If you’ve ever dreamed of recreating that iconic, cloud-light treat from your childhood, look no further than this Homemade Twinkies Vanilla Cakes Recipe. It captures the exact balance of soft, golden vanilla sponge and luscious creamy filling that makes Twinkies so irresistible. From mixing the perfect batter to whipping up a silky meringue filling, this recipe is a delightful way to bring those nostalgic flavors straight into your kitchen with fresh, homemade goodness that’s bound to impress family and friends alike.

Homemade Twinkies Vanilla Cakes Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are beautifully simple yet crucial in giving your Homemade Twinkies Vanilla Cakes Recipe its classic texture and flavor. Each one serves an important role, from the tender crumb of the cake to the fluffy sweetness of the filling.

250 grams cake flour, sifted: The foundation for a soft, tender cake crumb without heaviness.
225 grams granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake perfectly and aids in browning.
2 teaspoons baking powder: Leavens the batter so your cakes rise just right and stay fluffy.
1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
6 large eggs, room temperature: Provide structure, moisture, and richness for a delicious base.
120 millilitres whole milk: Adds tenderness and helps achieve the perfect cake texture.
160 millilitres vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist and soft for days.
1 tablespoon vanilla extract: Infuses that warm, classic vanilla scent and flavor.
2 large egg whites, room temperature (for filling): Whipped into a meringue for the fluffy, cloud-like filling.
135 grams granulated sugar (for filling): Sweetens and stabilizes the meringue for that signature creamy texture.
40 millilitres water (for filling): Helps dissolve the sugar to create a smooth sugar syrup for the filling.

How to Make Homemade Twinkies Vanilla Cakes Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pans and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 177°C (350°F) and generously spraying your Twinkie-shaped cake pans with non-stick spray. This ensures your cakes will release effortlessly after baking, preserving their iconic shape.

Step 2: Mix Your Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the sifted cake flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Combining these first helps evenly distribute the leavening agents and salt, which is key to an even rise and flavor balance in your cakes.

Step 3: Blend the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk your eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth. This wet mixture not only adds moisture but also brings richness and aromatic depth to your Twinkies.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and whisk thoroughly until the batter is smooth and without lumps. This step is critical for a uniformly textured batter, which translates to that classic tender crumb we all love.

Step 5: Bake the Cakes

Spoon your batter into the prepared pans, filling each cavity about two-thirds full so there’s room for rise. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, testing with a toothpick—when it comes out clean, your cakes are perfectly baked.

Step 6: Cool Completely

Remove your cakes from the oven and set them aside to cool completely before filling. Cooling prevents the filling from melting and ensures those iconic Twinkies hold their shape beautifully.

Step 7: Make the Filling Meringue

Beat the egg whites on high speed until stiff peaks form, getting your meringue nice and fluffy. Meanwhile, heat sugar and water together until it reaches the perfect syrup temperature of 119°C to 121°C (245°F to 250°F).

Step 8: Combine Syrup and Egg Whites

Carefully pour the hot syrup into your whipped egg whites while mixing continuously. Continue beating until the mixture cools to room temperature and turns thick, glossy, and irresistibly smooth—a classic marshmallow-like filling.

Step 9: Fill Your Twinkies

Load your meringue filling into a piping bag fitted with a round tip. Turn your cooled cakes over, pipe the filling carefully into three spots on the base of each Twinkie, making sure it fills the center and both ends without overstuffing. This gives you that delightful cream-filled surprise on every bite.

How to Serve Homemade Twinkies Vanilla Cakes Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate your Homemade Twinkies Vanilla Cakes Recipe, consider a light dusting of powdered sugar for a touch of elegance. If you want a bit of fresh flavor, a few berry halves or edible flowers on the side can brighten up the plate beautifully.

Side Dishes

These cakes are perfectly portable and sweet enough to be enjoyed on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with fresh fruit salad or a dollop of whipped cream. A scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side can turn this treat into a delightful dessert experience.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun party touch, stack your homemade Twinkies vertically on a dessert tower or serve them alongside mini milk bottles for a nostalgic vibe. You can also drizzle melted chocolate or caramel over the top for an irresistible finishing touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once filled, store your Homemade Twinkies Vanilla Cakes Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps the cake soft and the filling fresh. If it’s warmer, refrigeration is best to avoid spoilage.

Freezing

You can freeze the cakes, unfilled, by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag for up to one month. When ready to serve, thaw them fully and then fill with fresh meringue to retain that perfect texture.

Reheating

Because these cakes are soft and delicate, reheating isn’t usually necessary. However, if you prefer your cakes slightly warm, a few seconds in the microwave wrapped in a paper towel can bring back a hint of fresh-baked warmth without toughening the crumb.

FAQs

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

Cake flour results in a softer, lighter crumb, which is key to this recipe’s delicate texture. If you only have all-purpose flour, consider substituting it by removing two tablespoons per cup and replacing with cornstarch for a closer effect.

Is it safe to use raw egg whites in the filling?

Since the filling uses a cooked sugar syrup combined with egg whites, the heat from the syrup effectively cooks the egg whites, making it safe to eat. Just be sure to reach the proper syrup temperature.

Can I make the filling without a candy thermometer?

While you can try, a candy thermometer really ensures your syrup hits the exact temperature needed for the perfect meringue consistency. Without it, the filling might be too runny or too stiff.

Why is the vegetable oil used instead of butter?

Vegetable oil keeps the cake incredibly moist and tender without the density butter can add. It helps maintain a light texture that feels just like the Twinkies you remember.

Can I bake the cakes in a regular muffin tin instead of Twinkie-shaped pans?

Yes, using a muffin tin will work in a pinch, but you’ll lose the classic cylindrical Twinkie shape. The baking time might also vary slightly, so keep an eye on the cakes as they bake.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about making your own Homemade Twinkies Vanilla Cakes Recipe from scratch. It’s a wonderful way to bring a bit of childhood nostalgia into your kitchen, with the satisfaction of crafting each fluffy bite yourself. Whether you’re sharing at a party or treating yourself, these cakes are sure to bring smiles and sweet memories. Give this recipe a try—you’ll love the journey as much as the delicious destination!