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.

Gingerbread Oatmeal Cookie Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 1 1/3 cups (166 g) | Provides structure for the cookies |
| Ginger powder | 1 1/2 teaspoons | Creates the classic gingerbread flavor |
| Cinnamon | 1 teaspoon | Adds warmth and depth |
| Nutmeg | 1/4 teaspoon | Enhances spice flavor |
| Ground cloves | 1/8 teaspoon | Adds rich holiday spice |
| Baking soda | 1/2 teaspoon | Helps cookies rise slightly |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon | Balances sweetness |
| Unsalted butter | 1/2 cup (112 g) | Creates soft cookie texture |
| Brown sugar | 3/4 cup (158 g) | Adds moisture and caramel flavor |
| Granulated sugar | 1/2 cup (100 g) | Sweetens and helps cookies spread |
| Molasses | 2½ tablespoons | Gives gingerbread flavor and color |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon | Adds subtle sweetness |
| Egg | 1 large | Binds the dough |
| Rolled oats | 1⅓ 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
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Unsalted butter | 1/2 cup (112 g) | Creates creamy frosting base |
| Cream cheese | 4 ounces (112 g) | Adds tangy flavor |
| Powdered sugar | 1½–2½ cups (165–275 g) | Sweetens and thickens frosting |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon | Enhances flavor |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon | Balances sweetness |
| Whipping cream | 1 tablespoon | Adjusts 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

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:
- Beat 1/2 cup butter until smooth.
- Mix in 4 ounces cream cheese.
- 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.

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.
Cookie Sheets
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.
Cookie Scoop
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
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Cookie sheets | Bake cookies evenly |
| Parchment paper | Prevent sticking |
| Mixing bowls | Separate wet and dry ingredients |
| Electric mixer | Cream butter and sugar |
| Cookie scoop | Uniform cookie size |
| Spatula | Spread 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.
Match Cookie Sizes
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.
| Problem | Why it happens | How to fix it |
|---|---|---|
| Cookies spread too much | Butter too soft or warm | Chill dough for 20 minutes |
| Cookies are dry | Overbaking | Remove cookies earlier |
| Cookies are dense | Too much flour | Measure flour carefully |
| Frosting too runny | Cream cheese too warm | Chill frosting briefly |
| Frosting too thick | Too much sugar | Add a small amount of cream |
| Cookies stick to pan | No parchment paper | Use 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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Table of Contents
Table of Contents

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
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.
- 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




