Whoopie Pie 101 - The Name, the Filling, Some History, and a Recipe

Believe it or not, the whoopie pie has a deep, deep history, and there is some heated debate around the origin of this delicious dessert. There are some sources who say the pies were invented in a bakery in Maine but other sources that say it’s been a Pennsylvania Dutch tradition since (basically) the beginning of time. We don’t like to get into the details too much so we stick to what we know about whoops pies - they’re delicious and we love them, and we know you will too.

Why are whoopie pies called whoopie pies?

The story goes that the pies got their name because of the working men who received whoopie pies from their partners in their lunches. Whenever they would open their lunchboxes and see the delightful treat waiting for them, it would cause them to exclaim with joy, “whoopie!”.

What is whoopie pie filling made of?

Many people wonder why the whoopie pie even has “pie” in its name, which is understandable because it’s more like a mini cake sandwich. It is typically made of two round pieces of chocolate cake with a creamy filling in the middle. Many argue that the traditional filling is marshmallow, but you’ll find different takes on the filling depending on where you go. Buttercream is widely used too. At Dutch Meadows, we offer the following varieties:

Spelt Pumpkin Whoopies Pies (4 pk)

Spelt Oatmeal Whoopie Pies (4pk)

Spelt Chocolate Whoopie Pies (4pk)

Why spelt?

The whoopie pies in Dutch Meadows’ store, from Walnut Run Farm, are made with sprouted spelt flour, an older version of wheat. The spelt’s sprouted nature makes it easier on the digestive system than commercial grains. It also has a wonderful flavor, taste, and consistency.

Should I refrigerate my whoopie pie?

Whoopie pies will do fine at room temperature for at least a day but refrigeration is typically best to keep them preserved as long as possible. Many say they’re best consumed within 5 days. We would like to know who those people are that are capable of keeping a whoopie pie intact for 5 or more days. You could even freeze your whoopie pies, which would come in handy if you are interested in buying a lot while they’re featured in the Monthly Specials. To freeze, you simply need to wrap each pie individually in plastic wrap and then place each one in some sort of protective container - tupperware or a ziploc bag will do.

Why choose Dutch Meadows whoopie pies?

The whoopie pies in our Dutch Meadows’ shop are from Walnut Run Farm. They run a small on farm bakery with their family and help from a few neighbors. Since the whoopie pie popularity grew quite rapidly, many of the products you find elsewhere (gift shops, mainstream grocery stores, online, etc.) are mass made with ingredients that lack quality. This is a shame because a true quality whoopie pie is a special experience. The pies in our store are made by artisans who hold high, uncompromising standards for their specialty products. They use organic ingredients and heritage grains, which allows them to produce a healthier baked good while maintaining a memorable, and satisfying taste.

The best whoopie pie recipe to try at home?

Here's a recipe that keeps things minimal (supplies below), which you have to appreciate in a classic treat such as the whoopie pie. We of course suggest grabbing your ingredients from the Dutch Meadows store and whipping these up with your partner, children, or a friend. Baking is a great activity for bonding, building character, and developing important life skills. Plus, you get a delicious reward out of it!

BATTER

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (60g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 1/4 tsp. baking soda
• 1/2 tsp. salt
• 1/2 cup (114g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp. vanilla extract
• 1 cup (250ml) milk

FILLING

• 1/2 cup (114g) unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups (500g) powdered sugar
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 3–4 tbsp milk

As always, we wish you many blessings and good health!