Ding Dong Cake is a rich, decadent chocolate cake inspired by the classic Hostess Ding Dongs. This indulgent dessert features layers of moist chocolate cake, a creamy vanilla filling, and a luscious chocolate ganache coating. The combination of textures—soft cake, fluffy filling, and smooth ganache—creates a nostalgic yet gourmet treat perfect for celebrations or satisfying a chocolate craving.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup hot brewed coffee
For the Filling:
- 1 cup whole milk
- 5 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Ganache:
- 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
- 12 ounces heavy cream
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Cake
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- Combine wet ingredients: In another bowl, whisk buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Incorporate coffee: Gradually add the hot brewed coffee to the wet ingredients, stirring until well combined.
- Combine mixtures: Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until smooth.
- Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 2: Make the Filling
- Cook the milk and flour: In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together milk and flour until thickened, resembling a pudding. Remove from heat and let cool.
- Cream butter and sugar: In a mixing bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Combine: Add the cooled milk mixture and vanilla extract, beating until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Make the Ganache
- Heat the cream: In a saucepan, warm the heavy cream until it just begins to simmer.
- Melt the chocolate: Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate and let sit for 2 minutes. Stir until smooth.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
- Layer the cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread the filling evenly over the top.
- Top with second layer: Place the second cake layer on top.
- Pour ganache: Slowly pour the ganache over the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides.
- Set: Let the ganache set for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips for the Best Ding Dong Cake:
- Use hot coffee: It enhances the chocolate flavor without making the cake taste like coffee.
- Chill the filling: Let the filling cool completely before spreading to prevent melting.
- Customize toppings: Sprinkle crushed nuts or chocolate shavings over the ganache for extra texture.
This Ding Dong Cake is a show-stopping dessert that brings back childhood memories while delivering a gourmet experience. Enjoy! 🍫🎂✨