Whoopie Pie Recipe (with Video)

Whoopie Pie Recipe: Whoopie pies are an irresistible combination of soft cookies and creamy filling, making them a perfect treat for all occasions. They resemble small, round cakes and are often compared to sandwich cookies. Traditionally, they consist of chocolate cakes with a vanilla marshmallow filling, but countless variations exist today, from pumpkin spice to red velvet.

These nostalgic treats are believed to have originated in the Amish communities of Pennsylvania. According to folklore, Amish women would bake these sweet delights and pack them in their husbands’ lunchboxes, leading to joyful exclamations of “Whoopie!” upon discovering them.

Now, let’s get into making this delicious dessert at home!

Ingredients Needed

For the Chocolate Whoopie Pie Cakes

You will need:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup buttermilk

For the Creamy Filling

• ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup marshmallow fluff

Equipment Needed

Before you start, gather the following tools:
✔️ Mixing bowls
✔️ Hand or stand mixer
✔️ Whisk
✔️ Baking sheets
✔️ Parchment paper
✔️ Measuring cups and spoons
✔️ Cooling rack
✔️ Spoon or piping bag for filling

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Batter

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate large bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with buttermilk, and mix until smooth.

Baking the Cakes

1. Using a spoon or piping bag, drop tablespoon-sized portions of batter onto the lined baking sheet, spacing them at least 2 inches apart.
2. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the tops spring back when lightly touched.
3. Let the cakes cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Making the Filling

1. In a bowl, beat the butter until smooth.
2. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fluffy.
3. Gently fold in the marshmallow fluff, ensuring a smooth, creamy consistency.

Assembling the Whoopie Pies

1. Once the cakes are completely cooled, pair them by size.
2. Spread or pipe a generous amount of filling onto one cake.
3. Gently press another cake on top to create a sandwich.
4. Repeat with the remaining cakes and filling.

Variations & Flavor Twists

Pumpkin Whoopie Pies

Substitute cocoa powder with pumpkin puree and add a teaspoon of pumpkin spice for a fall-inspired treat.

Red Velvet Whoopie Pies

Add red food coloring and a teaspoon of white vinegar to the batter for a classic red velvet version.

Peanut Butter Filling

Mix ½ cup peanut butter into the filling for a nutty, delicious twist!

Tips for Perfect Whoopie Pies

✔️ Use room temperature ingredients to ensure a smooth batter and filling.
✔️ Measure ingredients correctly, especially flour, to avoid dry cakes.
✔️ Don’t overmix the batter—it should be light and fluffy.
✔️ Let the cakes cool completely before adding the filling to prevent melting.
✔️ Refrigerate before serving for a firmer texture.

Storage and Shelf Life

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for 2 days.
• Refrigerator: Keeps fresh for up to 1 week.
• Freezer: Wrap individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.

FAQs about Whoopie Pie Recipe

What are whoopie pies?

Whoopie pies are a popular dessert in the United States, consisting of two soft, cake-like cookies sandwiched with a creamy filling. They are similar to a sandwich cookie but are often softer and fluffier.

What ingredients do I need for whoopie pies?

To make whoopie pies, you’ll need flour, sugar, butter, eggs, cocoa powder (for chocolate pies), baking soda, salt, and buttermilk. The filling typically requires butter, powdered sugar, marshmallow fluff, and vanilla extract.

How do I make whoopie pies from scratch?

Start by mixing the dry ingredients and wet ingredients separately, then combine them to form a batter. Drop spoonfuls of the batter onto a baking sheet and bake. For the filling, beat together butter, powdered sugar, marshmallow fluff, and vanilla until smooth, then spread between two cooled cookies.

Can I make whoopie pies in advance?

Yes, whoopie pies can be made in advance. The pies themselves can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature or frozen for longer storage. Assemble with the filling just before serving for best texture.

Are there variations of the traditional whoopie pie recipe?

Absolutely! While chocolate whoopie pies with vanilla filling are classic, you can experiment with different flavors like pumpkin, red velvet, or lemon. Fillings can also vary, with additions like peanut butter, cream cheese, or even espresso.

Is there a dairy-free or gluten-free option for whoopie pies?

Yes, to make dairy-free whoopie pies, substitute plant-based butter and milk. For gluten-free whoopie pies, use a gluten-free flour blend that substitutes for regular flour one-to-one.

How do I ensure my whoopie pies are soft and moist?

To keep your whoopie pies soft and moist, do not overbake them. Remove from the oven while they’re still soft to the touch, and allow them to cool completely before filling.

By addressing common queries and providing detailed answers, this FAQ section can enhance the overall readability and search engine optimization of your recipe page.

Now that you know how to make whoopie pies from scratch, it’s time to get baking! Enjoy your homemade, soft, and creamy whoopie pies with a cup of coffee or as a sweet snack. Happy baking!