Whoopie pies get a luxurious twist in this tiramisu-inspired cannabis-infused version. Soft, coffee-kissed chocolate cakes sandwich a creamy mascarpone filling laced with espresso and a hint of rum, finished with a dusting of cocoa powder. The key to potency lies in proper decarboxylation and infusion of cannabutter, ensuring even distribution of cannabinoids. This recipe yields about 12-16 whoopie pies and takes approximately 4-5 hours total (including infusion time).
Important Notes Before Starting:
- Dosage varies by cannabis strain potency (assume 10-15% THC flower). Start with 3.5g total for mild effects (roughly 5-10mg THC per pie). Test your batch and adjust responsibly.
- Consume slowly; effects take 1-2 hours to onset.
- Legal disclaimer: Ensure cannabis use complies with local laws. This is for adults 21+.
Ingredients
For Cannabutter (makes ~1 cup; use ½ cup in recipe)
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
- 3.5g-7g decarboxylated cannabis flower (ground finely; adjust for desired potency)
For Whoopie Pie Cakes (makes 24-32 small cakes)
- ½ cup cannabutter (softened; from above)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup strong brewed coffee (cooled; or espresso)
- ½ cup buttermilk
For Mascarpone Filling
- 8 oz mascarpone cheese (room temperature)
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp heavy cream
- 2 tbsp brewed espresso (cooled)
- 1 tbsp rum or coffee liqueur (optional)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For Assembly
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (for dusting)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Decarboxylation (30-45 minutes)
Decarboxylation activates THC/CBD by converting THCA into psychoactive THC through heat.
1. Preheat oven to 240°F (115°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Grind cannabis flower coarsely (avoid powdering to prevent burning).
3. Spread evenly on the sheet in a thin layer.
4. Bake for 30-40 minutes, shaking the pan halfway. It should turn light brown and fragrant (not burnt).
5. Remove and let cool completely. Store in an airtight container if not using immediately.
Step 2: Cannabutter Infusion (2-3 hours + cooling)
Infusion extracts cannabinoids into fat for even dosing.
1. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over low heat (do not boil).
2. Add decarboxylated cannabis. Stir to combine.
3. Simmer on low (160-200°F; use a thermometer) for 2-3 hours, stirring every 30 minutes. Keep covered but vent slightly.
4. Strain through cheesecloth or a fine mesh sieve into a jar, squeezing to extract all liquid. Discard plant material.
5. Refrigerate until solid (4+ hours or overnight). Skim off excess water if needed.
Step 3: Prepare Whoopie Pie Cakes (30 minutes bake time)
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment or silicone mats.
2. In a large bowl, cream cannabutter and sugar with an electric mixer until fluffy (3-4 minutes).
3. Add eggs one at a time, beating well, then mix in vanilla.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk flour, cocoa, baking soda, and salt.
5. Combine coffee and buttermilk in a measuring cup.
6. Alternate adding dry ingredients and wet coffee mixture to the butter mixture, starting and ending with dry. Mix until just combined (do not overmix).
7. Scoop 1-2 tbsp batter per cake onto sheets, spacing 2 inches apart (they spread).
8. Bake 8-10 minutes until set and spring back when touched. Cool on sheets 5 minutes, then transfer to racks.
Step 4: Make Mascarpone Filling (10 minutes)
1. In a bowl, beat mascarpone, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
2. Add heavy cream, espresso, and rum; whip until fluffy (like frosting). Chill if too soft.
Step 5: Assemble the Whoopie Pies (10 minutes)
1. Pair cakes by size. Spread or pipe 1-2 tbsp filling on flat side of one cake.
2. Top with matching cake, pressing gently.
3. Dust tops generously with cocoa powder using a sieve.
4. Chill assembled pies for 30 minutes to set. Store in airtight container in fridge up to 3 days (or freeze up to 1 month).
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve chilled or at room temp for best texture.
- Pair with coffee (non-infused) for tiramisu vibes.
- To calculate potency: Divide total THC mg from flower by servings. Use a potency calculator for precision.
Enjoy responsibly—these indulgent treats blend classic Italian flair with a cannabis kick!