Small Batch Whoopie Pies

Easy

A Taste of Childhood for Most

Whoopie pies. Just the name conjures up images of delightful, cake-like sandwiches, often associated with childhood treats and bake sales. I didn’t grow up with Whoopie Pies, and have discovered their joys as an adult.

While the classic Whoopie Pie with its marshmallow-y white filling holds a special place in many hearts, I wanted a variation that wasn’t so sweet.  My version has a cream cheese frosting that adds a tangy, rich dimension and echoes the buttermilk in the recipe. 

Where Does the Whoopie in Whoopie Pies Come From?

The origin of the "whoopie" in Whoopie Pie is a bit of a mystery, with several delightful theories swirling around. One popular tale, often attributed to Amish and Pennsylvania Dutch communities, suggests that when these delicious cake-like treats were discovered in lunchboxes, the lucky recipient would exclaim "Whoopie!" in sheer delight. 

Where Did Whoopie Pies Start - a Heated Debate

While the "whoopie!" exclamation might be universally recognized, the actual birthplace of the whoopie pie is a hotly debated topic, primarily between the states of Maine and Pennsylvania. 

Dover-Foxcroft Maine hosts an annual Whoopie Pie Festival every year in June right around the start of Summer

Mainers often point to Labadie's Bakery in Lewiston, claiming they've been selling them since 1925, though documented proof is elusive due to a fire. Their argument is bolstered by the fact that Maine declared the Whoopie Pie its official state treat in 2011. 

On the other side, Pennsylvania, particularly its Amish and Pennsylvania Dutch communities, asserts that Whoopie Pies (often called "gobs" in the western part of the state) originated from resourceful homemakers using leftover cake batter, with recipes passed down through generations. 

Some food historians even suggest earlier claims from Massachusetts, adding another layer to this confectionary conundrum. Ultimately, while the precise origin remains a charming mystery, what's clear is that these delightful treats have a rich history woven into the culinary fabric of the Northeastern United States.

Experiment and Enjoy

But the world of Whoopie Pies extends far beyond just chocolate cakes and creamy centers. Imagine swapping out the chocolate for a vibrant red velvet (from Sally's Baking), spiced pumpkin (from Taste of Home), or even raspberry-lemon (from Better Home & Gardens). I also got lost looking at S'more's Whoopie Pies, Gingerbread Whoopie Pies, and Snickerdoodle Whoopie Pies. Not traditional, but really interesting.

And when it comes to fillings, the possibilities are equally endless. Beyond the classic and my cream cheese frosting, you could explore peanut butter, peppermint, rich ganache, fruit curds, or even a delicate espresso buttercream. How yummy would that be?  It may be on my testing list soon.

Each variation offers a unique canvas for flavor and texture, inviting you to experiment and personalize this humble yet impressive dessert. So, get ready to discover a new favorite Whoopie Pie, one delectable bite at a time!

Jen Vondenbrink is a cooking, food, and lifestyle blogger at Appetite for Life since 2020.  Jen Vondenbrink has over 35 years of professional cooking experience apprenticing with local pastry and artisan bread makers, working for culinary innovator J. Bildner & Sons in Boston, as well as Starbucks Coffee Company in Seattle, Washington. Jen Vondenbrink has published cookbooks such as Thanksgiving Recipes From Home, Fun Summer Recipes, and the Cozy Soup Cookbook.  Jen Vondenbrink also hosts the Appetite for Life Cooking Club, where members get insights to enhance their cooking.  Jen Vondenbrink offers cooking classes and cooking coaching, working one-on-one with people to strengthen their cooking knowledge and skills.