Hostess Cupcake Cookies

These Hostess Cupcake Cookies bring the beloved flavors of a classic Hostess treat into a delightful cookie form. Soft, chocolatey, and topped with fluffy vegan marshmallows frosting and smooth chocolate ganache, these cookies are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just craving something sweet, you’ll love the nostalgic touch and rich flavors that make these cookies stand out.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these delicious cookies in under 35 minutes.
• Rich Chocolate Flavor: The Devil’s Food cake mix provides an intense chocolate experience that satisfies every chocolate lover.
• Vegan-Friendly Frosting: The use of vegan marshmallows creme ensures everyone can enjoy these treats without compromising on taste.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for parties, picnics, or as an after-school snack; they’re sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Nostalgic Presentation: The iconic white squiggle on top not only looks appealing but also adds a touch of nostalgia to your dessert table.

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the necessary tools before you start. Having everything ready will save time and help ensure your cookies turn out perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Parchment paper
• Baking sheets
• Whisk
• Piping bag with a small round tip

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: These are essential for combining ingredients thoroughly to achieve the right dough consistency.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to baking success; they ensure your cookies rise and taste as intended.
• Piping bag with a small round tip: This tool lets you create beautiful squiggles of frosting on top of each cookie for that signature look.

Ingredients

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

For the Cookie Base

• 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

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 prevent sticking.

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 the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Step 3: Bake the Cookies

Bake the 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 to cool completely.

Step 4: Make the Frosting

In another large bowl, beat the unsalted butter until creamy. Add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt; beat until fully combined. Fold in vegan marshmallows creme until smooth. Set aside 1/2 cup of this frosting for later use.

Step 5: Prepare the Ganache

Pour heavy cream over semi-sweet chocolate chips in a small microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for 45 seconds; let it rest for 1 minute before whisking until smooth. Allow ganache to cool for about 10 minutes before using.

Step 6: Frost the Cookies

Spread a generous layer of vegan marshmallows frosting on each cooled cookie. Chill them in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes so that frosting sets properly.

Step 7: Add Ganache Topping

Spoon cooled chocolate ganache over chilled cookies. Let it set before proceeding.

Step 8: Pipe Squiggles on Top

Using your piping bag fitted with a small round tip, pipe reserved vegan marshmallows frosting in a squiggle pattern across each cookie’s top. Enjoy!

How to Serve Hostess Cupcake Cookies

Serving Hostess Cupcake Cookies can be a delightful experience for any gathering or special occasion. These cookies are versatile and can be paired with various items to enhance their appeal.

With Coffee or Tea

• Perfect Pairing: Enjoy these cookies with a warm cup of coffee or tea to balance the sweetness and create a cozy atmosphere.

As Party Favors

• Charming Treats: Package individual cookies in decorative bags to give as party favors, adding a personal touch to your celebrations.

On a Dessert Platter

• Colorful Display: Arrange these cookies alongside other desserts on a platter for an eye-catching display that’s perfect for dessert tables at events.

With Fresh Fruit

• Refreshing Contrast: Serve with slices of fresh fruit like strawberries or raspberries to add a refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate flavor.

At Kids’ Birthday Parties

• Fun Treats: These cookies are sure to be a hit at kids’ birthday parties, appealing to both children and adults alike.

How to Perfect Hostess Cupcake Cookies

Achieving the perfect Hostess Cupcake Cookies requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out delicious every time.

• Bold Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that butter and eggs are at room temperature for smoother mixing and better texture.
• Bold Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies while baking; overbaking can lead to dry cookies, so remove them when edges are set.
• Bold Chill Before Serving: Allow the cookies to chill after frosting; this helps the frosting set and enhances the overall flavor.
• Bold Customize Flavors: Feel free to add different extracts, such as almond or orange, for unique flavor variations that pair well with chocolate.
• Bold Store Properly: Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for optimal freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Hostess Cupcake Cookies

Pairing side dishes with Hostess Cupcake Cookies can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream – A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream provides a delicious contrast to the rich flavors of the cookie.
2. Fruit Salad – A colorful mix of seasonal fruits offers a light and refreshing accompaniment that balances sweetness.
3. Chocolate Fondue – Set up a chocolate fondue station where guests can dip their cookies for an interactive and fun treat.
4. Milkshakes – Thick milkshakes, especially chocolate or vanilla, create a nostalgic pairing reminiscent of classic diner desserts.
5. Coffee Cake – The slight bitterness of coffee cake complements sweet flavors, making it an excellent choice alongside these cookies.
6. Cheesecake Bites – Mini cheesecake bites provide a creamy texture that contrasts beautifully with the soft cookie base.
7. Nutty Granola Bars – For those seeking something crunchy, nutty granola bars offer a satisfying texture next to soft cookies.
8. Spiced Chai Latte – This warm drink blends spices that enhance the chocolate flavor while adding warmth during colder months.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Hostess Cupcake Cookies, avoiding common mistakes can enhance your results and ensure delicious cookies.

• Boldly overlook ingredient measurements. Accurate measurements are crucial for the right texture. Use measuring cups and spoons to ensure precision.
• Boldly skip cooling time. Allowing cookies to cool before frosting is essential. This prevents melting and ensures the frosting stays intact.
• Boldly ignore chilling the frosting. Chilling the frosting helps it hold its shape when piped. Always refrigerate it for a bit before using.
• Boldly underestimate ganache cooling. Letting the ganache cool is key for a glossy finish. Patience pays off, so resist the urge to rush this step.
• Boldly forget about storage conditions. Proper storage keeps cookies fresh longer. Use airtight containers and store them in a cool, dry place.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep cookies separated with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing Hostess Cupcake Cookies

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Layer parchment paper between cookies to maintain shape.

Reheating Hostess Cupcake Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place cookies on a baking sheet, and warm for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place a cookie in a covered pan over low heat for a few minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Hostess Cupcake Cookies?

Hostess Cupcake Cookies are soft cookies made with chocolate cake mix, topped with vegan marshmallow frosting and chocolate ganache, reminiscent of classic Hostess cupcakes.

Can I customize the frosting for Hostess Cupcake Cookies?

Absolutely! You can add flavors like mint or almond extract to the frosting or even use different types of chocolate chips for variety.

How do I make these Hostess Cupcake Cookies vegan?

Use plant-based butter and substitute eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water or another egg replacement suitable for baking.

How do I store leftover Hostess Cupcake Cookies?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days or freeze them for longer preservation.

Final Thoughts

These Hostess Cupcake Cookies bring nostalgia and delight with every bite. Their versatility allows you to customize flavors, making them perfect for any occasion. We encourage you to try this easy recipe and enjoy these delightful treats today!