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Homemade Hostess Cupcakes photo

Homemade Hostess Cupcakes

These Homemade Hostess Cupcakes are a nostalgic delight! Soft chocolate cake, creamy filling, and glossy ganache make them irresistible.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

  • 3 ounces bittersweet chocolate
  • 1/3 cup Dutch-processed cocoa powder
  • 1/2 cup brewed coffee still hot
  • 1 cup bread flour
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 6 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 2 teaspoons white vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup marshmallow creme
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter at room temperature
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 ounces bittersweet chocolate finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter at room temperature
  • 1 tablespoon whole milk
  • splash vanilla extract for flavor

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Spatula
  • Muffin tin
  • Cupcake liners
  • Double boiler or microwave
  • Pastry Bag

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners and set it aside.
  2. In a double boiler or microwave, melt the 3 ounces of bittersweet chocolate until smooth. Let it cool slightly before using.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the bread flour, granulated sugar, Dutch-processed cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
  4. In another bowl, mix the eggs, vegetable oil, brewed coffee, white vinegar, and vanilla extract. Add the melted chocolate once it’s cooled.
  5. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
  6. Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling them about 2/3 full. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cupcakes to cool completely.
  7. In a mixing bowl, beat the marshmallow creme until smooth. You can add a little vanilla extract for extra flavor if desired.
  8. Once the cupcakes are cool, use a knife or a cupcake corer to remove the center of each cupcake. Fill each hole with the marshmallow filling, ensuring it’s generous.
  9. In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and add the finely chopped bittersweet chocolate. Stir until smooth and glossy.
  10. Dip the tops of each filled cupcake into the ganache, allowing any excess to drip off. Alternatively, you can use a spoon to drizzle the ganache on top.
  11. In a mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add a splash of vanilla extract and milk to reach your desired consistency.
  12. Use a pastry bag fitted with a round tip to pipe the frosting onto the ganache-topped cupcakes. You can create fun swirls or just a simple dot in the center.

Notes

  • Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.
  • Don’t overmix your batter; this will keep your cupcakes light and fluffy.
  • Allow the cupcakes to cool completely before filling, or you’ll end up with a gooey mess!
  • For a fun twist, try adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the ganache for a sweet and salty combination.