Hostess Cupcake Cookies

These Hostess Cupcake Cookies are a delightful twist on a classic favorite. With their soft chocolate base, fluffy vegan marshmallow frosting, and silky chocolate ganache, they are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or just treating yourself, these cookies bring nostalgia and joy to every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: These cookies come together in just 35 minutes, making them a fast dessert option.
• Decadent Flavor: The combination of rich chocolate and sweet marshmallow creates an irresistible taste.
• Perfect for Sharing: With 18 cookies in one batch, they’re great for parties or gatherings.
• Customizable Toppings: Feel free to add other toppings like sprinkles or nuts to suit your taste.
• Vegan-Friendly: The use of vegan marshmallow creme makes these cookies suitable for various dietary preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather the essential tools needed to create your Hostess Cupcake Cookies. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cookie sheets
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups
• Piping bag with round tip
• Microwave-safe bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: This tool ensures your frosting is fluffy and well-mixed without much effort.
• Piping bag: Using a piping bag allows you to create that iconic squiggle topping with precision.

Ingredients

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. Prepare two cookie sheets by lining them with parchment paper.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the Devil’s Food cake mix, eggs, and oil until a soft dough forms. Use a medium scoop to drop dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Step 3: Bake the Cookies

Bake in the preheated oven for 8–10 minutes or until the edges are set. Let them 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; mix until fully combined. Gently fold in the vegan marshmallows creme until smooth. Reserve 1/2 cup of this frosting for piping later.

Step 5: Prepare the Ganache

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

Step 6: Frosting Time!

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

Step 7: Add Ganache Topping

Once chilled, spoon cooled chocolate ganache over each cookie. Let it set before moving on to decoration.

Step 8: Pipe the Squiggle

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

How to Serve Hostess Cupcake Cookies

These delectable Hostess Cupcake Cookies are not only a treat on their own but can also be paired with various accompaniments to enhance the dessert experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will impress your guests.

With a Glass of Cold Milk

• A classic pairing that complements the rich chocolate flavor of the cookies. The cold milk helps balance the sweetness, making each bite even more enjoyable.

Dipped in Coffee

• For adults, dipping these cookies in a cup of coffee adds a delightful flavor contrast. The warmth of the coffee enhances the chocolate, creating a cozy treat.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange your Hostess Cupcake Cookies on a beautiful platter alongside other sweets. This makes for an inviting dessert table at any gathering or party.

Topped with Fresh Berries

• Garnish your cookies with fresh raspberries or strawberries for a refreshing twist. The tartness of the berries pairs wonderfully with the sweet frosting.

Served Warm

• Enjoy these cookies warm from the oven for an extra gooey texture. Simply reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.

How to Perfect Hostess Cupcake Cookies

To ensure your Hostess Cupcake Cookies turn out perfectly every time, keep these helpful tips in mind.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensuring that butter and eggs are at room temperature will help create a smoother dough and better texture.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to avoid tough cookies. Overmixing can lead to dense, chewy results which you want to avoid.

• Chill Before Baking: If time allows, chill your cookie dough for 30 minutes before baking. This helps maintain their shape and enhances flavors.

• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is at the correct temperature. An accurate temp is key to evenly baked cookies.

• Add Toppings Immediately: Top with ganache and frosting while the cookies are still slightly warm so they adhere better and create that perfect look.

Best Side Dishes for Hostess Cupcake Cookies

While these Hostess Cupcake Cookies shine on their own, pairing them with complementary side dishes can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great suggestions:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture and flavor of vanilla ice cream make it a classic pairing that balances out the sweetness of the cookies.

2. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad with seasonal fruits provides freshness and contrast to the rich flavors of chocolate.

3. Chocolate Fondue: For chocolate lovers, serve alongside a warm chocolate fondue for dipping. This adds an interactive element to dessert time.

4. Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream can add a lightness that beautifully contrasts with the dense cookie texture.

5. Coffee or Tea: Offering coffee or tea as beverages complements these cookies nicely, enhancing their flavors while providing warmth.

6. Cheesecake Bites: Mini cheesecake bites offer a tangy counterpoint to sweet cookies, making for an exciting dessert platter combination.

7. Coconut Macaroons: These chewy treats introduce another texture and flavor profile that pairs well with chocolate desserts like Hostess Cupcake Cookies.

8. Caramel Sauce: Drizzling some caramel sauce over your cookies can add an extra layer of sweetness and richness that’s utterly delicious!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking Hostess Cupcake Cookies can be a delightful experience, but it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Skipping the Cooling Time: Allowing cookies to cool properly helps maintain their texture. If you skip this step, the frosting may melt off.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Make sure your butter is at room temperature. Cold butter can lead to uneven mixing and affect the final texture.
• Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too much can result in tough cookies. Mix just until combined for soft, tender treats.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Baking is a science. Use precise measurements for best results, especially with flour and sugar.
• Ignoring Oven Temperature: Always preheat your oven. An unheated oven can cause cookies to spread too much.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Hostess Cupcake Cookies

• Wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Hostess Cupcake Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm cookies on a baking sheet for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat cookies on a microwave-safe plate for 10-15 seconds for a soft bite.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, flipping occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Hostess Cupcake Cookies?

Hostess Cupcake Cookies are soft, chocolate cookies inspired by classic Hostess Cupcakes, topped with vegan marshmallow frosting and chocolate ganache.

How long do Hostess Cupcake Cookies last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, these cookies can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator or 3 months in the freezer.

Can I customize my Hostess Cupcake Cookies?

Absolutely! Feel free to add nuts, different types of chocolate chips, or even sprinkles for added fun and flavor.

Are there any alternatives for allergens?

You can substitute ingredients like gluten-free cake mix or dairy-free butter if needed. This makes them versatile for various dietary needs.

How do I make the frosting vegan?

Using vegan marshmallow creme instead of traditional marshmallows ensures your frosting remains plant-based while still being delicious.

Final Thoughts

These Hostess Cupcake Cookies bring nostalgia with their delightful flavors and textures. They are perfect for parties or as a sweet treat any day. You can easily customize them with different toppings or add-ins, making them versatile and fun to bake. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the deliciousness!