Whoopie Pies
These cream-filled sandwich cakes are wildly popular in Maine and parts of Central Pennsylvania, where they are sometimes called Gobs. The legend is that kids would shout Whoopie when they got one, and the name stuck.
These cream-filled sandwich cakes are wildly popular in Maine and parts of Central Pennsylvania, where they are sometimes called Gobs. The legend is that kids would shout Whoopie when they got one, and the name stuck.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups confectioners' sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 cup shortening
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup shortening
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 cup firmly packed brown sugar
- 2 large egg yolks
- 2 large egg whites
- Carbohydrate 112.929835607676 g
- Cholesterol 1337.44465510333 mg
- Fat 77.3335977424084 g
- Fiber 1.28987502679671 g
- Protein 22.009763337738 g
- Saturated Fat 35.4279289397913 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (323g)
- Sodium 881.199737996062 mg
- Sugar 111.63996058088 g
- Trans Fat 4.04618613915802 g
- Calories 1224 calories
Step-by-step
- For the cakes: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line 2 baking sheets with silicon mats or parchment paper and lightly spray with cooking spray.
- In a stand mixer with the paddle attachment, cream together the shortening, sugar, yolks, and vanilla.
- In another bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add half the dry ingredients to the shortening mixture, beating to incorporate. Add the milk, then the rest of the dry ingredients and mix until smooth.
- Scoop 1/4-cup portions of the batter onto the prepared baking sheets to form 16 cakes, leaving about 2 inches between each. Pat to form 2 1/2-inch circles. Bake for 15 minutes, until the cakes are set. Let cool on a wire rack.
- For the filling: In a stand mixer with the paddle attachment, beat the egg whites to stiff peaks. Transfer to another bowl and set aside. Return the bowl and paddle attachment to the stand mixer and cream together the shortening and sugar, then add the salt and vanilla. Take the bowl off the stand mixer. Add the egg whites to the shortening mixture and use a whisk to mix them together.
- To assemble: When the cakes are completely cool, spread the flat side of one chocolate cake with a generous amount of filling. Top with another cake, pressing down gently to distribute the filling evenly. Repeat with all cookies.
- Wrap the whoopie pies individually in plastic wrap, or place them in a single layer on a platter (do not stack them, as they’ll stick together).
- To freeze, wrap each whoopie pie in plastic wrap and freeze. To serve, defrost the wrapped pies in the refrigerator.
Whoopie Pies: A Sweet Treat from My Kitchen
The aroma of freshly baked whoopie pies fills my kitchen, a comforting scent that takes me back to simpler times. These delightful treats, with their soft, chocolatey cakes and creamy, dreamy filling, hold a special place in my heart. They’re more than just a dessert; they’re a reminder of childhood joys, of sharing laughter and sweetness with loved ones. I remember my grandmother making these, her hands moving with practiced ease, the kitchen alive with the sounds of the mixer and the happy chatter of family.
The recipe itself is surprisingly straightforward. The cakes are rich and moist, with a perfect balance of sweetness and cocoa. The filling is light and airy, a cloud of fluffy goodness that complements the deep chocolate flavor of the cakes perfectly. It's the perfect blend of textures - the soft, slightly cakey outside gives way to the smooth, creamy inside, creating a delightful contrast in every bite. I've tweaked the recipe over the years, adding a little extra vanilla here, a pinch more salt there, until I achieved the perfect balance of flavors. It's a recipe I've perfected over years of baking, testing, and most importantly, sharing.
Making these whoopie pies isn't just about following a recipe; it's about the process, the joy of creating something delicious from scratch. The act of measuring ingredients, mixing the batter, and carefully assembling the pies is a meditative experience for me. It's a chance to slow down, to focus on the task at hand, and to appreciate the simple pleasures of cooking. The end result is not just a delicious treat but a reflection of my love for baking and my desire to share this happiness with others.
The best part? These whoopie pies are incredibly versatile. I’ve experimented with different flavor combinations, adding nuts, chocolate chips, or even a hint of espresso to the batter. The possibilities are endless! And the beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability; feel free to get creative and make it your own. Whether you're a seasoned baker or just starting out, these whoopie pies are a wonderful way to express your creativity in the kitchen.
I often find myself making these for special occasions, potlucks, or just a simple afternoon treat. They always disappear quickly, a testament to their irresistible appeal. The happy faces of those who enjoy them are the best reward. Making these whoopie pies is more than just baking; it's about creating memories, sharing joy, and spreading a little sweetness wherever they go. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to be swept away by the delightful magic of homemade whoopie pies. It’s a recipe for happiness, one bite at a time.
Beyond their delicious taste and simple preparation, whoopie pies also offer a unique opportunity for creativity and personalization. From the classic chocolate to more adventurous flavors like peanut butter, cookies and cream, or even pumpkin spice, the possibilities are truly limitless. You can adjust the sweetness level, add various extracts or spices, and even decorate them with sprinkles or frosting for an extra touch of whimsy. The adaptability of the recipe allows it to be a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. The process is more than a simple recipe; it is an invitation to experiment, and each batch offers a fresh possibility to explore your culinary creativity.
Moreover, making whoopie pies is a fantastic activity to share with others, particularly children. The simple steps involved make it a perfect project for a family baking day, creating lasting memories and a sense of accomplishment. The measuring, mixing, and assembling all provide valuable hands-on experience in the kitchen, fostering a love for cooking and baking from an early age. It’s a fun way to teach essential cooking skills while creating delicious treats together, making it a valuable and memorable experience for all involved.
Ultimately, whoopie pies are more than just a dessert; they're a symbol of simpler times, of sharing joy, and of the sweet rewards of homemade goodness. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, the joy of creating these delectable treats will leave a lasting impression and perhaps even inspire you to explore your culinary creativity further. So, go ahead, embrace the simple pleasures of baking, and let the delightful aroma of whoopie pies fill your kitchen with love and happiness.
