Amish Whoopie Pies

Amish Whoopie Pies: A Taste of Lancaster County

The aroma of freshly baked Amish Whoopie Pies fills my kitchen, a comforting scent that transports me back to my childhood. These aren't just cookies; they're a piece of history, a testament to resourceful Amish women who turned leftover cake batter into a culinary masterpiece. The story goes that Amish men, upon discovering these delightful treats in their lunchboxes, would exclaim, "Whoopie!" And whoopie, indeed, we do when we bite into their moist, subtly sweet goodness.

This recipe, passed down through generations, is a treasured family heirloom, a culinary tradition passed through our family for ages. The secret lies not only in the precise balance of ingredients but also in the love and care poured into each step. The rich, decadent chocolate cake, perfectly complemented by the airy, fluffy cream filling, creates a symphony of flavors that's simply irresistible. It's the kind of treat that evokes feelings of nostalgia and family gatherings; the kind of cake that disappears almost too fast! I often use these pies for all sorts of gatherings, whether it's a family get-together, a casual coffee date with the girls, or even a small potluck at my office. There is always someone who enjoys them, even the pickiest eaters in my family, they are that good!

I remember my grandmother's kitchen, always bustling with activity, the scent of baking always permeating the air. She taught me the importance of using only the finest ingredients and paying close attention to every detail. Making these whoopie pies is more than just following a recipe; it's a connection to the past, a way to honor the traditions that have been handed down to me. Every time I bake these, I feel a deep sense of connection to my heritage, a comforting sense of continuity amidst the ever-changing world. The perfect combination of simple ingredients, carefully measured and expertly combined, results in a truly unforgettable experience for the palate. One bite, and you are transported to a simpler time, where community and tradition reigned supreme. These whoopie pies are more than just dessert; they are a story, a tradition, and a celebration of family and simple pleasures.

The process itself is remarkably straightforward. From creaming together the shortening and sugar to carefully sifting the dry ingredients, each step contributes to the final result. The addition of hot coffee adds an unexpected depth of flavor that elevates the chocolate cake to a new level. And let's not forget the luscious cream filling. Light and airy, it's the perfect counterpoint to the rich chocolate cake. I’ve experimented with adding different flavors to the filling over the years, occasionally adding a touch of peanut butter, or even a hint of orange extract for a unique twist. But, most of the time I stick to the original recipe – it's simply perfection as is.

These Amish Whoopie Pies are not just a delicious dessert; they are a culinary journey into the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch Country. They are a symbol of warmth, community, and the simple joys of life. Their versatility extends beyond the simple dessert category. They’re a perfect addition to a picnic basket, a welcome treat for unexpected guests, a thoughtful gift for neighbors, or a sweet indulgence enjoyed quietly with a cup of coffee.

Beyond their delectable taste, these whoopie pies possess a remarkable characteristic: they freeze exceptionally well! I often double the recipe and freeze half for future enjoyment. This allows me to enjoy the delightful taste of these homemade treats whenever the craving strikes. They remain incredibly moist and flavorful even after freezing, just a testament to the excellence of this treasured recipe. So whether you're a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, I encourage you to try your hand at making these Amish Whoopie Pies. They are a simple yet rewarding baking experience that will surely leave you with a sweet memory to savor. The satisfaction of creating something so delicious and sharing it with loved ones is unparalleled, a feeling that transcends the simple act of baking. It’s a feeling of connection, a taste of tradition, and a reminder of the simpler, sweeter things in life.

Step-by-step

• Cream shortening and sugar in a large bowl, slowly add eggs one at a time.
• In separate bowl sift the flour, cocoa, salt and baking soda.
• Gradually add to the creamed mixture and alternate with the buttermilk.
• Mix in the hot coffee.
• Drop by teaspoonfuls 3 inches apart (they spread so only put 12 on a large cookie pan).
• Bake at 375 for 8-10 minutes.
• Let them cool completely on wax paper before filling them.
• FILLING (I usually double the recipe)
• Beat (on high) the egg whites until stiff and fluffy.
• Gradually add the vanilla just a few drops at a time while continuing to beat.
• Add milk, 10X sugar and flour (in that order).
• Add shortening and softened butter and continue to beat until very fluffy.
• Take one completely cooled cookie and add 2 tablespoons (or more if you'd like) of cream filling.
• Top with another cookie making a "sandwich".
• These freeze well if wrapped individually and last 2 months in the freezer.