Whoopie pies are a delicious dessert consisting of two cake-like cookies sandwiching a creamy filling, and are popular in the American Northeast. The spelling of "whoopie pie" may seem odd, but it's actually based on the phonetic pronunciation of the word. In IPA transcription, it is pronounced /ˈwʊpi paɪ/. The "wh" sound is omitted, and the first syllable is stressed. The "ie" at the end instead of "ee" is due to the influence of the word "pie" in the name. Next time you enjoy one of these treats, you'll know exactly how to spell it!
A whoopie pie is a delightful dessert that is typically made up of two round, cake-like cookies sandwiched together with a sweet and creamy filling. Originating from the United States, primarily the New England region, this delectable treat has gained immense popularity nationwide, as well as in some parts of Canada.
The cookies that form the outer layers of a whoopie pie are soft and moist, resembling the texture of a cake rather than a traditional cookie. These cookies often have a rich, chocolate flavor but can also come in various flavors such as vanilla, red velvet, or pumpkin. The size of the cookies can widely differ, ranging from small bite-sized treats to larger, more substantial pies.
The filling that binds the two cookies together is usually made with a combination of marshmallow fluff and buttercream, resulting in a fluffy and creamy texture. This filling can be plain or infused with additional flavors like peanut butter, mint, or vanilla. Whoopie pies are known for being indulgent and offer an irresistible combination of flavors and textures.
Traditionally, whoopie pies were homemade treats, often enjoyed during special occasions or as a popular bake sale item. However, they have now become more widely available and can be found in bakeries, supermarkets, and even online stores. Whether enjoyed as a standalone dessert or served alongside a cup of coffee or milk, whoopie pies are beloved for their charming appearance, scrumptious taste, and comforting nostalgia.
The etymology of the word "whoopie pie" is not entirely clear, and there are a few conflicting theories surrounding its origins.One theory suggests that the name "whoopie pie" is derived from the exclamation "whoopie", which is often associated with joy or excitement. The joy of eating these delicious treats may have led to the name. This theory is supported by the fact that "whoopie" is used as an exclamation of delight in regional dialects of the United States.Another theory suggests that the name "whoopie pie" originated from a brand name. According to this theory, the treats were initially sold under the name "Whoopie Pie" by a company named Labadie's Bakery or the Berwick Cake Company in the early 20th century in Maine, United States. The popularity of these pies led to the name being used more generally to refer to this type of dessert.