Southern Moon Pies Recipe

All-purpose flour: The base for the cookies, providing structure and texture.

Sugar: Adds sweetness to the cookies.

Butter: Gives the cookies a rich flavor and tender texture.

Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a hint of vanilla.

Egg: Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture.

Baking powder: Helps the cookies rise and become fluffy.

Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.

Marshmallow creme: A sweet, spreadable filling for the cookie sandwiches.

Chocolate chips: Melted and used to coat the cookie sandwiches.

When creaming together the butter and sugar, ensure the butter is at room temperature for a smoother mixture. This will help incorporate air, resulting in a lighter and fluffier cookie dough.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds a slightly nutty flavor and more fiber, making it a healthier option.

• sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey provides natural sweetness and adds a bit of moisture to the dough.

• softened butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil is a plant-based fat that can provide a subtle coconut flavor and is a good alternative for those avoiding dairy.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract offers a different but complementary flavor profile that can add a unique twist to the recipe.

• large egg - Substitute with flax egg: A flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) is a great vegan alternative that helps bind the ingredients together.

• baking powder - Substitute with baking soda and cream of tartar: Use ¼ teaspoon baking soda and ½ teaspoon cream of tartar to mimic the leavening effect of baking powder.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can provide a slightly different mineral content and flavor profile.

• marshmallow creme - Substitute with homemade marshmallow fluff: Homemade marshmallow fluff can be made with egg whites, sugar, and vanilla, offering a fresher and more customizable filling.

• melted chocolate chips - Substitute with dark chocolate: Dark chocolate provides a richer, more intense chocolate flavor and contains less sugar.

• To keep your Southern Moon Pies fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay good for up to 3 days.

• If you want to extend their shelf life, place the moon pies in the refrigerator. This will keep them fresh for up to a week. Just make sure they are in an airtight container to prevent them from absorbing any fridge odors.

• For longer storage, you can freeze the moon pies. Wrap each moon pie individually in plastic wrap to ensure they are well-protected. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

• When you're ready to enjoy a frozen moon pie, simply remove it from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. If you prefer a quicker method, you can also microwave it for a few seconds, but be careful not to overheat and melt the marshmallow creme.

• If you find that the chocolate coating has become a bit dull after freezing, you can gently reheat the moon pies in the microwave for a few seconds to restore their glossy finish.

• Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the Southern Moon Pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Warm them for about 5-7 minutes, just until the chocolate starts to glisten and the marshmallow creme softens slightly. This method ensures the cookies remain crisp while the filling gets gooey.

• For a quicker option, use the microwave. Place a Southern Moon Pie on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on medium power for 10-15 seconds. Keep an eye on it to prevent the chocolate from melting too much. This method is perfect for when you need a quick treat.

• If you have an air fryer, set it to 300°F (150°C). Place the Southern Moon Pies in the basket and heat for 3-4 minutes. The air fryer will give you a nice, even warmth without making the cookies soggy.

• For a stovetop method, use a double boiler. Fill the bottom pot with water and bring it to a simmer. Place the Southern Moon Pies on a heatproof plate or bowl and set it over the simmering water. Cover with a lid and let the steam gently warm the cookies for about 5 minutes. This method is gentle and ensures the chocolate doesn't burn.

• Oven: Used to bake the cookies at a consistent temperature of 350°F (175°C).

• Baking sheet: A flat sheet used to hold the cookie dough while baking.

• Parchment paper: Lining for the baking sheet to prevent the cookies from sticking.

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl used to combine ingredients.

• Hand mixer: An electric tool to cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

• Whisk: Used to combine the flour, baking powder, and salt evenly.

• Spatula: A flexible tool to scrape down the sides of the mixing bowl and to spread marshmallow creme.

• Spoon: Used to drop spoonfuls of dough onto the baking sheet.

• Cooling rack: A wire rack to allow the cookies to cool completely after baking.

• Microwave-safe bowl: Used to melt the chocolate chips safely in the microwave.

• Fork: Useful for dipping the cookie sandwiches into the melted chocolate.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure out the flour, sugar, and other ingredients accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure smaller quantities of ingredients like vanilla extract, baking powder, and salt.

Prepare ingredients ahead: Measure and set out all ingredients before starting. This ensures a smooth workflow.

Use a cookie scoop: A cookie scoop helps portion the dough evenly and quickly.

Chill the dough: Chilling the dough for 15 minutes makes it easier to handle and shape.

Microwave chocolate: Melt chocolate chips in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to save time.

Assemble in batches: Spread marshmallow creme on multiple cookies at once, then top with remaining cookies to form sandwiches quickly.