If you’re craving a festive, crowd-pleasing treat that combines all the best flavors of winter, this Easy Chocolate Peppermint Whoopie Pies Recipe is exactly what you need. These soft, chocolatey cakes sandwich a fluffy peppermint marshmallow filling that bursts with holiday cheer in every bite. They are surprisingly simple to whip up yet impressive enough to share with friends, family, or anyone who appreciates a decadent, minty twist on a classic dessert. Whether for a holiday party or just indulging your sweet tooth, these whoopie pies brighten up the day with their perfect balance of rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting set up for this recipe is a breeze because the ingredients are straightforward but absolutely crucial. Each one plays a vital role in making these whoopie pies taste as dreamy as they look: the cake mix gives the chocolate depth and ease, while the peppermint extract adds that unmistakable holiday zing.
- Devil’s food cake mix (15.25 oz): The rich cocoa base ensures moist, fluffy chocolate cakes with minimal effort.
- Eggs (2, lightly beaten): They bind the ingredients and give the cake batter structure and tenderness.
- Vegetable oil (1/3 cup): Keeps the cake moist and soft to the last bite.
- Confectioners sugar (2 cups): Essential for a silky smooth, sweet filling that melts in your mouth.
- Vegetable shortening (2/3 cup): Provides that classic whoopie pie filling texture—light, creamy, and stable.
- Marshmallow cream (1 cup): Adds fluffiness and a subtle marshmallow flavor that perfectly complements peppermint.
- Milk (1 Tbsp): Helps adjust the filling’s consistency for easy spreading between cakes.
- Peppermint extract (1/2 tsp): Delivers that refreshing minty punch that makes these pies so festive.
- Crushed candy canes (12): Adds crunchy texture and a pretty garnish that screams holiday spirit.
How to Make Easy Chocolate Peppermint Whoopie Pies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
Start by mixing the devil’s food cake mix with the lightly beaten eggs and vegetable oil in a bowl until everything is smooth and well combined. This simple base will give you cake rounds that bake up moist and fluffy every time, making your whoopie pies deliciously soft and chocolatey.
Step 2: Bake the Cake Rounds
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Drop spoonfuls of batter onto a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat, shaping them into roughly 2 1/2-inch rounds. Bake for about 9 to 10 minutes, until the cakes spring back lightly when touched. Let them cool completely to ensure your filling doesn’t melt when you assemble.
Step 3: Make the Peppermint Filling
While your cakes cool, whip together the confectioners sugar, vegetable shortening, marshmallow cream, milk, and peppermint extract in a large bowl. Stir until creamy and fluffy — this luscious filling creates the perfect sweet and minty contrast to the deep chocolate cakes.
Step 4: Assemble the Whoopie Pies
Once the cake rounds are cool, pair similarly sized pieces. Spread or pipe a generous dollop of peppermint filling onto one cake, then gently press the matching cake on top. This sandwich construction ensures each bite has a balanced amount of cake and creamy filling.
Step 5: Garnish with Crushed Candy Canes
For the final festive touch, sprinkle the edges of your filled whoopie pies with crushed candy canes. The crunch adds a delightful texture and visual appeal, turning your simple treat into a holiday showstopper.
How to Serve Easy Chocolate Peppermint Whoopie Pies Recipe
Garnishes
Beyond the crushed candy canes, try adding a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted white chocolate to create even more festive flair. These garnishes make your whoopie pies look special and add an extra layer of sweetness that guests will adore.
Side Dishes
Serve your whoopie pies alongside a hot cup of peppermint mocha or a creamy vanilla latte to complement the mint and chocolate. They also pair wonderfully with a simple scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange the whoopie pies on a holiday-themed platter lined with evergreen sprigs or holly leaves for a visually stunning centerpiece. You could also wrap individual pies in clear cellophane tied with festive ribbons for party favors or gifts that will impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover whoopie pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to maintain their soft texture and fresh peppermint flavor. If your kitchen is warm, the refrigerator works well, but bring them back to room temperature before enjoying.
Freezing
To freeze, wrap each whoopie pie tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, and you’ll have fresh-tasting pies ready to enjoy whenever the craving hits.
Reheating
If you want to warm them up, place the whoopie pies in a microwave for about 10-15 seconds to soften the filling slightly without melting it completely. This makes for a cozy, just-out-of-the-oven feeling that’s impossible to resist.
FAQs
Can I make the filling without marshmallow cream?
Yes, you can substitute marshmallow fluff with homemade marshmallow or even a stabilized whipped cream, but the texture might be a bit lighter and less sweet. Marshmallow cream gives that signature fluffiness perfect for peppermint whoopie pies.
Is it necessary to use candy canes for garnish?
Not at all! The candy cane adds festive crunch and visual appeal, but crushed peppermint candies or even mini chocolate chips can make a delightful alternative if you prefer.
Can I use a different cake mix for this recipe?
Devil’s food cake mix is recommended for its rich chocolate taste, but you can experiment with other chocolate cake mixes if needed. Just make sure it’s a similar size and type for best results.
How long do these whoopie pies last once made?
Freshly assembled whoopie pies are best enjoyed within two days for optimal taste and texture. Beyond that, they may start to dry out or become overly soft from the filling moisture.
Can I double this recipe for a larger batch?
Absolutely! This Easy Chocolate Peppermint Whoopie Pies Recipe scales up very well. Just be sure to adjust baking trays and mixing bowls accordingly to maintain even cooking and proper mixing.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like sharing a batch of these Easy Chocolate Peppermint Whoopie Pies Recipe with loved ones during cozy evenings or festive gatherings. They’re simple to make, full of heartwarming flavors, and just the right amount of peppermint cheer tucked between soft chocolate cakes. Give this recipe a try—you’ll soon find these delightful treats becoming a beloved tradition in your kitchen.
Print
Easy Chocolate Peppermint Whoopie Pies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 Whoopie Pies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Easy Chocolate Peppermint Whoopie Pies combine the rich, fudgy flavor of devil’s food cake with a creamy, minty filling to create a festive and delicious treat perfect for the holiday season. Soft, chocolatey cake rounds sandwich a fluffy peppermint cream, enhanced with the crunch of crushed candy canes for an irresistible texture contrast.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 pkg devil’s food cake mix (15.25 oz)
- 2 eggs (lightly beaten)
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
For the Filling:
- 2 cups confectioners sugar
- 2/3 cup vegetable shortening (I used Crisco)
- 1 cup marshmallow cream
- 1 Tbsp milk
- 1/2 tsp peppermint extract
- 12 candy canes (crushed)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Make Cake Batter: In a large bowl, mix the devil’s food cake mix, lightly beaten eggs, and vegetable oil until well combined and smooth.
- Pipe or Scoop Batter: Using a spoon or piping bag, drop rounded tablespoons of batter onto the prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart to allow room for spreading.
- Bake the Cake Rounds: Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the tops spring back when lightly touched and a toothpick inserted comes out mostly clean.
- Cool the Cake Shells: Remove from oven and allow the cake rounds to cool completely on wire racks to ensure the filling does not melt.
- Prepare Peppermint Filling: In a medium bowl, beat together confectioners sugar, vegetable shortening, marshmallow cream, milk, and peppermint extract until smooth, fluffy, and well combined.
- Assemble Whoopie Pies: Spread a generous amount of peppermint filling onto the flat side of one cake round. Top with another cake round to form a sandwich.
- Dip in Crushed Candy Canes: Roll or sprinkle the edges of the filling in crushed candy canes to add a festive crunch and peppermint pop.
- Chill and Serve: Place the finished whoopie pies in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to set the filling before serving. Enjoy these festive treats chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- For best results, ensure the cake rounds are completely cooled before adding the filling to prevent melting.
- Use room temperature eggs and shortening for easier mixing.
- To crush candy canes, place them in a sealed plastic bag and gently hit with a rolling pin.
- These whoopie pies can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Optional: Add a few drops of red food coloring to the filling for a festive swirl.
