Name: Homemade Twinkies Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups cake flour, sifted; 1⅛ cups granulated sugar; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 6 large eggs, room temperature; ½ cup whole milk; ⅔ cup vegetable oil; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 2 large egg whites, room temperature; ⅔ cup granulated sugar; 2⅔ tablespoons water

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 80 reviews

If you have a soft spot for nostalgic sweets, nothing beats the delight of a light, fluffy sponge cake filled with sweet, creamy vanilla filling. This Homemade Twinkies Recipe brings that cherished childhood snack right into your kitchen with a freshness and simplicity that blow store-bought versions out of the water. From the perfectly tender cake to the dreamy meringue filling, every bite is a nostalgic hug that feels like a celebration of classic Americana treats.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl sits on a white marbled surface, holding six raw eggs with bright yellow yolks and translucent whites. One side of the bowl contains a pool of brown liquid, likely vanilla extract, which contrasts with the pale yellow of the eggs and the white of the egg whites. The bowl is viewed from above, showing the clear separation between the different elements before mixing. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Homemade Twinkies Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each playing a crucial role in crafting the perfect texture and flavor. From fluffy cake flour to silky vanilla extract, every component contributes to the ultimate soft cake and luscious filling you’ll adore.

Cake Flour: Sifted for that signature light, airy texture that makes Twinkies so irresistible.
Granulated Sugar: Sweetens both cake and filling, balancing flavor perfectly.
Baking Powder: Gives the cake just the right lift for fluffiness.
Salt: Enhances the overall flavors and keeps everything balanced.
Large Eggs (room temperature): Essential for structure and moisture in the cake.
Whole Milk: Adds richness and tenderness to the batter.
Vegetable Oil: Keeps the cake incredibly moist without weighing it down.
Vanilla Extract: Infuses that warm, classic flavor synonymous with Twinkies.
Egg Whites (room temperature): For the fluffy, glossy meringue filling that’s the crown jewel of the treat.
Water: Helps create the perfect sugar syrup for stiff meringue peaks.

How to Make Homemade Twinkies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (177℃) and greasing your Twinkie pans. Sift your cake flour to avoid lumps—this is crucial in achieving that signature light texture. Combine the dry ingredients in one bowl, and whisk together eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla in another. Slowly fold the wet into the dry until you have a smooth batter free of lumps, setting the stage for perfectly soft cakes.

Step 2: Bake the Cakes

Pour the batter into the prepared pan cavities about two-thirds full to leave room for rising. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until each cake springs back lightly when touched. Remove and let them cool completely. Pro tip: trimming the bottoms slightly might be necessary so your Twinkies rest flat after baking.

Step 3: Whip the Meringue Filling

While the cakes are cooling, prepare the filling. Beat egg whites on high until stiff peaks form, ensuring no trace of yolk is present for the airy texture. Slowly cook sugar and water into a syrup, not stirring once sugar dissolves, and carefully stream the hot syrup into the egg whites while continuing to whip. Keep beating until the meringue has cooled completely for that fluffy, stable filling.

Step 4: Assemble Your Twinkies

Fit a piping bag with a round tip and fill it with your luscious meringue. Turn the cooled cakes over and pipe filling through three holes: one in the middle and one near each end. The filling should be generous but not overflowing—this is what gives Twinkies their iconic cream center weight and texture.

How to Serve Homemade Twinkies Recipe

The image shows several small yellow sponge cakes, each shaped like a rounded rectangle. One of the cakes in the front has a bite taken out, revealing a soft white cream filling inside with a fluffy texture. The cakes rest on a crinkled piece of white parchment paper that sits on a white marbled surface. Small white daisy-like flowers with yellow centers are scattered around the cakes, adding a fresh and delicate touch. The background is softly blurred and light, keeping the focus on the cakes. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Dress your Twinkies effortlessly by dusting them lightly with powdered sugar or rolling them in a bit of finely shredded coconut for a surprising textural twist that still respects the classic flavors. A drizzle of warm chocolate sauce or a sprinkle of colorful sprinkles can also add a festive touch when serving to kids or at parties.

Side Dishes

Serving these Homemade Twinkies Recipe treats alongside a cold glass of milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream is a simple but unbeatable combo. For a grown-up twist, pair with a fresh berry compote to balance the sweet creaminess with a hint of tartness, turning snack time into a mini dessert extravaganza.

Creative Ways to Present

Why not surprise your guests by turning these traditional Twinkies into bite-sized party snacks? Simply slice them into smaller portions and arrange on a decorative platter with fresh fruit or edible flowers. Alternatively, skewering a Twinkie with fresh strawberries and a dollop of whipped cream takes presentation next-level while keeping things fun and casual.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Homemade Twinkies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay soft and tempting for up to 2 days, but you’ll likely find they disappear far faster than that! Avoid refrigeration as it can dry out the cake.

Freezing

If you want to make these in advance for a special occasion, wrap each Twinkie individually in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Frozen Twinkies last up to 1 month and thaw beautifully at room temperature, maintaining their signature fluffy texture and creamy filling.

Reheating

To revive your Twinkies after freezing, simply unwrap and let them thaw for about an hour. If desired, warm gently in a low oven (about 250°F or 120℃) for 5 minutes, but take care not to overheat and melt the filling. This little step restores the soft, just-baked feel that makes homemade better than ever.

FAQs

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of cake flour?

Yes! To mimic cake flour, remove 4 tablespoons of all-purpose flour per 2 cups and replace it with 4 tablespoons of cornstarch, then sift well. This mix lightens the texture, essential for that fluffy Twinkie crumb.

Is there a shortcut for the filling?

If you’re short on time, store-bought marshmallow fluff can replace the meringue filling. While it won’t be quite the same as the homemade version, it’s a tasty and convenient alternative.

How do I avoid lumps in the cake batter?

Whisk your wet ingredients separately before folding them into the sifted dry ingredients slowly. This helps incorporate everything evenly, giving you the smooth batter that bakes into the perfect Twinkie texture.

Why isn’t my meringue stiffening properly?

Make sure no yolk gets into your egg whites and that your mixing bowl and beaters are clean and dry. Also, use room temperature egg whites, and gradually add the hot sugar syrup while beating at high speed for the best results.

How do I fill the cakes if I don’t have a piping bag?

Simply use a zip-top plastic bag, snip a small corner, and pipe the filling through that. Alternatively, poke holes with a skewer and spoon in the filling carefully. Both methods work great and help you achieve that classic stuffed center.

Final Thoughts

Making this Homemade Twinkies Recipe is like capturing a little piece of joy from the past and sharing it in the here and now, fresh and better than ever. Once you try these soft, creamy delights straight from your oven, you’ll wonder why you ever bought them packaged. Grab your mixing bowl today and create a batch of these golden, fluffy treasures that are sure to become a beloved favorite in your kitchen and beyond!