KANSAS CITY, MO — Companies like Collegedale, TN-based McKee Foods — manufacturer of Little Debbie and Drake’s — are capturing interest through influencers. Social media bloggers are using snack cakes as the foundation of their party treats. For example, the Party Pinching blogger uses Little Debbie snack cakes to create seasonal offerings like Fudge Round pilgrim hats, Star Crunch turkeys, Pumpkin Spice Latte rolls and Nutty Buddy fall snack mix. Drake’s has capitalized on the non-edible side of nostalgia by selling branded merchandise like t-shirts, cups, socks and wrapping paper emblazoned with the company’s signature cakes.