Hostess Cupcake Cookies

If you’re looking for a fun and nostalgic treat, these Hostess Cupcake Cookies are just the ticket! They capture the delightful essence of those classic cupcakes we all loved as kids, but in cookie form. Imagine biting into a rich chocolate cookie topped with fluffy frosting, smooth ganache, and that iconic white squiggle. It’s pure bliss!

These cookies are perfect for all sorts of occasions—whether you’re hosting a family gathering, surprising your kids after school, or simply treating yourself after a long day. Trust me; once you whip up this easy recipe, you’ll find yourself making them again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to make: With simple steps and minimal prep time, these cookies can be in your oven in just 15 minutes.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore these sweet treats; they’re sure to become a favorite!
• Make-ahead convenience: You can bake the cookies ahead of time and assemble them later for an easy dessert option.
• Decadent flavors: The combination of rich chocolate, creamy frosting, and silky ganache creates an irresistible dessert.
• Perfectly customizable: Feel free to play around with flavors or toppings to make it your own!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe comes together with simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have on hand. Let’s take a look at what you need to create these delicious Hostess Cupcake Cookies!

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 quite flexible, allowing you to get creative and make it uniquely yours! Here are some delightful variation ideas:

• Add some crunch: Fold in chopped nuts or crushed cookies into the dough for added texture.
• Switch up the flavor: Try using a different cake mix—like yellow or red velvet—for a fun twist.
• Go for mini versions: Scoop smaller portions to create bite-sized cookies that are perfect for sharing.
• Experiment with toppings: Top with sprinkles or drizzle with caramel sauce for extra flair!

How to Make Hostess Cupcake Cookies

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F and line two cookie sheets with parchment paper. This step ensures even baking while making clean-up a breeze!

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 your prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This gives each cookie room to spread while baking.

Step 3: Bake the Cookies

Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes or until their edges are set. It’s important not to overbake them; they should be soft in the center! Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 4: Make the Frosting

To prepare your frosting, beat the room-temperature butter in a large bowl until creamy. Add in powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt—then beat until fully combined. Gently fold in the vegan marshmallows creme until smooth. Remember to set aside half a cup of frosting for that signature squiggle later!

Step 5: Prepare Ganache

For that luscious ganache topping, pour heavy cream over chocolate chips in a small microwave-safe bowl. Microwave it for about 45 seconds then let it sit for one minute before whisking until smooth. Let it cool for about ten minutes before using—it’ll thicken just right!

Step 6: Frost Each Cookie

Spread a generous layer of frosting on each cooled cookie. Then chill them in the refrigerator for about ten minutes so that lovely frosting sets nicely.

Step 7: Add Ganache Topping

Spoon your cooled chocolate ganache over each chilled cookie. Allow it to set before moving on—it’s worth the wait!

Step 8: Pipe on Squiggles

Finally, using a piping bag fitted with a small round tip, pipe that reserved frosting into a cute squiggle pattern across each cookie. And voilà! Your delicious Hostess Cupcake Cookies are ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Hostess Cupcake Cookies

Making these delectable Hostess Cupcake Cookies is a breeze when you follow a few handy tips!

• Use room temperature butter: This helps create a creamy frosting that spreads easily and has a lovely texture, enhancing the overall mouthfeel of your cookies.

• Chill the ganache: Allowing the ganache to cool before pouring it over the cookies ensures it sets nicely rather than sliding off, resulting in a beautifully finished treat.

• Don’t skip the chilling step: Refrigerating the frosted cookies allows the frosting to firm up, making it easier to add the chocolate ganache and ensuring every bite is perfectly balanced.

• Opt for high-quality chocolate chips: Using semi-sweet chocolate chips enhances the flavor of your ganache, giving it that rich, decadent taste that pairs wonderfully with the cookie base.

• Experiment with toppings: Feel free to get creative by adding sprinkles or crushed nuts on top of your ganache for an extra layer of texture and fun!

How to Serve Hostess Cupcake Cookies

These cookies are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them perfect for any occasion. Here are some delightful ways to present them!

Garnishes

• Shredded coconut: Sprinkling unsweetened shredded coconut on top adds a tropical flair and complements the chocolate beautifully.
• Chocolate shavings: Use a vegetable peeler to create delicate chocolate shavings that can be sprinkled on top for an elegant finish.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: This classic pairing adds a creamy contrast to the rich chocolate cookies, creating a delightful combination that everyone loves.
• Fresh berries: A side of strawberries or raspberries adds freshness and acidity, balancing out the sweetness of the cookies perfectly.
• Whipped coconut cream: For a dairy-free option, serve these cookies with light whipped coconut cream that enhances their indulgence without overpowering them.
• Coffee or tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea alongside these cookies makes for a cozy afternoon treat, enhancing their chocolatey richness while providing a comforting vibe.

Enjoy crafting these Hostess Cupcake Cookies and sharing them with friends and family! They’ll surely bring smiles all around.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Hostess Cupcake Cookies are not only a delightful treat but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week or share them with friends and family.

Storing Leftovers

• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• For longer freshness, refrigerate them for up to 10 days.

Freezing

• Allow cookies to cool completely before freezing.
• Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then freeze until solid.
• Transfer frozen cookies into a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating

• To enjoy cookies warm, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5 minutes, or until warmed through.
• Alternatively, microwave for 10-15 seconds if you prefer.

FAQs

Here are some common questions readers have about Hostess Cupcake Cookies:

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

Absolutely! While the recipe calls for Devil’s Food cake mix, you can experiment with other flavors like chocolate fudge or even vanilla for a different twist!

How do I store leftover Hostess Cupcake Cookies?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For extended storage, refrigerate them for up to 10 days.

Can I make Hostess Cupcake Cookies vegan?

Yes! This recipe already uses vegan marshmallow creme and you can substitute eggs with flax eggs or applesauce if desired.

What type of chocolate chips should I use in Hostess Cupcake Cookies?

Semi-sweet chocolate chips work great, but feel free to use dark chocolate or dairy-free chips if you prefer!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating these delightful Hostess Cupcake Cookies! They’re not just delicious but also evoke sweet memories of childhood treats. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just because, I encourage you to gather your ingredients and dive into this fun baking adventure. Enjoy every bite, and don’t forget to share your creations with those you love!