Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This whoopie pie recipe is loved for its rich chocolate flavor combined with a smooth and sweet marshmallow filling. The cake portion is soft and fudgy, while the filling provides the perfect balance of sweetness. The recipe is quick and easy, making it ideal for both experienced bakers and beginners alike.

Ingredients

For the Batter

1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa (we used Nestle’s Special Dark)
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup vegetable shortening (we used Crisco)
1 cup sugar
1 egg
1 cup whole milk
2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For the Filling

8 ounces marshmallow fluff (half of a 16-ounce container)
1 cup confectioners’ sugar
1/2 cup vegetable shortening (we used Crisco)
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Approximately 1 tablespoon milk (to get filling to good consistency)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 450°F. Line two cookie sheets with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, combine cocoa, flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Stir to mix. Set aside.
In the bowl of a stand mixer with the paddle attachment, cream together the shortening and sugar. Add egg, milk, and vanilla extract, mixing well.
Slowly add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients and mix well.
Using a medium (1½ ounce) scoop, place scoops of batter onto the prepared cookie sheets, about 12 per sheet.
Bake one sheet at a time for 6-7 minutes. The tops may look a little wet, but that’s fine. Use a spatula to remove them and place them on a wire cooling rack.
Once the cakes have cooled completely, prepare the filling. In a stand mixer, combine marshmallow fluff, confectioners’ sugar, shortening, and vanilla extract. Mix until completely combined. Add milk as needed to achieve a soft, spreadable consistency.
Spread or pipe the filling onto the flat side of one cake, then top with another to create a sandwich.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields about 16 whoopie pies.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 7 minutes
Total time: 17 minutes

Variations

Flavor variations: You can add other extracts such as almond or mint to the filling for a unique twist.
Chocolate chips: Add chocolate chips to the batter for extra chocolatey goodness.
Decorations: Dust the finished pies with powdered sugar or dip them in melted chocolate for an added touch.

Storage/Reheating

Store whoopie pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. If you’d like, you can also freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, let them come to room temperature before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of cocoa powder?

Yes, you can use regular unsweetened cocoa powder, but using a darker variety like Nestle’s Special Dark gives the pies a richer flavor.

2. Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the filling ahead of time. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge and bring it to room temperature before using.

3. Can I use margarine instead of vegetable shortening?

Yes, margarine can be substituted for vegetable shortening in both the batter and the filling.

4. Can I use buttermilk instead of whole milk?

Yes, buttermilk can be substituted for whole milk. It will give the batter a slightly tangy flavor, which can enhance the overall taste.

5. How can I make the cakes fluffier?

To make the cakes fluffier, ensure that you don’t overmix the batter. Also, using fresh baking powder and soda will give the best rise.

6. How do I prevent the pies from spreading too much?

Use a cookie scoop to control the size of each cake and ensure even spacing on the baking sheet to prevent spreading.

7. Can I make smaller whoopie pies?

Yes, you can use a smaller scoop to create mini whoopie pies. Just adjust the baking time accordingly.

8. What should I do if the filling is too stiff?

If the filling is too stiff, add a little more milk to achieve the desired consistency.

9. Can I use store-bought marshmallow fluff?

Yes, store-bought marshmallow fluff works just fine and is what is typically used in this recipe.

10. Can I add other fillings to the pies?

Yes, you can get creative with different fillings like cream cheese frosting, peanut butter, or even Nutella.

Conclusion

These whoopie pies are an irresistible dessert that combines rich chocolate cake with a sweet marshmallow filling. Perfect for any occasion, they’re simple to make and guaranteed to impress. With endless variations and easy storage options, this is a recipe you’ll want to make again and again!

Whoopie Pies Recipe

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Whoopie Pies are a delightful New England classic dessert made with fudgy chocolate cake and a sweet, creamy marshmallow filling. Perfect for any occasion, these delicious pies are a family favorite!

Author: Emily
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 7 minutes
Total Time: 17 minutes
Yield: 16 pies
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 450°F and line two cookie sheets with parchment paper.
Combine dry ingredients (cocoa, flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt) in a bowl and set aside.
Cream shortening and sugar, add egg, milk, and vanilla, mixing well.
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients and mix.
Use a scoop to drop batter onto cookie sheets, bake for 6-7 minutes.
Once cooled, prepare filling by mixing marshmallow fluff, sugar, shortening, vanilla, and milk.
Assemble the pies by placing filling between two cake pieces.

Notes

Ensure the cakes cool completely before adding the filling.
Adjust milk to achieve the desired consistency of the filling.