There’s a certain joy that comes with creating something delightful from scratch, and these Homemade Red Velvet Whoopie Pies are the perfect embodiment of that happiness. The minute I take that first bite, I’m transported back to a carefree afternoon, where laughter filled the air and sweet memories were made over warm treats.
I first encountered this fabulous recipe at a friend’s gathering, where the vibrant color and luscious cream filling caught my eye. As I savored each bite, I decided I had to recreate this treat at home, and that journey of discovery led me to a creation that's beautifully tender and bursting with flavor.
With just a handful of ingredients, these whoopie pies are not only incredibly easy to make but are guaranteed to impress anyone lucky enough to taste them. Whether it's a cozy night in or a festive gathering, these treats will elevate any occasion and bring that homemade warmth to your kitchen. I can’t wait to share this recipe with you—let’s bring some joy and sweetness into our lives with these vibrant red velvet delights!
Why You'll Love This Red Velvet Whoopie Pies
- These Red Velvet Whoopie Pies are an absolute breeze to whip up, making them a perfect choice for both novice bakers and seasoned pros.
- The rich, velvety flavor paired with the creamy filling creates a taste experience that is simply irresistible.
- Their stunning red hue ensures that they will steal the show on any dessert table, making them a visual delight.
- Not only are they time-saving, with a total prep and bake time of just over half an hour, but they are also guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser that will leave your guests raving about your baking skills.
Red Velvet Whoopie Pie Ingredients
• Perfect for whipping up these delightful treats!
For the Cookies
- Unsalted butter – helps create a rich and tender texture for the cookies.
- Sugar – sweetens the dough and contributes to the lovely color.
- Egg – adds moisture and stability to the whoopie pies.
- All-purpose flour – provides structure; make sure you measure it correctly for the best results.
- Black cocoa powder – brings a deep, bold flavor that balances the sweetness.
- Baking powder – ensures that your whoopie pies rise perfectly.
- Baking soda – works alongside the vinegar to promote proper rising.
- Kosher salt – enhances the flavors in the cookies.
- Buttermilk – keeps the cookies moist and adds a subtle tang.
- White vinegar – activates the baking soda and keeps the cookies tender.
- Vanilla extract – adds a warm, inviting flavor.
For the Cream Filling
- Cream cheese – gives the filling a luscious, smooth texture that pairs beautifully with the cookies.
- Unsalted butter – adds richness and creaminess to the frosting.
- Powdered sugar – sweetens the filling and gives it a light, fluffy consistency.
These Red Velvet Whoopie Pies are sure to become a cherished homemade treat, bringing a slice of joy to every occasion!
How to Make Red Velvet Whoopie Pies
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare two baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
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Mix the dry ingredients in a bowl. Combine all-purpose flour, black cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and kosher salt. This mixture will ensure your whoopie pies have the perfect texture.
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Combine the wet ingredients in another container. Whisk together buttermilk, white vinegar, and red food coloring until the color is even. The vibrant red will make your whoopie pies stunning!
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Cream the softened butter and sugar together in a large mixing bowl until the mixture is fluffy and light in color. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing well to incorporate air for a light treat.
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Combine the mixtures. Gently add half of the dry ingredients into the butter mixture, then pour in the buttermilk mixture, followed by the rest of the dry ingredients. Mix just until incorporated to keep the cookies tender.
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Pipe the batter onto your prepared baking sheets, creating 2-inch circles. To eliminate peaks, gently smooth the tops with a spatula if necessary.
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Bake for about 8 minutes, watching closely until they spring back when touched. Let the cookies cool completely on the baking sheets before moving them.
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Beat the filling ingredients in a separate bowl. Mix the chilled cream cheese and unsalted butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until creamy and light.
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Assemble the whoopie pies by pairing cookies of similar size. Pipe a generous amount of the cream filling onto one cookie and sandwich it with another. Enjoy these delightful treats chilled or at room temperature.
Optional: Dust with a little cocoa powder or powdered sugar for an elegant touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Red Velvet Whoopie Pies
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Room Temperature: Store your Red Velvet Whoopie Pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps their delightful texture intact while allowing the flavors to meld.
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Fridge: If you prefer a cooler treat, refrigerate the whoopie pies in a sealed container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 5 days, and the chilled filling provides a refreshing bite.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the assembled whoopie pies individually wrapped in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll maintain their taste and texture for up to 3 months.
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Reheating: To enjoy them warm, simply let the frozen whoopie pies thaw in the fridge overnight, and then microwave for 10-15 seconds before serving. This gives you that soft, comforting feel you love!
Make Ahead Options
These delectable Red Velvet Whoopie Pies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy sweet treats with ease! You can bake the cookies up to 3 days in advance—simply cool them completely before placing them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their softness. For the cream filling, prepare it up to 24 hours ahead and store it in the refrigerator in a sealed container to keep it fresh. When you’re ready to assemble, just pipe the filling between the cookies and serve! With these make-ahead options, you can save time and have delightful whoopie pies ready for any occasion—just as delicious as when freshly made!
Red Velvet Whoopie Pie Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize these whoopie pies to make them even more delightful and fitting for your taste!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a similar texture and flavor without the gluten.
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Less Sweet: Reduce the sugar in the cookie batter and cream filling slightly to tone down the sweetness while keeping the flavor rich.
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Chocolate Twist: Add a tablespoon of dark chocolate chips to the batter for a chocolatey surprise in every bite. This will create a delightful contrast with the cream filling.
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder into the batter for a surprise heat that elevates the flavor profile.
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Nutty Flavor: Mix in finely chopped walnuts or pecans into the cookie dough. This adds a satisfying crunch and nutty aroma that pairs beautifully with the cream cheese filling.
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Berry Filling: Swap out some of the cream cheese with mashed raspberries or strawberries for a fruity infusion that lightens up the dessert.
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Coconut Lover: Stir in shredded coconut to the cream filling for a tropical twist. The chewy texture complements the softness of the whoopie pies wonderfully.
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Coffee Infusion: Add a teaspoon of instant espresso powder to the batter for a rich, coffee flavor that enhances the chocolate notes beautifully.
What to Serve with Red Velvet Whoopie Pies?
Delighting in homemade treats is best paired with equally enticing dishes that elevate the experience.
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Coffee Bliss: A rich cup of coffee perfectly balances the sweetness of the whoopie pies, making each bite a cozy treat.
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Velvety Hot Cocoa: For a luxurious pairing, serve with hot cocoa topped with whipped cream—it's a match made in dessert heaven.
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Creamy Milkshake: A thick vanilla milkshake enhances the indulgence of the cookies, providing a delicious textural contrast with each flavorful bite.
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Festive Fruit Salad: Bright, fresh berries add a refreshing brightness that beautifully contrasts the rich chocolate and cream of the whoopie pies.
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Chilled Lemonade: The tartness of lemonade cuts through the sweet flavors, offering a delightful balance and a refreshing sip.
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Classic Ice Cream: Vanilla or cream cheese ice cream can be an excellent addition, added as a side or even sandwiched between two whoopie pies for a double dessert experience.
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Sparkling Water: A bubbly drink makes for an ideal palate cleanser, making every bite of whoopie pie feel new and exciting.
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Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: Add elegance and romance to your dessert table; these bites of sweetness pair beautifully with the whoopie pies and are visually stunning!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Red Velvet Whoopie Pies, ensure your butter and egg are at room temperature for optimal mixing and texture.
- Avoid overmixing the batter after adding the wet and dry ingredients, as this can lead to tough cookies.
- For a more vibrant color, use gel food coloring instead of liquid, as it won't affect the batter's consistency.
- Keep an eye on your baking time; they only need about 8 minutes in the oven, and overbaking can dry them out.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets completely before assembling to prevent the cream filling from melting.
Red Velvet Whoopie Pies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe ingredients for Red Velvet Whoopie Pies?
Absolutely! Using the best ingredients is key. For the best flavor, ensure your egg is fresh (check the date!), and use room temperature unsalted butter for a creamy consistency. If you're using buttermilk, make sure it's not past its expiration date. Fresh ingredients elevate your baking!
How should I store my Red Velvet Whoopie Pies?
You can keep your whoopie pies at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them in a sealed container for up to 5 days. This storage method helps keep both the cookies and filling fresh and delicious!
Can I freeze my Red Velvet Whoopie Pies?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap each assembled whoopie pie in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll maintain their flavor and texture for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy them, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm them in the microwave for a few seconds to regain their softness.
What should I do if my whoopie pies spread too much while baking?
Very important! If your dough spreads excessively, it could be due to the butter being too warm or not chilling it long enough. To troubleshoot, try refrigerating your piped circles for about 15-20 minutes before baking. This will help the cookies hold their shape while they rise.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of when making Red Velvet Whoopie Pies?
Great question! If you're catering to dietary restrictions, you can substitute the cream cheese frosting with a dairy-free alternative. Additionally, for those with gluten sensitivities, consider using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to maintain the texture without compromising flavor. Always double-check individual ingredient labels for common allergens!
Red Velvet Whoopie Pies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare two baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix the dry ingredients in a bowl. Combine all-purpose flour, black cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and kosher salt.
- Combine the wet ingredients in another container. Whisk together buttermilk, white vinegar, and red food coloring until the color is even.
- Cream the softened butter and sugar together until fluffy, then add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing well.
- Gently add half of the dry ingredients into the butter mixture, then pour in the buttermilk mixture, followed by the rest of the dry ingredients.
- Pipe the batter onto prepared baking sheets, creating 2-inch circles. Smooth the tops with a spatula if necessary.
- Bake for about 8 minutes, watching closely until they spring back when touched. Let the cookies cool completely.
- Beat the filling ingredients until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until creamy.
- Assemble the whoopie pies by pairing cookies. Pipe a generous amount of the cream filling onto one cookie and sandwich it with another.
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