Copycat Chocolate Hostess Cupcake

Indulge your sweet tooth with homemade decadent double-chocolate Hostess cupcakes! This delightful recipe takes the cherished classic and elevates it with rich chocolate flavor and creamy filling. Discover the joy of baking as you create moist chocolate cake topped with glossy ganache. Perfect for celebrations or cozy nights in, these cupcakes are sure to impress. Get ready to experience the satisfaction of making and enjoying a nostalgic treat from scratch!

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Ingredients

For the Cupcakes:

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour

1 ½ tsp baking powder

1 tsp baking soda

½ tsp salt

½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1 cup granulated sugar

½ cup unsalted butter, softened

2 large eggs

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 cup buttermilk

½ cup boiling water

For the Cream Filling:

1 cup marshmallow fluff

½ cup powdered sugar

½ tsp vanilla extract

For the Ganache Topping:

1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

½ cup heavy cream

2 tbsp unsalted butter

Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup cupcake pan with cupcake liners.

Prepare the cupcake batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder. In a separate large bowl, cream together the sugar and softened butter until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla extract.

Combine and mix: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture alternately with the buttermilk, mixing until just combined. Finally, stir in the boiling water until the batter is smooth—this will be thin.

Bake the cupcakes: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and let cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.

Prepare the cream filling: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the marshmallow fluff, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until fully combined and smooth.

Fill the cupcakes: Once the cupcakes are completely cooled, use a small knife or a cupcake corer to cut out a small circle in the center of each cupcake, about 1 inch deep. Fill each hole with the marshmallow cream filling, using a piping bag if desired.

Make the ganache: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips, heavy cream, and butter. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until everything is melted and combined. Allow it to cool slightly but remain pourable.

Top the cupcakes: Dip each filled cupcake top into the ganache or pour it over the top using a spoon, letting it drench the top. Allow the ganache to set for about 30 minutes.

Optional decoration: For an authentic Hostess look, drizzle melted white chocolate over the ganache in a decorative zig-zag pattern.

Serve and enjoy: Our decadent double-chocolate Hostess cupcakes are ready to enjoy! Serve them up at your next gathering or keep them as a delightful treat just for you.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 25 min | 1 hr 30 min | 12 cupcakes