I have always loved baking treats that bring back childhood memories, and Hostess Cupcake Cookies are no exception. The moment I bite into one, I am transported back to those carefree days of after-school snacks and sweet indulgences. Inspired by the iconic Hostess cupcakes, this recipe combines the nostalgic flavors of chocolate, creamy filling, and a soft, moist texture into a fun, homemade cookie version. Baking these cookies is not only enjoyable but also incredibly rewarding because you get to recreate a classic treat right in your kitchen.

You will love this recipe because it perfectly balances rich chocolate with a light, fluffy filling that melts in your mouth. Unlike store-bought cupcakes, these cookies offer the satisfaction of homemade goodness, letting you control the sweetness and freshness. They are fun to make for family gatherings, parties, or just a quiet afternoon when you need a little indulgence.

These cookies are incredibly versatile. You can enjoy them as a snack, a dessert, or even as a gift for someone special. You can also experiment with different fillings or drizzle options to personalize them for holidays, birthdays, or seasonal events. Whether you are a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is approachable and forgiving, making it ideal for all skill levels.

Another great advantage of this recipe is affordability. The ingredients are easy to find in any grocery store, and the process does not require expensive tools or exotic products. You can make a batch without breaking the bank, which is perfect for home bakers who love creating delicious treats on a budget.

Ingredients for Hostess Cupcake Cookies

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup brown sugar, packed
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup mini chocolate chips
½ cup milk (for filling)
1 cup powdered sugar (for filling)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for filling)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for filling)

How to Prepare Hostess Cupcake Cookies

Making Hostess Cupcake Cookies is easier than you might think, and the process is both fun and satisfying. The key is to follow each step carefully to achieve the perfect soft cookie with a creamy filling. These cookies are quick to prepare, customizable, and loved by everyone, making them ideal for any occasion.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Cream the butter and sugars in a large mixing bowl using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes. This step ensures your cookies have a soft and tender texture.
Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Ensure that the eggs are fully incorporated to avoid any lumps in the dough.
Mix dry ingredients in a separate bowl. Combine the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk together to ensure even distribution of the cocoa and leavening agent.
Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed. Use a spatula to scrape down the sides of the bowl occasionally, ensuring a uniform dough.
Fold in mini chocolate chips with a spatula, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Scoop the dough using a cookie scoop or tablespoon onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie. This allows them to spread evenly while baking.
Bake the cookies for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers remain slightly soft. Avoid overbaking, as this will make the cookies dry.
Cool the cookies on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling is essential to prevent the filling from melting when you assemble the cookies.
Prepare the filling by combining powdered sugar, softened butter, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl. Beat until the mixture is smooth and fluffy, achieving a creamy consistency that is easy to pipe or spread.
Assemble the cookies by spreading or piping a generous layer of the filling onto the bottom of one cookie, then sandwiching it with another cookie. Press lightly to ensure the filling spreads evenly to the edges.
Optional decoration: For an authentic look, drizzle a thin line of melted chocolate over the top of each cookie. Allow it to set before serving.

These cookies are customizable—you can adjust the filling consistency, add sprinkles, or even experiment with different flavors like vanilla, caramel, or peanut butter. They are quick to prepare, simple to assemble, and a guaranteed hit at any gathering, whether it’s a birthday party, afternoon snack, or holiday treat. Their combination of soft cookie texture, rich chocolate, and creamy filling makes them universally loved.

Cupcake Cake Mix Cookies

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Hostess Cupcake Cookies are a fun, homemade twist on the classic treat. Soft chocolate cookies are paired with a creamy, fluffy filling, creating a delightful snack or dessert that everyone will love. Perfect for parties, gifting, or a sweet indulgence at home, these cookies are easy to make, customizable, and budget-friendly.

Author: Lura Skye
Prep Time: 20
Cook Time: 12
Total Time: 32 minutes
Yield: 24 1x

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
Cream butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Add eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
Fold in mini chocolate chips evenly.
Scoop dough onto baking sheets, spacing 2 inches apart.
Bake for 10–12 minutes until edges are set but centers remain soft.
Cool cookies on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prepare the filling by beating butter and powdered sugar for 3–5 minutes until fluffy, then add milk and vanilla extract, beating until smooth.
Spread or pipe filling onto the bottom of one cookie and top with another cookie, pressing lightly.
Optional: Drizzle melted chocolate over the top and let set before serving.

Notes

Ensure cookies are completely cooled before adding the filling to prevent melting.

For a lighter filling, beat butter and powdered sugar longer before adding milk and vanilla.

Cookies can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for 2–3 days or frozen unfilled for up to 1 month.

Hostess Cupcake Cookies – FAQs

1. Can I make the cookies ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the cookies a day or two in advance. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature. For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies without the filling and assemble them later.

2. Can I use a different type of chocolate?
Absolutely! You can replace mini chocolate chips with dark, milk, or white chocolate chips. You can also chop a chocolate bar into small chunks for a more rustic texture.

3. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. The texture may be slightly different, but the cookies will still be soft and delicious.

4. How do I make the filling fluffier?
To achieve a lighter filling, beat the butter and powdered sugar together for 3–5 minutes before adding milk and vanilla extract. This incorporates air and creates a fluffier texture.

5. Can I adjust the sweetness?
Yes, reduce the powdered sugar in the filling slightly if you prefer a less sweet cookie. You can also use a combination of granulated sugar and a sugar substitute in the cookie dough if desired.

6. Can I decorate the cookies differently?
Certainly! You can drizzle chocolate, add sprinkles, or even dust them lightly with cocoa powder or powdered sugar. The cookies are versatile and can be customized to match any theme or occasion.