Hostess Cupcake Cookies

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that brings back childhood memories, these Hostess Cupcake Cookies are just the thing! Imagine biting into soft, chocolatey cookies topped with luscious frosting and a smooth ganache. This recipe is a favorite in my home because it perfectly captures the classic flavors of those beloved snack cakes we all enjoyed growing up. Plus, they’re super easy to whip up, making them perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings where everyone will gather around for dessert.

These delightful cookies not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also bring smiles to faces young and old. So grab your mixing bowl and let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have these delicious cookies ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves chocolate cookies, and these are sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: These cookies store well, so you can bake them in advance for parties or school events.
• Decadent Flavor: Rich chocolate cookie base with fluffy frosting creates an irresistible combination.
• Nostalgic Touch: The iconic white squiggle on top brings back wonderful memories of childhood treats.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making these Hostess Cupcake Cookies is a breeze with simple, wholesome ingredients you probably already have at home. Here’s what you’ll need:

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

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into how to make these scrumptious cookies!

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
• Change the Chocolate: Try using dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
• Swap the Frosting: Feel free to experiment with different frostings like peanut butter or cream cheese for a unique twist.
• Decorate Differently: Get creative with sprinkles or colored icing on top of the ganache for festive occasions.

How to Make Hostess Cupcake Cookies

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F. Preheating ensures that your cookies bake evenly and come out perfectly soft.

Step 2: Mix 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 allows room for spreading while baking.

Step 3: Bake the Cookies

Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are set. It’s crucial not to overbake them; we want soft centers that melt in your mouth. Let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Step 4: Make the Frosting

In another bowl, beat the room-temperature butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt while beating until it’s fully combined. Fold in the vegan marshmallows creme until smooth—this gives our frosting that delightful fluffiness!

Step 5: Prepare the Ganache

For that rich topping, pour heavy cream over semi-sweet chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for about 45 seconds then let it rest before whisking until smooth. Allow this ganache to cool slightly before using—it should be pourable but not too hot.

Step 6: Frost Your Cookies

Spread a generous layer of frosting on each cooled cookie. For best results, chill them in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes; this helps set the frosting nicely.

Step 7: Drizzle with Ganache

Spoon your cooled ganache over each chilled cookie and allow it to set before proceeding.

Step 8: Add That Iconic Squiggle

Using a piping bag fitted with a small round tip, pipe your reserved vegan marshmallows frosting in a squiggle across each cookie. This final touch makes them look just like those nostalgic treats we remember!

Enjoy every delightful bite of these Hostess Cupcake Cookies! They’re sure to become a cherished favorite in your home too!

Pro Tips for Making Hostess Cupcake Cookies

Making these delightful cookies can be a joyful experience, and with a few simple tips, you’ll ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Measure Ingredients Accurately: Using precise measurements helps achieve the right texture and flavor. Too much flour or not enough liquid can lead to dry or crumbly cookies.

• Let the Cookies Cool Completely: Allowing the cookies to cool on a wire rack prevents melting and sliding of the frosting and ganache. This helps maintain their shape and makes for a prettier presentation.

• Chill the Frosting: If your frosting seems too soft to pipe, chill it in the refrigerator for about 10-15 minutes. This will help it thicken up, making it easier to create those iconic squiggles.

• Use Quality Chocolate Chips: Opting for high-quality semi-sweet chocolate chips will enhance the flavor of your ganache. The better the chocolate, the richer and more indulgent your cookies will taste!

• Experiment with Flavor Additions: Don’t hesitate to add a pinch of espresso powder or a splash of almond extract to the cookie dough for an extra depth of flavor. These little tweaks can make a big difference!

How to Serve Hostess Cupcake Cookies

These Hostess Cupcake Cookies are not just delicious but also visually appealing! Here are some ideas on how to present them beautifully at your next gathering or family get-together.

Garnishes

• Sprinkles: A sprinkle of colorful sugar sprinkles on top of the frosting adds a fun, festive touch that’s sure to bring smiles.
• Chocolate Shavings: Grating some dark chocolate over the top makes for an elegant garnish that complements the rich flavors.
• Fresh Berries: A few fresh raspberries or strawberries arranged beside each cookie add a pop of color and freshness.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with the rich chocolate flavors, creating a delightful contrast in textures.
• Coffee or Espresso: Serving these cookies with a steaming cup of coffee or espresso enhances their chocolatey goodness while providing a comforting warmth.
• Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits offers a light counterbalance to the sweetness of the cookies.
• Milkshake: A thick chocolate milkshake is perfect for dipping these cookies while adding an extra indulgence that chocolate lovers will adore!

With these serving suggestions, you’ll have everything you need to impress your guests with these nostalgic yet modern treats! Enjoy baking and sharing these Hostess Cupcake Cookies—happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Hostess Cupcake Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can make a batch in advance and enjoy them throughout the week. Here’s how to store and manage your delicious cookies.

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.
• If the frosting becomes too soft, chill them slightly before serving.

Freezing

• To freeze, place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen cookies at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.
• To warm them slightly, place cookies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Hostess Cupcake Cookies.

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

Absolutely! While Devil’s Food cake mix gives that classic chocolate flavor, feel free to experiment with other chocolate cake mixes. Just ensure they are compatible with the other ingredients.

How can I make these Hostess Cupcake Cookies gluten-free?

To make gluten-free Hostess Cupcake Cookies, substitute the Devil’s Food cake mix with a gluten-free chocolate cake mix. The remaining ingredients should work perfectly!

What if I can’t find vegan marshmallow crème?

If you can’t find vegan marshmallow crème, you can make your own or substitute it with whipped coconut cream sweetened with powdered sugar. It won’t have exactly the same flavor but will still be delicious!

Can I add nuts or other toppings to my Hostess Cupcake Cookies?

Certainly! Feel free to customize your cookies by adding chopped nuts, sprinkles, or even crushed candy pieces on top of the frosting before it sets.

How long do these Hostess Cupcake Cookies last?

When stored properly, these cookies can last up to 3 days at room temperature or up to a week in the refrigerator. If frozen, they will keep well for up to 3 months.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoyed this delightful journey into making Hostess Cupcake Cookies! They’re not just simple treats; they bring back memories and smiles with every bite. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or keeping them all for yourself (no judgment here!), I’m sure you’ll love making and enjoying these nostalgic cookies. Happy baking!