Ingredients List
To make these perfect Whoopie Pies, you’ll need:
For the Whoopie Pie cakes:
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
For the classic marshmallow filling:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 ½ cups marshmallow fluff
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Timing
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 15 minutes
- Total time: 30 minutes
Step-by-Step Recipe for the Perfect Whoopie Pie
Prepare the batter: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, beat the butter and sugar until fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, and mix until combined. Slowly add the dry ingredients and buttermilk alternately, starting and ending with the dry ingredients.
Bake the cakes: Scoop the batter onto a lined baking sheet, using about 1 ½ tablespoons per cake. Leave space between each as they will spread. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let them cool completely.
Make the filling: While the cakes cool, beat the butter and powdered sugar together until smooth. Add the marshmallow fluff and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy.
Assemble the pies: Once the cakes are cool, spread the filling onto the flat side of one cake and top with another to form a sandwich. Repeat with the remaining cakes.
Tips for Baking Soft and Fluffy Whoopie Pies
1- Use room temperature ingredients. This ensures a smoother batter and softer texture.
2- Don’t overmix the batter. Overmixing can make the cakes denser, and we want them to be fluffy!
3- Measure your ingredients correctly. Too much flour or cocoa can make the cakes dry, so spoon and level them properly.
Whoopie Pie Filling: Classic Marshmallow vs. Buttercream
While I love the classic marshmallow filling for its light, airy texture, buttercream is another delicious option. Buttercream is richer and creamier, making the Whoopie Pies feel more indulgent. You can easily swap the marshmallow fluff for buttercream if that’s your preference.
Popular Whoopie Pie Flavors: Beyond the Classic Chocolate
The classic chocolate Whoopie Pie is a favorite, but there are so many flavors to try! Here are a few ideas:
1- Pumpkin Whoopie Pies: Perfect for fall, made with pumpkin puree and warm spices.
2- Red Velvet Whoopie Pies: A vibrant and festive choice, ideal for holidays.
3- Peanut Butter Whoopie Pies: Combine peanut butter with the filling or use peanut butter-flavored cakes.
How to Store and Freeze Whoopie Pies for Freshness
Whoopie Pies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, they freeze beautifully! Simply wrap each pie in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To enjoy, just let them thaw at room temperature for about an hour.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Whoopie Pies
1- Overbaking: This can dry out the cakes. Keep a close eye on them and use a toothpick to test for doneness.
2- Not cooling the cakes completely: If the cakes are warm when you add the filling, it will melt and become messy.
3- Using too much filling: While we all love a generous filling, too much can make the pies difficult to eat!
Variations of Whoopie Pies: Vegan, Gluten-Free, and More
For a vegan version, use a plant-based butter and egg substitute in the cakes, and replace the marshmallow fluff with a vegan alternative. For gluten-free Whoopie Pies, simply swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking mix that includes xanthan gum for structure.
Whoopie Pies as a Dessert for Special Occasions
Whoopie Pies are not only a fun dessert for regular days, but they also make great treats for special occasions. Decorate the edges with sprinkles for birthdays, or make red velvet ones for Valentine’s Day. You can even create a Whoopie Pie dessert bar at a party, offering different flavors and fillings!
Serving Suggestions: How to Enjoy Your Whoopie Pies
Serve Whoopie Pies with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee for a cozy afternoon snack. You can also drizzle some melted chocolate over the top for a more decadent treat, or serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate dessert!
Nutritional Information
Each Whoopie Pie (depending on the size) contains approximately:
- Calories: 320
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 14g
Conclusion
Whoopie Pies are a nostalgic, fun, and versatile dessert that everyone loves. Whether you stick with the classic chocolate or experiment with different flavors, they’re sure to be a hit. Don’t be afraid to try this recipe – it’s straightforward, and the results are absolutely worth it. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the deliciousness of homemade Whoopie Pies!