If you have a soft spot for nostalgic treats that bring back childhood memories, you will absolutely adore this Copycat Hostess Cupcakes Recipe. These moist, chocolatey cupcakes filled with fluffy marshmallow cream and finished with a rich chocolate glaze perfectly capture the magic of the classic Hostess snack. It’s like biting into a little cloud of happiness that’s both familiar and irresistibly indulgent. Whether you’re craving a sweet afternoon pick-me-up or want to impress friends with a homemade treat that tastes just like the original, this recipe is your golden ticket.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All the ingredients in this Copycat Hostess Cupcakes Recipe work together beautifully to create that perfect texture and flavor combination. Each one is straightforward but essential, ensuring the cupcakes come out tender, moist, and bursting with that iconic marshmallow center.
- All-purpose flour: the base of your cupcakes, providing structure and tenderness.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: adds deep chocolate flavor without extra sweetness.
- Baking powder: essential for cupcake rise and lightness.
- Baking soda: works with acidic buttermilk to create a fine crumb and subtle tang.
- Kosher salt: balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- Brown sugar: imparts moisture and a slight caramel undertone to the cake.
- Buttermilk: adds moisture and a tender crumb with a hint of tang.
- Vegetable oil: keeps the cupcakes super moist and soft.
- Pure vanilla extract: brings warmth and depth to the chocolate.
- Large eggs: bind everything together and add richness.
- Unsalted butter: used in frosting and glaze for creaminess and flavor.
- Powdered sugar: sweetens while keeping the frosting smooth and silky.
- Marshmallow creme: the star of the filling, delightfully fluffy and sweet.
- Heavy cream: adds richness and smooth texture to the marshmallow filling.
- Semisweet chocolate chips: melt into a luscious glaze that tops the cupcakes beautifully.
- Milk (optional): helps adjust the glaze consistency if needed for a perfect shine.
How to Make Copycat Hostess Cupcakes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Cupcake Batter
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining two cupcake pans with paper liners. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another large bowl, combine the brown sugar, buttermilk, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and eggs. Slowly incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mix until just combined—be careful not to overmix to keep those cupcakes tender and light.
Step 2: Bake and Cool the Cupcakes
Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake the cupcakes for approximately 16 to 18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow them to cool completely on a wire rack, which is important before adding the marshmallow filling and chocolate glaze.
Step 3: Make the Marshmallow Filling
In a medium bowl, beat the unsalted butter and powdered sugar until creamy. Gradually add the marshmallow creme and heavy cream, beating until you have a fluffy, spreadable mixture. This creamy filling is the heart of the Copycat Hostess Cupcakes Recipe, providing that signature pillowy center you crave.
Step 4: Assemble and Frost the Cupcakes
Carefully core a small hole out of the center of each cupcake. Pipe or spoon the marshmallow filling into each cavity. For the glaze, melt the chocolate chips together with the butter over low heat until smooth. Stir in powdered sugar and add milk as needed to reach a pourable consistency. Dip the tops of the cupcakes in this rich chocolate glaze or spread it on with a spatula. Chill briefly until the glaze sets, and you’re ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Copycat Hostess Cupcakes Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your cupcakes even more, sprinkle a few chocolate shavings or a dusting of cocoa powder on top of the glaze. Chopped toasted nuts or mini marshmallows can add a fun texture contrast, making each bite interesting and playful.
Side Dishes
Serve these indulgent cupcakes alongside a cold glass of milk or your favorite coffee beverage. The creamy coffee or chilled milk perfectly complements the sweetness and chocolatey richness, creating a comforting and delightful treat break.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or special occasions, arrange your cupcakes in colorful liners or on a tiered dessert stand. Consider wrapping them with small decorative bags and ribbons as cute gifts. You can also top them with fun edible glitter or themed toppers to match any celebration.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to maintain freshness. If your kitchen is warm, refrigerate them, but bring back to room temperature before serving to enjoy that perfect softness.
Freezing
You can freeze these cupcakes without glaze by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in freezer bags for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge and apply the glaze fresh for the best taste and texture.
Reheating
To refresh cupcakes that have been refrigerated or frozen, warm them slightly in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. Avoid overheating to prevent drying out the cake and melting the filling inside.
FAQs
Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
Yes, you can substitute regular milk with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar added to it, left to sit for 5 minutes to mimic buttermilk’s acidity. This helps the cupcakes maintain that tender crumb.
Is marshmallow creme necessary for the filling?
Marshmallow creme is key to achieving the authentic fluffy, sweet filling that makes Copycat Hostess Cupcakes special. Using it ensures that signature texture and taste.
Can I make these cupcakes gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free baking blend. Just ensure the blend contains xanthan gum or another binder for proper cupcake structure.
How long do these cupcakes keep their freshness?
Best enjoyed within two days when stored properly at room temperature. The marshmallow filling is moist and delicious but doesn’t hold up well for extended periods.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! The recipe scales well. Just be sure to use larger or extra cupcake pans and watch baking time closely, as it might vary slightly with larger batches.
Final Thoughts
Making these Copycat Hostess Cupcakes Recipe at home is like gifting yourself a little moment of joy that tastes straight out of a beloved childhood memory. The combination of moist chocolate cake, fluffy marshmallow filling, and glossy chocolate glaze will quickly become your go-to for celebrations, cozy nights, or just when the craving hits. Trust me, once you make these, you’ll never want to go back to store-bought again!
