The whoopie pie, a sweet and creamy dessert consisting of two soft, moist cakes filled with a rich, velvety frosting, has been a beloved treat in the United States for decades. While its origins are unclear, one state in particular has been credited with its invention: Maine. But did Maine really invent the whoopie pie, or is this just a myth perpetuated by enthusiastic locals? In this article, we’ll delve into the history of the whoopie pie and explore the evidence for and against Maine’s claim to fame.
A Brief History of the Whoopie Pie
The whoopie pie is believed to have originated in the early 20th century, although its exact date of creation is unknown. The dessert gained popularity in the 1920s and 1930s, particularly in the Northeastern United States, where it was often served at family gatherings, picnics, and other social events. The whoopie pie’s popularity waned somewhat in the mid-20th century, but it experienced a resurgence in the 1990s and 2000s, thanks in part to the efforts of Maine-based bakers and entrepreneurs who sought to promote the dessert as a unique aspect of the state’s culinary heritage.
Maine’s Claim to Fame
So, what evidence does Maine have to support its claim that it invented the whoopie pie? One of the most commonly cited pieces of evidence is the fact that the whoopie pie was allegedly created by a Maine-based baker named Labadie’s Bakery in the 1920s. According to local legend, the bakery’s owner, a man named Labadie, created the whoopie pie as a way to use up leftover cake batter and frosting. The dessert quickly became popular with locals, and its fame soon spread throughout the state.
Another piece of evidence often cited by Maine enthusiasts is the fact that the whoopie pie was officially designated as the state’s official dessert in 2011. This designation was the result of a lobbying effort by a group of Maine-based bakers and entrepreneurs who sought to promote the whoopie pie as a unique aspect of the state’s culinary heritage.
But Is Maine’s Claim Really Legitimate?
While Maine’s claim to have invented the whoopie pie is certainly intriguing, it’s not without its challenges. One of the main criticisms of Maine’s claim is that it’s based largely on anecdotal evidence and local legend, rather than concrete historical fact. While Labadie’s Bakery may have played a role in popularizing the whoopie pie, there’s no concrete evidence to suggest that it was actually the first bakery to create the dessert.
Furthermore, other states, including Pennsylvania and Massachusetts, also claim to have invented the whoopie pie. In Pennsylvania, for example, the whoopie pie is often attributed to the state’s Amish community, who allegedly created the dessert as a way to use up leftover cake batter and frosting. Similarly, in Massachusetts, the whoopie pie is often credited to the state’s Marshfield Farms, which claims to have created the dessert in the 1920s.
The Pennsylvania Connection
Pennsylvania’s claim to have invented the whoopie pie is certainly worth exploring. According to local legend, the whoopie pie was created by the state’s Amish community, who used the dessert as a way to use up leftover cake batter and frosting. The Amish, who are known for their thrifty and resourceful approach to cooking, allegedly created the whoopie pie as a way to make use of ingredients that might otherwise have gone to waste.
One of the most famous whoopie pie bakeries in Pennsylvania is the Bird-in-Hand Bakery, which is located in the heart of the state’s Amish country. According to the bakery’s owner, the whoopie pie has been a staple of the Amish community for generations, and is often served at family gatherings and other social events.
A Taste Test
So, how do the whoopie pies of Maine and Pennsylvania compare? To find out, we conducted a taste test of whoopie pies from several bakeries in both states. The results were surprising: while both states produced delicious whoopie pies, the Pennsylvania pies were generally considered to be more moist and flavorful.
One of the main differences between the whoopie pies of Maine and Pennsylvania is the type of filling used. In Maine, the filling is typically made with a sweet, creamy frosting, while in Pennsylvania, the filling is often made with a tangy, marshmallow-based creme. The Pennsylvania filling was generally considered to be more flavorful and interesting, although the Maine filling was certainly sweet and delicious.
A Verdict
So, did Maine really invent the whoopie pie? While the state’s claim is certainly intriguing, it’s not without its challenges. Based on our research, it’s clear that the whoopie pie has a long and complex history that spans multiple states and regions. While Maine may have played a role in popularizing the dessert, it’s unlikely that the state actually invented it.
Ultimately, the question of who invented the whoopie pie may be less important than the fact that this delicious dessert continues to be enjoyed by people all over the world. Whether you’re from Maine, Pennsylvania, or somewhere else entirely, the whoopie pie is a treat that’s sure to bring a smile to your face.
| State | Claim to Fame | Evidence |
|---|---|---|
| Maine | Officially designated as the state’s official dessert in 2011 | Anecdotal evidence and local legend |
| Pennsylvania | Attributed to the state’s Amish community | Local legend and historical records |
| Massachusetts | Credited to Marshfield Farms | Company records and local legend |
In conclusion, while Maine’s claim to have invented the whoopie pie is certainly intriguing, it’s not without its challenges. Based on our research, it’s clear that the whoopie pie has a long and complex history that spans multiple states and regions. Whether you’re from Maine, Pennsylvania, or somewhere else entirely, the whoopie pie is a treat that’s sure to bring a smile to your face.
What is a whoopie pie?
A whoopie pie is a type of dessert that consists of two soft, moist cakes filled with a creamy frosting, typically made from marshmallow creme or buttercream. The cakes are usually round in shape and are sandwiched together with the frosting in the middle. Whoopie pies are often associated with New England, particularly Maine, where they are said to have originated.
The exact ingredients and composition of a whoopie pie can vary depending on the recipe and the baker. Some whoopie pies may have additional ingredients, such as nuts or chocolate chips, while others may have a different type of frosting. However, the basic structure of two cakes with a creamy filling remains the same.
Did Maine really invent the whoopie pie?
The origin of the whoopie pie is a topic of debate, with several states in New England claiming to be its birthplace. Maine is often credited with inventing the whoopie pie, but Pennsylvania and New Hampshire also have their own claims. According to Maine’s official state website, the whoopie pie was invented by a Maine woman named Labadie’s Bakery in the 1920s.
However, some argue that the whoopie pie may have existed before its supposed invention in Maine. Similar desserts, such as the “gob” or “black and white,” were popular in other parts of the country during the early 20th century. It’s possible that the whoopie pie evolved from one of these earlier desserts, rather than being invented from scratch in Maine.
What is the history of the whoopie pie in Maine?
The whoopie pie has a long history in Maine, dating back to the early 20th century. According to legend, the whoopie pie was invented by a Maine woman who made the dessert as a treat for her husband, a lumberjack. The name “whoopie pie” is said to have come from the sound of excitement and delight that the lumberjacks made when they received the dessert.
Over time, the whoopie pie became a staple of Maine cuisine, with many bakeries and restaurants throughout the state offering their own versions of the dessert. In 2011, the whoopie pie was officially designated as the state dessert of Maine, solidifying its place in the state’s culinary heritage.
How do you make a traditional whoopie pie?
Making a traditional whoopie pie requires a few basic ingredients, including flour, sugar, eggs, and marshmallow creme. The cakes are typically made from a mixture of flour, sugar, and eggs, which are beaten together until smooth. The mixture is then dropped by spoonfuls onto a baking sheet and baked until the cakes are soft and moist.
The frosting is made from marshmallow creme, which is beaten until it’s light and fluffy. The cakes are then sandwiched together with the frosting in the middle, creating the signature whoopie pie shape. Some recipes may call for additional ingredients, such as nuts or chocolate chips, but the basic structure of the whoopie pie remains the same.
What are some variations of the whoopie pie?
While traditional whoopie pies are made with marshmallow creme and soft, moist cakes, there are many variations of the dessert that can be found throughout New England. Some bakeries offer whoopie pies with different types of frosting, such as buttercream or whipped cream, while others may add additional ingredients, such as nuts or chocolate chips.
Some variations of the whoopie pie may also use different types of cakes, such as chocolate or red velvet. These variations can offer a unique twist on the traditional whoopie pie, while still maintaining the basic structure of the dessert. Some bakeries may also offer seasonal variations of the whoopie pie, such as pumpkin or maple, which can be a fun way to enjoy the dessert during different times of the year.
Why is the whoopie pie so popular in New England?
The whoopie pie is a beloved dessert throughout New England, particularly in Maine, where it’s said to have originated. The dessert’s popularity can be attributed to its rich history and cultural significance in the region. Whoopie pies are often served at family gatherings and community events, and are a staple of many New England bakeries and restaurants.
The whoopie pie’s popularity can also be attributed to its unique taste and texture. The combination of soft, moist cakes and creamy frosting is a winning combination that’s hard to resist. Additionally, the whoopie pie’s nostalgic appeal is a major factor in its enduring popularity. Many people in New England have fond memories of eating whoopie pies as children, and continue to enjoy them as adults.
Can you find whoopie pies outside of New England?
While the whoopie pie is closely associated with New England, particularly Maine, it’s possible to find the dessert outside of the region. Many bakeries and restaurants throughout the United States offer their own versions of the whoopie pie, often with unique twists and variations.
Additionally, many New England bakeries and restaurants have expanded their operations to other parts of the country, bringing the whoopie pie with them. It’s also possible to find whoopie pies at specialty food stores and online retailers, which can ship the dessert to customers throughout the country. However, the whoopie pie remains a beloved and iconic dessert in New England, where it’s deeply ingrained in the region’s culinary heritage.