Have you ever craved a dessert that’s both nostalgic and refreshing? Let me introduce you to the delightful world of Twinkie cake recipes. Picture layers of soft Twinkies, velvety vanilla pudding, juicy fruit slices, and a fluffy whipped topping – all coming together to create the ultimate no-bake summer treat.
This easy-to-make Twinkie cake is a perfect blend of childhood memories and adult indulgence. With just a few simple ingredients like Hostess Twinkies, pudding, strawberries, and whipped topping, you can whip up this dessert in just 10 minutes. It’s a speedy solution for satisfying your sweet tooth on warm spring and summer days without even turning on the oven.
Get ready to awaken your inner child with every bite of this spongy yellow cake layered with creamy goodness. Stay tuned for the step-by-step guide on how to assemble this strawberry Twinkie Cake that’s bound to become a favorite among your family and friends.
Ingredients
In making the delicious Twinkie cake recipe, you’ll need to prepare both the cake and filling components.
Cake Components
- 1 box of Twinkies
- 1 15.25-ounce strawberry cake mix
- 1 cup water
- 3 large eggs
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced small
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 3-5 tablespoons heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup whipped cream
- Fresh sliced strawberries for garnish
- 4 large bananas
- 1 20-ounce can crushed pineapple
- 1 5.1-ounce box vanilla instant pudding mix
- 1 12-ounce container frozen whipped topping, thawed
- Maraschino cherries and chopped nuts for garnish (optional)
Prep Work
Before diving into making this delicious Twinkie cake masterpiece, let’s get everything prepped and ready for assembly in the kitchen.
How to Prep the Cake Base
To start off, preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare a 9×13 baking dish by greasing it with nonstick spray.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, water, eggs, and vegetable oil. Use an electric mixer to beat the ingredients until the batter is smooth and well combined.
Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared baking dish. Next, arrange the unwrapped Twinkies on top of the batter in the dish. Finally, pour the remaining cake batter over the Twinkies.
Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Preparing the Filling
While the cake is baking and cooling, let’s prepare the creamy and fruity filling for our Twinkie cake.
Start by removing the Twinkies from their wrappers and cutting each one in half lengthwise. Arrange the Twinkie halves in a 9×13 baking dish with the cream side facing up.
Prepare the vanilla instant pudding mix according to the package instructions. Once the pudding is ready, spread it evenly over the Twinkies in the baking dish.
Next, spread the drained crushed pineapple over the pudding layer. Follow this by topping the cake with slices of fresh bananas.
Spread the thawed frozen whipped topping over the entire cake, covering it completely. If desired, sprinkle chopped nuts on top for an extra crunch.
Cover the prepared cake and refrigerate it for several hours to allow the flavors to meld together.
That’s it for the prep work! The next steps will take you through assembling and finishing off your delectable Twinkie cake.
Assembly Instructions
Constructing the Cake Layers
To begin constructing the Twinkie cake layers, cut the Twinkies in half lengthwise from top to bottom. Place the Twinkie halves in a 9×13 baking dish with the cream side facing up. This forms the base of the cake and sets the stage for the delicious layers to come.
Inserting the Filling
Prepare the vanilla instant pudding mix according to the package directions and spread it over the Twinkies in the baking dish. Next, evenly layer the drained crushed pineapple and fresh banana slices on top of the pudding. Spread the thawed frozen whipped topping over the fruit layer, creating a light and fluffy finish. For added flair, sprinkle chopped nuts over the top. Cover the cake and refrigerate it for several hours to allow the flavors to meld together. When ready to serve, top each slice with a maraschino cherry for a delightful garnish. Enjoy the nostalgic and delightful Twinkie cake with its layers of sweet goodness.
Baking
When it comes to baking this delicious Twinkie cake, getting the oven settings and timing right is crucial for a perfect outcome. Follow these steps to set up your oven correctly and ensure your cake bakes to perfection.
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit as this temperature is ideal for baking the Twinkie cake.
- Bake the assembled cake in the preheated oven for approximately 30-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- These settings and timings will ensure that your Twinkie cake bakes evenly and to the right level of moistness.
Decoration and Garnishing
Creative Ideas for Decorating Your Twinkie Cake
For a whimsical touch, consider using colorful sprinkles or edible glitter to add a sparkly finish to your Twinkie cake. You can also create a beautiful pattern by arranging fresh fruit slices like strawberries, kiwi, or blueberries on top of the whipped cream. Another option is to drizzle a decadent chocolate sauce over the finished cake for a delightful contrast of flavors. Don’t forget to garnish with a cherry on top for a classic and festive look that will make your Twinkie cake even more attractive.
Storage Tips
When storing Twinkie cake, it’s essential to follow some best practices to maintain its freshness and taste.
- Refrigeration: After assembling the Twinkie cake, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator to keep it fresh and to preserve the creamy filling.
- Avoid Room Temperature: It is recommended not to leave the Twinkie cake at room temperature for an extended period to prevent spoilage. Refrigeration helps maintain the cake’s texture and prevents any potential bacterial growth.
- Freezing: If you plan to store the Twinkie cake for an extended period, consider freezing it. Wrap the cake well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw the cake in the refrigerator before serving for the best texture.
By following these storage tips, you can enjoy your Twinkie cake for longer periods while preserving its delicious flavors.
Conclusion
Creating a Twinkie cake is a delightful way to enjoy a classic treat with a twist. The ease of preparation and the delicious outcome make it a go-to dessert for any occasion. Remember to follow the storage tips provided to keep your Twinkie cake fresh and flavorful. By refrigerating the cake and considering freezing for longer storage, you can savor the taste of this unique dessert for an extended period. Experiment with different variations and toppings to personalize your Twinkie cake and impress your guests with a delightful and nostalgic treat. Enjoy the process of making and sharing this special dessert, and let the sweet flavors of Twinkies brighten up your gatherings.