There’s a little magic that happens when you combine the nostalgia of childhood treats with a homemade touch. Picture this: a sunny afternoon, the kitchen filled with the sweet scent of vanilla wafting through the air, and the delightful giggles of family members eagerly awaiting a special dessert. That’s the moment I realized I could recreate the joy of store-bought treats right at home.
This is how my Homemade Twinkies adventure began—a delightful twist on traditional vanilla cake with a fluffy marshmallow filling that’s irresistibly delicious. They’re not only easy to make, but they also offer a taste that far surpasses any boxed version. Whether you’re looking for a fun afternoon activity with the kids or simply want to indulge in a sweet treat yourself, this recipe is sure to bring comfort and joy to your kitchen.
Let’s dive into the world of soft cake and creamy filling, and create these delightful homemade Twinkies together!
Why are Homemade Twinkies so special?
Nostalgic flavor: These Homemade Twinkies transport you back to childhood, combining cherished memories with delectable taste.
Simple preparation: With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll craft these delights effortlessly.
Fluffy filling: The marshmallow filling is a light and sweet surprise, elevating each bite to pure bliss.
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy evening treat, anyone can appreciate this scrumptious dessert.
Versatile base: Feel free to customize your flavor profile; a dash of chocolate or fruit can make them your own!
Dive into this fun baking adventure and enjoy creating delightful moments with your loved ones!
Homemade Twinkies Ingredients
Discover everything you need to make delicious Homemade Twinkies!
For the Cake
• 1 box vanilla cake mix – a time-saving base that ensures a tender crumb.
• 1 cup granulated sugar – enhances the sweetness for that perfect treat.
• 1 ⅓ cups water – ensures the batter stays moist and fluffy.
• 3 eggs – provide richness and stability to the cake.
• 2 tsp vanilla extract – for a robust vanilla flavor that brings nostalgia.
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil – adds moisture for a soft texture.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour – helps create a sturdy cake structure.
• ½ tsp kosher salt – balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
• 1 cup full fat sour cream – contributes to a rich, moist cake that melts in your mouth.
For the Marshmallow Filling
• 7 oz marshmallow creme – the star of the show for its fluffy texture and sweetness.
• ½ cup salted butter – adds creaminess and a slight savory touch to balance the sweetness.
• 1 ½ cups powdered sugar – thickens the filling to create that luscious texture.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract – deepens the flavor profile of the filling.
• 1 tbsp heavy cream – helps achieve a light and airy consistency.
• ¼ tsp salt – rounds out the flavor for that perfect balance.
Now, let’s gather our ingredients and get baking! These Homemade Twinkies are sure to create a sweet memory with every bite.
How to Make Homemade Twinkies
-
Combine the cake mix, granulated sugar, water, eggs, vanilla extract, vegetable oil, all-purpose flour, kosher salt, and sour cream in a large mixing bowl. Stir until smooth and well-blended, ensuring there are no lumps.
-
Transfer the batter into prepared cake pans, making sure to evenly distribute it. Bake according to package instructions or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, about 25-30 minutes.
-
Cool the cakes for about 10 minutes in the pans before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely. This step is crucial to avoid a soggy cake.
-
Prepare the marshmallow filling by beating together the marshmallow creme, room temperature butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, heavy cream, and salt in a mixing bowl until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
-
Layer one cooled cake on a serving plate and spread half of the marshmallow filling over the top. Place the second layer of cake on top, pressing down gently.
-
Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining marshmallow filling, making it as smooth or textured as you desire, and serve to your excited family or friends!
Optional: Top with chocolate shavings for an extra touch of sweetness!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Homemade Twinkies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the vanilla cake layers up to 24 hours in advance by baking them, cooling, and then wrapping each layer tightly in plastic wrap. This helps to maintain their moisture and freshness. The marshmallow filling can also be whipped up and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your Homemade Twinkies, simply layer the cake with the filling and frost the top as desired. This way, you’ll have a delightful dessert ready with minimal effort, making your meal planning a breeze!
Homemade Twinkies Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Homemade Twinkies and explore new flavors and textures that will delight your taste buds!
-
Chocolate Twist: Substitute half of the vanilla cake mix with chocolate cake mix for a rich, chocolaty version. A perfect pairing with the marshmallow filling!
-
Fruit Flavor: Add a cup of pureed strawberries or raspberries to the batter for a fruity surprise. The bright fruit notes will lift your Twinkies to new heights!
-
Coconut Delight: Incorporate shredded coconut into the filling to create a tropical twist. Every bite will remind you of a sun-soaked beach getaway!
-
Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts into the batter for added texture. The nutty bits create a delicious contrast to the fluffy filling.
-
Spicy Kick: Mix in a teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of cayenne for a hint of warmth. This unexpected heat will intrigue your palate and offer a delightful surprise.
-
Dairy-Free Option: Replace sour cream with dairy-free yogurt and use a dairy-free cake mix for a vegan-friendly treat. Enjoy the same lusciousness without the dairy!
-
Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle homemade or store-bought caramel over the frosted cake for an indulgent finish. The sweet, gooey topping adds a luxurious touch!
-
Zesty Infusion: Add the zest of a lemon or orange to the cake batter for a refreshing citrus burst. The zesty notes will brighten the overall flavor profile beautifully.
What to Serve with Homemade Twinkies?
Treat your family to an unforgettable dessert experience with delightful sides that complement your sweet creation.
-
Fresh Berries: The tartness of strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries beautifully contrasts the sweetness of the Twinkies, making each bite a harmonious balance.
-
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a creamy texture that enhances the marshmallow filling and brings a classic touch.
-
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce over the Homemade Twinkies creates an indulgent experience that is hard to resist. It elevates flavors and sweetness in the most delightful way.
-
Milkshakes: A rich vanilla milkshake pairs perfectly, echoing the comforting flavors of your treat while offering a refreshing and creamy complement.
-
Coffee: A warm cup of coffee contrasts with the sweetness of your dessert, bringing warmth and depth while enhancing those nostalgic flavors we love.
-
Ice Cream: Consider serving a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream on the side. The creaminess hugs the flavors of your Homemade Twinkies, creating a delightful indulgence.
These delightful pairings will transform your homemade dessert into an unforgettable gathering moment filled with laughter and joy!
Expert Tips for Homemade Twinkies
-
Mixing Magic: Ensure your cake batter is thoroughly combined with no lumps. This will help achieve a light and fluffy texture for your Homemade Twinkies.
-
Cooling Care: Allow the cakes to cool completely before adding the filling. Skipping this step may lead to a soggy or collapsed cake.
-
Butter Temperature: Use room temperature butter for the filling. This ensures a creamy and fluffy texture, allowing the marshmallow to shine through perfectly.
-
Measuring Precision: When measuring powdered sugar, spoon it into the measuring cup and level it off. This prevents excess sugar, which could make the filling too stiff.
-
Flavor Boost: For an extra kick, consider adding a dash of almond extract in addition to vanilla. This elevates the flavor profile of your Homemade Twinkies significantly.
How to Store and Freeze Homemade Twinkies
Room Temperature: Keep your Homemade Twinkies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their moistness and flavor.
Fridge: If storing longer, place the Twinkies in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Ensure they are in a tightly sealed container to prevent drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the Homemade Twinkies individually in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing their delightful taste.
Reheating: Let frozen Twinkies thaw in the refrigerator overnight or on the counter for a few hours. For a warm treat, microwave them for 10-15 seconds until slightly warmed.
Homemade Twinkies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best ingredients for Homemade Twinkies?
Absolutely! For the best results, use fresh eggs that are at room temperature, as they whip up better for a lighter cake. Additionally, when selecting your sour cream, opt for full-fat versions as they lend moisture and richness to the cake.
Can I store Homemade Twinkies, and how long do they last?
Very! You can keep your Homemade Twinkies in an airtight container at room temperature for 3 days. If you’d like them to last a bit longer, refrigerate them for up to a week, but make sure they are well-sealed to maintain moisture.
What’s the best way to freeze Homemade Twinkies?
Of course! To freeze your Homemade Twinkies, first let them cool completely. Wrap each Twinkie individually in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn, then place them in a resealable freezer bag or aluminum foil. They can stay in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy one, just let it thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.
Why is my marshmallow filling too thick, and how can I fix it?
Great question! If your marshmallow filling feels too thick, it’s likely due to too much powdered sugar. To fix this, you can add a tiny splash of heavy cream, mixing it in slowly until you achieve the desired consistency. Additionally, ensure that your butter is at room temperature when mixing, as cold butter can create a stiff filling.
Are there any dietary considerations for Homemade Twinkies?
Absolutely! If you’re making these for someone with allergies, keep in mind they contain eggs, dairy, and gluten. You can easily adapt this recipe by using gluten-free cake mix or substituting eggs with applesauce (1/4 cup per egg) or flaxseed meal mixed with water for a vegan option.
Decadent Homemade Twinkies with Fluffy Marshmallow Filling
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine the cake mix, granulated sugar, water, eggs, vanilla extract, vegetable oil, all-purpose flour, kosher salt, and sour cream in a large mixing bowl. Stir until smooth and well-blended, ensuring there are no lumps.
- Transfer the batter into prepared cake pans, making sure to evenly distribute it. Bake according to package instructions or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, about 25-30 minutes.
- Cool the cakes for about 10 minutes in the pans before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
- Prepare the marshmallow filling by beating together the marshmallow creme, room temperature butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, heavy cream, and salt in a mixing bowl until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
- Layer one cooled cake on a serving plate and spread half of the marshmallow filling over the top. Place the second layer of cake on top, pressing down gently.
- Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining marshmallow filling, making it as smooth or textured as you desire, and serve to your excited family or friends!