Moon pies and whoopie pies are two iconic sandwich-style desserts that delight people across the United States and beyond. Both are sweet, portable treats with rich histories and devoted fan bases, but their differences are as significant as their similarities. In this article, we’ll explore the origins, characteristics, and cultural significance of these beloved desserts.

What Is a Moon Pie?

A moon pie is a Southern classic consisting of two graham cracker cookies with a layer of marshmallow filling in between, all coated in a layer of chocolate or another flavored icing. Created in 1917 by the Chattanooga Bakery in Tennessee, the moon pie was originally designed as a portable snack for coal miners. Its enduring popularity has turned it into a staple of Southern culture, often enjoyed with a cold RC Cola (Chattanooga Bakery, Southern Living).

Moon pies come in various flavors, including chocolate, vanilla, banana, and seasonal variations like pumpkin spice. They are particularly celebrated during Mardi Gras parades, where they are thrown from floats to eager crowds.

What Is a Whoopie Pie?

The whoopie pie is an American dessert consisting of two soft, cake-like cookies filled with a creamy, marshmallow-based or buttercream filling. Its origins are debated, with some attributing it to the Amish communities of Pennsylvania and others to bakeries in Maine. The classic whoopie pie features chocolate cake and a marshmallow or vanilla buttercream filling, though modern versions explore flavors like red velvet, pumpkin, and peanut butter (Wicked Whoopies, Maine Tourism Bureau).

Unlike the packaged convenience of moon pies, whoopie pies are often homemade or sold in bakeries, making them a staple of fairs, farmers' markets, and nostalgic celebrations.

Similarities Between Moon Pies and Whoopie Pies

1. Sandwich Structure
   Both desserts feature two outer layers sandwiching a sweet filling, making them portable and easy to eat. This structure is central to their appeal as handheld treats.

2. Sweet Marshmallow Filling
   While the composition and texture of the fillings differ, both moon pies and whoopie pies often incorporate marshmallow as a key component, adding a sweet and airy element.

3. Nostalgic Appeal
   Moon pies and whoopie pies evoke a sense of nostalgia, whether it’s memories of catching moon pies at a Mardi Gras parade or enjoying a homemade whoopie pie at a family gathering.

4. Regional Pride
   Both desserts are deeply tied to specific regions. Moon pies are a Southern favorite, while whoopie pies are beloved in Pennsylvania, Maine, and other parts of the Northeast.

Key Differences Between Moon Pies and Whoopie Pies

1. Ingredients and Texture

   • Moon Pies: Feature a crunchy graham cracker base and a marshmallow filling, all coated in a thin layer of chocolate or icing. The texture combines crispness, chewiness, and a smooth outer layer.

   • Whoopie Pies: Are made with soft, cake-like cookies and a creamy filling, offering a moist and rich texture.

2. Origins and History

   • Moon Pies: Were created in 1917 as a convenient snack for laborers, specifically designed to be filling and portable. They quickly became a commercial success and a symbol of Southern comfort (Chattanooga Bakery).

   • Whoopie Pies: Likely originated in the early 20th century, either as a way to use leftover cake batter in Amish kitchens or as a bakery invention in Maine. Their history is tied to home baking and regional traditions (Maine Tourism Bureau).

3. Packaging and Presentation

   • Moon Pies: Are typically pre-packaged for convenience, making them ideal for on-the-go snacking. Their uniform size and appearance cater to mass production.

   • Whoopie Pies: Are often handmade or sold in small batches at bakeries. They vary in size and can be decorated or customized for special occasions.

4. Sweetness and Flavor Profiles

   • Moon Pies: Have a balanced sweetness with a slight crunch from the graham cracker and a light marshmallow filling. The chocolate coating adds a rich finish.

   • Whoopie Pies: Tend to be sweeter and more indulgent, with bold flavors like chocolate and cream cheese taking center stage. Modern variations offer even more intense flavor combinations.

Cultural and Historical Significance

Moon Pies

Moon pies have become a cultural icon in the Southern United States. They are particularly associated with Mardi Gras, where they are thrown from floats as a cherished tradition. The annual RC Cola-MoonPie Festival in Bell Buckle, Tennessee, celebrates this dessert with games, music, and plenty of moon pies to enjoy (Southern Living).

Whoopie Pies

Whoopie pies hold a special place in the Northeast and among Amish communities. In Maine, whoopie pies are so beloved that they were declared the state’s official treat in 2011. They are celebrated at festivals and fairs, where locals showcase creative flavors and recipes (Wicked Whoopies).

Modern Variations and Innovations

Moon Pies

Modern moon pies come in a variety of flavors, including salted caramel, strawberry, and coconut. Mini moon pies are also popular, offering a bite-sized version of the classic treat. Some bakeries and artisanal shops create gourmet moon pies with premium ingredients like dark chocolate and handmade marshmallow (Chattanooga Bakery).

Whoopie Pies

Whoopie pies have seen a gourmet resurgence, with bakers experimenting with flavors like espresso, matcha, and salted caramel. Gluten-free and vegan versions cater to modern dietary preferences, and mini whoopie pies have become a trendy dessert for parties and events.

Conclusion: Two Sweet Icons, One Universal Love

Moon pies and whoopie pies may differ in texture, flavor, and cultural roots, but both offer a delicious experience that transcends their origins. Moon pies bring the charm of Southern traditions and mass-market convenience, while whoopie pies evoke the warmth of homemade desserts and regional pride.

Whether you’re craving the crisp crunch of a moon pie or the soft, indulgent bite of a whoopie pie, both desserts celebrate the joy of sweet sandwich-style treats. Why not enjoy both and savor the best of two dessert worlds?