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Homemade Hostess Cupcakes Recipe

Homemade Hostess Cupcakes Recipe


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4.8 from 27 reviews

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Classic Hostess Cupcakes bring nostalgia to dessert lovers with rich chocolate cake and creamy white filling. Cream-filled chocolate cupcakes topped with signature swirl promise sweet memories that connect generations of dessert enthusiasts.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • ½ cup milk

Leavening Agents:

  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt

Liquid and Binding Ingredients:

  • ¼ cup (60 milliliters) vegetable oil
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ cup (120 milliliters) boiling water

Cream Filling Ingredients:

  • ½ cup (113 grams) unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) heavy cream

Chocolate Ganache Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (170 grams) semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • ½ cup (120 milliliters) heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons (28 grams) unsalted butter

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
  2. Sift together all dry ingredients in a large mixing bowl, creating a uniform chocolate base.
  3. Incorporate wet ingredients into the dry mixture, using an electric mixer to blend for approximately 2 minutes until smooth.
  4. Gently fold in boiling water, creating a thin, silky batter with consistent texture.
  5. Distribute batter evenly, filling each cupcake liner about two-thirds full to ensure proper rising.
  6. Bake for 18-20 minutes, checking doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of a cupcake – it should emerge clean.
  7. Allow cupcakes to rest in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack for complete cooling.
  8. Prepare cream filling by whipping softened butter until smooth and creamy.
  9. Gradually blend powdered sugar and vanilla extract into the butter, creating a light, airy mixture.
  10. Incorporate heavy cream, beating on medium-high speed until the filling becomes exceptionally fluffy and spreadable.
  11. Using a piping bag with a round tip, carefully inject cream filling into the center of each cooled cupcake.
  12. Create chocolate ganache by placing chocolate chips in a heat-resistant bowl.
  13. Simultaneously heat heavy cream and butter in a small saucepan until it reaches a gentle simmer.
  14. Pour hot cream mixture over chocolate chips and allow to rest for 2-3 minutes to facilitate melting.
  15. Whisk ingredients until achieving a glossy, smooth chocolate coating.
  16. Allow ganache to cool slightly, then generously coat the filled cupcakes.
  17. Let ganache set completely before serving these decadent homemade treats.

Notes

  • Prep these cupcakes ahead of time by baking the cake base a day early and storing in an airtight container at room temperature.
  • Use room temperature ingredients to ensure smoother batter and more consistent cupcake texture.
  • The boiling water trick helps create an incredibly moist and tender chocolate cake that melts in your mouth.
  • A piping bag with a round tip works best for creating perfectly even cream filling inside each cupcake.
  • Chill the ganache for 10-15 minutes before spreading to achieve a thicker, more controllable consistency.
  • Store finished cupcakes in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, allowing them to come to room temperature before serving for optimal flavor and texture.
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Sugar: 28 g
  • Sodium: 180 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 38 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Cholesterol: 45 mg