Red Velvet Wreath Whoopie Pies

This Red Velvet Wreath Whoopie Pies recipe started one December afternoon when I wanted something bright, shareable, and picture-perfect for a cookie swap. Classic red velvet has always felt like the holidays to me rich, soft, and full of cheer but I wanted to give it a little Ivy twist: wreaths you can actually eat.

So, I piped velvety red rounds, sandwiched them with tangy cream cheese frosting, and decorated each one with glossy berries and sugared rosemary sprigs. The result? A dessert that looks like it belongs on a Hallmark movie set but is surprisingly easy to pull off.

These Red Velvet Wreath Whoopie Pies are chewy on the outside, creamy in the center, and packed with holiday flavor in every bite. They make a stunning addition to dessert platters, edible gift boxes, or festive brunch spreads.

If you love seasonal showstoppers, try pairing these with elegant Golden Brie Tartlets with Cranberry Jewels or a cozy slice of Pumpkin Cranberry Bread with Canned Cranberries. They balance beautifully on any holiday table.

And for those breakfast-to-dessert fans? Serve them alongside something indulgent like Bourbon Maple Bacon Stuffed French Toast with Vanilla Glaze or our winter-favorite Biscuits and Gravy Hashbrown Casserole.

This guide teaches you how to bake soft, festive Red Velvet Wreath Whoopie Pies filled with cream cheese frosting the ultimate edible holiday centerpiece.

What is Red Velvet Wreath Whoopie Pies

Red Velvet Wreath Whoopie Pies are a festive spin on the classic whoopie pie a soft, cake-like sandwich cookie filled with luscious cream cheese frosting and dressed to impress for the holidays. Think of them as mini red velvet cakes that fit right in your hand, decorated to look like edible wreaths dusted with snow.

What makes this version special is its holiday design. The tops are piped or spooned into neat rounds, then filled and rolled in chopped candied walnuts for a nutty edge. Fresh cranberries or blackberries mimic tiny ornaments, and rosemary sprigs add that gorgeous evergreen look. A light snowfall of powdered sugar finishes it off.

The taste? It’s pure comfort. Soft cocoa flavor, a hint of tang from buttermilk, creamy frosting, and the crunch of walnuts in every bite. These whoopie pies are meant to be shared perfect for cookie exchanges, dessert platters, or gifting in pretty boxes.

You can even serve them alongside cozy desserts like Fluffy Blueberry Marshmallow Delight for a colorful dessert table that wows everyone.

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Why You’ll Love This Red Velvet Wreath Whoopie Pies

If you’re the type who loves desserts that look fancy but feel easy, these Red Velvet Wreath Whoopie Pies will win your heart. They’re festive, shareable, and absolutely gorgeous on a platter yet surprisingly simple to bake and decorate. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with them.

Holiday Showstopper

They look like mini edible wreaths complete with candied walnut “garlands” and cranberry “berries.” These little details make them perfect for gifting, cookie exchanges, or dessert trays. Guests always think you spent hours decorating them.

Want another stunning treat for your table? Try the Golden Brie Tartlets with Cranberry Jewels. It pairs beautifully with the red velvet color scheme.

Soft, Creamy, and Perfectly Balanced

Each bite delivers that signature red velvet flavor: light cocoa, a whisper of vanilla, and tangy cream cheese frosting. The texture is melt-in-your-mouth soft like a cross between a cupcake and a cookie.

If you enjoy rich, creamy bites, you’ll also adore our Fluffy Blueberry Marshmallow Delight. It’s another crowd favorite that combines smooth texture with a sweet, festive flair.

Easy to Make and Customize

These whoopie pies are completely beginner-friendly. You can shape them with a spoon, fill them with a piping bag, or even roll the edges in sprinkles instead of nuts. They bake in under 15 minutes and look stunning every single time.

Party-Ready Portion Size

Since they’re handheld, these treats are perfect for serving at parties or wrapping up as edible gifts. Their size makes them ideal for sharing Ivy’s specialty.

If you’re planning a full holiday brunch, balance these with something savory like the Biscuits and Gravy Hashbrown Casserole to create the ultimate mix of sweet and salty comfort.

How to Make Red Velvet Wreath Whoopie Pies

These Red Velvet Wreath Whoopie Pies may look bakery-perfect, but they’re incredibly easy to make. With a few pantry staples and some festive garnishes, you’ll create picture-worthy treats ready for gifting or serving at your next gathering.

Quick Overview

You’ll whisk together a simple red velvet batter, bake soft cocoa cookies, and sandwich them with tangy cream cheese frosting. The fun part comes last decorating them into edible wreaths with candied walnuts, cranberries, and rosemary sprigs.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Bake Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 10–12 whoopie pies

Ingredients

For the Cookies	Measurements
All-purpose flour	2 cups
Unsweetened cocoa powder	2 tbsp
Baking soda	1 tsp
Salt	½ tsp
Unsalted butter, softened	½ cup
Light brown sugar	1 cup
Large egg	1
Buttermilk	¾ cup
Red food coloring (gel preferred)	1 tbsp
Vanilla extract	1 tsp

For the Frosting & Decoration	Measurements
Cream cheese, softened	8 oz
Unsalted butter, softened	¼ cup
Powdered sugar	2 cups
Vanilla extract	1 tsp
Candied walnuts, finely chopped	½ cup
Fresh cranberries or blackberries	¼ cup
Rosemary or cedar sprigs	10 small pieces
Powdered sugar (for dusting)	2 tbsp

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Make the Batter

Whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, beat butter and brown sugar until fluffy. Add the egg, then mix in buttermilk, vanilla, and red food coloring until smooth. Gradually add dry ingredients and mix just until combined.

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Step 3: Shape and Bake

Using a piping bag or spoon, place 2-inch rounds of batter onto the baking sheet. Bake for 10–12 minutes until set and slightly springy to touch. Cool completely.

Step 4: Make the Frosting

Beat softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla; beat until light and fluffy. Chill slightly if needed for piping.

Step 5: Assemble

Pipe frosting onto one cookie, then top with another to make a sandwich. Roll the edges in finely chopped candied walnuts for a “wreath” look.

Step 6: Decorate

Pipe a decorative swirl on top. Add cranberries or blackberries as berries, tuck in a rosemary sprig, and dust lightly with powdered sugar for a snowy finish.

These are the kind of desserts that impress without effort. You can even serve them alongside Pumpkin Cranberry Bread with Canned Cranberries for a holiday dessert table everyone will remember.

What to Serve Red Velvet Wreath Whoopie Pies With

These Red Velvet Wreath Whoopie Pies are the kind of dessert that instantly becomes the centerpiece of your table.Hosting or feeding a crowd — this one always earns its place.

Sweet Pairings

For a dessert spread that feels both festive and balanced, try serving these whoopie pies with a creamy fruit-based treat like Fluffy Blueberry Marshmallow Delight. The light, airy texture complements the rich red velvet layers perfectly.

You can also add a slice of Pumpkin Cranberry Bread with Canned Cranberries to your dessert platter. Its subtle spice and tart cranberry notes pair beautifully with the tangy cream cheese frosting.

Savory Balancers

A sweet dessert table shines even brighter when you add something hearty and savory. Mini breakfast casseroles or cheesy bites help create that perfect flavor contrast. For instance, the Biscuits and Gravy Hashbrown Casserole adds a comforting, savory element that balances these rich cookies.

Or, if you’re planning a holiday brunch, offer a small dish of Bourbon Maple Bacon Stuffed French Toast with Vanilla Glaze a combination that guests will remember long after the plates are cleared.

Festive Drinks

Pair these red velvet beauties with mugs of hot cocoa, peppermint lattes, or sparkling cranberry punch. The creamy frosting and cocoa flavor shine with warm drinks, while fruit-based cocktails bring out the berry garnish.

If you’re building a dessert buffet, add something light and fruity like the Golden Brie Tartlets with Cranberry Jewels. Their delicate balance of sweet and savory complements these whoopie pies beautifully.

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Top Tips for Perfecting Red Velvet Wreath Whoopie Pies

Even though these Red Velvet Wreath Whoopie Pies look bakery-level, they’re incredibly forgiving to make. A few expert tips will help you get that perfect soft texture, smooth frosting, and showstopping holiday finish every single time.

Use Gel Food Coloring

Gel food coloring gives a vibrant red hue without thinning the batter. Liquid color can make the dough too runny, affecting the shape. A single tablespoon of gel red ensures that rich, festive velvet tone that holds through baking.

Don’t Overmix the Batter

After adding the dry ingredients, stir only until everything combines. Overmixing activates gluten and can make your whoopie pies dense instead of pillowy soft.

Chill the Dough (Optional but Helpful)

If your kitchen is warm, chill the dough for 10–15 minutes before piping. This keeps the rounds uniform and prevents spreading while baking.

Use a Cookie Scoop for Even Sizes

Uniform rounds make perfect sandwiches and neat wreaths. A small cookie scoop ensures even baking and consistent texture.

Cool Completely Before Frosting

Patience pays off here. If the cookies are even slightly warm, the cream cheese frosting will melt and slide off. Let them cool fully before assembling.

Decorating Like a Pro

For that picture-perfect wreath effect, gently roll the frosted edges in candied walnuts and press on fresh cranberries or blackberries. Add a rosemary sprig and finish with a dusting of powdered sugar for a snowy touch.

For more dessert presentation inspiration, check out the elegant Golden Brie Tartlets with Cranberry Jewels. It’s another simple showstopper that wows every time.

Keep It Fresh

For best results, store assembled whoopie pies in an airtight container in the fridge. Bring them to room temperature for 10 minutes before serving the frosting softens perfectly.

For more tips on combining rich and light desserts, try pairing these pies with the bright, fruity Fluffy Blueberry Marshmallow Delight.

Storing and Reheating Tips for Red Velvet Wreath Whoopie Pies

These Red Velvet Wreath Whoopie Pies are just as delicious the next day if not better. The soft red velvet cakes absorb a little of the frosting’s flavor, making them extra moist and flavorful. Here’s how to keep them picture-perfect for days (or weeks) to come.

How to Store

At Room Temperature (Short-Term):
If your kitchen is cool, you can store these whoopie pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day.

In the Refrigerator (Best for Freshness):
Place the whoopie pies in a single layer in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days. For best texture, bring them to room temperature before serving so the cream cheese frosting softens.

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In the Freezer (Long-Term):
Wrap each whoopie pie individually in parchment paper, then place them in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

How to Reheat

Since these are soft cookie sandwiches, you don’t want to actually “bake” them again. Here’s the best way to refresh them:

For a Fresh-From-the-Oven Feel:
Let refrigerated pies sit out for 15 minutes before serving. The filling softens, and the cookie layers regain their tender texture.

To Warm Slightly (Optional):
If you prefer them gently warmed, microwave for 5–8 seconds just enough to release the frosting’s aroma without melting it.

Pro Tip:
Dust with a little fresh powdered sugar or add an extra cranberry on top before serving to revive that wreath presentation.

For other festive desserts that hold beautifully in the fridge or freezer, you’ll love our Pumpkin Cranberry Bread with Canned Cranberries.

FAQs About Red Velvet Wreath Whoopie Pies

Here are answers to the most common questions bakers ask about making, storing, and decorating these Red Velvet Wreath Whoopie Pies.

These Red Velvet Wreath Whoopie Pies are more than cookies they’re little edible gifts filled with love, color, and cheer. The soft red velvet texture, creamy filling, and festive wreath design make them the kind of treat everyone talks about long after the party’s over.

Quick weeknight or a family dinner -- simple, satisfying, reliable. For more fun party-perfect desserts, visit us on Facebook and see how others are decorating theirs on Pinterest.

The Cooking Twins Recipe

Red Velvet Wreath Whoopie Pies

By Emma & Ella

Festive Red Velvet Wreath Whoopie Pies soft cocoa cookies filled with cream cheese frosting, decorated with walnuts, berries, and rosemary for a holiday-perfect dessert.

Print RecipeCook Mode

Prep Time

20 min

Cook Time

12 min

Total Time

45 min

Servings

10–12 whoopie pies

Category

Baked Desserts

Cuisine

American

Method

Baking

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder 1 tsp baking soda ½ tsp salt ½ cup unsalted butter, softened 1 cup light brown sugar 1 large egg ¾ cup buttermilk 1 tbsp red gel food coloring 1 tsp vanilla extract 8 oz cream cheese, softened ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened 2 cups powdered sugar 1 tsp vanilla extract (for frosting) ½ cup candied walnuts, finely chopped ¼ cup fresh cranberries or blackberries 10 sprigs rosemary or cedar, for garnish 2 tbsp powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Step 2: Whisk flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt together.
3. Step 3: In another bowl, beat butter and sugar until fluffy. Add egg, buttermilk, vanilla, and red food coloring. Mix until smooth.
4. Step 4: Combine dry ingredients with wet mixture until just blended.
5. Step 5: Scoop 2-inch rounds of batter onto the sheet and bake for 10–12 minutes. Cool completely.
6. Step 6: Beat cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until fluffy to make frosting.
7. Step 7: Pipe frosting on one cookie, top with another, and roll edges in candied walnuts.
8. Step 8: Decorate tops with berries and rosemary sprigs. Dust with powdered sugar.

Notes

Store whoopie pies in the fridge up to 5 days or freeze for 2 months. Perfect for holiday dessert trays, edible gifts, or Christmas cookie swaps.

Calories

320