Name: Hostess Cupcake Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 11 min
Total time: 3 h 11 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ¼ cup + 2 tablespoons (175 grams) all-purpose flour; ½ cup (43 grams) unsweetened natural cocoa powder, sifted; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon cornstarch; ½ teaspoon fine sea salt; 1 stick (113 grams) unsalted butter, at cool room temperature; ¾ cup (150 grams) granulated sugar; 1/3 cup (67 grams) light brown sugar; 2 large eggs, at room temperature; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 3 ½ ounces (99 grams) marshmallow creme; 3 ½ tablespoons (50 grams) unsalted butter, at cool room temperature; ¼ cup + 1 tablespoon (39 grams) powdered sugar, sifted; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ⅛ teaspoon fine sea salt; 4 ounces (113 grams) bittersweet chocolate, coarsely chopped; 2 tablespoons (16 grams) powdered sugar; 6 tablespoons (90 grams) heavy cream; 1 tablespoon (21 grams) corn syrup; ¼ cup (43 grams) white chocolate chips or chopped baking chocolate

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 82 reviews

Let me tell you about a truly delightful treat that feels like a little slice of nostalgia wrapped up in cookie form: the Hostess Cupcake Cookies Recipe. These cookies are like the iconic Hostess cupcakes you loved as a kid, but reinvented as rich, chocolatey cookies with a luscious marshmallow creme center and a silky ganache topping that’s finished with a delicate white chocolate swirl. They’re indulgent yet approachable, perfect for sharing with friends or savoring with a cozy cup of coffee or milk. If you’ve ever wanted a homemade version that hits every note of the classic, this Hostess Cupcake Cookies Recipe is absolutely the one to make your kitchen smell irresistible and your taste buds sing.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A group of round chocolate cookies is arranged closely together on a white marbled surface. Each cookie has a smooth, thick layer of dark chocolate glaze covering its top, giving a shiny and rich look. Across the chocolate layer, there is a thin, white creamy swirl decoration that stretches diagonally from one edge to the other. The cookies are evenly spaced and show a soft, slightly textured brown base beneath the glossy dark chocolate. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic behind this Hostess Cupcake Cookies Recipe starts with simple, everyday ingredients that come together to create extraordinary flavor and texture. Each component plays a crucial role, whether it’s the tender cocoa-infused cookie base, the marshmallow filling’s soft fluffiness, or the glossy ganache topping that ties it all together beautifully.

All-purpose flour (1 ¼ cup + 2 tbsp, 175 grams): Provides structure to the cookie while keeping it tender.
Unsweetened natural cocoa powder (½ cup, 43 grams, sifted): Gives the cookies that rich chocolate depth.
Baking powder (1 teaspoon): Helps the cookies rise slightly and stay soft.
Cornstarch (1 teaspoon): Adds a bit of softness to the cookie crumb for that perfect texture.
Fine sea salt (½ teaspoon): Balances sweetness and enhances the chocolate flavor.
Unsalted butter (1 stick, 113 grams, cool room temperature): Adds richness and tenderness.
Granulated sugar (¾ cup, 150 grams): Sweetens and helps cookies brown.
Light brown sugar (⅓ cup, 67 grams): Provides moisture and a subtle caramel note.
Large eggs (2, room temperature): Bind everything and create a moist, chewy cookie.
Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Adds warmth and rounds out the flavors.
Marshmallow creme (3 ½ ounces, 99 grams): The star of the creamy filling.
Unsalted butter (3 ½ tablespoons, 50 grams, cool room temperature): Makes the marshmallow filling luxuriously smooth.
Powdered sugar (¼ cup + 1 tablespoon, 39 grams, sifted): Sweetens and thickens the filling perfectly.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Keeps the filling pleasantly fragrant.
Fine sea salt (⅛ teaspoon): Enhances the sweet filling’s flavor.
Bittersweet chocolate (4 ounces, 113 grams, coarsely chopped): Key for the silky chocolate ganache.
Powdered sugar (2 tablespoons, 16 grams): Sweetens the ganache.
Heavy cream (6 tablespoons, 90 grams): Makes the ganache glossy and smooth.
Corn syrup (1 tablespoon, 21 grams): Adds shine and a soft texture to the ganache.
White chocolate chips or chopped baking chocolate (¼ cup, 43 grams): Used for the iconic loopy white icing decoration.

How to Make Hostess Cupcake Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough

Start by whisking together the flour, sifted cocoa powder, baking powder, cornstarch, and salt in a medium bowl to combine all the dry ingredients evenly. Then, using an electric mixer with the paddle attachment, beat the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar on medium-high speed until fluffy and creamy, which takes about two minutes. Scrape down the bowl and add in the eggs and vanilla, mixing until everything is well combined. Gradually beat in the flour mixture on low speed. The dough will be thick and slightly sticky, so cover it tightly with plastic wrap and chill in the fridge for 30 minutes to firm up the dough for easier handling.

Step 2: Shape and Bake the Cookies

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. Using a medium cookie scoop (about 1 ½ tablespoons), portion the dough onto the sheets about two inches apart. Roll each dough ball between your palms until smooth, lightly wetting your hands if the dough sticks. Bake for 11 minutes, or until the cookies are just set. While they’re hot from the oven, gently press the center of each cookie down with the bottom of your cookie scoop to create a shallow well for the filling. Allow the cookies to cool completely before adding the filling.

Step 3: Whip Up the Marshmallow Filling

In a clean mixer bowl with the paddle attachment, beat together the marshmallow creme and butter on low speed until blended. Scrape down the sides and mix in the powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt on low speed until smooth. Then increase speed to medium-high and whip the mixture for about two minutes until it’s silky and fluffy. Transfer this heavenly marshmallow filling into a piping bag or a zip-top bag with a snipped corner for easier application later.

Step 4: Make the Chocolate Ganache

Place the bittersweet chocolate and powdered sugar in a heatproof bowl. Heat the heavy cream and corn syrup in a small saucepan over medium-high heat just until it reaches a gentle boil. Immediately pour the hot cream over the chocolate, cover, and let it sit for five minutes to melt completely. Then whisk vigorously until the ganache is smooth and glossy. Let it cool for another five minutes to thicken slightly before you assemble the cookies.

Step 5: Assemble Your Hostess Cupcake Cookies

Pipe the marshmallow filling generously into the well of each cooled cookie until it’s level with the cookie top. If the filling sticks up too much, wet your finger lightly and smooth it down evenly. While the ganache is still warm, spoon about one teaspoon onto each filled cookie, spreading it gently with a spatula or the back of a spoon until it just reaches the cookie’s edge. If the ganache becomes too thick, warm briefly in the microwave to thin it out and whisk again. Allow the cookies to set for about 15 minutes before adding the final touch.

Step 6: Add the Iconic White Chocolate Icing

Melt the white chocolate chips in a small heatproof bowl in short 15-second bursts, stirring well in between to avoid burning. Once melted and smooth, transfer to a piping bag fitted with a small round tip. Pipe loopy, whimsical circles of white icing across the center of each cookie to mimic the classic Hostess cupcake look. Let the icing dry fully for at least one hour before serving or storing.

How to Serve Hostess Cupcake Cookies Recipe

The image shows several round chocolate cookies arranged on a white marbled surface. Each cookie has two layers: the bottom layer is a textured, firm chocolate cookie of a medium brown color; the top layer is smooth, shiny dark chocolate frosting spread unevenly over the cookie's top surface. On top of the dark chocolate frosting, there is a thin white chocolate squiggle decoration running diagonally across each cookie. The cookies are placed closely together, filling the frame. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

While these cookies are stunning on their own, a light dusting of cocoa powder or a few chocolate shavings around the edges add extra visual flair. Fresh berries on the side or a delicate sprinkle of edible glitter can elevate presentation for special occasions, giving your Hostess Cupcake Cookies Recipe that extra pop of sparkle and charm.

Side Dishes

Pair these cookies with a cold glass of milk, a rich cup of espresso, or a frothy hot chocolate to balance the intense chocolate and sweet marshmallow flavors. For brunch or tea time, they also shine alongside fresh fruit and a simple green salad for a sweet finish that isn’t overwhelming.

Creative Ways to Present

To make these cookies truly special, arrange them on a multi-tiered dessert tray or stack them like mini cupcakes tied with a ribbon. You can also place each cookie in colorful cupcake liners or wrap them individually in cellophane with a cute tag for gifting. These thoughtful touches highlight the nostalgic delight of the Hostess Cupcake Cookies Recipe and delight everyone who receives them.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your homemade Hostess Cupcake Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to maintain the perfect soft texture and fresh flavors. If you prefer a slightly firmer bite, storing them in the fridge will extend their life up to five days. Just remember to bring chilled cookies to room temperature before enjoying to maximize that gooey filling experience.

Freezing

If you want to make these cookies ahead for a party or special event, they freeze beautifully. Freeze them on a tray first to keep their shape, then transfer to a sealed freezer bag or container. They can be frozen for up to two months. When ready to eat, thaw at room temperature and refresh the icing if needed for that fresh-from-the-bakery vibe.

Reheating

To enjoy leftovers as if freshly baked, gently warm the cookies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to soften the marshmallow filling and slightly melt the ganache again. This quick step revives the luscious textures and comforting flavors that make this Hostess Cupcake Cookies Recipe such a fan favorite at any time.

FAQs

Can I use regular chocolate instead of bittersweet chocolate for the ganache?

Absolutely! Using regular or semisweet chocolate will make the ganache a bit sweeter and milder in flavor, which can be a great option if you prefer a less intense chocolate taste. Just be sure to adjust the sweetness accordingly and enjoy the rich creaminess it brings.

Is there a substitute for marshmallow creme in the filling?

If marshmallow creme isn’t available, you could try using homemade marshmallow fluff or a whipped frosting that has a similar texture and sweetness. Keep in mind that the iconic marshmallow flavor might be slightly different, but the light, airy filling will still be delicious.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, you can! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose baking flour blend, preferably one that includes xanthan gum for structure. Make sure to use a blend suitable for baking to maintain the tender texture this recipe requires.

How important is chilling the cookie dough?

Chilling the dough is key for this Hostess Cupcake Cookies Recipe because it firms up the dough, making it easier to handle and helping the cookies keep their shape during baking. It also allows the flavors to meld better, resulting in a more balanced final cookie.

Can I skip the white chocolate decoration?

While the white chocolate drizzle adds that classic Hostess cupcake look and a touch of extra sweetness, you can certainly skip it if you prefer a simpler cookie. The flavors will still be fantastic, so feel free to customize based on your taste and preference.

Final Thoughts

This Hostess Cupcake Cookies Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, blending nostalgic flavors with a homemade touch that warms the heart. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving a cozy treat, these cookies will not disappoint. Don’t hesitate to give them a try—once you make these, they’ll become one of your favorite go-to recipes for chocolatey bliss and marshmallow magic!