Easter Pastel Whoopie Pies with Vanilla Frosting and Sprinkles Recipe

If you’re looking to brighten up your dessert table this spring, these Easter Pastel Whoopie Pies with Vanilla Frosting and Sprinkles Recipe are an absolute must-try. Imagine soft, fluffy pastel-colored cakes sandwiching a luscious, creamy vanilla frosting, all finished with a playful coating of pastel sprinkles. They’re as joyful to look at as they are to eat, making them the perfect treat to celebrate Easter or any festive gathering. Every bite bursts with delicate flavors and a light, airy texture that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple yet essential ingredients sets you up for success, as each plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of texture, flavor, and electric pastel hues that make these whoopie pies so special.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the soft, cakey base essential for whoopie pies.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cakes rise for that perfect fluffy texture.
• ½ teaspoon baking soda: Works alongside the baking powder for a tender crumb.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances flavor and balances sweetness.
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened (for batter): Adds richness and moisture to the cake layers.
• ¾ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter and helps with browning.
• 1 large egg: Binds ingredients and contributes to a light texture.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses a warm, aromatic note into the cakes.
• ½ cup buttermilk: Brings tanginess and tenderness to the cake layers.
• ½ cup whole milk: Balances batter consistency and richness.
• Pastel food coloring (pink, blue, yellow, or purple): Adds festive colors essential for the Easter theme.
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting): Creates a creamy, smooth base for the frosting.
• 1 ½ cups powdered sugar: Sweeter and finer, perfect for luscious frosting.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Elevates the frosting with delightful vanilla fragrance.
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream: Adjusts frosting consistency to silky smooth perfection.
• Pastel sprinkles: For decoration that adds texture and charming color.

How to Make Easter Pastel Whoopie Pies with Vanilla Frosting and Sprinkles Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to ensure your cakes bake evenly and release easily, which is key for these delicate whoopie pies.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In one bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This step evenly distributes the leavening agents and salt for uniform texture and flavor.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until it’s light, fluffy, and pale in color. This aeration is what gives your whoopie pies that tender crumb and subtle sweetness.

Step 4: Add Egg and Vanilla

Mix in the egg and vanilla extract till fully combined. These ingredients add richness and that unmistakable warm vanilla aroma that’s comforting with every bite.

Step 5: Alternate Dry Ingredients with Liquids

Gradually add your dry ingredient mixture, alternating with buttermilk and whole milk. Mix just until combined — overmixing can toughen the batter, and we want fluffiness here!

Step 6: Divide and Color Batter

Now for the fun part: split your batter evenly into three or four small bowls and add your pastel food coloring of choice to each. Stir gently so you keep that light texture and get beautiful spring-inspired colors.

Step 7: Scoop Batter on Sheet

Use a cookie scoop or spoon to place tablespoon-sized dollops of batter onto the prepared baking sheet. Leave about 2 inches between each dollop so they have room to bake perfectly round.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 8 to 10 minutes. Keep an eye out for edges that are set and a toothpick that comes out clean from the center, signaling your whoopie pies are ready to cool.

Step 9: Cool the Cakes

Let your cakes cool for 5 minutes on the baking sheet then transfer to a wire rack until completely cooled. Patience here prevents the frosting from melting too soon!

Step 10: Make the Vanilla Frosting

Beat softened butter with powdered sugar until light and fluffy, then add vanilla extract and heavy cream. Whip until smooth and creamy, adjusting cream for the perfect spreading consistency.

Step 11: Tint and Assemble Frosting

If you want to carry the pastel theme into the frosting, divide it into small bowls and tint with your favorite pastel colors. Pipe or spread a generous layer on the flat side of one cake, then sandwich it with another cake of the same hue.

Step 12: Decorate with Sprinkles

Gently press the edges of the whoopie pies into pastel sprinkles for a festive, textured finish that screams springtime joy and makes every bite a little celebration.

Step 13: Chill and Set

Enjoy your whoopie pies right away or refrigerate for about 30 minutes to allow the filling to set beautifully, making them easier to handle and even more delicious.

How to Serve Easter Pastel Whoopie Pies with Vanilla Frosting and Sprinkles Recipe

Garnishes

A light dusting of powdered sugar or extra sprinkles adds a charming touch. Fresh edible flowers can also enhance the Easter vibe for a gorgeous presentation that’s almost too pretty to eat.

Side Dishes

Pair these whoopie pies with a fresh fruit salad or a light, citrusy beverage like lemonade to balance their sweetness and keep the overall mood bright and spring-inspired.

Creative Ways to Present

Display them stacked on a pastel-colored cake stand or arrange each color in a rainbow sequence on a tray. Wrapping individually in clear cellophane tied with a pastel ribbon makes for delightful party favors or gifts.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Easter Pastel Whoopie Pies with Vanilla Frosting and Sprinkles Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the frosting fresh and the cakes moist.

Freezing

You can freeze the whoopie pies by layering them between sheets of parchment paper in a sealed freezer-safe container. They freeze well for up to 2 months—just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating

Bring the pies to room temperature after refrigeration or freezing for best flavor. If you prefer slightly warm cakes, heat gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds but avoid warming the frosting too much.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

Yes, you can substitute regular milk for buttermilk, but adding a teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar to the milk and letting it sit for a few minutes will better mimic buttermilk’s acidity and tenderizing effect.

How do I prevent whoopie pies from cracking?

Make sure not to overmix your batter and bake at the recommended temperature. Overbaking or mixing too vigorously can cause cracks, so keep an eye on them and test with a toothpick.

Can I make the frosting ahead of time?

Absolutely! The vanilla frosting can be made up to two days ahead and kept in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature and give it a quick whip before decorating your whoopie pies.

Are pastel colors necessary?

While pastel colors bring the festive charm for Easter, the whoopie pies taste wonderful without them. You can skip the food coloring or use natural options like beet juice for a gentle tint.

What’s the best way to pipe the frosting?

A piping bag fitted with a round or star tip works beautifully for a neat, even layer of frosting. If you don’t have one, using a small spoon or butter knife to spread icing is perfectly fine and just as delicious.

Final Thoughts

Diving into this Easter Pastel Whoopie Pies with Vanilla Frosting and Sprinkles Recipe is like inviting a little springtime happiness to your table. These colorful, soft, and creamy treats are sure to brighten up any gathering, bringing smiles and sweet memories all around. I can’t wait for you to bake a batch and see how they become a beloved classic in your festive traditions!

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