This Ding Dong Cake is a rich, decadent chocolate dessert inspired by the classic Hostess snack. With layers of moist chocolate cake, a creamy filling, and a luscious chocolate ganache, this homemade version takes the nostalgic treat to a whole new level. Perfect for celebrations or simply indulging in a chocolate lover’s dream, this cake is guaranteed to impress with its deep cocoa flavor and velvety texture.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- All-Purpose Flour – 1 ¾ cups
- Granulated Sugar – 3 cups
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – ¾ cup
- Baking Soda – 2 teaspoons
- Baking Powder – 1 teaspoon
- Kosher Salt – 1 teaspoon
- Buttermilk – 1 cup
- Vegetable Oil – ½ cup
- Large Eggs – 2
- Vanilla Extract – 2 teaspoons
- Freshly Brewed Hot Coffee – 1 cup
For the Cream Filling:
- Whole Milk – 1 cup
- All-Purpose Flour – 5 tablespoons
- Butter – 1 cup
- Granulated Sugar – 1 cup
- Vanilla Extract – 1 teaspoon
For the Chocolate Ganache:
- Semi-Sweet Chocolate – 12 ounces
- Heavy Cream – 12 ounces
Instructions:
- Prepare the Cake Batter
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 8-inch round cake pans.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, mix buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture, stirring until combined.
- Pour in hot coffee and mix until smooth.
- Bake the Cake
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 30 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the Cream Filling
- In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together milk and flour until thickened.
- Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
- In a mixing bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the cooled milk mixture and vanilla extract, beating until smooth and creamy.
- Make the Ganache
- Chop semi-sweet chocolate and place it in a heat-safe bowl.
- Heat heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl until it begins to simmer.
- Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let sit for 2 minutes.
- Whisk until smooth and glossy.
- Assemble the Cake
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate.
- Spread the cream filling evenly over the top.
- Place the second cake layer on top.
- Pour the chocolate ganache over the cake, letting it drip down the sides.
- Chill and Serve
- Allow the cake to set for 15 minutes before slicing.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature for the best texture.
This Ding Dong Cake is a homemade masterpiece that captures the essence of the beloved snack cake while elevating it with rich flavors and textures. Enjoy every bite of this indulgent treat! 🍫🎂
For more variations, check out this recipe or explore different techniques here. Happy baking! 😋