Hostess Cupcake Cookies

These Hostess Cupcake Cookies bring the beloved flavors of a classic Hostess treat into a delightful cookie form. Perfect for parties, family gatherings, or just a sweet indulgence at home, these cookies feature a rich chocolate base topped with fluffy vegan marshmallows frosting and smooth chocolate ganache. The iconic white squiggle adds a nostalgic touch that will transport you back to your childhood.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these delicious cookies in no time.
• Decadent Flavor: The combination of chocolate cake mix and creamy frosting creates an irresistible treat.
• Vegan-Friendly Frosting: Enjoy the taste of marshmallow without any animal-derived ingredients.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday, bake sale, or casual afternoon snack, these cookies fit right in.
• Fun to Decorate: Get creative with the piping of the white squiggle on top for a personal touch.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into baking these delightful cookies, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your process and make baking more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Cookie sheets
• Parchment paper
• Piping bag with small round tip

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients effectively without spillovers.
• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when beating butter and frosting to creamy perfection.
• Piping bag: Allows for precise decoration, giving your cookies that professional look.

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Ingredients

To create your Hostess Cupcake Cookies, gather the following ingredients:

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

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 dough onto 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

To prepare the frosting, beat the butter in a large bowl until creamy. Add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt; then beat until fully combined. Fold in vegan marshmallows creme until smooth. Reserve 1/2 cup of 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, then 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 cookies in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes to allow frosting to set.

Step 7: Assemble with Ganache

Spoon cooled chocolate ganache over chilled cookies and let it set.

Step 8: Pipe the Squiggle Decoration

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

How to Serve Hostess Cupcake Cookies

Hostess Cupcake Cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply satisfying a sweet tooth, these cookies are sure to impress. Here are some creative serving suggestions.

With a Glass of Milk

• Pair these cookies with cold milk for a classic combo. The rich chocolate flavor complements the creamy texture of milk perfectly.

As Party Favors

• Package individual cookies in clear bags with colorful ribbons. They make fantastic party favors that guests will love to take home.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the cookies alongside other desserts like brownies and fruit tarts for an impressive dessert display at gatherings.

With Fresh Berries

• Serve your Hostess Cupcake Cookies with fresh strawberries or raspberries. The tartness adds a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cookies.

At a Movie Night

• Enjoy these cookies while watching your favorite movie. They are perfect for snacking and sharing with friends.

How to Perfect Hostess Cupcake Cookies

Perfecting your Hostess Cupcake Cookies is all about attention to detail and technique. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother frosting texture.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies while baking; they should be soft in the center when you pull them out of the oven.
• Cool Completely: Let the cookies cool completely before frosting them to prevent melting and ensure even coverage.
• Chill for Best Results: Chilling the frosted cookies helps set the frosting and ganache, ensuring they hold their shape when served.
• Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to add sprinkles or crushed nuts on top of the ganache for extra texture and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Hostess Cupcake Cookies

When serving Hostess Cupcake Cookies, pairing them with complementary side dishes can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances out the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Ice Cream: Vanilla or chocolate ice cream creates a decadent dessert experience alongside the cookies.
3. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a delightful contrast to rich cookie flavors.
4. Cheese Plate: Mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese offer savory elements that pair well with sweet treats.
5. Nut Mix: A selection of roasted nuts provides crunch and saltiness that enhances the overall taste experience.
6. Hot Chocolate: A warm cup of hot chocolate complements the chocolatey goodness of Hostess Cupcake Cookies perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Hostess Cupcake Cookies, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to keep in mind for the best results.

• Skipping the Cooling Time: Not allowing your cookies to cool completely can make the frosting melt. Always let them cool on a wire rack before adding any toppings.
• Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too long can lead to tough cookies. Combine ingredients just until they’re blended and a soft dough forms.
• Ignoring Oven Temperature: If your oven isn’t properly preheated, your cookies may not bake evenly. Always ensure your oven is at 350 degrees F before baking.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Cold butter can affect the texture of your frosting. Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for smooth mixing.
• Not Measuring Accurately: Incorrect measurements can ruin the cookie’s texture. Use proper measuring cups and spoons for accuracy.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Hostess Cupcake Cookies

• Freeze individually wrapped cookies for up to 3 months.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags to maintain freshness.

Reheating Hostess Cupcake Cookies

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F, place cookies on a baking sheet, and heat for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Warm one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds, being careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Place a cookie in a covered skillet over low heat for about 2-3 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Hostess Cupcake Cookies.

What are Hostess Cupcake Cookies?

Hostess Cupcake Cookies are soft cookies inspired by classic Hostess cupcakes, featuring chocolate cake flavor and fluffy marshmallow frosting.

Can I customize these cookies?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, different chocolate chips, or even flavored extracts to make them unique.

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 storage.

Are Hostess Cupcake Cookies vegan-friendly?

These cookies use vegan marshmallow crème and butter alternatives, making them suitable for many dietary preferences.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

You can substitute the Devil’s Food cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix while following the rest of the recipe as is.

Final Thoughts

These Hostess Cupcake Cookies offer a delightful twist on a beloved treat. Their rich chocolate flavor combined with fluffy frosting makes them irresistible. Feel free to customize with your favorite toppings or flavors! Try making them today and enjoy this nostalgic dessert with friends and family!