Name: Spooky Halloween Whoopie Pies: A Fun Treat to Make Together
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 box Devil’s Food Cake Mix (Any chocolate cake mix can substitute.); 1 cup Water (No substitutes necessary.); 1/2 cup Vegetable Oil (Melted butter can enhance flavor.); 2 large Eggs (Flax eggs can be used for a vegan alternative.); 1 package Chocolate Fudge Instant Pudding (Vanilla pudding can be a delicious substitute.); 2 tubs Vanilla Cake Icing (Homemade buttercream works excellently as an alternative.); to taste Orange Food Coloring Gel (Regular food coloring is an option, but gel is more intense.); to taste Edible Black Glitter (Substitute with black sprinkles for crunch if desired.); to taste Powdered Sugar (Optional for decoration.); to taste Black Licorice (Chocolate sticks can be a tasty substitute.); to taste Candy Eyes (Optional for simpler decoration.)

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There’s a certain magic that happens in the kitchen during Halloween, don’t you think? When the air is crisp and the excitement of trick-or-treating lingers, I crave something both fun and delicious. Enter my Spooky Halloween Whoopie Pies with Creamy Orange Icing—an easy-to-make delight that captivates the imagination of both kids and adults. In just under an hour, you can whip up these chocolaty wonders, perfectly customizable to match your festive spirit. They’re not just quick to prepare; they also serve as a blank canvas for your creativity, allowing you to go wild with decorations. With soft, moist cakes nestled together by vibrant, creamy icing, it’s the ultimate treat for any Halloween gathering. So, what will your eerie creation look like? Let’s dive into this deliciously spooky adventure together!

Why Are These Whoopie Pies So Fun?

Endless Creativity: With these Spooky Halloween Whoopie Pies, the decorations are limited only by your imagination! From candy eyes to edible glitter, the customization options are boundless.

Quick Preparation: Whip them up in under an hour—perfect for last-minute Halloween get-togethers or sweet cravings.

Perfectly Indulgent: The combination of rich chocolate cake with light, creamy orange icing is a match made in dessert heaven.

Family Fun Activity: Get the kids involved! They’ll love helping decorate these spooky treats.

Crowd Pleaser: These whoopie pies are not just visually appealing—they’re sure to satisfy a variety of palates. Plus, if you’re looking for more festive ideas, check out my Fryer Hand Pies for another fun recipe!

Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to experiment with different cake mixes and fillings to create your own seasonal spin!

Embrace the festive spirit and make this recipe a Halloween tradition!

Spooky Halloween Whoopie Pie Ingredients

For the Cake
• Devil’s Food Cake Mix – The foundation for rich chocolate flavor; any chocolate cake mix can substitute.
• Water – Hydrates the cake mix; no substitutes necessary.
• Vegetable Oil – Ensures moisture for a tender texture; melted butter can enhance flavor.
• Eggs – Bind ingredients and help the pies rise; flax eggs can be used for a vegan alternative.
• Chocolate Fudge Instant Pudding – Adds moisture and richness; vanilla pudding can be a delicious substitute.

For the Filling
• Vanilla Cake Icing (2 tubs) – Sweet filling and decoration for the pies; homemade buttercream works excellently as an alternative.
• Orange Food Coloring Gel – Gives vibrant Halloween color; regular food coloring is an option, but gel is more intense.

For Decorating
• Edible Black Glitter – Adds a spooky decoration; substitute with black sprinkles for crunch if desired.
• Powdered Sugar – Optional for decoration, enhances visual appeal.
• Black Licorice – Creates spider legs for decoration; chocolate sticks can be a tasty substitute.
• Candy Eyes – Adds a whimsical design; optional if a simpler decoration is desired.

Embrace your creativity with these Spooky Halloween Whoopie Pies, and enjoy a deliciously festive baking experience!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Spooky Halloween Whoopie Pies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial as it ensures that your Spooky Halloween Whoopie Pies bake evenly and rise beautifully. While the oven heats, prepare your baking sheets by lining them with a Silpat mat, which prevents sticking and helps achieve that perfect texture.

Step 2: Mix the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the Devil’s food cake mix, water, vegetable oil, eggs, and chocolate fudge instant pudding. With an electric mixer on medium speed, blend the ingredients until the batter is smooth and thick, about 2-3 minutes. The rich chocolatey aroma will fill your kitchen, signaling it’s time to move on to the next step.

Step 3: Scoop and Shape the Pies
Using a cookie scoop, portion out the prepared batter onto the Silpat-lined baking sheets. Aim for about 18 larger dollops or 36 smaller ones, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. The batter should be glossy and mound slightly. Once shaped, they are ready for the oven!

Step 4: Bake the Pies
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 7-10 minutes. The pies are done when they spring back slightly when pressed and appear set at the edges. As they bake, the delightful chocolate scent will envelop your home; keep an eye out to avoid overbaking.

Step 5: Cool the Whoopie Pies
Once baked, carefully remove the sheets from the oven and let the whoopie pies cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to wire racks to cool completely. This step is important to ensure a perfect sandwich without melting the icing when you’re ready to decorate.

Step 6: Prepare the Orange Icing
While the pies are cooling, it’s time to transform the vanilla cake icing. In a clean bowl, mix in orange food coloring gel until you achieve your desired spooky hue of orange. Stir well until evenly colored, making it vibrant and festive for your Spooky Halloween Whoopie Pies.

Step 7: Assemble the Whoopie Pies
Once the pies are cooled, take one and spread or pipe a generous amount of the orange icing on the flat side. Top it with another pie to create a sandwich. Press gently to ensure it sticks, and repeat this for all pies. The combination of the chocolate pie and creamy orange filling is simply irresistible.

Step 8: Decorate Your Treats
Finally, it’s time for the spooky fun! Sprinkle edible black glitter on top for a festive touch or use black licorice to create spider legs. Add candy eyes on top to give your whoopie pies character and flair. You can also dust powdered sugar for a frosted look. Now, they’re ready to impress at your Halloween gathering!

How to Store and Freeze Spooky Halloween Whoopie Pies

Room Temperature: Keep your whoopie pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their soft texture.

Fridge: For slightly longer freshness, store them in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just ensure they’re in a sealed container to prevent them from drying out.

Freezer: For extended storage, wrap each whoopie pie individually in plastic wrap and freeze them for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying again.

Reheating: If you prefer them warm, microwave each pie for about 10-15 seconds until just warmed. This will soften the chocolate cake and make the orange icing extra delightful!

Spooky Halloween Whoopie Pies Variations & Substitutions

Embrace your inner creativity with these delightful twists! Each variation offers a unique spin that transforms your whoopie pies into personalized treats.

Vegan Version: Use flax eggs instead of regular eggs, and substitute the vanilla icing with a dairy-free buttercream for a delicious vegan treat.
Gluten-Free: Swap the Devil’s food cake mix for a gluten-free chocolate cake mix to make these festive treats accessible for everyone.
Flavor Boost: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or pumpkin spice to the batter for a warm, autumnal flavor that pairs wonderfully with chocolate.
Extra Creamy: Enhance the filling by mixing in cream cheese to the vanilla icing for a tangy richness that complements the chocolate.
Choco Mint Twist: Incorporate mint extract into the icing for a refreshing flavor that echoes Halloween’s spooky vibes. The combination of chocolate and mint is always delightful!
Nutty Surprise: Fold in chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, into your batter for added crunch and texture that makes every bite a bit more exciting.
Decorative Fun: Instead of orange icing, use vibrant green or purple food coloring to give your whoopie pies a hauntingly unique look that matches other Halloween treats.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cake batter for a surprising hint of heat that contrasts beautifully with the sweet icing.

For another fun recipe addition to your Halloween spread, why not try my Fryer Hand Pies? It’s a delightful way to include even more homemade goodies at your gathering! Enjoy making these Spooky Halloween Whoopie Pies your own!

Make Ahead Options

These Spooky Halloween Whoopie Pies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during the busy Halloween season! You can bake the pies up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen while maintaining their soft texture. Simply store them in an airtight container at room temperature. For the icing, feel free to prepare it up to 3 days ahead and refrigerate it; just give it a good stir before using to ensure it’s silky smooth. When you’re ready to create your festive treats, assemble the whoopie pies and decorate them with your favorite spooky embellishments for delicious results that are just as delightful and fresh as if made on the day of your celebration!

What to Serve with Spooky Halloween Whoopie Pies?

Let the festivities shine through your meal by pairing these delightful treats with complementary flavors and textures!

Crisp Apple Slices: A sweet and tangy contrast that cuts through the richness of the whoopie pies. Perfect for adding a refreshing crunch to your spread.
Pumpkin Spice Hot Chocolate: This creamy drink echoes the festive spirit, enhancing the cozy chocolate experience of the pies. It’s an indulgent treat that’ll warm you from the inside out.
Cheese Platter: A variety of sharp and mild cheeses will balance the sweetness, offering a savory counterpoint to your dessert. Pair with some honey and nuts for extra flair.
Spooky Punch: Create a vibrant Halloween punch with fruit juices, soda, and floating eyeball-shaped gummy candies. It adds fun and excitement to your gathering.
Caramel Corn: The sweet and crunchy snack complements the moist whoopie pies while adding a festive touch. It’s the perfect nibble for mingling before dessert!
Ghostly S’mores Dip: Melted chocolate with marshmallows creates a gooey dip that mirrors the flavors of the whoopie pies but adds a fun twist for dunking graham crackers.
Cocoa-Dusted Biscotti: Their crunchy texture adds a lovely contrast while keeping the chocolate theme alive. A delightful option for snacking!
Gingerbread Cookies: The spicy, warm flavors provide an inviting juxtaposition to the sweet whoopie pies—this seasonal treat will charm your taste buds.
Halloweenvus Hillbilly Sweet Tea: This spiced version of classic sweet tea adds a refreshing note with a hint of citrus, perfectly balancing the sweet whoopie pies.
Chilled Pumpkin Pie Milkshake: A fun and creamy dessert drink that brings the flavors of pumpkin pie into a delicious shake, creating a unique twist on the Halloween dessert table!

Expert Tips for Spooky Halloween Whoopie Pies

Mix Well: Ensure the batter is uniformly mixed for consistent flavor and texture. Uneven mixing can lead to uneven baking results.
Cool Completely: Let the pies cool entirely before decorating to prevent the icing from melting. This is key for those eye-catching designs!
Piping Precision: Use piping bags for a neater distribution of batter on baking sheets. This prevents messy shapes and makes your pies look professional.
Adjust Icing Consistency: If your orange icing is too thick, add a little water to achieve a smooth, spreadable consistency that complements your Spooky Halloween Whoopie Pies.
Creative Variations: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different cake mixes and pudding flavors. Try adding seasonal spices or using colorful food gels for unique vibes!

Spooky Halloween Whoopie Pies Recipe FAQs

What type of cake mix is best to use?
You can use Devil’s Food Cake Mix for that rich chocolate flavor, but any chocolate cake mix will do just fine. If you’re looking for a new twist, try vanilla or red velvet for a different base!

How should I store my Halloween Whoopie Pies?
Keep your whoopie pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last a bit longer, store them in the refrigerator for up to a week, ensuring they’re sealed so they won’t dry out.

Can I freeze the whoopie pies?
Absolutely! For the best results, wrap each whoopie pie individually in plastic wrap and freeze them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw them in the fridge overnight, and they’ll be good as new!

What if my whoopie pies don’t rise properly?
If your pies aren’t rising as expected, check that your baking powder was fresh or that you mixed the ingredients thoroughly. Uneven mixing can lead to inconsistent results, so be sure to blend well until the batter is smooth.

Are there any dietary considerations for pets or allergies?
Definitely be cautious! These whoopie pies contain items like eggs and food coloring that might not be safe for pets. Always check for food allergies such as gluten or dairy in your guests before serving, or explore vegan alternatives like flax eggs if you need a substitute.

Can I make the icing in advance?
Yes, you can! The orange icing can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir to make sure it’s smooth and ready for spreading on your well-cooled whoopie pies.

Enjoy these Spooky Halloween Whoopie Pies that are sure to wow your family and friends!