Pumpkin Whoopie Pies

INGREDIENTS

1 1/2 cups

all-purpose flour

1/2 tsp

baking powder

1/2 tsp

baking soda

1/2 tsp

salt

1 tsp

ground cinnamon

1/2 tsp

ground ginger

1/4 tsp

freshly grated nutmeg

1/4 tsp

ground cloves

1 cup

packed light brown sugar

1/2 cup

vegetable oil

1 15 ounce can

pure pumpkin (not pie filling)

large egg

1 tsp

pure vanilla extract

2 tbsp

packed light brown sugar

salt

1/2 tbsp

water

1/2 cup

pecans

6 oz

cream cheese, softened

3/4 stick

unsalted butter, softened

salt

1 1/2 cups

confectioners' sugar

1 tbsp

bourbon (optional; substitute 1 teaspoon vanilla extract)

large baking sheets; parchment paper; 1-ounce round ice cream scoop (optional; see Cooks' Notes)