Hostess Cupcake Cookies

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that brings back fond memories, these Hostess Cupcake Cookies are just the ticket! They capture the classic flavors of the beloved Hostess Cupcake in a delightful, soft cookie form. Picture biting into a rich chocolate cookie topped with fluffy vegan marshmallows frosting and a glossy chocolate ganache. It’s pure nostalgia and comfort all in one bite!

These cookies are perfect for any occasion – whether it’s a busy weeknight dessert or a fun addition to your next family gathering. They’re easy enough to whip up after dinner, but impressive enough to wow your friends at a potluck. Trust me, once you make them, they’ll quickly become a favorite in your household!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have these cookies ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves chocolate, and these cookies are sure to please kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake them ahead of time and store for later. They taste great even after a couple of days!
• Decadent Flavor: Rich chocolate combined with sweet marshmallow frosting creates an irresistible treat.
• Customizable Fun: You can easily tweak the recipe to suit your taste or dietary needs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This list is filled with simple, wholesome items that you probably already have in your pantry. These Hostess Cupcake Cookies come together beautifully using:

• 1 (15.25 ounce) box Devil’s Food cake mix
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup canola or vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 2 1/4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 (7 ounce) jar vegan marshmallows creme
• 3/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup heavy cream

Variations

One of the best things about these cookies is their flexibility! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients:

• Add Some Crunch: Mix in some chopped nuts or crushed pretzels for added texture.
• Change the Base: Use a different flavor cake mix like vanilla or red velvet for a unique twist.
• Go Nut-Free: Substitute the vegan marshmallows crème with coconut whipped cream for an allergy-friendly option.
• Make it Festive: Add colorful sprinkles on top of the ganache for special occasions!

How to Make Hostess Cupcake Cookies

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. This ensures that your cookies bake evenly and come out perfectly soft and chewy.

Step 2: Prepare the Cookie Dough

In a large bowl, combine the Devil’s Food cake mix, eggs, and oil until a soft dough forms. Using a medium scoop, drop the dough onto prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This helps them bake evenly without sticking together.

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

Bake those delicious little rounds for about 8-10 minutes until the edges are set. Letting them cool on the baking sheet for just five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack helps maintain their shape while cooling.

Step 4: Make the Fluffy Frosting

To create that dreamy topping, beat the butter in another bowl until creamy. Add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt; mix until combined. Fold in the vegan marshmallows crème until smooth—this will give you that iconic Hostess flavor!

Step 5: Prepare the Ganache

Pour heavy cream over semi-sweet chocolate chips in a small microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for about 45 seconds then whisk until smooth. Let it cool for about ten minutes; this will help it thicken slightly before pouring over your cookies.

Step 6: Frost Those Cookies

Once cooled completely, spread a generous layer of frosting on each cookie. A little chill in the refrigerator for ten minutes will help set this delectable layer.

Step 7: Drizzle with Ganache

After chilling, spoon that luscious ganache over each cookie. Allow it to set so every bite is filled with rich goodness.

Step 8: Add The Finishing Touch

Finally, using a piping bag fitted with a small round tip, create that signature squiggle with reserved frosting on top of each cookie. Enjoy every last morsel!

Pro Tips for Making Hostess Cupcake Cookies

Creating the perfect Hostess Cupcake Cookies is a delightful adventure, and with these handy tips, you’ll be a cookie superstar!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your butter and eggs to room temperature helps to create a smoother batter, leading to better texture in your cookies.

• Don’t overbake: Keep a close eye on the cookies while they bake. Removing them as soon as the edges are set ensures they remain soft and chewy.

• Chill the frosting: Chilling the vegan marshmallows frosting before piping it onto the cookies makes it easier to work with and gives it that perfect squiggle shape.

• Experiment with toppings: Feel free to sprinkle crushed nuts or colorful sprinkles on top of the ganache for added texture and flavor. This adds both visual appeal and an extra crunch.

• Store properly: To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for several days, but I doubt they’ll last that long!

How to Serve Hostess Cupcake Cookies

When it comes to serving these delightful cookies, presentation is key! Whether it’s for a party, family gathering, or just a cozy night in, here are some great ideas.

Garnishes

• Chocolate shavings: Adding chocolate shavings on top of the ganache will not only enhance its chocolatey flavor but also create an elegant look.

• Fresh mint leaves: A sprig of mint on each cookie adds a pop of color and a refreshing taste that contrasts beautifully with the rich chocolate.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with these cookies, balancing their richness with a cool and sweet contrast.

• Fresh Berries: Lightly sweetened strawberries or raspberries provide a fresh burst of flavor that complements the chocolate perfectly. Plus, they add vibrant color to your dessert table!

• Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea makes for a delightful pairing, enhancing the flavors of the cookies while providing a comforting beverage option.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Hostess Cupcake Cookies will surely impress everyone who gets to indulge! Enjoy baking and sharing this delicious treat!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Hostess Cupcake Cookies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to whip up a batch in advance and enjoy them throughout the week. With their delightful flavors and textures, they’re sure to be a hit whenever you need a sweet treat!

Storing Leftovers

• Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• Ensure that any leftover ganache is stored separately to maintain its texture.

Freezing

• Place cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight freezer bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat cookies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
• Avoid reheating ganache; instead, let it come to room temperature if needed.

FAQs

Got questions? We’ve got answers! Here are some common inquiries about our Hostess Cupcake Cookies.

Can I use a different cake mix for these Hostess Cupcake Cookies?

Absolutely! While Devil’s Food is traditional, feel free to experiment with other chocolate or even vanilla cake mixes. Just keep an eye on baking times, as they might vary slightly.

How do I achieve the perfect frosting consistency for my Hostess Cupcake Cookies?

To get that ideal fluffy texture, make sure to beat the butter well before adding powdered sugar. If your frosting is too thick, add a splash of plant-based milk; if too thin, add more powdered sugar until you reach your desired consistency.

Can I make these Hostess Cupcake Cookies gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute the cake mix with a gluten-free alternative. Be sure to check that all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

What makes these Hostess Cupcake Cookies unique?

These cookies bring together nostalgia and modern flavors with their soft chocolate base and creamy vegan marshmallows frosting topped with smooth ganache. The iconic squiggle adds that special touch we all love!

How can I customize my Hostess Cupcake Cookies?

Feel free to add chocolate chips or nuts into the dough for extra texture! You can also experiment with different types of frosting or toppings based on your preferences.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these delightful Hostess Cupcake Cookies! They’re not just a treat but also a wonderful way to reminisce about childhood favorites while enjoying them with family and friends. Whether you’re baking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, I’m excited for you to experience this deliciousness. Happy baking!