Red Velvet Whoopie Pies are a classic American treat that combines soft, crimson-colored cookies with a sweet and tangy cream cheese filling. These whoopie pies are perfect for special occasions, offering a delightful blend of flavors and textures in every bite.
INGREDIENTS- All-purpose flour: 2 cups
- Cocoa powder: 2 tbsp
- Baking soda: 1/2 tsp
- Salt: 1/4 tsp
- Unsalted butter: 1/2 cup, softened
- Granulated sugar: 1 cup
- Egg: 1 large
- Vanilla extract: 1 tsp
- Buttermilk: 1/2 cup
- Red food coloring: 1 tbsp
- Unsalted butter: 1/2 cup, softened (for filling)
- Cream cheese: 8 oz, softened
- Powdered sugar: 3 cups
- Vanilla extract: 1 tsp (for filling)
- Step 1:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Step 2:
- Sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt in a mixing bowl.
- Step 3:
- In a separate large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing well.
- Step 4:
- Gradually fold in the dry ingredients, alternating with buttermilk. Stir in the red food coloring until the batter is smooth.
- Step 5:
- Drop spoonfuls of the batter onto the lined baking sheets, leaving space between each. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until set.
- Step 6:
- For the filling, beat the softened butter, cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until smooth and creamy.
- Step 7:
- Once the cookies have cooled, spread or pipe the cream cheese filling onto the flat side of one cookie, then sandwich it with another.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature for the best flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- For longer storage, freeze the whoopie pies for up to 2 months.
- Ensure the cookies are fully cooled before adding the cream cheese filling to prevent melting.
- Use gel food coloring for a more vibrant red hue.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef’s Tip: Add a splash of lemon juice to the filling for extra tanginess.
The rich cocoa flavor of red velvet combined with the tangy sweetness of cream cheese makes these whoopie pies irresistible.
Customizing Your Whoopie PiesAdd sprinkles or crushed nuts to the edges of the filling for a fun twist.
FAQsCan I make these ahead of time?
Yes, prepare and store in an airtight container in the fridge until ready to serve.
Are these cookies soft or crunchy?
The cookies are soft and tender, perfect for sandwiching with the creamy filling.
Can I use a different filling?
Yes, you can use buttercream, marshmallow fluff, or chocolate ganache as alternative fillings.
How do I get a deeper red color?
Use a gel-based food coloring for a more vibrant and intense red hue.