Whoopie Pies Recipe

Irresistibly Fluffy Whoopie Pies Recipe – Sweet Sandwich Magic

Sweet memories of childhood bakeries inspire this delectable whoopie pies recipe that feels like a warm hug.

Soft chocolate cake-like cookies sandwich creamy marshmallow filling in a dessert guaranteed to spark joy.

Classic New England treats never looked more inviting than these pillowy delights.

Homemade comfort shines through every tender bite of these nostalgic sweets.

Each whoopie pie promises a perfect balance between rich cake and smooth, fluffy center.

Baking these delightful treats connects you with generations of home cooks who mastered this beloved confection.

You’ll fall in love with how simple yet magical these whoopie pies can be.

Grab a plate and let the deliciousness begin!

Whoopie Pie Filling & Fluffy Cake Tips

  • Stir the batter just until ingredients combine to keep whoopie pies tender and avoid tough, dense cookies.
  • Let the batter rest for 5-10 minutes before baking to help cookies maintain shape and develop better texture.
  • Use a tablespoon or small cookie scoop for uniform whoopie pies that bake evenly and look professionally made.
  • Swap marshmallow fluff with cream cheese or peanut butter for unique flavor variations that suit different taste preferences.
  • Keep whoopie pies in an airtight container between layers of parchment paper in the refrigerator to maintain freshness for 3-4 days.

Store Whoopie Pies Properly

  • Store whoopie pies in an airtight container between layers of parchment paper for up to 3-4 days. Keep them in the coldest part of the refrigerator.
  • Wrap individual whoopie pies tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. They'll stay fresh for 1-2 months.
  • Remove frozen whoopie pies from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for 30-45 minutes before enjoying.
  • If cookies become slightly hard, microwave for 5-8 seconds to soften the cake and filling.

Ideal Pairings for Whoopie Pies

  • Pair with Creamy Milk Stout: A rich, chocolate-forward beer complements the cocoa-based whoopie pies, enhancing the dessert's deep flavor profile and adding a smooth, velvety texture.
  • Serve with Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: The cold, smooth vanilla ice cream creates a delightful contrast to the soft whoopie pie, balancing the chocolate intensity and providing a refreshing palate cleanser.
  • Match with Raspberry Liqueur: A sweet, fruity liqueur cuts through the rich chocolate and marshmallow filling, adding a bright, tangy note that elevates the overall dessert experience.
  • Enjoy with Strong Espresso: The robust coffee flavor intensifies the chocolate notes, creating a classic dessert pairing that awakens the taste buds and provides a sophisticated finish to the sweet treat.

Whoopie Pies with Fun Filling Ideas

  • Gluten-Free Chocolate Whoopie Pies: Replace wheat flour with almond or gluten-free blend for those with wheat sensitivities.
  • Vegan Chocolate Whoopie Pies: Swap butter for coconut oil, use egg replacer, and substitute marshmallow fluff with cashew cream filling.
  • Low-Sugar Wellness Version: Use natural sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit, and incorporate whole wheat pastry flour for added nutrition.
  • Seasonal Pumpkin Spice Variation: Blend cocoa powder with pumpkin puree and add warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg for an autumn-inspired treat.

FAQs

  • Are whoopie pies really from Pennsylvania?

Yes, whoopie pies originated in the Amish communities of Pennsylvania Dutch country. Farmers would find these treats in their lunch boxes, and children would shout “Whoopie!” when they discovered them.

  • What makes the texture of whoopie pies different from regular cookies?

Whoopie pies are more like small cakes than traditional cookies. They are soft, moist, and have a cake-like consistency that makes them uniquely different from crisp or crunchy cookies.

  • Is the marshmallow filling traditional for whoopie pies?

While marshmallow filling is popular, classic whoopie pies traditionally used a cream filling made from shortening, powdered sugar, and vanilla. The marshmallow version is a modern twist on the original recipe.

  • Can I make whoopie pies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cookie shells and prepare the filling separately up to 2 days in advance. Assemble the pies just before serving to keep them fresh and prevent the filling from making the cookies soggy.

Whoopie Pies Everyone Loves For Their Soft, Creamy Centers

  • Boost Baking Speed: Whip up these whoopie pies in under an hour, making them perfect for last-minute dessert cravings or spontaneous sweet treats.
  • Beginner-Friendly Delight: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps mean even novice bakers can create impressive, bakery-style desserts without stress or complicated techniques.
  • Kid-Approved Crowd-Pleaser: Chocolate cookies with fluffy marshmallow filling guarantee smiles from children and adults alike, making it an ideal family baking project or potluck contribution.
  • Versatile Party Sensation: Portable, handheld size makes these whoopie pies excellent for birthday parties, school events, picnics, or casual gatherings where easy-to-eat desserts are appreciated.

Everything Needed for Whoopie Pies

Dry Ingredients:
  • Flour, Cocoa Powder, Baking Soda, Baking Powder, Salt: Core dry mix that gives structure and rich chocolate flavor to the whoopie pies. Choose high-quality cocoa powder for deeper taste. All ingredients work together to help cookies rise and maintain perfect texture.
Wet Ingredients:
  • Butter, Sugar: Creamy base that provides richness and sweetness. Room temperature butter blends smoothly and creates soft cookie texture. Use unsalted butter for better control of salt content.
  • Egg, Vanilla Extract: Adds moisture, binding, and deep flavor. Fresh eggs ensure better consistency. Pure vanilla extract offers more robust taste compared to imitation.
  • Milk: Helps create smooth batter consistency and adds subtle moisture to cookies.
Filling Ingredients:
  • Powdered Sugar, Marshmallow Fluff, Butter: Creamy, sweet filling that binds whoopie pie halves. Marshmallow fluff adds unique soft texture. Softened butter ensures smooth mixing. Choose fresh marshmallow fluff for best results.
  • Vanilla Extract: Enhances overall filling flavor with warm, sweet notes.

Whoopie Pie Assembly with Soft Chocolate Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Dry Ingredients

Gather these dry ingredients into one bowl:
  • All-purpose flour
  • Unsweetened cocoa powder
  • Baking soda
  • Baking powder
  • Salt

Sift everything together thoroughly to eliminate any lumps and create a smooth, well-blended mixture.

Step 2: Create Butter Base

In a large mixing bowl, cream softened butter and sugar until the mixture becomes light, airy, and pale in color.

Add an egg and vanilla extract, continuing to mix until fully incorporated and smooth.

Step 3: Form Cookie Batter

Pour milk into the butter mixture and gently fold in the previously sifted dry ingredients.

Mix until ingredients are just combined, avoiding overmixing.

Let the batter rest for 5-10 minutes to allow ingredients to settle.

Step 4: Bake Cookie Shells

Preheat oven to 375°F.

Use a tablespoon to drop round batter portions onto a lined baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.

Bake for 8 minutes until edges are slightly firm.

Remove and allow cookies to cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 5: Craft Creamy Filling

In a separate bowl, blend:
  • Softened butter
  • Powdered sugar
  • Marshmallow fluff
  • Vanilla extract

Beat ingredients until the filling becomes smooth, fluffy, and spreadable.

Step 6: Construct Whoopie Pies

Once cookies have cooled, spread a generous layer of filling on one cookie shell.

Gently press a second cookie on top, creating a delightful sandwich.

Step 7: Serve and Savor

Arrange whoopie pies on a serving platter.

These treats are perfect for parties, dessert tables, or enjoying with a cold glass of milk.

Yields approximately 24 delicious whoopie pies.

Print
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Whoopie Pies Recipe

Whoopie Pies Recipe


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4.5 from 14 reviews

  • Total Time: 23 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Nostalgic whoopie pies blend classic American bakery charm with irresistible chocolate cake sandwiches and creamy marshmallow filling. Sweet memories and comforting flavors invite you to savor this delightful dessert that brings pure joy to each delectable bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients (Cookies and Filling):

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup cocoa powder
  • 2 sticks (226 grams) butter (softened)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 (16 ounces) container of marshmallow fluff
  • 2 1/2 cups confectioners sugar

Leavening and Seasoning Agents:

  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Liquid and Binding Ingredients:

  • 1 large egg
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for cookies)
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (for filling)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the dry mixture by meticulously sifting flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt into a medium bowl. Create a uniform, fine powder and set aside for later incorporation.
  2. Using an electric mixer, cream butter and sugar until the mixture transforms into a light, airy texture. Introduce egg and vanilla extract, continuing to blend until fully integrated.
  3. Gently fold in milk, then gradually incorporate the sifted dry ingredients. Mix until just combined, avoiding overmixing. Allow the batter to rest and settle for 5-10 minutes, enabling ingredients to harmonize.
  4. Preheat the oven to 375°F. Carefully drop uniform tablespoon-sized dollops of batter onto a prepared baking sheet, ensuring consistent spacing. Bake for approximately 8 minutes until edges appear slightly crisp.
  5. Remove cookies from the oven and transfer to a cooling rack. Allow complete cooling to room temperature, which ensures structural integrity for filling.
  6. Craft the creamy filling by whipping softened butter and powdered sugar until achieving a silky, smooth consistency. Incorporate marshmallow fluff and vanilla extract, blending until light and fluffy.
  7. Once cookies have thoroughly cooled, spread a generous layer of filling on one cookie surface. Delicately sandwich with a matching cookie, creating a perfect whoopie pie.
  8. Arrange completed whoopie pies on a serving platter, ready to delight guests with their irresistible chocolate and marshmallow charm.

Notes

  • Sifting the dry ingredients ensures a smooth, lump-free batter that creates perfectly textured whoopie pie cookies.
  • Rest the batter for a few minutes to allow flour to absorb moisture, resulting in more tender and soft cookies.
  • Use room temperature ingredients like butter and egg to help achieve a smoother, more evenly mixed batter that incorporates air for lighter cookies.
  • For gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a cup-for-cup gluten-free flour blend to maintain the same delicious texture and taste.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 360
  • Sugar: 28 g
  • Sodium: 250 mg
  • Fat: 16 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 50 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Cholesterol: 40 mg
James Walker

James Walker

Lead Recipe Developer & Culinary Educator

Expertise

Southern Cuisine & Farm-to-Table Cooking, Recipe Development & Testing, Culinary Education & Instruction​

Education

School: Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts

Program: Diploma in Culinary Arts and Operations

Focus: Comprehensive training in classical and modern culinary techniques, kitchen operations, and farm-to-table practices. ​


James didn’t learn cooking from a TV show, he learned it from busy kitchens, family gatherings, and long afternoons spent testing recipes the hard way.
After training at the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts, he brought his love for real, down-to-earth food to every dish he makes.
At Dining At Home, James loves building recipes that feel familiar but still have something special, like adding a twist to a classic or making a slow Sunday dinner feel brand new.
When he’s not in the kitchen, you’ll probably find him swapping garden tips at the farmers’ market or teaching his daughter how to flip pancakes without a mess (almost).

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