can add a bit more powdered sugar to thicken it back up.

Can I make these gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that can substitute cup-for-cup in baking. Make sure your oats are certified gluten-free as well. This tweak makes the pies accessible without sacrificing their charm.

What is the best way to pack these for a picnic or party?

Wrap each pie individually in parchment paper or wax paper to keep them fresh and make them easy to transport. Place them in a sturdy container with some parchment layer separators to avoid sticking.

Final Thoughts

This Homemade Little Debbie Oatmeal Cream Pies Recipe is more than just a treat; it’s a joyful experience that brings a slice of childhood into your kitchen. Whether you’re baking for your family, a special occasion, or simply craving something sweet and comforting, these soft, flavorful sandwich cookies will not disappoint. Dive in, share, and savor every bite of this beloved classic made with your own hands.

Homemade Little Debbie Oatmeal Cream Pies Recipe

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3.8 from 71 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 12 sandwich cookies 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This recipe recreates the beloved Little Debbie Oatmeal Cream Pies from scratch, featuring soft oatmeal cookies sandwiched with a luscious creamy filling. Perfectly spiced with cinnamon and molasses, these nostalgic treats bring homemade goodness to a classic dessert that’s tender, flavorful, and delightfully sweet.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Cookies:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tablespoon molasses
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 1/2 cups quick oats

For the Cream Filling:

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup vegetable shortening
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1–2 tablespoons milk or cream (as needed for consistency)

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Instructions

Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
Mix Wet Ingredients for Cookies: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until the mixture turns light and fluffy, which usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes. Then add the eggs, molasses, and vanilla extract, beating until everything is fully combined.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon to evenly distribute the leavening agents and spices throughout the flour.
Form the Cookie Dough: Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix just until combined, being careful not to overmix. Finally, fold in the quick oats to add texture and flavor.
Scoop and Bake: Using a rounded tablespoon, scoop the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing the cookies about 2 inches apart to allow room for spreading. Bake for 9 to 11 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers remain soft.
Cool the Cookies: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes to firm up slightly, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before assembling the filling.
Prepare the Cream Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and vegetable shortening together until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add milk or cream one tablespoon at a time until the filling reaches a smooth, spreadable consistency.
Assemble the Oatmeal Cream Pies: Spread or pipe the cream filling onto the flat side of half the cooled cookies. Top each filled cookie with another cookie, flat side down, to create sandwich cookies.

Notes

Store oatmeal cream pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
For longer freshness, refrigerate the assembled pies for up to 1 week.
To maintain extra softness, wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap.
Ensure cookies have fully cooled before adding the filling to prevent melting or sogginess.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American