Whoopie pies are a classic dessert that originated in the United States. They are a delicious treat that consists of two soft cake-like cookies sandwiched together with a creamy filling. The origin of the name is not clear, but it is believed that the Amish community in Pennsylvania first introduced them. They are now popular all over the world and are loved by people of all ages.
Ingredients
For the cookies:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup buttermilk
For the filling:
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup heavy cream
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. 2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. 3. In a separate large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract and mix until well combined. 4. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk, until everything is well combined. 5. Scoop the batter onto the prepared baking sheet using a cookie scoop or spoon, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie. 6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies are set and the tops spring back when lightly touched. 7. Remove from the oven and let them cool completely on the baking sheet. 8. While the cookies are cooling, make the filling. In a large bowl, cream the butter until light and fluffy. 9. Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and heavy cream, mixing until smooth and creamy. 10. When the cookies are completely cooled, spread a generous amount of filling on the bottom of one cookie and top with another cookie, pressing gently to sandwich them together. 11. Repeat with the remaining cookies and filling until all the whoopie pies are assembled. 12. Serve and enjoy!
Nutrition
Each whoopie pie contains approximately 270 calories, 15g of fat, 32g of carbohydrates, and 3g of protein. While they are not the healthiest dessert option, they are a delicious treat that can be enjoyed in moderation. To make them slightly healthier, you can try using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour and reducing the sugar content in the filling.
Mince pies are a traditional Christmas treat that has been enjoyed for centuries. This sweet pastry is filled with a delicious mixture of dried fruits, spices, and brandy. The best mince pies are made with a homemade pastry and freshly made mincemeat. In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide to make the best mince pies recipe.
Ingredients
Pastry:
225g plain flour
110g unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
25g icing sugar
1 egg yolk
2-3 tbsp cold water
Mincemeat:
150g raisins
150g sultanas
150g currants
100g candied peel
100g chopped almonds
1 apple, peeled, cored and grated
1 orange, zest and juice
1 lemon, zest and juice
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp ground nutmeg
1 tsp ground ginger
125g unsalted butter, melted
200g soft dark brown sugar
100ml brandy
Instructions
Pastry
1. Preheat the oven to 200°C/180°C fan/gas mark 6. 2. Put the flour, butter and icing sugar into a food processor and pulse until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. 3. Add the egg yolk and water and pulse until the mixture comes together to form a dough. 4. Roll out the pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of 3mm. 5. Cut out circles of pastry using a fluted cutter and place them into a muffin tin. 6. Prick the bases of the pastry with a fork and chill in the fridge for 15 minutes.
Mincemeat
1. Put all the dried fruit, candied peel, almonds, apple, orange and lemon zest into a large mixing bowl. 2. Add the melted butter, brown sugar, brandy, and spices to the bowl and mix until everything is combined. 3. Cover the bowl with cling film and leave to marinate for at least 24 hours.
Assembly
1. Preheat the oven to 200°C/180°C fan/gas mark 6. 2. Spoon the mincemeat mixture into the pastry cases. 3. Roll out the remaining pastry and cut out stars or other shapes to place on top of the mincemeat. 4. Brush the tops of the pies with beaten egg. 5. Bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown. 6. Leave to cool for a few minutes before removing from the tin.
Nutrition
These mince pies are a delicious treat but should be enjoyed in moderation. Each pie contains approximately 300 calories, 14g of fat, and 35g of carbohydrates. However, they are also a good source of fiber and contain a range of vitamins and minerals from the dried fruits and spices.
Conclusion
These homemade mince pies are a perfect addition to any Christmas celebration. The combination of the homemade pastry and freshly made mincemeat creates a delicious and indulgent treat that is sure to impress your guests. So why not give this recipe a try and see for yourself why it's the best mince pies recipe out there!