Ingredients
Method
Prepare the Chocolate Cake Layers:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and lightly spray with cooking spray.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, salt, and baking soda. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, beat the brown sugar, vegetable oil, and softened butter on medium-high speed until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, beating until fully incorporated.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing on low speed until a few streaks of flour remain.
- Add milk and warm coffee, and mix until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
- Using a medium cookie scoop (about 3 tablespoons), scoop the batter onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving 3 inches between each scoop.
- Bake for 12-14 minutes, or until the edges are firm and the centers are slightly soft. Let the cakes cool completely on the baking sheets.
Make the Mascarpone Coffee Filling:
- In a large bowl, beat the heavy cream, confectioners’ sugar, and instant coffee on medium-high speed until soft peaks form.
- Add half of the mascarpone and mix until just combined.
- Add the remaining mascarpone and beat until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overmix.
Assemble the Whoopie Pies:
- Flip half of the cooled cake discs so the flat sides are facing up.
- Using a medium cookie scoop or piping bag, add a dollop of mascarpone filling to the center of each flipped disc.
- Top with the remaining cake discs, flat side down, and gently press until the filling spreads to the edges.
Finish and Serve:
- Dust the tops of the assembled whoopie pies with unsweetened cocoa powder for an elegant finish.
- Chill the assembled whoopie pies for 30 minutes before serving for the best texture.
Notes
- Storage Tips: Store the whoopie pies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let them come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
- Freezing Option: Wrap each whoopie pie individually in plastic wrap and freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before enjoying.
- Customizations:
- Use decaf coffee to make the recipe caffeine-free.
- Substitute cream cheese for mascarpone for a tangier filling.
- Add a splash of coffee liqueur to the filling for an adult twist.
- Pro Tip: Chill the mascarpone before making the filling to ensure a smooth, stable texture.