Peanut Butter Whoopie Pies

Whoopie pies are a delightful treat, combining the softness of cake with the creaminess of a rich filling. This peanut butter version is perfect for lovers of the classic combination of sweet and salty. Soft, tender peanut butter cakes sandwich a luscious, fluffy peanut butter filling that melts in your mouth. These handheld pies are great for special occasions or an indulgent snack, and they offer a nostalgic twist on the traditional whoopie pie, making them a new family favorite.

Ingredients:

For the cakes:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup whole milk

For the filling:

• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2-3 tablespoons heavy cream

Instructions:

1. Prepare the cakes:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
2. In a large bowl, beat the butter, peanut butter, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, and continue beating until well combined.
3. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
4. Drop spoonfuls of the batter onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. You should get about 24-28 cakes. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cakes spring back when lightly touched. Allow them to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
5. Prepare the filling:
   In a medium bowl, beat the peanut butter and butter together until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla, then beat in the heavy cream, one tablespoon at a time, until the filling is light and fluffy.
6. Assemble the whoopie pies:
   Once the cakes have cooled, spread or pipe the peanut butter filling onto the flat side of half of the cakes. Top with the remaining cakes to form sandwiches.
7. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

Enjoy these indulgent peanut butter treats with a glass of milk for the ultimate snack!