If you have a soft spot for that classic, nostalgic treat but want to elevate it into a show-stopping dessert, this Hostess Cupcake Layer Cake is exactly what you need. Imagine the rich, moist chocolate cake layers, beautifully stacked and filled with fluffy marshmallow cream and whipped chocolate ganache, delivering a harmonious blend of flavors that tastes just like biting into your favorite Hostess Cupcake—only better and perfect for special occasions. This Hostess Cupcake Layer Cake brings a playful yet elegant twist to the iconic snack, turning it into a centerpiece that’s impossible to resist.

Hostess Cupcake Layer Cake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Though this recipe might look intricate, the ingredients are straightforward and thoughtfully chosen to create that perfect balance of flavor, texture, and moisture. Every item plays a key role, from the cocoa powder that deepens the chocolatey richness, to the marshmallow fluff that adds a light, sweet creaminess reminiscent of the original cupcake.

2 Cups (265g) all-purpose flour: The foundation for your cake, providing structure and tenderness.
1 2/3 Cups (340g) granulated sugar: Sweetness that also helps the cake stay moist and tender.
2/3 Cup (60g) natural unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds a deep chocolate flavor without overpowering.
2 tsp baking soda: Acts as a leavening agent to help the cake rise beautifully.
1 tsp baking powder: Provides an extra lift for a lighter crumb.
1/2 tsp salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the chocolate taste.
1/2 Cup (120ml) vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist and tender, much like the original Hostess cupcakes.
2 large eggs, room temperature: For richness and structure.
1 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the cake batter.
1 Cup (240ml) buttermilk, room temperature: Gives the cake a subtle tang and tender crumb.
1 Cup (240ml) hot coffee or hot water: Enhances the chocolate flavor and keeps the batter moist.
2 Cups (16oz, 370g) semi-sweet chocolate chips: Essential for the luscious whipped chocolate ganache.
2 Cups (16oz, 480ml) heavy whipping cream: For creating the smooth and fluffy ganache frosting.
1/2 Cup (113g) unsalted butter, room temperature: Forms the creamy base of the marshmallow filling.
1 Cup (105g) powdered sugar: Sweetens the marshmallow cream while keeping it light.
7 Oz marshmallow fluff: The star ingredient in the filling that makes this cake so irresistible.
1 tsp pure vanilla extract: Adds a fragrant lift to the marshmallow cream filling.

How to Make Hostess Cupcake Layer Cake

Step 1: Bake the Chocolate Cake Layers

Start by preheating your oven to 350ºF and prepping your cake pans with cooking spray and parchment rounds. Combining the dry ingredients first ensures an even distribution of cocoa, leaveners, and salt. Then, add the wet ingredients including the vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla, and buttermilk, and mix gently. Pour in the hot coffee slowly to deepen that chocolate flavor and create a perfectly moist batter. Bake the batter in pans for about 32-36 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. Cooling completely is key before moving on.

Step 2: Prepare the Whipped Chocolate Ganache

The magic begins with heating heavy cream until you see a gentle simmer, then pouring it over the semi-sweet chocolate chips and letting it rest. This melts the chocolate and forms a silky base. Whisk it smooth, cover, and let it chill until it reaches room temperature. When ready, whip it into a luscious, airy frosting that’s light but rich, perfect for layering and decorating.

Step 3: Make the Marshmallow Cream Filling

Whip your unsalted butter until creamy and soft before adding powdered sugar at a low speed to keep things light. Blend in the marshmallow fluff and vanilla extract for a fluffy, sweet filling that perfectly complements the chocolate ganache. This marshmallow cream filling is the heart of the Hostess Cupcake Layer Cake, delivering that signature pillowy texture everyone loves.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

Once the cake layers are completely cooled, level and torte them to your desired thickness. Reserve a bit of marshmallow cream for decorating. Using piping bags, create a ganache circle around each layer’s edge and fill the center with the marshmallow cream; this technique keeps the filling neatly in place. Stack your layers, crumb coat with ganache, and chill to set. Finally, finish with a smooth ganache frosting all around and pipe delicate marshmallow loops on top to mimic the classic Hostess Cupcake design. Refrigerate briefly to let everything settle beautifully.

How to Serve Hostess Cupcake Layer Cake

Garnishes

Keep garnishes simple but impactful to let the cake shine. Try sprinkling a few mini chocolate chips around the edges atop the marshmallow piping for a playful touch. A light dusting of cocoa powder or a drizzle of melted chocolate can add elegance without overwhelming the sweet, creamy flavors inside.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with a fresh cup of coffee or a rich glass of cold milk to balance the rich chocolate and sweet marshmallow cream. For a brunch or afternoon tea, serve it alongside fresh berries or a small bowl of whipped cream to add a refreshing note to each bite.

Creative Ways to Present

Make your Hostess Cupcake Layer Cake the star of any gathering by serving slices on colorful plates with a dollop of marshmallow cream on the side. For a fun twist, create individual mini cakes using cupcake pans lined with your marshmallow cream and ganache layers, mimicking the classic treat even closer. You can also decorate the top with edible glitter or sprinkle crushed chocolate cookie crumbs for texture and extra visual appeal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cover your cake tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator where it will stay fresh for up to 4 days. This helps maintain the moistness of the chocolate cake and the fluffiness of the marshmallow cream.

Freezing

The Hostess Cupcake Layer Cake freezes beautifully. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight to keep the textures intact and the flavors vibrant.

Reheating

While this cake is best served chilled or at room temperature, if you prefer a slightly warm slice, let it sit out for 20 minutes before enjoying. Avoid microwaving individual slices as the delicate ganache and marshmallow cream textures can be altered with heat.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

You can substitute regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar as a quick DIY buttermilk, which adds the tanginess needed to balance the sweetness.

How do I make sure my ganache whips properly?

Timing and temperature are crucial. Let your ganache cool to room temperature and then chill until it thickens to the consistency of smooth peanut butter before whipping. Whip just until you see soft peaks that hold shape without becoming grainy.

Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

Absolutely! Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend that includes xanthan gum for proper structure. Keep an eye on baking times as they can vary slightly.

Can I make this cake ahead for a party?

Yes, this Hostess Cupcake Layer Cake is perfect for making the day before. Assemble and frost the cake, then store in the fridge well covered to keep it fresh for your celebration.

What’s the best way to level and torte my cake layers?

Use a serrated knife or a cake leveler to carefully slice the dome off the cake tops if domed, then slice each layer horizontally to your desired thickness. This ensures even layers and a professional look when stacked.

Final Thoughts

Nothing beats the joy of revisiting a beloved treat in an impressive homemade form, and this Hostess Cupcake Layer Cake does just that while bringing a fresh spin to a classic. Every bite is a celebration of chocolate, marshmallow, and creamy frosting that’s sure to become a new favorite. Whether for a special occasion or a sweet indulgence, I promise this recipe will have you revisiting your Hostess Cupcake memories and making beautiful new ones.