Hostess Cupcake Layer Cake

Name: Hostess Cupcake Layer Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour; ¾ cup cocoa powder; 1 ½ tsp baking powder; 1 tsp baking soda; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs (room temperature); 1 cup whole milk; ½ cup vegetable oil; 2 tsp vanilla extract; ½ cup unsalted butter (softened); 8 oz cream cheese (softened); 3 cups powdered sugar

Published: August 1, 2025

by Sarah Connor

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This decadent layer cake is surprisingly easy to make, perfect for any skill level in the kitchen
The rich chocolate flavor pairs beautifully with the fluffy frosting, creating a visually stunning dessert
It’s versatile enough to serve at birthday parties or cozy family dinners
Plus, it’s always a crowd-pleaser!

The first time I made this cake, my friends declared it “the best thing since sliced bread,” which is quite the compliment considering they usually prefer pizza over anything sweet! pumpkin-inspired sweet bites.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

- All-Purpose Flour: Essential for structure; sift it for a lighter texture in your cake.
- Cocoa Powder: Use high-quality cocoa for a deep chocolate flavor that shines through.
- Baking Powder & Baking Soda: These leavening agents are crucial for achieving the perfect rise.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness; consider brown sugar for added moisture and caramel notes.
- Eggs: They bind everything together; use room temperature eggs for better mixing.
- Milk: Whole milk enhances moisture; substitute with buttermilk for extra richness.
- Vegetable Oil: Keeps the cake moist and tender; avoid using olive oil as it has strong flavors.
- Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract adds depth to your batter; skip imitation versions if possible.
- Butter: Use unsalted butter to control saltiness in your frosting.
- Powdered Sugar: Essential for making fluffy frosting; sift before mixing to avoid lumps.
- Cream Cheese: For an extra creamy frosting; let it soften before using for easier blending.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Oven and Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you grease and flour two 9-inch round baking pans. This ensures an easy release after baking.

Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and sugar until combined. The aroma will start to transport you back to childhood!

Create the Wet Mixture: In another bowl, combine eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth – the mixture should be glossy and fragrant.

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the wet mixture into the dry ingredients while stirring gently. Mix just until combined; over-mixing can make your cake dense.

Bake Your Cakes: Divide the batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. The cakes should spring back when lightly touched.

Make Your Frosting While It Cools: In a mixing bowl, beat softened butter and cream cheese until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and mix until light and fluffy – it should look like clouds!

Now that you have all these exciting steps laid out before you like a treasure map leading to dessert paradise, let’s finish assembling our masterpiece!

Assemble Your Layer Cake : Once cooled completely, place one layer on a serving platter. Spread frosting generously on top before adding the second layer. Cover the entire cake with remaining frosting for that irresistible finish.

Your Hostess Cupcake Layer Cake awaits! Enjoy every bite as you create memories around this delicious dessert – because nothing says love quite like sharing chocolatey goodness with friends and family! For more inspiration, check out this Easy Sno Ball Brownies recipe.

You Must Know

Hostess Cupcake Layer Cake is a delightful twist on a classic treat; it’s perfect for birthdays or just because
The combination of rich chocolate, creamy filling, and smooth frosting will have everyone coming back for seconds, or even thirds!
This cake is sure to impress

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by baking the chocolate layers first while you prepare the creamy filling. Once the layers cool, assemble and frost them for a beautiful presentation.

Add Your Touch

Consider adding peppermint extract to the filling for a refreshing twist. You can also decorate with sprinkles or chocolate shavings for added flair.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Reheat individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds if desired.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For the best Hostess Cupcake Layer Cake, ensure your ingredients are at room temperature before mixing
It helps create a smoother batter and better texture
Don’t rush the cooling process; it avoids mess during assembly and frosting, ensuring that your cake stays intact

Sharing this recipe reminds me of my friend’s birthday last year when I surprised her with this cake. Everyone loved it so much that we ended up having a mini cake fight!

FAQ

Can I use box cake mix instead of homemade?

Using box cake mix is fine if you’re short on time; just follow package instructions.

How do I make the filling taste like Hostess cupcakes?

Add marshmallow fluff to your cream filling for that nostalgic taste everyone loves.

What can I substitute for eggs in this recipe?

You can use applesauce or flaxseed meal mixed with water as an egg substitute.

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📖 Recipe Card