Hostess Cupcake Cookies

These Hostess Cupcake Cookies bring the nostalgia of the classic Hostess treat into a delightful cookie form. With their rich chocolate base and fluffy marshmallow frosting, these cookies are perfect for birthdays, parties, or a sweet afternoon snack. The smooth chocolate ganache and iconic squiggle make them visually appealing and incredibly tasty.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these delicious cookies in no time.
• Deliciously Decadent: The combination of chocolate cookie, marshmallow frosting, and ganache creates a rich flavor that satisfies any sweet tooth.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a celebration or just a treat for yourself, these cookies fit the bill for any event.
• Nostalgic Appeal: These cookies capture the essence of Hostess Cupcakes, bringing back fond childhood memories with every bite.
• Customizable Frosting Options: Feel free to experiment with different toppings or colors for special occasions.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delightful recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Cookie sheets
• Parchment paper
• Microwave-safe bowl
• Piping bag with round tip

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: These are essential for combining ingredients smoothly without any mess.
• Electric mixer: This tool saves time and effort when beating butter and mixing frosting.
• Parchment paper: It prevents sticking, making cookie removal easy while ensuring even baking.

Ingredients

These Hostess Cupcake Cookies combine the classic flavors of a Hostess Cupcake into a soft, frosted cookie. With a rich chocolate base, fluffy marshmallow frosting, and smooth chocolate ganache, they’re topped off with the iconic white squiggle for a nostalgic touch.

For the Cookies

• 1 (15.25 ounce) box Devil’s Food cake mix
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup canola or vegetable oil

For the Frosting

• 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 marshmallow creme

For the Ganache

• 3/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup heavy cream

How to Make Hostess Cupcake Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Line two cookie sheets with parchment paper to prepare for baking.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough

In a large bowl, combine the Devil’s Food cake mix, eggs, and oil until you have a soft dough. Using a medium scoop, drop rounded portions of dough onto the prepared cookie sheets. Space them about 2 inches apart.

Step 3: Bake the Cookies

Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are set. Once done, allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 4: Prepare the Frosting

To make your frosting, beat the room temperature butter in a large bowl until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar along with vanilla extract and salt; continue mixing until fully combined. Gently fold in marshmallow creme until smooth. Reserve 1/2 cup of this frosting for later use.

Step 5: Prepare the Ganache

For the ganache, pour heavy cream over semi-sweet chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave it on high for about 45 seconds. Let it rest for one minute before whisking until smooth. Allow it to cool at room temperature for about 10 minutes before using.

Step 6: Frost the Cookies

Spread an ample layer of marshmallow frosting on each cooled cookie. Place them in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes to help set the frosting.

Step 7: Add Chocolate Ganache

Once chilled, spoon cooled chocolate ganache over each cookie generously. Allow this layer of ganache to set before moving on.

Step 8: Pipe Squiggles on Top

Using a piping bag fitted with a small round tip, pipe reserved marshmallow frosting in squiggle patterns across each cookie’s top. Enjoy your delicious Hostess Cupcake Cookies!

How to Serve Hostess Cupcake Cookies

These delightful Hostess Cupcake Cookies are perfect for various occasions, whether you’re hosting a party or simply enjoying a treat at home. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your cookie experience.

With Ice Cream

• Ala Mode: Serve the cookies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for a delicious contrast of temperatures.
• Ice Cream Sandwiches: Use two cookies and place your favorite ice cream in between for a fun twist!

At Parties

• Dessert Table Feature: Arrange the cookies on a beautiful platter as part of your dessert table at parties to attract attention.
• Party Favors: Put individual cookies in clear bags tied with ribbons for guests to take home.

With Coffee or Tea

• Afternoon Snack: Pair these cookies with coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat that complements the rich flavors.
• Coffee Bar Addition: Include the cookies as a sweet addition to any coffee bar setup during gatherings.

How to Perfect Hostess Cupcake Cookies

To achieve perfectly soft and fluffy Hostess Cupcake Cookies, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold Choice of Ingredients: Always use high-quality butter and fresh eggs to enhance flavor and texture.
• Bold Measure Flour Carefully: If you decide to add flour for thickness, ensure it’s measured accurately to maintain the right dough consistency.
• Bold Cool Cookies Properly: Allow the cookies to cool completely before frosting; this prevents melting and ensures neat presentation.
• Bold Ganache Consistency: Ensure your ganache is cooled but still pourable for an even finish over the cookies.
• Bold Squiggle Technique: Practice piping techniques on parchment paper before decorating the actual cookies for clean lines.

Best Side Dishes for Hostess Cupcake Cookies

When serving Hostess Cupcake Cookies, consider pairing them with delicious side dishes that complement their rich flavors. Here are some great options.

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances out the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Chocolate Fondue: Set up a chocolate fondue station where guests can dip cookie pieces into melted chocolate.
3. Cheese Platter: A variety of cheeses can provide a savory contrast to the sweet cookies.
4. Mini Pastries: Offer an assortment of mini pastries for those who enjoy variety with their desserts.
5. Nut Mix: A spiced nut mix adds crunch and pairs well with the soft texture of the cookies.
6. Whipped Cream Dip: Serve whipped cream dip on the side for added creaminess when enjoying each cookie.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Hostess Cupcake Cookies, it’s easy to run into a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using cold ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature. Cold ingredients can lead to a dense cookie texture instead of the soft, fluffy result you want.
• Not measuring accurately: Baking is a science, so use proper measuring cups and spoons. Incorrect measurements can throw off the balance of flavors and textures in your cookies.
• Overmixing the dough: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can develop gluten, leading to tough cookies rather than soft ones.
• Skipping the cooling time: Allow cookies to cool properly on the baking sheet before transferring them. This helps them set and prevents breakage.
• Forgetting to chill the frosting: Chilling the marshmallow frosting helps it hold its shape when piped onto the cookies. Don’t skip this step for that perfect squiggle!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Use parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Hostess Cupcake Cookies

• Freeze cookies individually on a baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to label with the date!

Reheating Hostess Cupcake Cookies

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and warm cookies for about 5 minutes until just heated through.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat or they may become tough.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a non-stick skillet over low heat for a few minutes, flipping occasionally until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Hostess Cupcake Cookies?

Hostess Cupcake Cookies are delightful treats that combine the classic flavors of Hostess cupcakes into delicious, soft cookies topped with marshmallow frosting and chocolate ganache.

How long do Hostess Cupcake Cookies last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, Hostess Cupcake Cookies can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator or about 3 months in the freezer.

Can I customize my Hostess Cupcake Cookies?

Absolutely! You can add different toppings like sprinkles or use flavored cake mixes for a unique twist on this classic recipe.

Why did my cookies turn out flat?

Flat cookies may be due to too much liquid or insufficient flour. Ensure accurate measurements and check that your baking powder is fresh.

How should I store leftover frosting?

Store any leftover marshmallow frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Rewhip before using if it thickens too much.

Final Thoughts

These Hostess Cupcake Cookies are not only nostalgic but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize them with different cake mixes or toppings based on your preferences. Whether serving them at parties or enjoying them as an afternoon treat, we encourage you to try this delightful recipe!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Hostess Cupcake Cookies

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Hostess Cupcake Cookies are a delightful twist on the beloved classic treat, transforming the nostalgic flavors of Hostess cupcakes into soft, indulgent cookies. Each bite features a rich chocolate base topped with fluffy marshmallow frosting and a silky chocolate ganache, finished off with an iconic squiggle for a visually appealing touch. Perfect for birthday celebrations, parties, or simply an afternoon pick-me-up, these cookies are easy to make and sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. With the option to customize toppings and flavors, you can make them your own!

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 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 jar marshmallow creme (7 ounces)
• 3/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup heavy cream

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F and line cookie sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix cake mix, eggs, and oil to form dough. Scoop onto prepared sheets.
3. Bake for 8-10 minutes until edges are set; cool on wire racks.
4. For frosting, beat butter until creamy; add powdered sugar, vanilla, salt, then fold in marshmallow creme.
5. For ganache, heat cream over chocolate chips; whisk until smooth.
6. Frost cooled cookies with marshmallow frosting followed by ganache and pipe squiggles on top.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cookie (45g)
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 18g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 20mg