Chocolate Whoopie Pie Cake
If you’ve ever had the pleasure of indulging in a classic whoopie pie, you know the delightful combination of soft chocolate cake and creamy filling that melts in your mouth. Now, imagine taking that beloved treat and transforming it into a stunning cake that’s perfect for any occasion. This Chocolate Whoopie Pie Cake captures all the nostalgic flavors of the original while serving it up in a beautiful layer cake format. With a rich chocolate flavor and a fluffy marshmallow filling, this dessert is sure to impress your friends and family. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, thanks to some clever shortcuts. Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe!
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
– **Decadent Flavor**: Rich chocolate cake paired with sweet marshmallow filling is a match made in dessert heaven.
– **Easy to Make**: Using cake mix and pudding means you can whip this up in no time, without sacrificing taste.
– **Impressive Presentation**: Layered cakes always draw attention, making it perfect for parties or special occasions.
– **Versatile**: Customize the filling or add toppings to make it your own.
The Essentials
- 1 (15.25-ounce) box chocolate fudge cake mix: The base of your cake, providing rich chocolate flavor.
- 1 (3.9-ounce) box instant chocolate fudge pudding mix: Adds moisture and a fudgy texture.
- ¾ cup water: Helps to blend the dry ingredients into a smooth batter.
- ¾ cup vegetable or canola oil: Keeps the cake moist and tender.
- 4 large eggs: Essential for structure and richness in the cake.
- 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt: Enhances moisture and adds a slight tang.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Amplifies the chocolate flavor.
- 10 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature: For a creamy filling.
- 1 (7-ounce) jar marshmallow creme: The star of the filling, providing that classic whoopie pie taste.
- Pinch of salt: Brings out the sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: For flavor in the filling.
- 2 cups powdered sugar, divided: Sweetens the filling.
- ½ cup chocolate chips: To add a delightful chocolatey crunch.
- 3 tablespoons whipping cream: To adjust the consistency of the filling.
Kitchen Gear Checklist
- Mixing bowls: For combining your ingredients.
- Electric mixer: Ensures your batter and filling are smooth and fluffy.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
- Baking pans: You’ll need two 9-inch round pans.
- Offset spatula: For spreading the filling evenly.
- Cooling rack: To cool the cakes completely before assembling.
Step-by-Step: Chocolate Whoopie Pie Cake
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to ensure easy release once baked.
Step 2: Mix the Cake Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate fudge cake mix, chocolate fudge pudding mix, water, vegetable oil, eggs, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), and vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer, beat on medium speed until the batter is smooth and well combined, about 2 minutes.
Step 3: Bake the Cakes
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely.
Step 4: Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl, beat the room temperature butter until creamy. Add the marshmallow creme, a pinch of salt, and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, starting with 1 cup, and mix until combined. If the filling is too thick, add the whipping cream a tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 5: Assemble the Cake
Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of the marshmallow filling over the top. Sprinkle chocolate chips evenly over the filling. Place the second cake layer on top and spread the remaining filling over the top and sides of the cake.
Step 6: Final Touches
For an extra touch, you can sprinkle additional chocolate chips on top of the cake or drizzle melted chocolate over it. Slice, serve, and enjoy the decadence of your Chocolate Whoopie Pie Cake!
Seasonal Ingredient Swaps
- For a more festive flavor: Add a teaspoon of peppermint extract during the holidays.
- In place of chocolate chips: Use white chocolate chips or chopped nuts for added texture.
- For a richer filling: Mix in some cocoa powder to the marshmallow filling for double chocolate goodness.
- Try flavored yogurt: Use vanilla or chocolate-flavored Greek yogurt for a twist in the cake.
Easy-to-Miss Gotchas
To ensure your Chocolate Whoopie Pie Cake turns out perfectly, be mindful of the following:
- Make sure your butter is at room temperature for the filling to achieve the right consistency.
- Allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting and slipping.
- Use an offset spatula to spread the filling evenly and avoid tearing the cake layers.
- Double-check your oven temperature with an oven thermometer, as some ovens can be inaccurate, affecting baking time.
Save for Later: Storage Tips
To keep your Chocolate Whoopie Pie Cake fresh and delicious, follow these tips:
- Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- If you need to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week.
- For longer storage, freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 3 months.
- To enjoy frozen slices, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Chocolate Whoopie Pie Cake Q&A
Can I use a different cake mix flavor?
Absolutely! While chocolate is classic, you could experiment with other flavors like vanilla or red velvet for a unique twist.
How can I make this cake gluten-free?
To make the cake gluten-free, substitute the chocolate fudge cake mix with a gluten-free chocolate cake mix and ensure your pudding mix is also gluten-free.
What can I use instead of marshmallow creme?
If you can’t find marshmallow creme, you can substitute it with whipped cream cheese mixed with a bit of powdered sugar, or make a homemade marshmallow filling using egg whites and sugar.
How do I prevent my cake from sticking to the pan?
Be sure to grease and flour your pans well, or use parchment paper at the bottom of the pans for easy removal.
More Recipes You’ll Love
- Red Velvet Cake: A classic favorite with a twist of cream cheese frosting.
- Ultimate Chocolate Cake: For the true chocolate lover, this cake is rich and decadent.
- Easy Vegan Chocolate Cake: A delightful treat for vegan dessert lovers.
- Ultimate Chocolate Chip Cookies: A timeless classic that pairs perfectly with any dessert.
Final Thoughts
Baking a Chocolate Whoopie Pie Cake is not just about making a dessert; it’s about creating memories and bringing joy to your table. This cake is perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just a sweet treat to celebrate a regular day. With its rich flavors and fluffy filling, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to indulge in a slice of chocolate heaven! Enjoy every bite of this delightful treat, and don’t forget to share with friends and family—after all, good desserts are meant to be enjoyed together!
Chocolate Whoopie Pie Cake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to ensure easy release once baked.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate fudge cake mix, chocolate fudge pudding mix, water, vegetable oil, eggs, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), and vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer, beat on medium speed until the batter is smooth and well combined, about 2 minutes.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the room temperature butter until creamy. Add the marshmallow creme, a pinch of salt, and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, starting with 1 cup, and mix until combined. If the filling is too thick, add the whipping cream a tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
- Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of the marshmallow filling over the top. Sprinkle chocolate chips evenly over the filling. Place the second cake layer on top and spread the remaining filling over the top and sides of the cake.
- For an extra touch, you can sprinkle additional chocolate chips on top of the cake or drizzle melted chocolate over it. Slice, serve, and enjoy the decadence of your Chocolate Whoopie Pie Cake!
Notes
- Ensure butter is at room temperature for the filling to achieve the right consistency.
- Allow cakes to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting and slipping.
- Use an offset spatula to spread the filling evenly and avoid tearing the cake layers.
