Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).
- Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the whole milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined; be careful not to overmix.
Step 2: Bake the Cookies
- Scoop the Dough: Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to drop dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set and the tops are slightly domed. Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 3: Make the Cream Filling
- Beat the Filling: In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat until smooth and fluffy.
Step 4: Prepare the Ganache
- Heat the Cream: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to simmer.
- Melt the Chocolate: Place the chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit for a minute. Then, stir until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
Step 5: Assemble the Cookies
- Fill the Cookies: Once the cookies have cooled, take half of them and use a piping bag or a small spoon to fill the center with the cream filling. Place another cookie on top, creating a sandwich.
- Dip in Ganache: Dip the tops of the filled cookies into the chocolate ganache, allowing any excess to drip off. Place the cookies back on the wire rack.
Step 6: Add the Swirl
- Decorate: Once the ganache has set, use white chocolate or vanilla frosting in a piping bag to create the classic Hostess swirl on top of each cookie.
Step 7: Enjoy!
- Serve and Share: These cookies can be served immediately or stored in an airtight container for up to a week. They’re perfect for parties, lunchboxes, or a sweet treat to enjoy with your afternoon coffee.
Tips for Success
- Chill the Dough: For extra thick cookies, chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking.
- Adjust the Fillings: Feel free to get creative with the filling! Try adding flavored extracts or mini chocolate chips for added texture.
- Make It a Baking Day: Invite friends or family over for a fun baking session. The laughter and memories made will be as sweet as the cookies themselves!
Why You’ll Love These Cookies
Not only are these Hostess Cupcake Cookies a delightful treat for your taste buds, but they also bring a sense of nostalgia and joy. The combination of soft chocolate cookies with a creamy filling and luscious ganache makes them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re indulging alone or sharing with loved ones, each bite is sure to spark joy and create lasting memories.
Final Thoughts
These cookies are more than just a dessert; they’re a trip down memory lane. With their soft texture, rich flavors, and inviting appearance, they are bound to keep your visitors engaged, encouraging them to savor each moment and each bite. So roll up your sleeves and get ready to bake a batch of love with these delightful Hostess Cupcake Cookies!