Red Velvet Whoopie Pies Recipe

Luscious Red Velvet Whoopie Pies Recipe: Irresistibly Sweet Treats

Sweet dreams converge with red velvet whoopie pies that blend nostalgic comfort and playful dessert magic.

Soft crimson cakes sandwich creamy filling, creating a delightful handheld treat.

Rich cocoa notes dance through each pillowy bite, promising indulgence without complexity.

Bakery-style charm meets homemade warmth in these irresistible little pies.

Classic southern charm meets modern dessert innovation with each tender morsel.

Compact yet decadent, these whoopie pies invite you to savor every velvety moment.

Prepare to experience a dessert that whispers pure deliciousness.

Red Velvet Whoopie Pies That Delight

  • Create Stunning Dessert Showstoppers: Red velvet whoopie pies transform ordinary baking into an impressive treat that looks professionally crafted.
  • Bake with Minimal Effort: Simple mixing technique and straightforward ingredients make this recipe accessible for bakers of all skill levels, ensuring consistent delicious results every single time.
  • Perfect Party Crowd-Pleaser: These individual handheld desserts are fantastic for gatherings, potlucks, and celebrations where guests can enjoy a cute, personalized sweet treat without complicated serving.
  • Customize Your Creativity: Experiment with different food coloring shades or add sprinkles to the cream cheese filling for a personalized touch that makes each whoopie pie uniquely yours.

Ingredients for Red Velvet Whoopie Pies

Dry Ingredients:
  • All-Purpose Flour: The base for creating the soft and tender cake-like texture of the whoopie pies.
  • Cocoa Powder: Provides the rich chocolate flavor and deep color for the red velvet cakes.
  • Salt: Enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness of the dessert.
  • Baking Soda: Helps the cakes rise and creates a light, fluffy texture.
Wet Ingredients:
  • Buttermilk: Adds moisture and creates a tender crumb in the whoopie pie cakes.
  • Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and contribute to the structure of the cakes.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and warmth to the overall flavor profile.
  • Red Food Coloring: Creates the signature vibrant red color of red velvet desserts.
Filling and Sweeteners:
  • Butter, Granulated Sugar, Brown Sugar: Provide sweetness and create a rich, creamy base for the cakes.
  • Cream Cheese: Forms the base of the classic tangy and smooth whoopie pie filling.
  • Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and helps thicken the cream cheese frosting.
  • Heavy Cream: Adjusts the consistency of the filling to create a smooth, spreadable texture.

How to Bake Red Velvet Whoopie Pies

Step 1: Prepare Baking Station

Set the oven to 350°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper, creating a clean workspace for your delicious treats.

Step 2: Create Dry Ingredient Blend

Combine in a small bowl:
  • Flour
  • Cocoa powder
  • Salt
  • Baking soda

Whisk these ingredients until they’re perfectly mixed and lump-free.

Step 3: Whip Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, cream together butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar.

Beat until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and pale in color.

Step 4: Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla

Add eggs to the butter-sugar mixture one at a time.

Beat thoroughly after each addition. Pour in vanilla extract and mix until the batter becomes smooth and airy.

Step 5: Add Vibrant Color

Splash in red food coloring, stirring carefully to create a rich, deep red color. Scrape down the bowl’s sides to ensure even color distribution.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Alternate adding buttermilk and dry ingredient mixture to the batter. Start and end with buttermilk, mixing gently to create a smooth, consistent batter.

Step 7: Scoop and Arrange Batter

Use a cookie scoop to drop batter onto prepared baking sheets. Space each scoop about 2 inches apart to allow room for spreading.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Slide the baking sheets into the oven. Bake for 10 minutes or until cakes spring back when lightly touched.

Step 9: Cool the Cakes

Let cakes rest on baking sheets for 3-4 minutes. Transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Step 10: Whip Creamy Filling

Beat together:
  • Softened cream cheese
  • Butter
  • Vanilla extract

Mix until smooth and well combined.

Step 11: Create Fluffy Frosting

Gradually add powdered sugar to the cream cheese mixture.

Beat until light and fluffy.

Step 12: Adjust Filling Consistency

Slowly incorporate heavy cream, one tablespoon at a time, until the filling reaches a spreadable consistency.

Step 13: Assemble Whoopie Pies

Use cookie scoop to portion filling onto the flat side of one cake. Gently place a second cake on top, pressing lightly to spread filling to the edges.

Step 14: Serve and Enjoy

Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. These delightful treats are perfect for any occasion!

Pro Tips for Red Velvet Whoopie Pies

  • Chill the baking sheets before scooping batter to prevent spreading and maintain perfect cake shape.
  • Replace buttermilk with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a tangy, rich alternative that keeps cakes moist.
  • Sift dry ingredients thoroughly to eliminate lumps and ensure smooth, consistent cake texture.
  • Use gel food coloring for more intense red color without adding extra liquid to the batter.
  • Let whoopie pies sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving to soften the filling and enhance flavor.

Variations to Customize Whoopie Pies

  • Gluten-Free Red Velvet Whoopie Pies: Replace wheat flour with a gluten-free blend or almond flour, ensuring the same texture and rich flavor while making the dessert celiac-friendly.
  • Vegan Red Velvet Whoopie Pies: Substitute butter with coconut oil, eggs with flax eggs, cream cheese with cashew-based cream cheese, and use plant-based milk to create a compassionate, dairy-free version.
  • Low-Sugar Red Velvet Whoopie Pies: Swap granulated sugar with monk fruit sweetener or stevia, reduce overall sugar content, and use natural beet juice for coloring to create a healthier alternative for those watching their sugar intake.

Pairings to Serve with Red Velvet Whoopie Pies

  • Select a full-bodied red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot that complements the rich, sweet flavor of the red velvet whoopie pies, enhancing the chocolate undertones and providing a luxurious tasting experience.
  • Accompany the dessert with a smooth cappuccino or latte, whose rich, velvety texture and slight bitterness perfectly balance the sweetness of the whoopie pies, creating a delightful afternoon treat.
  • Top or serve alongside a scoop of high-quality vanilla bean ice cream, whose cool, creamy texture and subtle vanilla notes will highlight the dessert's red velvet complexity and provide a refreshing contrast.

Storage Advice for Red Velvet Whoopie Pies

  • Store whoopie pies in a sealed container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. Keep refrigerated for up to 3-4 days to maintain freshness and prevent cream cheese frosting from spoiling.
  • Individually wrap each whoopie pie in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Preserve texture and flavor by avoiding condensation.
  • Remove frozen whoopie pies from freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator for 2-3 hours. Allow them to come to room temperature naturally for the best taste and texture.

FAQs

  • What makes red velvet whoopie pies different from regular cupcakes?

Red velvet whoopie pies have a softer, cake-like texture and are sandwiched with cream cheese frosting, creating a portable and handheld dessert that’s easier to eat than traditional cupcakes.

  • Can I make these whoopie pies ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cakes and frosting in advance. Store the cakes and frosting separately in the refrigerator, and assemble them just before serving to maintain the best texture and freshness.

  • How do I ensure my whoopie pies have a perfect red color?

Use gel food coloring instead of liquid, as it provides a more vibrant red color without thinning the batter. Add the coloring gradually and mix thoroughly to achieve an even, rich red hue.

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Red Velvet Whoopie Pies Recipe

Red Velvet Whoopie Pies Recipe


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4.6 from 20 reviews

  • Total Time: 37 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Red velvet whoopie pies combine classic Southern charm with playful dessert design. Cream cheese frosting nestled between two pillowy chocolate-tinged cakes creates irresistible handheld treats you’ll savor with pure delight.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups (720 ml) all-purpose flour
  • 6 tbsps unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup (240 ml) buttermilk
  • 1 cup (200 g) light brown sugar (packed)
  • 1/2 cup (115 g) salted butter (softened)
  • 1/3 cup (67 g) granulated sugar
  • 2 tsps vanilla extract
  • 1 tbsp red liquid or gel food coloring
  • 1 1/2 tsps baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese (softened)
  • 1/2 cup (115 g) salted butter (softened)
  • 3 cups (360 g) powdered sugar (sifted)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 23 tbsps heavy cream

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F and prepare two parchment-lined baking sheets.
  2. Sift together flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking soda in a separate bowl.
  3. Cream butter with granulated and brown sugars until light and fluffy.
  4. Incorporate eggs into the butter mixture, mixing until smooth and aerated.
  5. Blend in vanilla extract and red food coloring, ensuring a rich, vibrant crimson tone.
  6. Gradually alternate adding buttermilk and dry ingredient mixture to the batter, mixing until just combined.
  7. Drop batter onto prepared sheets using a cookie scoop, spacing each mound approximately 2 inches apart.
  8. Bake for 10-12 minutes until cakes are slightly springy and edges appear set.
  9. Cool cakes on baking sheets for 3-4 minutes, then transfer to wire rack.
  10. Whip cream cheese, butter, and vanilla until smooth and creamy.
  11. Slowly add powdered sugar, mixing until frosting becomes thick and spreadable.
  12. Adjust frosting consistency by incorporating heavy cream one tablespoon at a time.
  13. Flip half of the cooled cakes flat-side up and generously spread filling.
  14. Gently sandwich remaining cakes on top of filled surfaces.
  15. Refrigerate or serve immediately, storing any leftovers in an airtight container.

Notes

  • Ensure buttermilk is at room temperature for smoother batter incorporation and better cake texture.
  • Sift dry ingredients thoroughly to prevent cocoa powder and flour clumps for a more uniform cake.
  • Use gel food coloring for more vibrant red color without altering batter consistency.
  • When filling whoopie pies, chill cream cheese frosting briefly for easier spreading and more stable structure.
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 312 kcal
  • Sugar: 34 g
  • Sodium: 160 mg
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Saturated Fat: 9 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.3 g
  • Carbohydrates: 41 g
  • Fiber: 1.5 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 50 mg
Clara Bennett

Clara Bennett

Contributing Recipe Developer & Food Writer

Expertise

Baking and Pastry Development, Gluten-Free and Allergy-Friendly Recipe Creation, Culinary Storytelling and Food Journalism, Recipe Testing and Standardization, Southern Comfort Foods and Modern Twists

Education

Sullivan University – National Center for Hospitality Studies
Associate Degree in Culinary Arts

Focus: Baking and Pastry Arts, Recipe Testing, and Culinary Journalism.

Clara specialized in crafting desserts that blend classic Southern comfort with modern techniques, while developing strong writing skills to tell the story behind every dish.

Lane Community College (Certificate Program)
Certificate in Food Writing and Photography

Focus: Culinary storytelling, recipe formatting, food styling, and visual presentation.


Clara’s love of baking started young, powered by homemade pies, biscuits, and stories passed around the family table.
After earning her degree at Sullivan University and a food writing certificate at Lane Community College, she turned her passion into a craft: sharing recipes that are simple, soulful, and always full of heart.
She’s big on bold flavors, flexible ideas, and creating sweets that fit any table (yes, even if you’re gluten-free). When she’s not baking, you’ll find her wandering farmers’ markets, styling food for the next photo shoot, or working on her ever-growing recipe journal.

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