Mini Chocolate Whoopie Pies

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bite-Sized Delight: Their mini size makes them perfect for portion control and easy snacking.
• Rich Chocolate Flavor: The combination of Dutch-processed cocoa powder and dark brown sugar provides a deep, indulgent taste.
• Versatile Filling: While the whipped ganache is decadent, you can customize the filling to your preference.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: They can be prepared in advance, making them convenient for gatherings.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Cookies:

• All-purpose flour
• Unsweetened Dutch-process cocoa powder
• Baking soda
• Coarse salt
• Vegetable shortening
• Granulated sugar
• Packed dark-brown sugar
• Unsalted butter, room temperature
• Large egg
• Whole milk
• Pure vanilla extract

For the Whipped Ganache:

• Semisweet or bittersweet chocolate (about 61% cacao)
• Heavy cream
• Coarse salt

Directions

1. Prepare the Cookie Dough:

   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
   • In a bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and a pinch of coarse salt.
   • In another bowl, using an electric mixer, cream together the vegetable shortening, granulated sugar, dark-brown sugar, and unsalted butter until light and fluffy.
   • Add the egg, whole milk, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, mixing until well combined.
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.

2. Bake the Cookies:

   • Using a 1-ounce ice cream scoop or tablespoon, drop mounds of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
   • Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the cookies are just starting to crack on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
   • Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack.

3. Prepare the Whipped Ganache:

   • Chop the chocolate finely and place it in a heatproof bowl.
   • In a saucepan, bring the heavy cream just to a boil over medium-high heat. Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate and let it sit for about 10 minutes without stirring.
   • After 10 minutes, add a pinch of coarse salt and whisk the mixture until smooth and shiny.
   • Let the ganache cool to room temperature, stirring occasionally for 45 minutes to 1 hour to prevent solidifying.
   • Once cooled, beat the ganache with an electric mixer on medium-high speed until it becomes pale and fluffy, about 2 to 4 minutes.

4. Assemble the Whoopie Pies:

   • Transfer the whipped ganache to a piping bag fitted with a 1/2-inch round tip.
   • Pipe about 2 to 2 1/2 teaspoons of ganache onto the flat side of half of the cookies.
   • Sandwich with the remaining cookies, pressing gently to spread the filling to the edges.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes approximately 32 mini whoopie pies.
• Prep Time: 1 hour
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 4 hours and 15 minutes (includes cooling and assembly)

Variations

• Alternative Fillings: Swap the whipped ganache for vanilla buttercream, cream cheese frosting, or marshmallow fluff for a different flavor profile.
• Flavor Enhancements: Add a teaspoon of instant espresso powder to the cookie batter for a mocha twist.
• Decorative Touches: Roll the edges of the filled whoopie pies in sprinkles, crushed nuts, or mini chocolate chips for added texture and visual appeal.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the assembled whoopie pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 5 days.
• Serving: Before serving, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes to allow the ganache to soften slightly.

FAQs

What is the origin of whoopie pies?

Whoopie pies are a classic, old-fashioned dessert that originated in the United States, particularly in Pennsylvania and Maine. They consist of two soft cookies with a creamy filling sandwiched between them.

Can I freeze mini whoopie pies?

Yes, you can freeze whoopie pies. Wrap each pie individually in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Can I use natural cocoa powder instead of Dutch-process?

No, Dutch-process cocoa powder is recommended for this recipe because it provides a smoother, less acidic taste and reacts differently with baking soda. Using natural cocoa powder may alter the texture and flavor.

Can I make these whoopie pies larger?

Yes, you can make standard-sized whoopie pies by using a larger scoop. Adjust the baking time accordingly, increasing it by a few minutes.

What can I use instead of vegetable shortening?

You can substitute vegetable shortening with an equal amount of unsalted butter, though the texture may be slightly different.

How do I prevent my whoopie pies from spreading too much?

Make sure your dough is properly chilled before baking, and avoid overmixing the batter. Using parchment paper instead of greased baking sheets also helps.

Can I use milk chocolate instead of semisweet or bittersweet chocolate?

Yes, but the ganache will be much sweeter. You may want to reduce the sugar in the cookie batter slightly to balance the flavors.

How long does the whipped ganache take to set?

The ganache should cool at room temperature for about 45 minutes to 1 hour before whipping. If it is still too soft, you can chill it slightly in the refrigerator.

Can I make the ganache in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the ganache a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Let it come to room temperature and rewhip before using.

What other fillings pair well with chocolate whoopie pies?

Peanut butter frosting, salted caramel buttercream, and raspberry jam are delicious alternatives to ganache.

Conclusion

Mini Chocolate Whoopie Pies are a delightful, bite-sized treat that delivers a rich chocolate flavor with a luscious whipped ganache filling. Whether you enjoy them fresh, chilled, or frozen, they make the perfect dessert for any occasion. Try experimenting with different fillings and flavors to customize them to your taste.