If you are searching for a Red Velvet Whoopie Pies recipe that tastes bakery-fresh, looks irresistible, and feels truly homemade, you are in the right place. These delightful sandwich treats combine the nostalgic charm of classic whoopie pies with the rich, cocoa-kissed flavor of red velvet cake. The result is a dessert that is soft, moist, slightly tangy, and filled with a smooth cream cheese filling that melts gently with every bite.
This Red Velvet Whoopie Pies recipe is written to guide you step by step, just as a home baker would explain it to a friend. You will understand not only how to make them, but why each step matters. From the origin of red velvet desserts to ingredient choices, preparation methods, variations, and common questions, this guide is designed to help you master this recipe confidently and repeatedly.
What Are Red Velvet Whoopie Pies?
Red Velvet Whoopie Pies are soft, cake-like cookies sandwiched together with a creamy filling, most commonly cream cheese frosting. Unlike traditional cookies, whoopie pies have a tender crumb similar to cake, thanks to ingredients like buttermilk and baking soda. When the classic whoopie pie structure meets the flavor profile of red velvet, the result is a dessert that balances mild chocolate notes, subtle tanginess, and a luxurious texture.
In a typical Red Velvet Whoopie Pies recipe, cocoa powder is used sparingly. The chocolate flavor is not dominant but rather supportive, allowing the red velvet taste to remain distinct. The vinegar and buttermilk combination enhances softness and reacts with baking soda, creating a light and fluffy interior.
Origin of Red Velvet Whoopie Pies
To understand the charm of a Red Velvet Whoopie Pies recipe, it helps to know where these elements come from. Red velvet desserts have roots in the United States, particularly in the early 20th century. Originally, cocoa powder reacted naturally with acidic ingredients to produce a reddish hue. Over time, red food coloring became standard to achieve that iconic deep red color.
Whoopie pies, on the other hand, are believed to have originated in the northeastern United States, especially in Pennsylvania. Traditionally made with chocolate cake rounds and marshmallow filling, they were a beloved homemade treat packed into lunchboxes.
The modern Red Velvet Whoopie Pies recipe merges these two classics. It keeps the soft sandwich format of whoopie pies while embracing the tangy, cocoa-infused elegance of red velvet cake. Today, these treats are popular at bakeries, celebrations, and home kitchens alike.
Ingredients with Quantity for Red Velvet Whoopie Pies
A successful Red Velvet Whoopie Pies recipe depends heavily on balance. Each ingredient plays a specific role in flavor, texture, and structure.
Red Velvet Cookies Ingredients
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 tablespoons red food coloring (liquid)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
Cream Cheese Filling Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3½ to 4 cups powdered sugar, adjusted to taste
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Using room-temperature dairy ingredients is particularly important in this Red Velvet Whoopie Pies recipe, as it helps create a smoother batter and a creamier filling.
Step-by-Step Direction and Preparation Method
Preparing the Red Velvet Cookie Batter
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and promote even baking.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. This step evenly distributes the dry ingredients and prevents pockets of cocoa or baking soda in the final cookies.
In a separate large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture appears light and fluffy. This process incorporates air, which is essential for the soft texture expected from a Red Velvet Whoopie Pies recipe.
Add the egg and beat until fully combined. In another bowl, mix the buttermilk, red food coloring, and vanilla extract. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk mixture. Begin and end with the dry ingredients to maintain batter stability.
Finally, gently stir in the vinegar. This step is crucial because the vinegar reacts with baking soda, contributing to the tender crumb that defines a great Red Velvet Whoopie Pies recipe.
Baking the Cookies
Using a scoop or spoon, portion 1½ to 2 tablespoons of batter onto the prepared baking sheets. Leave enough space between each portion to allow spreading.
Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the tops spring back lightly when touched. Avoid overbaking, as this can dry out the cookies. Transfer them to wire racks and allow them to cool completely before filling.
Making the Cream Cheese Filling
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition. Adjust the sugar quantity depending on how sweet and thick you want the filling.
Add vanilla extract and a pinch of salt, then beat again until the filling is light and spreadable. This rich filling is what elevates the Red Velvet Whoopie Pies recipe from good to unforgettable.
Assembling the Whoopie Pies
Once the cookies have cooled, turn half of them flat-side up. Spread or pipe a generous amount of cream cheese filling onto each base. Top with the remaining cookies, pressing gently until the filling reaches the edges.
For best texture, refrigerate the assembled pies for about 30 minutes before serving.
Variations of Red Velvet Whoopie Pies
One of the strengths of a Red Velvet Whoopie Pies recipe is its flexibility. Small changes can create exciting new flavors while keeping the core structure intact.
Some bakers enjoy adding mini chocolate chips to the cookie batter for extra richness. Others prefer swapping cream cheese filling with a vanilla buttercream for a milder taste. You can also adjust the size of the cookies to create bite-sized whoopie pies, which are perfect for parties.
For a seasonal twist, a hint of cinnamon or espresso powder in the batter can deepen flavor without overpowering the red velvet profile. These variations keep the Red Velvet Whoopie Pies recipe fresh and adaptable.
FAQs About Red Velvet Whoopie Pies Recipe
Why is vinegar used in this Red Velvet Whoopie Pies recipe?
Vinegar enhances the reaction with baking soda, helping the cookies rise properly. It also subtly balances sweetness and contributes to the classic red velvet taste without adding sourness.
Can I make Red Velvet Whoopie Pies ahead of time?
Yes, this recipe works well for advance preparation. You can bake the cookies a day ahead and store them airtight. Assemble with filling when ready to serve.
How should Red Velvet Whoopie Pies be stored?
Because of the cream cheese filling, store the assembled whoopie pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They stay fresh for up to three days.
Can I freeze Red Velvet Whoopie Pies?
You can freeze the unfilled cookies easily. Once thawed, fill them fresh for best texture and flavor.
Why are my whoopie pies flat?
Overmixing the batter or using expired baking soda can affect rise. Follow the steps closely to maintain the structure expected from a proper Red Velvet Whoopie Pies recipe.
Conclusion
This Red Velvet Whoopie Pies recipe brings together the softness of cake, the charm of classic sandwich treats, and the indulgence of cream cheese filling in one unforgettable dessert. By understanding the origin, respecting the ingredient balance, and following each step carefully, you can consistently create whoopie pies that look beautiful and taste exceptional. Whether you prepare them for a celebration or a simple homemade treat, these Red Velvet Whoopie Pies deliver comfort, flavor, and satisfaction in every bite.
Print
Red Velvet Whoopie Pies Recipe – Soft Cake Cookies with Cream Cheese Filling
- Total Time: 30–35 minutes
- Yield: 12 whoopie pies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Red Velvet Whoopie Pies are soft, cake-like cookies sandwiched together with a creamy filling, most commonly cream cheese frosting. Unlike traditional cookies, whoopie pies have a tender crumb similar to cake, thanks to ingredients like buttermilk and baking soda. When the classic whoopie pie structure meets the flavor profile of red velvet, the result is a dessert that balances mild chocolate notes, subtle tanginess, and a luxurious texture.
Ingredients
Red Velvet Cookies
2½ cups all-purpose flour
2 tbsp cocoa powder (unsweetened)
1 tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg (room temperature)
1 cup buttermilk
2 tbsp red food coloring (liquid)
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp white vinegar
Cream Cheese Filling
8 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
3½–4 cups powdered sugar (to taste)
1 tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
Instructions
1. Make the Cookies
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in the egg until fully incorporated.
Mix buttermilk, red food coloring, and vanilla in a separate bowl.
Add dry ingredients to the butter mixture alternately with the buttermilk mixture, starting and ending with dry ingredients.
Stir in vinegar (do not skip—this gives red velvet its classic texture).
Scoop 1½–2 tbsp of batter per cookie onto baking sheets, spacing 2 inches apart.
Bake 10–12 minutes, until tops spring back when lightly touched.
Cool completely on wire racks.
2. Make the Filling
Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
Add powdered sugar gradually until thick but spreadable.
Mix in vanilla and salt.
3. Assemble
Spread or pipe filling onto the flat side of one cookie.
Top with another cookie to form a sandwich.
Gently press until filling reaches the edges.
Notes
These Red Velvet Whoopie Pies store beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making them a great make-ahead dessert. For a festive touch, try rolling the edges in white chocolate chips or colorful sprinkles, or swap the classic cream cheese filling with a vanilla or marshmallow filling for a fun twist.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 whoopie pie
- Calories: ~320 kcal
Keywords: red velvet whoopie pies, red velvet sandwich cookies, red velvet cake cookies, whoopie pies with cream cheese filling, homemade red velvet whoopie pies
