Red velvet whoopie pies are more than just a dessert; they are a deliciously sweet treat that combines the velvety richness of red velvet cake with the creamy goodness of a traditional whoopie pie. This recipe offers a perfect balance of flavors, with the cocoa powder giving the cake its characteristic flavor and the cream cheese filling adding a tangy, creamy contrast.
The ingredients for this recipe are fairly common, but there are a couple that you might not have readily available at home. One is buttermilk, which gives the red velvet its distinctive tang. If you don't have it, you can make a quick substitute by adding a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to a cup of milk and letting it sit for about 10 minutes. The other is red gel food coloring, which gives the whoopie pies their iconic color. Most supermarkets will stock these items.
Ingredients for Red Velvet Whoopie Pies
All-purpose flour: This is the base of the whoopie pies, providing structure.
Cocoa powder: Gives the whoopie pies their chocolatey flavor.
Baking soda: A leavening agent that helps the whoopie pies rise.
Salt: Enhances the other flavors.
Unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps with the texture.
Brown sugar: Provides sweetness and moisture.
Egg: Binds the ingredients together and provides moisture.
Buttermilk: Gives the whoopie pies a tangy flavor.
Vanilla extract: Adds depth of flavor.
Red food coloring: Gives the whoopie pies their iconic red color.
Cream cheese: The base of the filling, providing a creamy, tangy contrast to the sweet whoopie pies.
Confectioners’ sugar: Sweetens the filling and helps it reach a spreadable consistency.
One reader, Bradford Dugger says:
This red velvet whoopie pies recipe is a game-changer! The cookies turned out soft and moist, and the cream cheese filling was the perfect balance of sweet and tangy. The deep red color was stunning, and they were a hit at my party. I'll definitely be making these again!
Techniques Required for Making Red Velvet Whoopie Pies
How to prepare the red velvet whoopie pies batter: Combine the dry ingredients and beat the wet ingredients together until smooth and creamy.
How to achieve the desired red hue: Gradually add the red food coloring until the batter reaches the desired deep red color.
How to bake the whoopie pies: Spoon or scoop mounds of batter onto prepared baking sheets and bake at 350°F for 10 to 12 minutes or until the centers appear set.
How to make the cream cheese filling: Beat the cream cheese until smooth, then add the butter, confectioners’ sugar, and vanilla, and beat until combined and creamy.
How to assemble the whoopie pies: Spread the cream cheese filling onto the flat side of one cookie and sandwich it with another, then repeat with the remaining cookies.
How to store the whoopie pies: Cover the leftover whoopie pies and store them in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
How To Make Red Velvet Whoopie Pies
Smooth and sweet cream sandwiched between two soft and fluffy red-colored cookies makes these red velvet whoopie pies a pleasant sight and a superb treat.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 2cupsall-purpose flour,spoon & leveled
- 3tbspunsweetened natural cocoa powder
- 1tspbaking soda
- ½tspsalt
- ½cupunsalted butter,softened to room temperature
- 1cupbrown sugar,packed light
- 1large egg,room temperature
- ⅔cupbuttermilk,room temperature
- 2tsppure vanilla extract
- gel red food coloring
For Cream Cheese Filling:
- 6ozcream cheese,block, softened to room temperature
- ¼cupunsalted butter,softened to room temperature
- 1½cupsconfectioners’ sugar,sifted plus more for topping
- ½tsppure vanilla extract
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. Set aside.
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Whisk the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt together.
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In a large bowl using a hand-held or stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the butter for 1 minute on medium-high speed until completely smooth and creamy.
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Add the brown sugar and beat on medium-high speed until fluffy and combined. Beat in egg on high speed, scraping down the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed.
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Once the egg is fully combined, beat in the vanilla and buttermilk. The mixture may look curdled at first.
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At low speed, slowly mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until combined. Add enough food coloring to achieve a deep red hue.
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Spoon or scoop mounds of batter, about 1 and ½ tablespoons each, onto prepared baking sheets– about 3-inch apart.
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Bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes or until centers appear set. Allow cooling completely before sandwiching.
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In a large bowl using a hand-held or stand mixer fitted with a paddle or whisk attachment, beat the cream cheese for 1 minute on high speed until completely smooth and creamy.
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Beat in the butter until combined. Add the confectioners’ sugar and vanilla and beat on medium-high speed until combined and creamy.
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Pair the cookies up based on their size. Spread cream cheese filling onto the flat side of one cookie and sandwich with the other. Repeat with remaining.
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Sprinkle confectioners’ sugar on top of each if desired. Cover leftover whoopie pies and store them in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Nutrition
- Calories: 173.65kcal
- Fat: 8.63g
- Saturated Fat: 5.18g
- Trans Fat: 0.23g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 2.24g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.41g
- Carbohydrates: 22.44g
- Fiber: 0.53g
- Sugar: 13.86g
- Protein: 2.18g
- Cholesterol: 31.07mg
- Sodium: 112.40mg
- Calcium: 25.28mg
- Potassium: 54.90mg
- Iron: 0.69mg
- Vitamin A: 78.75µg
- Vitamin C: 0.07mg
Crucial Technique for Perfect Red Velvet Whoopie Pies
When adding the red food coloring to your batter, start with a small amount and gradually add more until you achieve the desired color. Adding too much at once can result in an overly bright and artificial-looking red. Remember, you can always add more color, but you can't take it away once it's mixed in. Also, using a gel food coloring instead of a liquid one will give you a more intense color without altering the consistency of your batter.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Recipe
Prepare the dry ingredients: Combine the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt in a bowl beforehand to save time during the mixing process.
Use a cookie scoop: Use a cookie scoop to portion the batter onto the baking sheets for evenly sized whoopie pies, saving time and ensuring uniform shape.
Chill the filling: Prepare the cream cheese filling ahead of time and chill it in the refrigerator to save time during assembly.
Bake in batches: If your oven is not large enough to bake all the whoopie pies at once, bake them in batches to save time and ensure even baking.
Use a stand mixer: Utilize a stand mixer for mixing the batter and filling to save time and effort compared to mixing by hand.
Pre-measure ingredients: Pre-measure all the ingredients before starting the recipe to streamline the baking process and save time.
Use parchment paper: Line the baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent the whoopie pies from sticking, saving time on washing up.
Substitute Ingredients For Red Velvet Whoopie Pies Recipe
all-purpose flour - Substitute with cake flour: Cake flour has a lower protein content, resulting in a lighter and more tender texture, which is ideal for whoopie pies.
unsweetened natural cocoa powder - Substitute with Dutch-processed cocoa powder: Dutch-processed cocoa powder has a smoother, more mellow flavor and will give the whoopie pies a richer chocolate taste.
unsalted butter - Substitute with vegetable shortening: Vegetable shortening can be used as a substitute for butter to create a softer texture in the whoopie pies.
buttermilk - Substitute with milk with vinegar or lemon juice: Adding vinegar or lemon juice to milk can mimic the tangy flavor of buttermilk and provide the necessary acidity for the recipe.
cream cheese - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can provide a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture to the filling while reducing the overall fat content.
confectioners’ sugar - Substitute with granulated sugar: Granulated sugar can be processed in a food processor to create a finer texture similar to confectioners' sugar for the filling.
Presenting Your Homemade Whoopie Pies
Elevate the plating: When presenting the red velvet whoopie pies, focus on creating a visually stunning plate. Use a clean, white plate to allow the vibrant red color of the whoopie pies to pop. Arrange the whoopie pies in a circular pattern, and consider adding a dusting of confectioners’ sugar for an elegant touch.
Incorporate garnishes: Add a touch of sophistication to the presentation by incorporating edible garnishes. Fresh raspberries or strawberries can be strategically placed around the whoopie pies to add a burst of color and freshness. Additionally, consider using mint leaves as a delicate and aromatic garnish.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to create a balanced and visually appealing presentation. Avoid overcrowding the plate and allow the whoopie pies to be the focal point. This will create a sense of elegance and refinement.
Consider the plating angle: When presenting the whoopie pies, consider the angle at which they are placed on the plate. Experiment with different angles to find the most visually appealing arrangement. A slight tilt or overlapping of the whoopie pies can add dimension to the presentation.
Incorporate symmetry: Aim for symmetry in the plating arrangement to create a sense of harmony and balance. Whether arranging the whoopie pies in a straight line or a circular pattern, symmetry can enhance the overall visual impact of the presentation.
Highlight the cream cheese filling: Showcase the luscious cream cheese filling by ensuring it is evenly distributed between the whoopie pies. Consider using a piping bag to create uniform dollops of filling, adding a touch of finesse to the presentation.
Add a touch of gold leaf: For an extra touch of luxury, consider delicately placing edible gold leaf on the plate. The subtle shimmer of gold can elevate the presentation and add a touch of opulence to the dessert.
Use a minimalist approach: Embrace a minimalist approach to plating by focusing on simplicity and clean lines. Allow the vibrant red color of the whoopie pies to take center stage, with minimal additional elements on the plate to create a refined and sophisticated presentation.
Essential Tools for Making Red Velvet Whoopie Pies
- Oven: Preheat to 350 degrees F for baking the whoopie pies.
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mats: Use to line the baking sheets to prevent the whoopie pies from sticking.
- Whisk: Use to combine the dry ingredients such as flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Hand-held or stand mixer: Use to beat the butter, cream cheese, and other ingredients for the whoopie pies and the cream cheese filling.
- Paddle attachment: Use with the hand-held or stand mixer to mix the batter and cream cheese filling.
- Large baking sheets: Use to bake the whoopie pies.
- Spoon or scoop: Use to portion the batter onto the prepared baking sheets.
- Cooling rack: Use to cool the baked whoopie pies before assembling.
- Mixing bowl: Use to mix and combine the ingredients for the whoopie pies and the cream cheese filling.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Use to measure the ingredients accurately.
Storing and Freezing Your Homemade Whoopie Pies
- Allow the whoopie pies to cool completely before storing them. This will prevent condensation from forming and making them soggy.
- Store the whoopie pies in an airtight container, separating each layer with a piece of parchment paper or wax paper to prevent them from sticking together.
- Keep the stored whoopie pies in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. The cream cheese filling will help keep them fresh and moist.
- If you want to freeze the whoopie pies, follow these steps:
- Place the assembled whoopie pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or wax paper.
- Put the baking sheet in the freezer for about 2 hours, or until the whoopie pies are frozen solid.
- Once frozen, transfer the whoopie pies to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, separating each layer with parchment paper or wax paper.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
- Freeze for up to 2 months.
- To thaw frozen whoopie pies, transfer them from the freezer to the refrigerator and let them defrost for several hours or overnight. This will help prevent condensation from forming on the surface of the cookies.
- For best results, consume the thawed whoopie pies within 2-3 days of defrosting. Do not refreeze previously frozen whoopie pies, as this may affect their texture and quality.
How to Reheat Leftover Whoopie Pies
- To reheat leftover red velvet whoopie pies, start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature will ensure that the whoopie pies are heated through without burning or drying out.
- Place the whoopie pies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This will prevent the whoopie pies from sticking to the pan and make cleanup easier.
- If the cream cheese filling has hardened in the refrigerator, let the whoopie pies sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before reheating. This will allow the filling to soften slightly and prevent it from melting too quickly in the oven.
- Once the oven is preheated, place the baking sheet with the whoopie pies inside and bake for 5-7 minutes. Keep a close eye on them to ensure they don't overheat or burn.
- Alternatively, you can reheat the whoopie pies in the microwave. Place one or two whoopie pies on a microwave-safe plate and heat them in 10-second intervals until they reach your desired temperature. Be careful not to overheat them, as the filling may become too soft and start to melt.
- If you want to restore some of the freshness and softness to the red velvet cake part of the whoopie pies, you can wrap them loosely in damp paper towels before reheating in the microwave. This will help to reintroduce some moisture into the cake.
- For a crispy exterior and a soft, warm interior, you can also reheat the whoopie pies in an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the whoopie pies in the basket, ensuring they aren't touching each other. Heat for 2-3 minutes, or until warmed through.
- Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure to let the whoopie pies cool for a minute or two before serving, as the filling may be quite hot. Once cooled slightly, dust with confectioners' sugar, if desired, and enjoy your perfectly reheated red velvet whoopie pies!
Interesting Fact About Red Velvet Whoopie Pies
The red velvet whoopie pies recipe is a popular dessert that originated in the United States. It is believed to have been created by the Amish community and was traditionally made from leftover cake batter. The dessert gained popularity during the Great Depression when bakers began using red food coloring and cream cheese filling to make it more visually appealing. Today, it is a beloved treat enjoyed by many and is often served at parties and special occasions.
Is Making Red Velvet Whoopie Pies at Home Cost-Effective?
The cost-effectiveness of this red velvet whoopie pies recipe largely depends on the availability and cost of ingredients in your area. While cream cheese and cocoa powder can be pricier, the basic pantry staples like flour, sugar, and butter are generally affordable. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15-$20. Considering the indulgent nature of this dessert, the overall verdict rating for this recipe would be 8/10. The rich, decadent flavor and the joy it brings make it a worthwhile treat for special occasions.
Are Red Velvet Whoopie Pies Healthy or Unhealthy?
The red velvet whoopie pies recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main concerns are:
- High sugar content from the brown sugar and confectioners' sugar
- Significant amount of butter, which is high in saturated fat
- Use of all-purpose flour, which is refined and lacks fiber
- Cream cheese filling, adding more fat and sugar to the treat
However, there are a few redeeming qualities, such as the use of unsweetened natural cocoa powder, which provides some antioxidants, and the inclusion of buttermilk, which adds a slight tang and helps create a tender texture.
To make this recipe healthier without compromising too much on taste and texture, consider the following modifications:
- Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat pastry flour to increase fiber content
- Reduce the amount of brown sugar and confectioners' sugar by 25% to lower the overall sugar content
- Use low-fat cream cheese in the filling to cut down on saturated fat
- Incorporate grated zucchini or beets into the batter for added moisture, nutrients, and natural sweetness, allowing for further reduction of sugar
- Experiment with alternative sweeteners like coconut sugar or date sugar, which have a lower glycemic index compared to refined sugars
- Serve the whoopie pies with fresh fruit to add more nutrients and fiber to the dessert
Editor's Opinion on Red Velvet Whoopie Pies
The red velvet whoopie pies recipe is a delightful treat with a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The moist and tender red velvet cookies sandwich a luscious cream cheese filling, creating a harmonious blend of sweetness and tanginess. The addition of buttermilk and cocoa powder enhances the depth of flavor, while the vibrant red hue adds a visual appeal. The recipe's clear instructions make it accessible for both novice and experienced bakers, and the end result is a decadent indulgence that is sure to impress.
Enhance Your Red Velvet Whoopie Pies Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Red Velvet Whoopie Pies Recipe:
This red velvet whoopie pies recipe guarantees success with its carefully tested and perfected combination of unsweetened natural cocoa powder, buttermilk, and cream cheese filling. The step-by-step instructions ensure a flawless outcome, and the use of pure vanilla extract and gel red food coloring adds depth and richness to the flavor and appearance. Trust in the expertise behind this recipe to create delectable desserts that will impress and delight anyone who tries them.
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