Whoopie pies with oranges

Orange whoopie pies – a sweet and vibrant recipe, perfect for bringing a touch of sunshine to every day! These delicious filled cakes are not just a dessert, but also a culinary experience that combines the fresh flavors of orange with the creamy sweetness of mascarpone. Whether you’re making them for a party, a picnic, or simply to treat yourself, these whoopie pies are sure to win everyone’s hearts.

The history of whoopie pies is fascinating; it is said that these filled cakes were created by farmers in North America, who offered them as a delicious snack to children while working in the fields. With a combination of soft cake and rich filling, these delights have evolved over time and have become a beloved dessert around the world.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 10-15 minutes
Total time: 35-40 minutes
Number of servings: 12-15 whoopie pies

Ingredients

For the cookies:
- 300 g flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 pinch of salt
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 200 g sugar
- 3 eggs
- 1 teaspoon orange essence
- 100 g milk
- Juice of one orange and its grated zest
- Orange food coloring (optional, for a more vibrant appearance)

For the cream:
- 250 g mascarpone cheese
- 2 teaspoons candied ginger, chopped
- 2-3 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice

Step-by-step preparation

1. Start by preheating the oven to 180°C. It’s essential to have the oven well-heated to ensure even baking of the cookies.

2. In a large bowl, sift the flour together with the baking powder and salt. This step will help achieve a fine and airy texture.

3. In another bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter together with the sugar until the mixture becomes fluffy and light in color. This is the perfect time to add the eggs, one at a time, making sure to incorporate them well after each addition.

4. Add the orange essence, milk, and orange food coloring (if using) to the butter and sugar mixture. Mix well to combine the flavors.

5. Meanwhile, mix the juice and grated zest of the orange with the dry ingredients. Start gradually adding the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until everything is well integrated. Be careful not to overmix, to keep the cake light and fluffy.

6. Using a spoon or a piping bag, form circles of dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving a little space between them, as they will expand while baking.

7. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until they turn golden and are slightly elastic to the touch. Let them cool on a wire rack.

8. Meanwhile, prepare the cream: in a bowl, mix the mascarpone cheese with the candied ginger and orange juice. Use a mixer to achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.

9. When the cookies are completely cooled, take one cookie and fill it with the mascarpone cream. Place another cookie on top to form a sandwich. Continue until all the cookies are filled.

10. For a special touch, you can sprinkle a little powdered sugar on top of the whoopie pies before serving.

Useful tips

- Choosing ingredients: Make sure to use quality butter, as it will influence the final texture and flavor.
- Candied ginger: This adds a spicy and sweet flavor, but you can adjust the amount according to your preferences.
- Food coloring: If you want an intense color, add a few drops of orange food coloring, but if you prefer a natural appearance, you can skip this step.
- Variations: You can experiment with other flavors, such as vanilla or cinnamon, to customize the recipe to your taste.

Perfect pairings

Orange whoopie pies pair wonderfully with a fruit tea or fresh lemonade, bringing a perfect balance between sweet and tangy. Additionally, a glass of white wine or prosecco can transform the dessert into a true celebration.

Nutritional benefits

Mascarpone contains healthy fats and proteins, while oranges are rich in vitamin C, contributing to strengthening the immune system. Although whoopie pies are an indulgent dessert, the natural ingredients provide a slight nutritional advantage.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use another type of flour? Yes, you can experiment with whole wheat flour, but the textures will be different. Make sure to adjust the liquid accordingly.
- How do I store the whoopie pies? Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh for a few days.
- Can I freeze the whoopie pies? Yes, you can freeze them, but it is recommended to fill them with cream only after thawing to avoid soggy cakes.

In conclusion, these orange whoopie pies are more than just a simple dessert – they are an invitation to enjoy the flavors of spring, to experiment in the kitchen, and to share sweet moments with loved ones. So, embrace your culinary expectations and let yourself be carried away by the flavor of these delights!