Twinkies return to store shelves nationwide today. Image from Wikimedia Commons. 

By Kim Kalunian, WPRO News

Snack cake lovers mourned the loss of Twinkies last fall when Hostess declared bankruptcy, but now the snack cake – which is rumored to be able to survive nuclear warfare – is back from the grave.

After an early arrival at Wal-Mart last week, Twinkies re-launched nationwide Monday.

The snack cakes return with their classic taste, and also their classic price: $3.99 for a box of 10. When the snack cakes were thought to be disappearing forever last year, boxes were listed on EBay for thousands of dollars.

Those who shelled out huge chunks of change for a chunk of yellow sponge cake might be regretting their decisions come today, when Twinkies again become commonplace.

To help consumers locate their cream-filled cakes, Hostess has put up a “snack-spotting” map that points to local stores carrying Twinkies.

According to the map, there’s a cluster of stores in and around Providence that will sell Twinkies. The map also includes quotes from locals tweeting about the re-launch, something Hostess is calling “The Sweetest Comeback in the History of Ever.”

Monday’s re-launch also includes CupCakes and Ding Dongs. Click here for a store locator.