Mocha Whoopie Pies

There is something about whoopie pies that just makes you feel like a kid again. Maybe its the fact that something sweet with two mini pies sandwiching a thick layer of frosting reminds almost anyone of a favorite childhood treat. I adapted this recipe from a super cute book simply titled "Whoope Pies" written by two girls who grew up with this adorable dessert. I did make some changes in the recipe which originally included vegetable shortening (gross!) and what was in my opinion an overly complicated list of instructions. The result of my alterations were some delicious and indulgent whoopie pies. Everyone who tried one wanted the recipe.

Recipe Rundown
Taste: Indulgent chocolate flavor with hints of espresso. 
Texture: The pies were super soft and tender and the ganache was light and airy.

Ease: This isn't the easiest dessert since there are quite a few steps and the ganache needs to chill for at least four hours. But believe me, it is worth it!
Appearance: Whoopie pies are adorable.
Cons: The recipe isn't exactly quick.
Pros: You can make everything a day ahead of time and assemble when you plan to serve. I actually found that the whoopie pies stayed delicious for about 2-3 days after being assembled.
Would I make this again? I'll definitely make whoopie pies again, but I'll probably experiment with the flavor combination.

Mocha Whoopie Pies
Makes 48 2-inch cakes
Adapted from Whoopie Pies

• 3 tablespoons instant espresso powder
• 2 tablespoons water
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 1 cup (packed) dark brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 1 cup milk
• Whipped Chocolate Ganache (recipe follows)

Position rack in the center of the oven and preheat the oven to 375 F. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper or silpats.

In a small bowl or cup, mix together the instant espresso powder and water and set aside.

Sift together the flour, cocoa, baking soda, and salt into a medium bowl.

In the work bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat together the butter 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 and half the milk and beat on low until just incorporated. Scrape down the sides of the bowl. Add the espresso-water mixture and remaining flour mixture and milk and beat until completely combined.

Using a spoon, drop about 1 tablespoon of batter onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them at least 2 inches apart. Bake for about 10 minutes or until the cakes spring back when touched. Remove the baking sheets from the oven and let the cakes cool on the sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a rack to cool completely.


Whipped Chocolate Ganache

• 1 pound bittersweet chocolate, chopped
• 2 1/2 cups heavy cream
• pinch of salt, preferably sea salt
• 1 tablespoon vanilla, rum, or rosewater

Put the chocolate in a large, heatproof bowl. In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat, heat the cream until it bubbles. Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate and let sit for about 10 minutes, until the chocolate is melted. Add the salt and vanilla and stir with a wooden spoon or silicone spatula just to combine.

Refrigerate the ganache for at least 1 hour and up to 24 hours, until it is firm. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the ganache at medium speed until it is softened and lighter in color, about 2 minutes.

Note: Ganache is easiest to spread on whoopie pies when at room temperature.