Ingredients
– 2 cups flour Forms the base for tender, cake-like cookies.
– 3 tbsp cocoa powder Adds the signature red velvet chocolate hint without overpowering.
– 1 tsp baking soda Helps the batter rise for light, fluffy results.
– 1 tsp salt Balances sweetness and enhances flavors.
– 1/2 cup softened butter Creates richness and moisture in the dough.
– 1 cup sugar Provides sweetness and structure.
– 1 egg Binds ingredients for cohesion.
– 1 tsp vanilla extract Infuses aromatic depth.
– 1 cup buttermilk Delivers tanginess key to red velvet taste.
– 2 tbsp red food coloring Gives the iconic vibrant red color.
– 8 oz cream cheese, room temperature Base for tangy cream cheese frosting.
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened Makes frosting smooth and spreadable.
– 2 tsp vanilla extract Boosts flavor in the filling.
– 4 cups powdered sugar Sweetens and thickens the frosting; sift for smoothness.
Instructions
1-First Step: Prepare dry ingredients
Whisk together 2 cups flour, 3 tbsp cocoa powder, 1 tsp baking soda, and 1 tsp salt in a medium bowl. This ensures even distribution for consistent rise. Set aside while you mix wet components.
2-Second Step: Mix wet ingredients
In a large bowl, beat 1/2 cup softened butter and 1 cup sugar until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Add 1 egg, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 1 cup buttermilk, and 2 tbsp red food coloring. Beat until smooth; the batter turns bright red here.
3-Third Step: Combine batters
Gently fold dry ingredients into wet mixture until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep cookies soft. The dough will be thick and sticky, ideal for scoopable mounds.
4-Fourth Step: Scoop and bake
Drop 2-tablespoon scoops onto prepared sheets, spacing 2 inches apart. Bake at 350ยฐF (175ยฐC) for 10-12 minutes until tops spring back. Cool on sheets 5 minutes, then transfer to racks. Repeat for remaining dough.
5-Fifth Step: Make cream cheese frosting
Beat 8 oz room-temperature cream cheese and 1/2 cup softened unsalted butter until creamy. Add 2 tsp vanilla and a pinch of salt. Gradually mix in 4 cups sifted powdered sugar until fluffy. For stability, stir in 1 tbsp cornstarch if desired.
6-Sixth Step: Assemble whoopie pies
Pair cooled cookies by size. Spread or pipe 2-3 tbsp frosting on flat sides. Press together gently. Chill 30 minutes to set if needed.
7-Final Step: Finishing touches and serving
Dust with powdered sugar or add sprinkles for flair. Serve at room temp for best texture. Store as detailed later. Total time: 45 minutes active, plus cooling. Tips: Use gel food coloring for truer red. Test one cookie first for doneness.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
๐ก๏ธ Room temperature ingredients mix better and create a smoother texture for both cookies and filling
๐จ Use gel food coloring for a more vibrant red color without adding too much liquid
โ๏ธ These whoopie pies can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cooling Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 whoopie pie
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
