the making of the whoopie

These were fun to make and I would definitely try them again. Though for fun I would try something more exotic next time. (E.g. pistachio cardamom whoopie pie with rosewater buttercream!) Since it was my first time, I made the classic chocolate whoopie pie with marshmallow filling.

But a quick interruption for anyone in the Phoenix area. Have you been to this little shop before?

Since this was my first attempt at baking something other than brownies or cupcakes out of the box, I thought it would be fun to get some colorful sprinkles other than the kind offered at the Safeway down the street. (Which is ALWAYS sold out of the rainbow jimmies btw.)

ABC Decorating Supplies aka Cake Arts, Inc. What a fun place for someone who loves to bake! On a Saturday morning, it was quite busy too. And I know it's legit from the half dozen catering vans that were parked outside. No doubt picking up last minute supplies.

I was hoping to see more unique decorations and favors; but for quick ideas for your next birthday party, I would definitely give them a try. Lots of character cupcake liners and plastic toppers. The boys thought it was a treasure emporium of plastic doodads.

Link to store hours and directions here.

So this is what I scored at the bake shop. Rainbow jimmies, yay!

And chocolate crunch stuff. Check out the price!

Same as I would have paid at the grocery store and, like, 10 times the size. Woot!

CLASSIC CHOCOLATE WHOOPIE PIES

Makes 12 pies (24 halves)

INGREDIENTS

1 2/3 cup all-purpose flour

2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

4 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature

4 tablespoons vegetable shortening (don't substitute)

1 cup (packed) dark brown sugar

1 large egg

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 cup milk

INSTRUCTIONS

Position a rack in the center of the oven and preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

Sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda and salt onto a sheet of waxed paper. In the work bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat together the butter, shortening and brown sugar on low speed until just combined.

Increase the speed to medium and beat until fluffy and smooth, about 3 minutes. Add the egg and vanilla and beat for another 2 minutes.

Add half of the flour mixture and half of the milk to the batter and beat on low until just incorporated. Scrape down the sides of the bowl. Add the remaining flour mixture and 1/2 cup milk and beat until completely combined.

Using a spoon, drop about 1 tablespoon of batter onto one of the prepared baking sheets and repeat, spacing them at least 2 inches apart.

Bake one sheet at a time for about 10 minutes each, or until the pies spring back when pressed gently.

Remove from oven and let the cakes cool on sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a rack to cool completely.

For the marshmallow filling, you'll just have to check out the book. (Or browse the various recipes offered online!)

After adding the filling...

Roll the edges in decorations of your choice...

Then... enjoy!

And because this post is making me a look a little too Suzy-homemaker, here are some glimpses of the fruits of my mothering.

Little brother inventing his own superhero. Captain Superman Green Towel Monster Baseball Thor Guy!

And big brother giving his presentation at the class talent show. "My talent is Legos. Being good at Legos takes a lot of practice and creativity."

The End.