Indulge in the deliciousness of homemade whoopie pies. These classic American treats consist of two soft and fluffy chocolate cake-like cookies sandwiched together with a creamy filling. With a hint of vanilla and a rich chocolate flavor, these whoopie pies are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. They are perfect for sharing with friends and family or for indulging in a sweet treat just for yourself. Follow this easy recipe and impress everyone with your homemade whoopie pies.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup boiling water
- 1/2 cup vegetable shortening
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
Directions
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and mix until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the boiling water to thin the batter. The batter will be thin.
- Drop spoonfuls of the batter onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until the tops of the cookies spring back when lightly touched. Allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet.
- In a separate mixing bowl, beat the vegetable shortening and vanilla extract until creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and milk, beating well after each addition, until the filling is smooth and fluffy.
- Spread a generous amount of filling onto the flat side of one cookie. Top with another cookie, flat side down, to create a sandwich.
- Repeat with the remaining cookies and filling.
- Serve the whoopie pies immediately or refrigerate for a firmer filling.
Interesting Facts
Whoopie pies are believed to have originated in the Amish community of Pennsylvania, but they have since become popular throughout the United States.
In Maine, whoopie pies are considered a traditional treat and have even been proposed as the official state dessert.
The name 'whoopie pie' is said to have originated from the exclamation of Amish children when they found these treats in their lunchboxes.