How to Make Gingerbread Oatmeal Cream Pies

Last Updated on March 14, 2026 by Rita

Gingerbread oatmeal cream pies are soft spiced oatmeal cookies sandwiched with creamy frosting, and they bake in about 10 minutes per batch for a cozy homemade dessert. These cookie sandwiches combine chewy oatmeal cookies, warm gingerbread spices, and a smooth cream cheese filling.

Many people search for this recipe when they want a festive cookie sandwich that tastes soft, chewy, and comforting during the holiday season. The mix of molasses, oats, ginger, and cinnamon creates a rich flavor that feels nostalgic and perfect for winter baking.

I still remember baking these in my small Oregon kitchen one snowy afternoon, when the warm spice aroma filled the entire apartment.

Today, gingerbread oatmeal cream pies remain one of my favorite cozy holiday treats.

If you enjoy cozy homemade desserts, you might also love No Bake Fruit Tart, another sweet treat that’s simple and comforting.

Guide to explore in this article

  • What gingerbread oatmeal cream pies are
  • Key ingredients for the best flavor
  • Step-by-step baking instructions
  • Health and ingredient insights
  • Essential baking tools
  • Expert texture tips
  • Troubleshooting guide
  • Frequently asked questions

What Are Gingerbread Oatmeal Cream Pies?

Gingerbread oatmeal cream pies are soft cookie sandwiches made with spiced oatmeal cookies and a creamy filling between them. Each sandwich features two chewy cookies flavored with gingerbread spices and molasses, paired with smooth cream cheese frosting.

These treats are inspired by classic oatmeal cream pies, but they include warm holiday spices like ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. The spices give the cookies a rich gingerbread flavor that feels perfect for winter baking.

The cookies themselves are soft and slightly chewy thanks to the combination of rolled oats, brown sugar, and molasses. When baked properly, they stay tender enough to sandwich together without crumbling.

The filling usually includes butter, cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla. This frosting adds a tangy sweetness that balances the deep flavor of the gingerbread cookies.

Many bakers enjoy making gingerbread oatmeal cream pies during the holiday season because they combine two classic desserts: gingerbread cookies and oatmeal cream pies. The result is a festive cookie sandwich that feels nostalgic and comforting.

In my kitchen, these cookies always remind me of cozy winter afternoons. Once the cookies cool and the frosting goes on, each bite delivers soft spice, creamy sweetness, and a little bit of holiday magic.

If you enjoy soft homemade desserts, you may also like Moist Carrot Cake, a classic recipe that delivers rich flavor and tender texture.

Key Ingredients for Making Gingerbread Oatmeal Cream Pies

The flavor of gingerbread oatmeal cream pies comes from warm spices, molasses, and soft oatmeal cookies paired with creamy frosting. Each ingredient plays an important role in texture and taste.

ingredients for gingerbread oatmeal cream pies
Simple ingredients used to make gingerbread oatmeal cream pies.
IngredientQuantityPurpose
All-purpose flour1 1/3 cups (166 g)Provides structure for the cookies
Ginger powder1 1/2 teaspoonsCreates the classic gingerbread flavor
Cinnamon1 teaspoonAdds warmth and depth
Nutmeg1/4 teaspoonEnhances spice flavor
Ground cloves1/8 teaspoonAdds rich holiday spice
Baking soda1/2 teaspoonHelps cookies rise slightly
Salt1/4 teaspoonBalances sweetness
Unsalted butter1/2 cup (112 g)Creates soft cookie texture
Brown sugar3/4 cup (158 g)Adds moisture and caramel flavor
Granulated sugar1/2 cup (100 g)Sweetens and helps cookies spread
Molasses2½ tablespoonsGives gingerbread flavor and color
Vanilla extract1 teaspoonAdds subtle sweetness
Egg1 largeBinds the dough
Rolled oats1⅓ cups (133 g)Creates chewy oatmeal texture

The combination of molasses and brown sugar is what gives these cookies their soft, chewy gingerbread flavor.

Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients

IngredientQuantityPurpose
Unsalted butter1/2 cup (112 g)Creates creamy frosting base
Cream cheese4 ounces (112 g)Adds tangy flavor
Powdered sugar1½–2½ cups (165–275 g)Sweetens and thickens frosting
Vanilla extract1 teaspoonEnhances flavor
Salt1/4 teaspoonBalances sweetness
Whipping cream1 tablespoonAdjusts frosting texture

Ingredient Tips for Best Flavor

First, choose good-quality molasses such as cooking or fancy molasses. Avoid blackstrap molasses because it can taste too bitter in cookies.

Next, rolled oats or quick oats both work well. Quick oats create slightly softer cookies, while old-fashioned oats add more texture.

Finally, full-fat brick-style cream cheese produces the smoothest frosting.

These ingredients work together to create soft cookies with warm spices and creamy filling.

How to Make Gingerbread Oatmeal Cream Pies in 7 Steps

Making gingerbread oatmeal cream pies is simple when you follow a clear step-by-step method. The cookies bake quickly and become soft, chewy, and perfect for sandwiching with cream cheese frosting.

Step 1 — Prepare the Oven and Pans

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).

Line your cookie sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.

Step 2 — Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together:

  • 1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons ginger powder
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Set the mixture aside.

Step 3 — Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, beat together:

  • 1/2 cup softened unsalted butter
  • 3/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar

Mix until the texture becomes light and creamy.

Step 4 — Add the Wet Ingredients

Mix in:

  • 2½ tablespoons molasses
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 large egg

Beat until fully combined and smooth.

Step 5 — Combine the Dough

Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the butter mixture on low speed.

Then stir in 1⅓ cups rolled oats until the dough forms.

Step 6 — Scoop and Bake the Cookies

scooping gingerbread oatmeal cookie dough
Scooping cookie dough before baking gingerbread oatmeal cookies.

Scoop about 1 to 1½ tablespoons of dough per cookie using a cookie scoop.

Place the dough balls 2 inches (5 cm) apart on the lined baking sheets.

Bake one sheet at a time for 8–10 minutes, until the tops look just set.

Allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet.

Step 7 — Prepare the Frosting and Assemble

In a large bowl:

  1. Beat 1/2 cup butter until smooth.
  2. Mix in 4 ounces cream cheese.
  3. Add 1 cup powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt, mixing gently.

Gradually beat in the remaining powdered sugar until the frosting reaches your preferred sweetness and thickness.

If needed, mix in 1 tablespoon whipping cream to thin the frosting.

To assemble the gingerbread oatmeal cream pies, spread 1–2 tablespoons frosting on the bottom of one cooled cookie, then place a second cookie on top to create a sandwich.

If you enjoy soft homemade cookies, try Pumpkin Cookies Recipe for another cozy seasonal bake.

The Health Benefits of Gingerbread Oatmeal Cream Pies

Although gingerbread oatmeal cream pies are considered a sweet dessert, several ingredients used in the recipe contain small nutritional benefits. When enjoyed occasionally, these cookie sandwiches can still be part of a balanced lifestyle.

Oats Provide Fiber and Texture

Rolled oats are one of the main ingredients in the cookie dough. Oats naturally contain dietary fiber, which supports digestion and helps create a more satisfying baked treat.

Fiber also slows digestion slightly, which helps cookies feel more filling compared with desserts made entirely with refined flour.

Ginger and Spices Contain Natural Compounds

The warm spices used in these cookies—ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves—do more than add flavor. These spices contain natural plant compounds often associated with antioxidant properties.

Ginger in particular has long been used in traditional cooking because of its warming taste and aromatic qualities.

Molasses Adds Flavor and Minerals

Molasses is the ingredient responsible for the classic gingerbread flavor and dark color of the cookies.

It also contains small amounts of minerals such as:

  • Iron
  • Calcium
  • Potassium

While the amounts are small, molasses still adds more nutritional value than many refined sweeteners.

Dairy Ingredients Provide Calcium

The frosting in this recipe contains butter and cream cheese, which provide calcium and fat that contribute to flavor and texture.

Calcium supports bone health and plays a role in muscle function and nerve signaling.

Portion Size Matters

Each sandwich cookie contains about 435 calories, according to the recipe estimate. Because these cookies are rich and satisfying, many people find that one sandwich cookie is enough for dessert.

Enjoying homemade desserts occasionally is part of a balanced approach to baking and eating.

For another comforting dessert option, take a look at Pumpkin Icebox Cake.

adding frosting to gingerbread oatmeal cookies
Adding creamy filling to gingerbread oatmeal cookie sandwiches.

Essential Tools for Making Gingerbread Oatmeal Cream Pies

You do not need specialized equipment to prepare these cookies. A few simple kitchen tools will help the process go smoothly.

Standard cookie sheets allow cookies to bake evenly. Using light-colored metal pans usually produces the best results.

Parchment Paper

Lining baking sheets with parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier. It also helps cookies bake more evenly on the bottom.

Mixing Bowls

Two medium or large mixing bowls help separate dry ingredients and wet ingredients before combining them into cookie dough.

Electric Mixer

An electric hand mixer or stand mixer helps cream butter and sugar together. Proper creaming creates a soft and tender cookie texture.

A cookie scoop ensures each dough ball is about the same size. Even cookie sizes are especially important when making cookie sandwiches.

Spatula or Butter Knife

A small spatula or butter knife works well for spreading frosting evenly between the cookies.

Quick Tool Summary

ToolPurpose
Cookie sheetsBake cookies evenly
Parchment paperPrevent sticking
Mixing bowlsSeparate wet and dry ingredients
Electric mixerCream butter and sugar
Cookie scoopUniform cookie size
SpatulaSpread frosting

These basic tools make the baking process simple and efficient.

Expert Tips for the Best Texture of Gingerbread Oatmeal Cream Pies

Small adjustments can make a big difference when baking cookie sandwiches. These tips help ensure the cookies stay soft and chewy.

Use Room Temperature Butter

Butter should be soft but not melted before mixing with sugar. Properly softened butter blends smoothly and helps create a tender cookie texture.

Measure Flour Correctly

Too much flour can make cookies dense. For best results, spoon the flour into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife.

Avoid Overbaking

Bake cookies until the tops look just set. Overbaking removes moisture and can make the cookies firm instead of soft.

Allow Cookies to Cool Completely

Before adding frosting, allow cookies to cool fully on the baking sheet. This prevents the cream cheese filling from melting.

Use Quality Molasses

For the best flavor, use cooking molasses or fancy molasses. Avoid blackstrap molasses because its flavor is much stronger and can taste bitter in baked desserts.

When assembling the sandwiches, pair cookies of similar size. Matching cookies make the finished dessert look neat and balanced.

With these tips, each bite will stay soft, chewy, and flavorful.

Chocolate lovers may also enjoy Mint Brownies for a rich and fudgy dessert.

Troubleshooting Gingerbread Oatmeal Cream Pies

Even experienced bakers occasionally encounter small issues. This quick table helps solve the most common problems.

ProblemWhy it happensHow to fix it
Cookies spread too muchButter too soft or warmChill dough for 20 minutes
Cookies are dryOverbakingRemove cookies earlier
Cookies are denseToo much flourMeasure flour carefully
Frosting too runnyCream cheese too warmChill frosting briefly
Frosting too thickToo much sugarAdd a small amount of cream
Cookies stick to panNo parchment paperUse parchment or silicone mat

These simple adjustments help keep the cookies soft and easy to assemble.le.

Frequently Asked Questions About Gingerbread Oatmeal Cream Pies

What are gingerbread oatmeal cream pies?

Gingerbread oatmeal cream pies are soft oatmeal cookie sandwiches flavored with gingerbread spices and molasses. The cookies are filled with creamy frosting, often made with butter and cream cheese.

How do you keep oatmeal cookies soft for cream pies?

Bake the cookies until the tops look just set, then allow them to cool completely. Slightly underbaking helps keep the cookies soft enough for sandwich cookies.

Can you make gingerbread oatmeal cookie sandwiches ahead of time?

Yes. You can bake the cookies 1–2 days in advance and store them in an airtight container. Frost and assemble them just before serving for the best texture.

How should you store gingerbread oatmeal cream pies?

Store assembled cookie sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.

Can I make the cookies ahead of time?

Yes. The cookies can be baked one or two days in advance and stored in an airtight container. Assemble the sandwiches when you are ready to serve.

How do you keep oatmeal cookies soft?

Slightly underbaking the cookies helps them stay soft. Storing them in an airtight container also helps preserve moisture.

Final Thoughts: Why You’ll Love Gingerbread Oatmeal Cream Pies

Few desserts feel as comforting as freshly baked gingerbread oatmeal cream pies. The cookies combine the cozy flavor of gingerbread spices with the chewy texture of oatmeal cookies.

The cream cheese frosting adds a smooth, tangy sweetness that balances the warm spices perfectly. Together, the cookies and frosting create a soft sandwich cookie that feels both nostalgic and festive.

In my own kitchen, these cookies are a favorite during the winter months. The scent of ginger, cinnamon, and molasses filling the air always makes baking feel extra special.

Whether you bake them for a holiday gathering, a cookie exchange, or a quiet weekend treat, these cookies deliver a cozy homemade dessert that everyone enjoys.

If you love baking cozy treats, you may also want to try The Best Pumpkin Cake for another homemade favorite.

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gingerbread oatmeal cream pie cookie sandwich

How to Make Gingerbread Oatmeal Cream Pies

Soft gingerbread oatmeal cookies filled with tangy cream cheese frosting. These festive cookie sandwiches are chewy, spiced, and perfect for holiday baking.

  • Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Yield: 12 sandwich cookies 1x

Ingredients

Units Scale
1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour1 1/2 teaspoon ginger powder 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened3/4 cup brown sugar1/2 cup granulated sugar2 1/2 tablespoons molasses 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 large egg 1 1/3 cups rolled oats1/2 cup unsalted butter softened4 ounces cream cheese1 1/22 1/2 cups powdered sugar1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/4 teaspoon salt 1 tablespoon whipping cream

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F and line cookie sheets with parchment paper.

2. Whisk flour, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, baking soda and salt.

3. Beat butter, brown sugar and granulated sugar until creamy.

4. Mix molasses, vanilla and egg into butter mixture.

5. Add dry ingredients gradually and mix on low speed.

6. Stir in rolled oats.

7. Scoop dough into balls about 1–1.5 tablespoons each.

8. Place dough balls 2 inches apart on baking sheets.

9. Bake for 8–10 minutes until tops look just set.

10. Cool cookies completely.

11. Beat butter and cream cheese until smooth.

12. Mix in powdered sugar, vanilla and salt.

13. Add cream if frosting needs thinning.

14. Spread frosting on one cookie and top with another to form sandwich.

Notes

Use cooking or fancy molasses for best flavor.

Avoid blackstrap molasses because it tastes bitter.

Store assembled cookies in refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Cookie dough balls can be frozen for up to 2 months.

  • Author: Rita
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 9 minutes
  • Category: Pies & Tarts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 sandwich cookie
  • Calories: 435
  • Sugar: 46g
  • Sodium: 188mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 1g
  • Carbohydrates: 62g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 67mg

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