Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Whoopie Pies are a classic American treat consisting of two soft, cake-like cookies sandwiched around a sweet, creamy filling. Often described as a mix between a cookie and a cupcake, these nostalgic desserts are beloved for their rich chocolate flavor and smooth, marshmallowy center. Perfect for lunchboxes, celebrations, or a cozy afternoon treat.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
all-purpose flourunsweetened cocoa powderbaking sodaeggsgranulated sugarsaltunsalted buttermilkvanilla extractunsalted buttermilkshorteningmarshmallow fluffconfectioners’ sugarmilk
directions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
In another large bowl, beat the granulated sugar and shortening until fluffy.
Add eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
Alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the wet mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of batter onto the baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the tops spring back when gently touched. Let cool completely.
To make the filling, beat together marshmallow fluff, shortening, confectioners’ sugar, a splash of milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and fluffy.
Spread or pipe the filling onto the flat side of half the cookies, then top with the remaining halves to create sandwiches.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields about 12 Whoopie Pies.Preparation time: 20 minutesBaking time: 10-12 minutesCooling and assembling time: 30 minutesTotal time: 1 hour
Variations
Use peanut butter or cream cheese in the filling for a flavor twist.
Add mini chocolate chips or crushed cookies to the filling for extra texture.
Try pumpkin or red velvet whoopie pies for seasonal variations.
Dip the edges in sprinkles or crushed candy for a festive touch.
storage/reheating
Store Whoopie Pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to 1 week.They can also be frozen individually wrapped for up to 2 months.Thaw at room temperature before serving.
FAQs
What is a Whoopie Pie made of?
It’s made from two soft chocolate cakes sandwiched around a creamy filling, usually marshmallow or buttercream-based.
Can I make them ahead of time?
Yes, they store well and even taste better after a few hours as the flavors meld.
Why are my cakes too flat?
Make sure not to overmix the batter and check your baking soda’s freshness.
Can I use butter instead of shortening?
You can, but shortening gives a fluffier texture both in the cake and filling.
Are these the same as moon pies?
No, moon pies are usually coated in chocolate and have a denser, more cookie-like texture.
Do I have to refrigerate them?
Not immediately, but if you’re storing them more than a couple of days, refrigeration helps preserve freshness.
Can I add flavoring to the filling?
Absolutely—try mint, almond, or citrus extracts for fun variations.
Do they work for parties?
Yes, they’re portable, hand-held, and can be made in advance.
Conclusion
Whoopie Pies are the ultimate nostalgic dessert—moist, chocolatey, and filled with sweet, fluffy cream. Whether you’re making them for a celebration or just for fun, these treats are guaranteed to bring smiles and maybe even a little childhood magic.
PrintWhoopie Pie
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: 12 whoopie pies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Whoopie pies are a classic American dessert made of two soft chocolate cake-like cookies filled with a sweet, creamy frosting.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 1/4 teaspoons baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (for filling), softened
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 jar (7 oz) marshmallow creme
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for filling)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large bowl, cream together butter and brown sugar until fluffy.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
- Alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Drop tablespoon-sized scoops of batter onto prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes or until the tops spring back when touched. Cool completely.
- To make the filling, beat butter until smooth, then add powdered sugar, marshmallow creme, and vanilla extract. Beat until fluffy.
- Spread or pipe filling on the flat side of half the cookies, then top with the remaining cookies to make sandwiches.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate for longer storage.
Notes
- You can substitute marshmallow creme with whipped frosting for a different filling texture.
- Chill the whoopie pies slightly for a firmer filling.
- Add a pinch of espresso powder to the batter for a deeper chocolate flavor.