Whoopie pies are a nostalgic dessert that has been delighting sweet tooths for generations. These soft, cake-like sandwich cookies filled with a creamy, fluffy filling are a beloved classic, especially in the Northeastern United States. Often considered a cross between a cookie, cake, and pie, whoopie pies bring together the best of all three in one irresistible treat.
This old-fashioned whoopie pies recipe stays true to tradition, featuring moist chocolate cakes with a rich, marshmallow cream filling. Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or simply as an indulgent snack, these handheld treats are sure to bring smiles to anyone who takes a bite.
1. Old Fashioned Whoopie Pies Recipe
Ingredients
For the Cakes
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk
For the Filling
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 jar (7 ounces) marshmallow fluff
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar using a hand or stand mixer until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until the batter is smooth and well-combined, being careful not to overmix.
Step 3: Scoop the Batter
Using a small cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded spoonfuls of batter onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Aim for uniform sizes so the cakes bake evenly and pair together nicely.
Step 4: Bake the Cakes
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the cakes are set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 5: Make the Fillin
While the cakes cool, prepare the filling. In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter until smooth and creamy. Add the powdered sugar and beat until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
Mix in the marshmallow fluff and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until the filling is smooth and spreadable. For a stiffer filling, chill it in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes before assembling the pies.
Step 6: Assemble the Whoopie Pies
Match the cooled cakes into pairs of similar sizes. Spread or pipe a generous amount of filling onto the flat side of one cake. Sandwich the second cake on top, pressing gently to spread the filling evenly.
Repeat with the remaining cakes and filling until all the whoopie pies are assembled.
2. Tips for Perfect Whoopie Pies
Use room-temperature ingredients: Softened butter and room-temperature eggs ensure a smoother batter and filling.
Don’t overmix: Mix the batter just until the ingredients are combined to avoid dense cakes.
Uniform size: Use a cookie scoop to ensure the cakes are all the same size, making it easier to pair them.
Cool completely: Let the cakes cool fully before adding the filling to prevent the buttercream from melting.
Chill for firmer pies: Once assembled, refrigerate the whoopie pies for 15-20 minutes to firm them up before serving.
3. Variations on Classic Whoopie Pies
While traditional chocolate whoopie pies are unbeatable, there are plenty of ways to get creative with flavors:
Pumpkin Whoopie Pies: Swap the chocolate cakes for spiced pumpkin cakes and fill with cinnamon cream cheese frosting.
Red Velvet Whoopie Pies: Use red velvet cake batter for a festive twist.
Peanut Butter Filling: Mix peanut butter into the filling for a Reese’s-inspired treat.
Mint-Chocolate Whoopie Pies: Add peppermint extract to the filling and sprinkle crushed candy canes for a holiday version.
4. Serving Suggestions
Whoopie pies are a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed in various settings. Here are some serving ideas:
As a Dessert: Serve whoopie pies as a fun alternative to traditional cake at birthday parties or family dinners.
With Coffee or Tea: Pair these sweet treats with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon pick-me-up.
Pack for Lunches: Wrap them individually for a portable treat in lunchboxes or picnics.
5. How to Store and Freeze Leftover Whoopie Pies
Storing
At Room Temperature: Store whoopie pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Refrigerator: For longer storage, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Freezing
To Freeze: Wrap each whoopie pie individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Thawing: Allow them to thaw at room temperature for 1-2 hours before serving.
This old-fashioned whoopie pies recipe is a timeless classic that combines soft, chocolatey cakes with a creamy marshmallow filling. The simplicity of the ingredients and the comforting flavors make them a treat that’s hard to resist. Bring a bit of nostalgia to your kitchen by baking a batch of these delightful sandwich cookies.
