If you have a sweet tooth and crave a dessert that feels like a warm hug, then you are in for a treat with the Best Whoopie Pie Recipe. These soft, cakey little sandwich treats are bursting with rich chocolate flavor balanced perfectly by a dreamy, marshmallow-infused filling that is buttery, fluffy, and utterly addictive. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just to satisfy your own cravings, this recipe strikes that flawless harmony between cake and cream that makes whoopie pies an irresistible delight. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll quickly become your go-to dessert for celebrations or anytime you need a little pick-me-up.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, everyday ingredients come together to create the magic behind this recipe. Each one plays a crucial role—whether adding to texture, flavor, or that signature rich chocolate tone—making the process straightforward yet rewarding.
- Light brown sugar: Adds sweetness with a hint of molasses for deeper flavor and moistness.
- Salted butter: Provides richness and helps tenderize the cake layers.
- Vanilla bean paste: Brings true vanilla essence that elevates both cake and filling.
- Coffee extract: Enhances the chocolate flavor subtly without overpowering.
- Salt: Balances sweetness and intensifies overall taste.
- Egg: Binds ingredients and adds structure.
- Cake flour: Keeps the cakey layers soft and delicate.
- Dutch process cocoa powder: Provides a rich, mellow chocolate foundation.
- Malted milk powder: Offers a subtle malt depth that’s surprisingly delicious.
- Black cocoa powder: Adds extra dark color and intense chocolate notes.
- Baking powder and baking soda: Leavening agents that create the perfect rise.
- Espresso powder (optional): Amplifies the chocolate flavor for aficionados.
- Buttermilk: Tenderizes the cake with acidity and moisture.
- Unsalted butter (for filling): Creamy base for the luscious marshmallow filling.
- Butter flavored shortening: Helps stabilize filling to keep it light yet firm.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens and smooths the filling perfectly.
- Heavy cream: Adds silkiness and richness to the frosting.
- Marshmallow fluff: The star ingredient for that fluffy, dreamy filling.
- Melting wafers: Used for dipping to add a crisp chocolate shell (optional).
- Sprinkles: Fun, colorful garnish for a festive touch.
How to Make Best Whoopie Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
Begin by creaming the light brown sugar with salted butter, vanilla bean paste, coffee extract, and salt until it’s fluffy and aromatic—this step really builds the flavor foundation. Then add the egg and whisk until fully incorporated. The batter at this stage is already rich and inviting.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift and whisk together cake flour, Dutch cocoa powder, malted milk powder, black cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and espresso powder. These dry ingredients bring intense chocolate depth and ensure your whoopie pies have that perfect cakey texture.
Step 3: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients Alternately
Gradually add the dry mixture to the batter in thirds, alternating with buttermilk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Beat everything until fully combined for a smooth, thick batter. Then rest the batter for 15 minutes to allow the cocoa to bloom and the flavors to meld—trust me, it’s worth the wait.
Step 4: Bake the Cakes
Preheat the oven to 350°F and line baking sheets with parchment paper. Using a #40 scoop or an equivalent measuring tool, portion out even mounds of batter spaced well apart. Smooth out any peaks with a wet finger then bake for 9 to 11 minutes. You want the tops to spring back gently without cracking, indicating just the right tenderness. Let cool fully before assembling.
Step 5: Make the Marshmallow Filling
Cream the unsalted butter, butter-flavored shortening, vanilla bean paste, and salt for two minutes until light and fluffy—this salty-sweet balance is what makes the filling so addictive. Gradually add powdered sugar combined with heavy cream, scraping the bowl frequently. Finally, fold in marshmallow fluff until the mixture is luxuriously smooth and fluffy. Adjust sweetness or saltiness to your preference.
Step 6: Assemble the Whoopie Pies
Use the same sized scoop to dollop the filling on the flat side of one cake, then gently sandwich with a second cake. Press lightly so the filling reaches the edges without spilling over. For an ultra indulgent treat, feel free to stack two scoops of filling for an extra fluffy bite.
Step 7: Optional Chocolate Dipping and Decoration
For a decadent finish, melt your melting wafers in the microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently to avoid burning. Dip half of each whoopie pie into the melted chocolate and place on parchment to set. Use reserved chocolate to drizzle over the pies and sprinkle colorful decorations for a festive feel. This extra step turns your whoopie pies into a celebration-ready masterpiece.
How to Serve Best Whoopie Pie Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like colorful sprinkles, rainbow nonpareils, or even finely chopped nuts can add both texture and visual appeal. If you have a chocolate drizzle left over, a few artful lines across the assembled pies make them look extra special and inviting.
Side Dishes
Whoopie pies pair wonderfully with a cold glass of milk or a cup of steaming coffee to balance the sweetness. Fresh berries on the side add a bright contrast that complements the richness without overpowering.
Creative Ways to Present
For dessert tables or parties, arrange your whoopie pies on a tiered cake stand and sprinkle edible flowers or dust with powdered sugar for a whimsical look. Alternatively, serve them in individual mini boxes or wrapping them in parchment tied with twine makes a charming homemade gift that everyone will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover whoopie pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate for up to five. Keep them separated by parchment layers to prevent sticking and preserve their soft texture.
Freezing
You can freeze assembled whoopie pies for up to three months. Wrap each pie tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight for best results.
Reheating
For a freshly baked feel, warm your whoopie pies gently in a microwave for 10-15 seconds or let them come to room temperature. Avoid overheating as it can melt the filling and change the texture.
FAQs
Can I use regular cocoa powder instead of Dutch process?
While regular cocoa powder works in a pinch, Dutch process cocoa gives the cake a smoother, less acidic chocolate flavor and a darker color, making the whoopie pies richer and more visually appealing.
What is the purpose of malted milk powder in this recipe?
Malted milk powder adds a subtle, toasty sweetness that deepens the chocolate flavor and adds a slight caramel undertone; it’s a little secret ingredient that makes these pies extra special.
Is it necessary to rest the batter before baking?
Yes, resting allows the cocoa flavors to intensify and the batter to thicken slightly, which improves the texture of the baked cakes, making them more tender and moist.
Can I make these whoopie pies gluten-free?
Yes, by substituting the cake flour with a gluten-free blend designed for cakes, you can enjoy these treats gluten-free. Just be mindful of adjusting the leavening slightly and ensuring the blend you use performs well in chocolate cakes.
How do I prevent the filling from being too sweet?
Balancing the filling with a pinch of salt, as suggested, offsets the sweetness nicely. You can also slightly reduce the powdered sugar or increase the amount of butter for a richer, less sweet filling.
Final Thoughts
There is truly nothing like savoring a homemade whoopie pie that melts in your mouth and hits every note of sweet, chocolatey, and fluffy goodness. This Best Whoopie Pie Recipe has all the careful flavor pairing, tender texture, and nostalgic charm you want in a timeless dessert. Whether you’re making them for friends, family, or just yourself, it’s an absolute joy to create and enjoy. So, grab your ingredients and start baking — these delightful treats are sure to bring smiles with every bite!
Print
Best Whoopie Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 35 minutes
- Cook Time: 11 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 51 minutes
- Yield: 18 whoopie pies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Best Whoopie Pie Recipe features tender, chocolatey cake rounds sandwiched with a rich, fluffy marshmallow buttercream filling. Enhanced with a hint of coffee and malt, these classic, soft treats are perfect for dessert or celebrations. You can make bite-sized, regular, or giant whoopies, and optionally dip them in melted chocolate and decorate with sprinkles.
Ingredients
Cake
- 1 cup light brown sugar (200g, packed)
- ½ cup salted butter (113g, room temperature)
- 1 tablespoon vanilla bean paste
- 1 teaspoon coffee extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 2¼ cups cake flour (292g)
- ½ cup Dutch process cocoa powder (50g)
- 2 tablespoons malted milk powder (20g)
- 2 teaspoons black cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon espresso powder (optional)
- 1 cup buttermilk (240mL, room temperature)
Filling
- 1 cup unsalted butter (227g, cold and cubed)
- ½ cup butter flavored shortening (113g)
- 1 tablespoon vanilla bean paste
- ½ to 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 cups powdered sugar (400g)
- 2 ounces heavy cream (60mL)
- 1¼ cups marshmallow fluff (125g)
Decoration (Optional)
- 10 ounces melting wafers
- Sprinkles
Instructions
- Prepare the cake batter: In the bowl of a stand mixer, beat 1 cup light brown sugar, ½ cup salted butter, 1 tablespoon vanilla bean paste, 1 teaspoon coffee extract, and ½ teaspoon salt on medium-high speed for 4 minutes, scraping the bowl halfway through.
- Add egg: Beat in 1 large egg for 1 minute until fully incorporated. Scrape down the bowl sides.
- Mix dry ingredients: Whisk together 2¼ cups cake flour, ½ cup Dutch process cocoa powder, 2 tablespoons malted milk powder, 2 teaspoons black cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon baking powder, ½ teaspoon baking soda, and ½ teaspoon espresso powder in a separate bowl.
- Combine wet and dry: Add the dry ingredients in three parts to the mixer bowl alternating with 1 cup buttermilk, starting and ending with dry. Mix on medium speed for 1 minute. Scrape down the bowl and mix for another 30 seconds.
- Rest batter: Fold the batter with a rubber spatula and set aside for 15 minutes to rest.
- Preheat oven & prepare pans: Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C) and line two 13×18-inch baking pans with parchment paper.
- Portion batter: Using a #40 scoop, place level scoops on baking sheets spaced at least 3 inches apart. Optionally, use a #16 scoop for larger whoopies or #100 for bite-sized.
- Smooth peaks: Use a wet finger to gently smooth down any peaks on the batter mounds.
- Bake: Bake standard size for 9-11 minutes until tops spring back and are not cracked. Large whoopies bake 10-12 minutes, bite-sized 7 minutes.
- Cool: Let cakes cool on the pan for 5-10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before filling.
- Prepare filling: In a stand mixer, cream 1 cup cold unsalted butter, ½ cup butter-flavored shortening, 1 tablespoon vanilla bean paste, and ½ to 1 teaspoon salt for 2 minutes.
- Add powdered sugar & cream: Beat in 4 cups powdered sugar and 2 ounces heavy cream, adding 1 cup/powdered sugar and 1 tablespoon cream at a time, scraping bowl sides after each addition until smooth.
- Incorporate marshmallow fluff: Mix in 1¼ cups marshmallow fluff until fully combined, adjusting salt and powdered sugar to taste and thickness preference.
- Assemble whoopie pies: Use the same scoop to place filling on the bottom of each cake and sandwich with another cake. You may stack double filling if preferred.
- Optional chocolate dip: Melt 10 ounces melting wafers in 30-second microwave intervals, stirring until smooth. Dip whoopies halfway and place on parchment.
- Decorate: Drizzle remaining chocolate using a piping bag and add sprinkles for decoration.
Notes
- Espresso powder in the cake is optional but enhances chocolate depth.
- Using cold butter in the filling helps it hold shape and texture better.
- Adjust salt in filling to balance sweetness and enhance flavor.
- You can customize whoopie pie size by choosing different scoop sizes as specified.
- Melting wafers can be replaced by any chocolate coating of choice for dipping.
- Allow cakes to cool completely to prevent melting the filling during assembly.
