Hostess Cupcake Cookies

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that brings back childhood memories, these Hostess Cupcake Cookies are just the ticket! They’re soft, chocolatey, and topped with fluffy vegan marshmallows frosting—what’s not to love? This recipe perfectly captures the classic Hostess Cupcake vibes, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or simply want to indulge in something sweet, these cookies will surely bring smiles all around.

One of the best things about these Hostess Cupcake Cookies is how easy they are to make. You’ll find that even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is simple enough to follow. Plus, they can be made ahead of time so you can enjoy them whenever a craving strikes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have delicious cookies ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves chocolate! These cookies are sure to please kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake them ahead of time and store them for an easy dessert option later.
• Nostalgic Flavors: Enjoy the taste of your favorite childhood treat in cookie form—it’s like a trip down memory lane!
• Customizable Toppings: Get creative with toppings or variations to make this recipe your own.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients for these delightful cookies. Most of these items can be found right in your pantry, making this recipe both convenient and accessible.

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 vegan marshmallows creme

For the Ganache

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

Variations

This recipe is super flexible! Here are a few fun ideas to switch things up:

• Add Some Crunch: Mix in some chopped nuts or crushed cookies for extra texture.
• Switch Up the Flavor: Try using vanilla cake mix instead of Devil’s Food for a different flavor profile.
• Make Them Mini: Use a mini scoop to create bite-sized versions that are perfect for parties!
• Experiment with Toppings: Top with sprinkles or drizzle with caramel sauce for an extra special touch.

How to Make Hostess Cupcake Cookies

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F. This ensures that the cookies bake evenly and come out just right!

Step 2: Mix Your 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 step is crucial because it allows room for spreading while baking!

Step 3: Bake the Cookies

Bake your cookies for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are set. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This cooling time helps them firm up so they hold their shape.

Step 4: Prepare the Frosting

In another bowl, beat the butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt; then beat until combined. Fold in the vegan marshmallows creme until smooth. Set aside half of this frosting for that iconic white squiggle!

Step 5: Make the Ganache

To prepare your ganache, pour heavy cream over chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for 45 seconds then let it rest before whisking until smooth. Cooling it slightly before use prevents it from melting your frosting later on!

Step 6: Frost Your Cookies

Spread a generous layer of vegan marshmallows frosting on each cooled cookie! Chill them in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes to help set that fluffy topping.

Step 7: Drizzle with Ganache

Once chilled, spoon cooled chocolate ganache over each cookie. Allow it to set completely before moving on to that final touch.

Step 8: Add The Squiggle

Using a piping bag fitted with a small round tip, pipe reserved frosting in a squiggle pattern across each cookie. And there you have it—your very own Hostess Cupcake Cookies ready to enjoy!

These treats are bound to become one of your favorites; happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Hostess Cupcake Cookies

Baking these delightful cookies should be a fun and easy experience, so here are some helpful tips to ensure your Hostess Cupcake Cookies turn out perfectly!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Having your butter at room temperature helps it blend smoothly with the sugar, creating a light and fluffy frosting that spreads easily on your cookies.

• Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake. Removing them from the oven when the edges are set but the centers are still soft ensures a chewy texture that mimics the classic Hostess treat.

• Chill your cookies before frosting: Allowing the cookies to cool completely before adding frosting prevents it from melting and sliding off, ensuring that each cookie gets its signature look and taste.

• Experiment with toppings: While this recipe includes a chocolate ganache and marshmallow squiggle, feel free to get creative! Sprinkles or crushed nuts can add extra flair and texture to your cookies.

• Make ahead for future enjoyment: These cookies can be stored in an airtight container for several days or frozen for longer storage. Just frost after thawing to keep them fresh!

How to Serve Hostess Cupcake Cookies

Serving these Hostess Cupcake Cookies is all about presentation! Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a cozy evening at home, these ideas will make your dessert shine.

Garnishes

• Chocolate shavings: A sprinkle of chocolate shavings adds a touch of elegance and enhances the chocolate flavor of the cookies.
• Mini marshmallows: Placing a few mini marshmallows atop the frosting adds both visual appeal and extra marshmallow goodness, perfect for those who love that fluffy texture!

Side Dishes

• Coffee or espresso: The rich flavors of coffee complement the chocolatey sweetness of the cookies beautifully, making for a delightful after-dinner treat.
• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream provides a delicious contrast to the dense cookie texture and enhances the overall dessert experience.
• Fresh fruit salad: A light fruit salad with berries and melons adds freshness and balances out the sweetness of the cookies, making it an ideal side.
• Herbal tea: A warm cup of herbal tea can provide a soothing contrast to these sweet treats, perfect for winding down after enjoying your cookies.

Enjoy these delicious Hostess Cupcake Cookies with friends and family – they’re sure to bring smiles all around!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Hostess Cupcake Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can bake them in advance and enjoy their deliciousness throughout the week. Here’s how to store and keep them fresh:

Storing Leftovers

• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• For longer freshness, refrigerate them, where they can last up to a week.
• Keep the cookies separated with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing

• Freeze un-frosted cookies by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to an airtight container.
• Frosted cookies can also be frozen; just make sure the ganache is completely set before stacking them.
• Enjoy frozen cookies within 2-3 months for optimal taste.

Reheating

• To reheat, place cookies in a microwave-safe dish and heat for 10-15 seconds or until just warm.
• If desired, you can add a little extra frosting after reheating for that fresh-baked touch!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Hostess Cupcake Cookies.

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

Absolutely! While Devil’s Food cake mix gives these cookies their signature flavor, you can experiment with other chocolate or even vanilla cake mixes for a different twist.

How do I make the frosting for my Hostess Cupcake Cookies thicker?

If your frosting seems too thin, gradually add more powdered sugar until you reach your desired consistency. This will help it hold its shape better when piping.

What are some variations I can try with Hostess Cupcake Cookies?

Feel free to add mini chocolate chips or chopped nuts into the cookie dough before baking. You could also make different flavored frostings by adding extracts like almond or mint!

How long do Hostess Cupcake Cookies stay fresh?

When stored properly at room temperature in an airtight container, the cookies will stay fresh for up to five days. Refrigeration extends their shelf life to about a week.

Can I use other types of cream instead of heavy cream for the ganache?

Yes! You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or any plant-based milk alternative. Just be aware that this may slightly alter the texture of your ganache.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Hostess Cupcake Cookies as much as I do! They bring back such wonderful childhood memories while offering a modern twist that’s completely satisfying. Whether you’re baking for yourself or sharing with friends and family, these cookies are sure to impress. Happy baking, and may each bite bring you joy!