Our delicious Whoopie Pies are delightful sandwich-like treats with soft, cakey layers and creamy fillings. Here in the UK, not many people have heard of them or know what they are. But over on the US East Coast, they are a time-honoured tradition, with a rich and interesting history filled with folklore and culinary pride. But where was the original Whoopie Pie made, and what’s the story behind this iconic American dessert? In this blog post, we’ll delve into the origins of the Whoopie Pie and explore the mystery surrounding its creation.
A Tale of Multiple Claims
The exact origin of the Whoopie Pie is a subject of debate, and there are multiple claims to its creation. As a result, it’s challenging to pinpoint a single location as the definitive birthplace of the Whoopie Pie. Let’s explore some of the leading contenders:
Pennsylvania Dutch Country
One of the most prominent claims comes from the Pennsylvania Dutch Country, particularly the Amish and Pennsylvania German communities. Here, Whoopie Pies are sometimes known as “gobs.” The Amish have a long-standing tradition of baking, and Whoopie Pies have been a part of their culinary heritage for generations. The term “Whoopie Pie” is said to have originated from the enthusiastic exclamation “Whoopie!” that children would make when they found these delightful treats in their lunchboxes.
Maine
Another strong contender is the state of Maine, where Whoopie Pies are highly celebrated and often referred to as “Maine Whoopie Pies.” These sweet sandwiches have become an integral part of Maine’s culinary culture. The Maine version typically features chocolate cake layers and a creamy filling, frequently made with marshmallow fluff. The state even declared the Whoopie Pie as its official state treat in 2011.
New England
New England, in general, has a deep connection to Whoopie Pies, with Maine as a prominent representative of the region’s Whoopie Pie culture. The classic combination of soft cakey layers and creamy filling has a strong presence in New England, and various states have put their unique spins on this beloved treat.
Amish Communities Beyond Pennsylvania
Amish communities can be found in several states, including Ohio and Indiana, and they’ve also claimed the tradition of making Whoopie Pies. The Amish of these regions have embraced the sweet charm of Whoopie Pies and added their own local twists to the classic recipe.
Born in the USA – But upping the game here in the UK!
Our Whoopie Pie range is bringing something REALLY special to the Whoopie Pie tradition with the artisan decoration and classic British dessert flavours. Indeed, we even had a customer from Boston, MA, at one of our market stalls exclaim “These are Whoopie Pies!! We don’t have Whoopie Pies like these! So much variety!”. Whilst we offer a Classic Chocolate & Toasted Marshmallow Whoopies, we also offer a range of flavours that are innovative where Whoopies are concerned as well as gluten free and vegan options.
Conclusion: A Shared Culinary Heritage
The origins of the original Whoopie Pie remain shrouded in mystery and folklore, with various regions and communities staking their claims. While it may be challenging to determine a single birthplace, what’s undeniable is the enduring appeal and shared culinary heritage of the Whoopie Pie. Whether you enjoy a classic Maine Whoopie Pie, a Pennsylvania Dutch gob, or a local adaptation, these sweet treats continue to capture the hearts and taste buds of dessert enthusiasts across the United States.