A Whoopie Pie is a traditional American treat, made with two soft, round chocolate cakes and filled with a fluffy, marshmallow-like filling. Often confused with a cookie or a sandwich cake, These Pies have a light, fluffy, and moist texture. They are thought to have begun in the Pennsylvania Amish country communities but became widespread across the country.
Yet another theory holds that Whoopie Pies were originally sold commercially in Maine, where they still stand today as a favorite state dessert. Wherever they came from, one thing is for certain: These Pies have quite the cult following in the U.S. and beyond.
Classic Whoopie Pie Recipe
Ingredients:
For the Cakes:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cocoa powder, unsweetened
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup butter, softened
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup buttermilk
For the Filling:
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, at room temperature
1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 jar (7 oz) marshmallow fluff
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Line baking sheets with parchment.
To make the cake batter, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda and salt in a bowl.
Cream the butter and sugar in a separate bowl until light and fluffy. Stir in the egg and vanilla extract until combined.
Add dry ingredients and buttermilk alternately to the butter mixture, stirring just until combined.
Scoop the batter onto the prepared baking sheets, using about 1 tablespoon for each cookie. Leave them about 2 inches apart from one another.
Bake for 10–12 minutes or until the cakes are firm—just little puffs. Allow them to cool completely before putting them together.
To prepare the filling, combine butter and powdered sugar until well-blended. Mix in vanilla and marshmallow fluff until fluffy.
To assemble the Whoopie Pies, spread filling on the flat side of one cake and top with another.
Serve immediately, or stash in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Variations of Whoopie Pies
The classic chocolate Whoopie Pie is by far the most popular version, but there are so many fun variations to try:
Pumpkin Pies: Dave Katz Perfect for fall, these are made with pumpkin puree and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.
Red Velvet Whoopie Pies: A colorful red version with a touch of cocoa powder, and often filled with cream cheese frosting.
Peanut Butter Pies: A peanut butter-flavored cake and chocolate or marshmallow filling.
Oatmeal Pies: Soft oatmeal cookies are where you get a chew and so much flavor.
Lemon pies: for a refreshing twist, try a zesty lemon cake with a sweet, tangy filling.
Why You’ll Love Pies
Why You Need to Make Pies: Easy to make: Whoopie Pies are quintessentially a simple dessert to whip up with pantry staples!
Adaptable:The flavors and fillings can be easily adjusted to suit your taste.
Perfect For All Occasions – Birthday, Holiday, or Everyday Treat, Whoopie Pies Are Always Delicious!
Gifting: These treats check the homemade gift box!
Where to Buy Whoopie Pies
If you don’t feel like baking, Whoopie Pies can be found in bakeries, grocery stores and online retailers. Some popular go-to brands are Wicked Whoopies, Labadie’s Bakery and vendors at the Maine Whoopie Pie Festival. Whether made from scratch or out of a box, these treats are a sure crowd pleaser!
Final Thoughts
These treats are more than just a dessert—they’re a to American classic that’s still winning over dessert lovers everywhere. Whether you are baking them from scratch or grabbing a batch from a local bakery, these yummy sandwich cakes will surely satisfy your sweet tooth.
