Hostess Cupcake Cookies

If you’re looking for a fun and nostalgic treat, these Hostess Cupcake Cookies are just the thing to brighten your day! Reminiscent of the classic snack cakes we all know and love, this recipe transforms those delicious flavors into soft, frosted cookies that everyone will adore. Whether you’re baking for a busy weeknight dessert or a family gathering, these cookies are sure to be a hit.

What makes this recipe special is how easy it is to whip up. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a batch of mouthwatering cookies ready in no time. Plus, the combination of rich chocolate, fluffy marshmallow frosting, and silky ganache creates a delightful treat that brings smiles all around.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Using cake mix simplifies the process, making it perfect for busy bakers.
• Deliciously Indulgent: The combination of chocolate cookies and creamy frosting is simply irresistible.
• Family-Friendly Fun: Kids will love helping with the frosting and decorating!
• Make Ahead: These cookies store well in an airtight container, so you can prepare them in advance for parties.
• Customizable Toppings: Feel free to get creative with toppings beyond the classic squiggle!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Hostess Cupcake Cookies use simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Let’s gather everything we need for this delightful treat!

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 really flexible! Here are a few fun ideas to make these Hostess Cupcake Cookies your own:

• Add Some Crunch: Sprinkle crushed nuts or cookie crumbs on top before the ganache sets for added texture.
• Mix Up the Flavor: Swap out the Devil’s Food cake mix for another flavor like red velvet or vanilla for a unique twist.
• Try Different Frostings: Use flavored frostings like peanut butter or caramel for an exciting change!
• Go Mini: Make mini versions using a smaller scoop for bite-sized treats that are perfect for parties.

How to Make Hostess Cupcake Cookies

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F. This step ensures that your cookies bake evenly and come out perfectly fluffy!

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 dough onto prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart. This spacing allows room for spreading while baking.

Step 3: Bake the Cookies

Bake your cookies in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until their edges are set. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This cooling time helps them firm up without breaking.

Step 4: Create the Frosting

While your cookies cool, let’s make that dreamy frosting! Beat the room temperature butter until creamy in a large bowl. Add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt; beat until fully combined. Finally, fold in the vegan marshmallows creme until smooth. Set aside half of this frosting for later use.

Step 5: Prepare Your Ganache

Now it’s time to make that luscious ganache! Pour heavy cream over chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave it for about 45 seconds and then let it rest for one minute before whisking until smooth. Let it cool slightly before using.

Step 6: Frost Those Cookies

Spread a generous layer of vegan marshmallows frosting on each cooled cookie. To help set everything nicely, chill them in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes.

Step 7: Add Ganache Topping

Once chilled, spoon some cooled ganache over each cookie. This creates that rich chocolate layer on top—yum!

Step 8: Pipe on Your Squiggles

Finally, using a piping bag fitted with a small round tip, pipe reserved vegan marshmallows frosting into cute squiggles on top of each cookie. This nostalgic touch makes them look just like Hostess cupcakes!

Enjoy every bite of these delightful Hostess Cupcake Cookies! They’re perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself!

Pro Tips for Making Hostess Cupcake Cookies

Making these Hostess Cupcake Cookies can be a delightful adventure, and with these tips, you’ll ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Let your butter and eggs come to room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter and ensures better incorporation of ingredients.

• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake. They should be soft in the center when you take them out; they will continue to firm up as they cool.

• Chill Your Frosting: If your frosting seems too soft to spread, pop it in the fridge for a few minutes. Chilled frosting is easier to work with and helps achieve clean, sharp edges on your cookies.

• Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to get creative! You can add sprinkles or chopped nuts on top of the ganache for added texture and color that makes your cookies even more appealing.

• Make Ahead and Freeze: These cookies freeze wonderfully! Prepare a batch and freeze them without the frosting. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw, frost, and serve for a quick treat.

How to Serve Hostess Cupcake Cookies

These delightful cookies are perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a birthday party, family gathering, or just a special treat for yourself. Here are some ideas on how to present them beautifully!

Garnishes

• Chocolate Shavings: Add delicate chocolate shavings on top of the ganache for an elegant touch that enhances the chocolate flavor.
• Colorful Sprinkles: Brighten up your cookies by adding colorful sprinkles on top of the frosting before it sets—perfect for celebrations or just because!

Side Dishes

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits like berries, melons, and citrus complements the richness of the cookies.
• Vegan Ice Cream: Serve alongside a scoop of vegan vanilla or chocolate ice cream for a classic dessert pairing that’s sure to please.
• Coffee or Herbal Tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea balances the sweetness of the cookies while providing a cozy touch to your dessert experience.
• Milk Alternatives: Offer almond milk or oat milk for those who prefer non-dairy options; it’s a classic pairing that pairs perfectly with baked treats.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in hand, you’re all set to impress friends and family with these delightful Hostess Cupcake Cookies! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Hostess Cupcake Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can whip them up in advance, making them an ideal treat for parties or just to have on hand for a sweet snack throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you prefer, you can refrigerate them to extend freshness; they will last about a week in the fridge.
• Always ensure the cookies are completely cooled before sealing them to avoid moisture buildup.

Freezing

• To freeze, place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer the frozen cookies to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• When ready to enjoy, let the cookies thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
• If desired, warm them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a fresh-baked taste.

FAQs

Got questions? You’re not alone! Here are some common queries about these delightful Hostess Cupcake Cookies.

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

Absolutely! While Devil’s Food cake mix gives that classic flavor, feel free to experiment with other chocolate or even vanilla cake mixes. Just keep an eye on baking times as they may vary slightly.

How do I store leftover Hostess Cupcake Cookies?

To keep your delicious cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them!

Can I make Hostess Cupcake Cookies vegan?

Yes! This recipe already includes vegan marshmallow creme and can easily be made vegan by using plant-based butter and non-dairy cream.

What if I can’t find vegan marshmallow creme?

If you can’t find vegan marshmallow creme, you can use whipped coconut cream or make your own using aquafaba (chickpea brine) whipped with sugar.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Hostess Cupcake Cookies as much as I do! They combine nostalgia with modern twists, creating a treat that’s sure to bring smiles all around. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a sweet moment of indulgence, these cookies are here to brighten your day. Happy baking!