Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Homemade Hostess Cupcakes

Homemade Hostess Cupcakes – A Nostalgic, Gourmet Treat

  • Author: David Andersson
  • Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including cooling and filling)
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Homemade Hostess Cupcakes are a nostalgic twist on the iconic store-bought snack. These cupcakes feature:

  • A lush, chocolate sponge

  • A creamy marshmallow filling

  • A smooth chocolate ganache

  • A whimsical vanilla icing swirl on top

This artisanal remake captures the familiar flavors of the traditional Hostess Cupcake, but with even more full-bodied chocolate flavor and homemade freshness. Crafted to satisfy sweet tooth cravings, these cupcakes are perfect for dessert spreads, tea parties, or midnight indulgences.

Ingredients

Scale

Chocolate Cupcakes:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 6 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 large egg
  • ½ cup milk
  • ½ cup vegetable oil
  • ¾ tsp vanilla extract
  • ½ cup hot water

Marshmallow Filling:

  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • ½ cup powdered sugar
  • 5 oz marshmallow creme

Chocolate Ganache:

  • 4 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 6 tbsp heavy whipping cream

Vanilla Icing (for swirl):

  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
  • ½ cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tbsp milk
  • Splash of vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Bake the Cupcakes
    • Preheat oven to 300°F (148°C). Line a cupcake pan with liners.
    • Whisk dry ingredients in one bowl. In another, mix egg, milk, oil, and vanilla.
    • Combine wet and dry, then stir in hot water (batter will be thin).
    • Fill liners slightly over halfway and bake for 18–23 minutes. Cool completely.
  2. Make the Filling
    • Beat butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar in two batches, mixing well.
    • Stir in marshmallow creme until fluffy.
  3. Fill the Cupcakes
    • Cut out a small center from each cupcake. Fill with marshmallow mixture and replace the top.
  4. Make Ganache
    • Heat cream until just boiling. Pour over chocolate chips, let sit 2–3 minutes, then whisk smooth.
    • Spread ganache over each cupcake top.
  5. Decorate with Swirl
    • Beat butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar, then milk and vanilla.
    • Pipe the classic loop design using a small round tip.

Notes

For an authentic touch, pipe a swirl of white icing on top just like the classic Hostess look. These cupcakes also freeze well, so you can make a batch ahead and enjoy them anytime your sweet tooth strikes!

  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: Homemade Hostess Cupcakes

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can't wait to see what you've made!

Find it online: https://recipesmaria.com/homemade-hostess-cupcakes-a-nostalgic-gourmet-treat/