Get ready to indulge in the delightful decadence of Red Velvet Wreath Whoopie Pies! These festive treats beautifully marry the classic flavors of red velvet cake with a luscious cream cheese filling, making them the perfect addition to your holiday dessert table. The vibrant color and soft texture bring a sense of joy and celebration that resonates during the holidays, making them not just a treat but a visual feast as well.
What sets these whoopie pies apart is their versatility. Not only are they a delicious treat, but they can also serve as a charming centerpiece for your holiday gatherings. Whether adorning your dessert table or handed out as gifts, these whoopie pies are sure to impress your friends and family alike. Additionally, with every bite, you’ll enjoy the sweet flavor of the cake combined with tangy cream cheese— a combination that never goes out of style.
These Red Velvet Wreath Whoopie Pies are straightforward to make, requiring only a few key ingredients and equipment. By following this recipe, you’ll create ten delightful pies that can easily become a beloved holiday tradition. So, gather your loved ones, roll up your sleeves, and let’s embark on a delectable baking adventure!
Why You’ll Love This Red Velvet Wreath Whoopie Pies
- Festive and Fun: Their bright red color and creative presentation make these pies a festive treat!
- Easily Customizable: You can switch up the garnishes or fillings to suit personal preferences.
- Perfect for Gatherings: These pies make great conversation starters and are excellent for parties.
- Deliciously Decadent: Enjoy the combination of soft red velvet cake with a creamy filling that’s irresistible.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into the baking process, it’s crucial to prepare your kitchen to ensure a smooth cooking experience. First, gather your ingredients and have them ready to use. Measure out the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and other components so you won’t be scrambling around mid-recipe.
For this recipe, you’ll need some essential tools. A set of mixing bowls will help you separate the dry ingredients from the wet. An electric mixer is highly recommended for achieving the perfect creaminess of your frosting. You’ll also need a piping bag or a simple spoon to form those lovely rounds on your baking sheet. Remember to line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Once you have everything set up, you’re ready to bake!
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 0.5 tsp salt
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 0.75 cup buttermilk
- 1 tbsp red food coloring (gel preferred)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 0.25 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (for frosting)
- 0.5 cup candied walnuts, finely chopped
- 0.25 cup fresh cranberries or blackberries
- 10 sprigs rosemary or cedar, for garnish
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your whoopie pies bake evenly. In the meantime, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to keep your lovely pies from sticking.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. This step is critical as it ensures that the leavening agents are evenly distributed. Set this bowl aside as you prepare your wet ingredients.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and light brown sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This process incorporates air and gives your pies their delicate texture. Next, add the egg, followed by the buttermilk, vanilla extract, and red food coloring. Mix this until smoothly combined, creating a beautiful crimson batter.
Step 4: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures
Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring just until everything is combined. Be cautious not to overmix, as this can affect the softness of your whoopie pies.
Step 5: Shape and Bake
Using a piping bag or a spoon, drop generous 2-inch rounds onto your prepared baking sheet. Ensure they are spaced out adequately to allow for puffing up during baking. Bake in your preheated oven for about 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are set. Keep an eye on them; you don’t want them to dry out! Once baked, remove from the oven and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack.
Step 6: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the pie rounds are cooling, it’s time to make the delicious cream cheese frosting. In a clean mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter until you achieve a fluffy consistency. Gradually add the powdered sugar and the extra vanilla extract, beating until everything is well combined and has that light fluffiness perfect for frosting.
Step 7: Assemble the Whoopie Pies
Once your cake rounds are cooled, take one and pipe a generous amount of frosting onto the flat side. Roll the edge of the frosting in your finely chopped candied walnuts for an added crunch. Place another round on top, creating a delightful whoopie pie sandwich. As a final touch, pipe a decorative swirl on top of the pie and garnish with fresh cranberries or blackberries and a sprig of rosemary for extra flair. Dust with powdered sugar for a snow-like effect, adding to the winter wonderland vibe.
Variations
- Protein: Consider adding a splash of bourbon or rum to the frosting for an adult twist.
- Vegetables: For a healthier kick, mix in some finely grated beetroot into the batter.
- Spices: Spice it up with cinnamon or nutmeg added to the dry ingredients for a holiday spice flavor.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure that your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for easy blending.
- Store any leftover whoopie pies in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Feel free to double the recipe if you are expecting a larger crowd!
- To freeze, wrap them in plastic wrap, and store them in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy these whoopie pies with a warm cup of coffee or hot cocoa.
- Serve them on a beautiful platter for an impressive dessert display during holiday parties.
Tips
- For intensified flavor, let the whoopie pies chill in the fridge after assembling them; the flavors meld beautifully.
- Experiment with different flavored extracts for the frosting, such as almond or peppermint.
- Try using white chocolate or dark chocolate shavings as an additional garnish.
- Ensure your baking sheet is properly spaced to allow for each pie to rise without merging with others.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 37 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 285 kcal
- Protein: 2.5 g
- Sodium: 175 mg
FAQs
Can I make these whoopie pies ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the whoopie pies a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
Can I freeze whoopie pies?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap each pie in plastic wrap individually and store them in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.
Can I use a different frosting?
Definitely! While cream cheese frosting is traditional, you can opt for buttercream or even ganache depending on your preference.
What makes red velvet cake red?
The red color primarily comes from the reaction between cocoa powder and acidic ingredients like buttermilk and vinegar, along with the addition of red food coloring which enhances its vibrancy.
Conclusion
These Red Velvet Wreath Whoopie Pies are not just a dessert; they’re a celebration! The combination of flavors and textures creates an unforgettable treat that will bring smiles to everyone who tries it. So, why not gather your family, roll up your sleeves, and embark on this baking adventure? Remember to savor every bite and don’t hesitate to customize them to your taste. We hope you enjoy making and tasting these festive delights as much as we do! If you try this recipe, drop us a comment below and let us know how it turned out for you. Happy baking!
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Red Velvet Wreath Whoopie Pies
- Total Time: 37 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
Description
These delightful whoopie pies are perfect for holiday celebrations!
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 0.5 tsp salt
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 0.75 cup buttermilk
- 1 tbsp red food coloring (gel preferred)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 0.25 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (for frosting)
- 0.5 cup candied walnuts, finely chopped
- 0.25 cup fresh cranberries or blackberries
- 10 sprigs rosemary or cedar, for garnish
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your whoopie pies bake evenly. In the meantime, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to keep your lovely pies from sticking.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. This step is critical as it ensures that the leavening agents are evenly distributed. Set this bowl aside as you prepare your wet ingredients.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and light brown sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This process incorporates air and gives your pies their delicate texture. Next, add the egg, followed by the buttermilk, vanilla extract, and red food coloring. Mix this until smoothly combined, creating a beautiful crimson batter.
- Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring just until everything is combined. Be cautious not to overmix, as this can affect the softness of your whoopie pies.
- Using a piping bag or a spoon, drop generous 2-inch rounds onto your prepared baking sheet. Ensure they are spaced out adequately to allow for puffing up during baking. Bake in your preheated oven for about 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are set. Keep an eye on them; you don’t want them to dry out! Once baked, remove from the oven and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack.
- While the pie rounds are cooling, it’s time to make the delicious cream cheese frosting. In a clean mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter until you achieve a fluffy consistency. Gradually add the powdered sugar and the extra vanilla extract, beating until everything is well combined and has that light fluffiness perfect for frosting.
- Once your cake rounds are cooled, take one and pipe a generous amount of frosting onto the flat side. Roll the edge of the frosting in your finely chopped candied walnuts for an added crunch. Place another round on top, creating a delightful whoopie pie sandwich. As a final touch, pipe a decorative swirl on top of the pie and garnish with fresh cranberries or blackberries and a sprig of rosemary for extra flair. Dust with powdered sugar for a snow-like effect, adding to the winter wonderland vibe.
Notes
Ensure that your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for easy blending.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
Nutrition
- Calories: 285 kcal
- Sodium: 175 mg
- Protein: 2.5 g