Moon Pies (Whoopie Pies)
These Moon Pies, often referred to as Whoopie Pies, are a delightful twist on a classic treat! Soft, chocolatey, and filled with creamy marshmallow frosting, they make the perfect dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a casual get-together, or simply indulging in a sweet craving, these Moon Pies are sure to impress. Plus, they’re fun to make and enjoy with friends and family, making them a wonderful addition to your dessert repertoire.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
What’s not to love about Moon Pies? They combine the rich flavor of chocolate cookies with a fluffy marshmallow filling, creating a perfect balance of textures and tastes. The cookies are soft and chewy, while the frosting is light and creamy. Not only are they delicious, but they also allow for creativity in the kitchen. You can customize them with colorful sprinkles, different types of frosting, or even add a layer of chocolate ganache for an extra indulgent treat. Plus, the joy of sandwiching the cookies together is a delightful experience that brings out the inner child in everyone!
Introduction
Moon Pies are a nostalgic dessert that many remember fondly from childhood. Originating in the Southern United States, these treats have become a beloved snack for both kids and adults alike. The combination of soft chocolate cookies and sweet marshmallow filling is irresistible, making them a favorite at picnics, parties, and potlucks. This recipe simplifies the process, using a devil’s food cake mix to create the cookies, which saves time without sacrificing flavor. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can whip up a batch of these delightful Moon Pies that are sure to bring smiles to the faces of everyone who tries them.
Ingredients:
Cookies:
- 15.25 oz Devil’s Food Cake Mix
- ¼ cup water
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp instant chocolate pudding mix
Marshmallow Frosting:
- ½ cup butter (softened to room temperature)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 ½ cups powdered sugar (add more for desired consistency)
- 7 oz marshmallow crème
- ⅓ cup colorful sprinkles (optional, but fun!)
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a sheet pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
Step 2: Make Cookie Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the devil’s food cake mix, water, vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, and instant chocolate pudding mix. Stir the mixture until it becomes smooth and well-blended, which should take about 2 minutes.
Step 3: Scoop the Dough
Using a spoon or a cookie scoop, place rounded scoops of dough onto the prepared parchment-lined sheet. Make sure to space them about 2 inches apart, as they will spread while baking.
Step 4: Bake
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 10-11 minutes. The cookies should be set but still soft to the touch. Once baked, allow them to cool on the sheet for 1-2 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 5: Make Frosting
In a separate mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, vanilla extract, powdered sugar, and marshmallow crème until the mixture is smooth and creamy. If the frosting is too thick, feel free to add a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency.
Step 6: Assemble the Pies
Once the cookies have cooled, take one cookie and spread a generous amount of marshmallow frosting on the flat side. Top it with another cookie to create a sandwich. For an extra touch of fun, roll the edges of the assembled Moon Pies in colorful sprinkles!
COOKING Rating:
Difficulty Level: Easy
Cooking Time: Quick
Taste Rating: 10/10 – Deliciously chocolatey with a sweet marshmallow center!
Serving Suggestions
Moon Pies can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a glass of cold milk for a classic combination. They also make a delightful addition to dessert tables at parties, where they can be displayed on a platter for guests to enjoy. For a whimsical touch, consider serving them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream, creating a deliciously decadent dessert experience.
Tips
- Storage: Keep your Moon Pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If you want them to last longer, store them in the fridge for up to 7 days.
- Customization: Feel free to experiment with different flavors of cake mix, such as red velvet or vanilla, to create unique variations of Moon Pies.
- Frosting Variations: You can also try different frosting flavors, such as chocolate or peanut butter, to switch things up.
- Make Ahead: The cookie dough can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking.
Prep Time:
15 mins
Cook Time:
11 mins
Total Time:
26 mins
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Approximately 180 per pie
- Protein: 2g
- Sodium: 120mg
Conclusion
These Moon Pies are not only delicious but also a fun and creative activity to do with friends or family. The soft chocolate cookies paired with the sweet marshmallow frosting create a treat that will transport you back to childhood. They are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re celebrating a special event or just indulging in a sweet treat at home. With their delightful taste and charming appearance, these Moon Pies are sure to become a favorite in your home!
Questions and Answers
- Can I use a different cake mix flavor?
- Absolutely! While the devil’s food cake mix gives the classic chocolate flavor, you can experiment with other flavors like vanilla, red velvet, or even lemon for a unique twist.
- How long do these Moon Pies last?
- When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, they can last for up to 4 days. If refrigerated, they can stay fresh for up to 7 days.
- Can I freeze Moon Pies?
- Yes, you can freeze them! Just make sure they are wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then placed in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- What can I use instead of marshmallow crème?
- If you can’t find marshmallow crème, you can make a similar filling using whipped cream mixed with a bit of powdered sugar or use a buttercream frosting as an alternative.
- Can I add other ingredients to the filling?
- Definitely! You can mix in mini chocolate chips, crushed cookies, or even a swirl of peanut butter into the marshmallow frosting for added flavor and texture.
