Fluffy Homemade Twinkie Cake Recipe: Nostalgic Sweetness Awaits

Crafting a delectable twinkie cake brings pure nostalgia and childhood memories flooding back.

Sweet memories dance across kitchen counters while creamy possibilities unfold.

Homemade magic transforms simple ingredients into a dreamy dessert that sparkles with comfort.

Soft, golden sponge layers promise indulgence beyond store-bought treats.

Bakers can recreate this classic American snack with surprising ease and minimal equipment.

Whipping up this delightful cake requires just a few pantry staples and a dash of enthusiasm.

A single slice will transport you straight to happy moments of pure sugary bliss.

Twinkie Cake That’s Simple and Sweet

• Effortless Baking Adventure: Transform a simple box cake mix into a decadent homemade dessert with minimal culinary skills required.
• Nostalgic Crowd-Pleaser: Capture the beloved flavor of classic Twinkies in a stunning cake format that brings back childhood memories for everyone.
• Customize with Ease: Adapt the recipe by experimenting with different cake flavors or adding personal touches like chocolate drizzle or sprinkles to make it uniquely yours.
• Impressive Dessert for Any Gathering: Wow friends and family with a professional-looking cake that seems complex but comes together surprisingly quickly and simply.

Twinkie Cake Ingredient List

• Yellow Cake Mix: A convenient base for creating a soft and fluffy cake.
• Milk: Helps to create a smooth cake batter.

• All-Purpose Flour, Milk: Creates a thick and creamy base for the filling.
• Shortening, Butter: Provides richness and smooth texture to the filling.
• Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness to the filling.
• Salt, Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor of the filling.

Twinkie Cake Simple Assembly

Step 1: Bake Yellow Cake Layers

Preheat the oven following cake mix package instructions. Mix the yellow cake batter according to package directions. Pour the batter into two 9-inch round cake pans. Bake as directed and allow cakes to cool completely at room temperature.

Step 2: Craft Creamy Filling Base

Whisk flour and milk together in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously until mixture thickens and becomes smooth, approximately 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.

Step 3: Whip Butter Mixture

In a mixing bowl, beat shortening and butter until they become light and airy. Gradually add sugar while continuing to beat. Mix until the combination becomes fully incorporated and develops a creamy consistency.

Step 4: Blend Filling Components

Incorporate the cooled flour mixture into the butter blend. Add salt and vanilla extract. Beat on high speed until the filling becomes smooth and fluffy with a cloud-like texture.

Step 5: Layer and Decorate Cake

Place the first cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of filling across the top. Carefully position the second cake layer over the filling. Use remaining filling to frost the top and sides of the cake. Refrigerate for at least one hour before serving to allow filling to set and flavors to meld.

Smart Ideas for Easy Twinkie Cake

• Perfectly Measure Ingredients: Use exact measurements for the filling to ensure a creamy, consistent texture that mimics the classic Twinkie flavor.
• Control Mixing Temperature: Let the flour and milk mixture cool completely before combining with butter to prevent separation and maintain a smooth filling consistency.
• Whip Filling Thoroughly: Beat the filling on high speed for at least 3-4 minutes to create an ultra-light, fluffy texture that's true to the original Twinkie filling.
• Chill for Best Flavor: Refrigerate the cake for a minimum of one hour before serving to allow the filling to set and flavors to meld together perfectly.
• Room Temperature Matters: Ensure butter and shortening are at room temperature for easier mixing and a more uniform filling texture.

How To Keep Twinkie Cake Fresh Longer

• Wrap the Twinkie Cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, keeping it in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days, maintaining its moisture and freshness.
• Slice the cake before freezing, wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2-3 months, ensuring maximum flavor retention.
• Remove frozen cake slices from the freezer and let them defrost in the refrigerator overnight. Allow the cake to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving to restore its soft texture.
• Warm individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds on medium power. Alternatively, place the slice on a plate and let it come to room temperature naturally for the best taste and texture.

Twinkie Cake Goes Great With

• Pair with Sweet Wine: Moscato d'Asti offers light, bubbly sweetness that perfectly complements the creamy Twinkie cake, enhancing its vanilla and sugary notes without overwhelming the delicate flavor.
• Serve with Coffee Companions: Espresso or cappuccino provide a rich, bold contrast to the cake's sweetness, cutting through the creamy filling and creating a balanced taste experience.
• Match with Fresh Berries: Strawberries or raspberries add a tangy, fresh element that brightens the cake's dense texture, introducing a vibrant counterpoint to the rich, sugary dessert.
• Complement with Vanilla Ice Cream: Smooth, cold vanilla ice cream creates a delightful temperature and texture contrast, melting slightly against the warm cake and adding an extra layer of creamy indulgence.

Cake Layer Variants

• Gluten-Free Twinkie Cake: Replace standard yellow cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix, ensuring the flour in the filling is also gluten-free. Perfect for those with wheat sensitivities.
• Vegan Cream Filling Alternative: Swap shortening and butter with coconut oil or plant-based margarine. Use almond milk instead of dairy milk and substitute sugar with maple syrup or agave nectar for a dairy-free version.
• Low-Sugar Twinkie Cake: Utilize a sugar-free cake mix and replace regular sugar with stevia or monk fruit sweetener in the cream filling. This option works well for diabetic-friendly diets.
• Chocolate Lover's Version: Add cocoa powder to the cake mix for a chocolate base. Incorporate melted chocolate into the cream filling for an extra rich flavor profile that chocolate enthusiasts will appreciate.

FAQs

• What ingredients give this Twinkie Cake its signature flavor?

The unique combination of yellow cake mix, homemade creamy filling with flour and milk base, and classic shortening-butter mixture creates the nostalgic Twinkie taste that reminds people of the beloved snack cake.

• Is this recipe complicated for beginner bakers?

Not at all! This recipe uses simple box cake mix and straightforward filling technique. Even novice bakers can successfully create this delicious cake with basic mixing and baking skills.

• How does the filling differ from standard buttercream?

Unlike traditional buttercream, this filling uses a cooked flour-milk base that provides a lighter, smoother texture. When combined with butter, sugar, and vanilla, it creates a uniquely creamy and less sweet filling characteristic of classic Twinkies.

• Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, this cake actually benefits from chilling. Refrigerating for at least an hour helps the filling set and allows flavors to meld, making it perfect for preparing in advance for parties or gatherings.

Twinkie Cake Recipe

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4.6 from 12 reviews

• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Nostalgic childhood memories come alive with this Twinkie Cake, blending creamy filling and golden sponge for a delightful dessert that sparks pure joy. Sweet comfort waits inside each slice, beckoning you to savor a classic American treat.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 1 box yellow cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box)
• 1/2 cup shortening
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1 cup sugar

Filling Ingredients:

• 5 tablespoons flour
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Flavoring Ingredient:

• 1 teaspoon vanilla

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Instructions

1. Prepare the cake foundation by preheating the oven according to yellow cake mix specifications. Carefully mix cake batter following package directions and distribute evenly into two 9-inch round pans. Bake until golden and a toothpick emerges clean, then allow layers to cool completely at room temperature.
2. Create the creamy filling base by whisking flour and milk in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously until mixture thickens and reaches a smooth, pudding-like consistency. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
3. In a separate mixing bowl, cream shortening and butter until light and airy. Gradually incorporate sugar, beating until the mixture becomes smooth and fluffy with no granular texture.
4. Merge the cooled flour mixture into the butter mixture. Add salt and vanilla extract, then whip on high speed until the filling becomes exceptionally light, smooth, and voluminous.
5. Construct the cake by positioning the first layer on a serving plate. Spread a thick, even layer of filling across the surface. Carefully place the second cake layer on top. Use remaining filling to generously coat the top and sides of the cake, creating a uniform, creamy exterior.
6. Refrigerate the assembled cake for a minimum of one hour to allow filling to set and flavors to meld. This chilling process enhances the cake’s texture and taste, ensuring a delightful dessert experience.

Notes

• Ensure cake layers are completely cool before adding filling to prevent melting and maintain distinct layers.
• Whisk flour and milk constantly while cooking to avoid lumps and achieve a smooth, creamy base.
• Refrigerating the cake helps stabilize the filling and enhances the overall flavor and texture.
• Substitute gluten-free cake mix and flour for a celiac-friendly version of this nostalgic dessert.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 300
• Sugar: 25g
• Sodium: 200mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 30mg