Whoopie Pies

Whoopie pies are a beloved American dessert, featuring two soft, cake-like cookies sandwiching a creamy filling. Originating in New England and Pennsylvania Dutch communities, these treats have become a staple of American baking.

Legend has it that Amish bakers used leftover cake batter to create these handheld desserts. When children found them in their lunchboxes, they supposedly shouted, “Whoopie!”—and the name stuck. Today, whoopie pies come in countless flavors, from the classic chocolate with marshmallow filling to creative versions like red velvet, pumpkin spice, and s’mores.

In this guide, we’ll dive deep into the history, recipe, variations, storage tips, and even business opportunities surrounding whoopie pies. Whether you’re a home baker or a professional, this article will equip you with everything you need to master this New England classic.

The Sweet History of Whoopie Pies

Where Did Whoopie Pies Originate?

The origin of whoopie pies is hotly debated between Maine and Pennsylvania. While Maine claims them as an official state treat, Pennsylvania Dutch communities argue that Amish women first created them using leftover cake batter.

Why Are They So Popular?

• Portable & Mess-Free – Unlike traditional cakes, whoopie pies are easy to carry and eat on the go.
• Perfect Texture – They combine the softness of cake with the richness of a creamy filling.
• Endless Flavor Possibilities – From chocolate lovers to pumpkin spice enthusiasts, there’s a whoopie pie for everyone.

Regardless of their true birthplace, one thing is certain: whoopie pies have become a cherished American dessert, found in bakeries, fairs, and home kitchens across the country.

Classic Whoopie Pies Recipe

Ingredients Needed

For the Cookies:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup brown sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¾ cup buttermilk

For the Filling:

• 1 cup marshmallow fluff
• 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
• ½ cup shortening or unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

1: Preheat the Oven & Prepare Baking Sheets

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
• Line baking sheets with parchment paper or lightly grease them.

2: Mix the Cookie Batter

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients (flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt).
2. In a separate bowl, cream brown sugar and butter until fluffy.
3. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
4. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients and buttermilk, alternating between the two.

3: Drop & Bake the Cookies

• Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to drop batter onto the baking sheets, spacing them 1-2 inches apart.
• Bake for 8-10 minutes, rotating the trays halfway through.
• Cool the cookies completely on a wire rack.

4: Make the Filling

• Beat marshmallow fluff, confectioners’ sugar, butter, and vanilla extract together until light and fluffy.

5: Assemble the Whoopie Pies

1. Pair cookies of similar size.
2. Pipe or spread a generous layer of filling onto one cookie.
3. Gently press another cookie on top to create a sandwich.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

👉 Related Read: Puff Pastry Dessert Recipes – If you love this recipe, check out these flaky, pastry-based desserts!

Fun Variations of Whoopie Pies

Creative Flavor Ideas

• Double Chocolate – Add melted dark chocolate to both the batter and the filling.
• Pumpkin Spice – Incorporate pumpkin puree and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.
• Red Velvet – Use red food coloring and a hint of vinegar for a classic red velvet taste.
• S’mores Style – Graham cracker-flavored cookies with a chocolate-marshmallow center.
• Peanut Butter Bliss – Fill with peanut butter frosting instead of marshmallow.

👉 Related Read: Valentine’s Day Cookies – Whoopie pies make the perfect romantic treat!

How to Store & Serve Whoopie Pies

Storage Tips

• At Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigeration: Keeps them fresh for up to a week.
• Freezing: Wrap individually and store in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Best Ways to Serve Whoopie Pies

• Pair with milk or coffee for a classic treat.
• Drizzle with melted chocolate for a gourmet touch.
• Serve at parties as bite-sized mini versions.

👉 Related Read: Mini Crème Brûlée Cheesecakes – Another bite-sized dessert idea!

Whoopie Pies for Special Occasions & Business Ideas

Whoopie Pies for Events

• Perfect for weddings, birthdays, and baby showers.
• Can be made in miniature sizes for dessert platters.

Starting a Whoopie Pie Business

• Sell at farmer’s markets or online.
• Offer custom flavors and decorations for special orders.
• Package them in gift boxes for seasonal promotions.

Whoopie Pies

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• Author: Jake
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 12-15 whoopie pies
• Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Whoopie pies are a classic American dessert featuring two soft, cake-like cookies sandwiched with a fluffy marshmallow filling. This easy recipe delivers rich chocolate flavor and a smooth, creamy center—perfect for snacks, parties, or nostalgic baking fun.

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Ingredients

For the Chocolate Cookies:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup cocoa powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup brown sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ¾ cup buttermilk

For the Marshmallow Filling:

• 1 cup marshmallow fluff
• 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
• ½ cup shortening or unsalted butter
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

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Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prepare Baking Sheets

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Line baking sheets with parchment paper or lightly grease them.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Batter

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
2. In another bowl, cream brown sugar and butter until light and fluffy.
3. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients and buttermilk, alternating between the two.

Step 3: Shape & Bake the Cookies

1. Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to drop batter onto the baking sheets, spacing them 1-2 inches apart.
2. Bake for 8-10 minutes, rotating trays halfway through.
3. Cool cookies completely on a wire rack.

Step 4: Make the Marshmallow Filling

1. Beat marshmallow fluff, confectioners’ sugar, butter, and vanilla extract until light and fluffy.

Step 5: Assemble the Whoopie Pies

1. Pair cookies of similar size.
2. Pipe or spread a generous layer of filling onto one cookie.
3. Gently press another cookie on top to form a sandwich.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving for the best texture.

Notes

• For Extra Moist Cookies: Let them sit overnight before serving.
• For a Firmer Filling: Chill it before piping.
• For Mini Whoopie Pies: Use a teaspoon-sized scoop for smaller treats.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: Whoopie pies

Conclusion

Whoopie pies are a fun, nostalgic dessert that’s easy to make and endlessly customizable. Whether you prefer the classic chocolate-marshmallow combination or an exciting twist like pumpkin spice or s’mores, there’s a whoopie pie for everyone.

Why not try baking a batch this weekend? Share your creations in the comments below!