If you’re on the hunt for a show-stopping dessert that’s easy to make yet tastes like it took hours of love and mastery, you’ve got to try this Hostess Sheet Cake Recipe. It’s a delightful chocolate cake with a gooey marshmallow creme filling and a luscious chocolate ganache topping that comes together in no time. This cake strikes the perfect balance of rich, sweet, and creamy, making it a beloved treat perfect for family gatherings or friendly get-togethers where you want everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Hostess Sheet Cake Recipe uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that combine to create incredible layers of flavor and texture. Each component plays its part in delivering that classic, tender crumb and melt-in-your-mouth filling and topping.
- 1 box chocolate cake mix: The base of your cake, convenient but you can use homemade chocolate cake too for a more personal touch.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (divided): Adds richness and helps achieve a smooth, creamy filling and luscious ganache.
- 2 cups powdered sugar: Essential for sweetness and for creating a flawless cream filling texture.
- 1 jar (7 oz) marshmallow creme: This gives the filling that signature fluffy, sweet, and slightly sticky texture that sets this cake apart.
- 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract: Enhances the sweets with aromatic warmth and deepens the flavor profile.
- 3 tablespoons heavy cream (for filling): Brings moisture and silkiness to the filling, helping it spread easily.
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: The core of the ganache, providing rich chocolaty goodness.
- ½ cup heavy cream (for ganache): Makes the ganache glossy and smooth for a beautiful finish.
- Optional: white sprinkles for topping: Adds a fun, decorative touch that makes the cake visually pop.
How to Make Hostess Sheet Cake Recipe
Step 1: Bake the Chocolate Cake
Start by preparing a 9×13-inch chocolate cake using the box mix or your favorite homemade recipe. The key here is to bake it evenly and allow it to cool completely before assembling, which keeps your filling from melting and preserves the cake’s structure.
Step 2: Whip Up the Marshmallow Creme Filling
In a large bowl, beat together half a cup of softened butter, powdered sugar, marshmallow creme, vanilla extract, and three tablespoons of heavy cream. Whip these ingredients for about three to four minutes until the mixture becomes light, airy, and spreadable. This fluffy filling is the heart of the cake and delivers that signature Hostess charm.
Step 3: Slice and Fill the Cake
Carefully slice the cooled cake horizontally into two layers. Spread the marshmallow creme filling evenly over the bottom layer, making sure every bite will have that sweet, creamy surprise. Then gently place the top layer back onto the filling, creating the perfect sandwich.
Step 4: Make the Chocolate Ganache
Place the chocolate chips in a medium bowl. Heat half a cup of heavy cream on the stove or microwave until it’s just about to simmer, then pour it over the chips. Let this sit for a couple of minutes so the chips melt, then stir carefully until smooth and glossy. This rich ganache is what turns the cake from everyday to truly indulgent.
Step 5: Pour the Ganache Over the Cake
Spread the warm ganache evenly over the assembled cake, covering the top in a shiny chocolate blanket. Let it set at room temperature or pop it in the fridge for a quicker chill. This creates that irresistible glossy finish we all love.
Step 6: Add Final Touches and Serve
If you want to get fancy or festive, sprinkle white sprinkles or create delicate swirl designs across the ganache before it sets. Once ready, slice into those perfect rectangles and watch your guests’ faces light up.
How to Serve Hostess Sheet Cake Recipe
Garnishes
While the cake is perfect on its own, adding a scattering of white sprinkles or a dusting of powdered sugar takes it to the next level. Fresh berries can also add a pop of color and tartness, balancing the cake’s sweetness beautifully.
Side Dishes
Pair this Hostess Sheet Cake Recipe with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream to complement the chocolate and marshmallow flavors. A hot cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk are classic beverages that perfectly accompany each bite.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this cake on a rustic wooden board for a cozy vibe, or decorate the platter with edible flowers or chocolate shavings for an elegant twist. For parties, cut the cake into bite-sized squares and skewer each with a festive toothpick for easy grabbing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store your Hostess Sheet Cake Recipe leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature if it’s cool and dry, or in the refrigerator to keep the ganache firm. It’s best enjoyed within three to four days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezing
If you want to keep the cake longer, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen Hostess Sheet Cake can last up to three months and can be thawed overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating
While this cake is usually best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, if you prefer it slightly warm, let slices sit out for 15-20 minutes or microwave briefly for 5-10 seconds. Avoid overheating to keep the ganache intact and the cake moist.
FAQs
Can I use a homemade chocolate cake instead of a mix for this Hostess Sheet Cake Recipe?
Absolutely! Using a homemade chocolate cake can add a personalized touch, and many find the flavor even more rewarding. Just ensure it’s baked in a 9×13 pan and cooled completely before assembly.
What can I substitute for marshmallow creme if I can’t find it?
Marshmallow creme gives that distinct fluffiness and sweetness, but you can substitute with homemade marshmallow fluff or use a whipped cream and powdered sugar mixture for a lighter filling, though the taste and texture will vary slightly.
Is this cake suitable for make-ahead parties?
Yes, the Hostess Sheet Cake Recipe is perfect for make-ahead occasions since it stores well and actually tastes better after the flavors have melded overnight. Just cover and refrigerate it until ready to serve.
Can I use milk chocolate or dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet?
You can! Semi-sweet chocolate offers a balanced sweetness, but swapping in dark chocolate chips will give a richer, slightly bitter profile, while milk chocolate will make it sweeter and creamier.
How do I get a clean horizontal slice of the cake?
Using a serrated knife and a gentle sawing motion works best for a smooth, even cut through the cake. Chill the cake slightly beforehand to make slicing easier and prevent crumbs.
Final Thoughts
This Hostess Sheet Cake Recipe truly brings together the best of nostalgic flavors with a homemade touch, making it a crowd-pleaser every time. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a delicious chocolate treat, this cake promises to deliver joy in every bite. Give it a try—you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe again and again, just like I do!
Print
Hostess Sheet Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Hostess Sheet Cake is a delightful chocolate dessert featuring a moist chocolate cake base layered with a fluffy marshmallow cream filling and topped with a rich chocolate ganache. Perfect for parties and gatherings, this recipe combines classic flavors with an easy-to-make no-bake filling and a luscious ganache topping, creating a show-stopping treat that serves 12.
Ingredients
Cake
- 1 box chocolate cake mix (or homemade 9×13 chocolate cake)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened (for cake layer preparation and filling)
Filling
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 jar (7 oz) marshmallow creme
- 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 tablespoons heavy cream
Ganache
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup heavy cream
Optional
- White sprinkles for topping
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake: Bake a 9×13 chocolate cake according to the package instructions or your favorite homemade recipe. Allow the cake to cool completely before proceeding to the next step.
- Make the Filling: In a large bowl, beat together ½ cup of softened unsalted butter, 2 cups powdered sugar, a 7 oz jar of marshmallow creme, 1 ½ teaspoons of vanilla extract, and 3 tablespoons of heavy cream. Beat for 3 to 4 minutes until the mixture is light, fluffy, and well combined.
- Slice and Fill the Cake: Carefully slice the cooled chocolate cake horizontally into two even layers. Spread the prepared marshmallow cream filling evenly over the bottom layer, then place the top layer back on to create a filled cake.
- Prepare the Ganache: Place 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips into a bowl. Heat ½ cup of heavy cream until it just begins to simmer. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate chips and let it sit for 2 minutes to soften. Stir until smooth and glossy, forming a rich ganache.
- Apply the Ganache: Pour the ganache evenly over the assembled cake, spreading it smoothly across the surface. Allow the ganache to set at room temperature or refrigerate it until firm.
- Decorate and Serve: Decorate the ganache-topped cake with white sprinkles or swirl designs if desired. Slice into servings and enjoy your decadent Hostess Sheet Cake!
Notes
- The cake must be completely cooled before slicing and filling to prevent the filling from melting.
- For a richer flavor, use homemade chocolate cake instead of a box mix.
- The ganache can be slightly warmed before spreading if it becomes too thick.
- Store the cake covered in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before serving for best texture.
- Optional decorations like white sprinkles add a festive touch but can be omitted.
