Ding Dong Cake

If you grew up loving the nostalgic treat of Ding Dongs (the famous little chocolate cakes with that creamy filling), then you’re going to fall head over heels for this homemade Ding Dong Cake! This cake takes everything you love about those little store-bought snack cakes and transforms it into something even better. Think of it as a light and fluffy chocolate cake wrapped in a smooth layer of shiny, rich chocolate ganache, with a surprise creamy filling in the middle. It’s a showstopper dessert that’s sure to bring out the kid in all of us.

The best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make and incredibly rewarding when you take that first bite—fluffy cake, smooth filling, and a decadent layer of chocolate all in one. Trust me, this one will have everyone asking for the recipe!

Why You’ll Love Ding Dong Cake

• Nostalgic Comfort: If you ever had Ding Dongs as a kid, you’ll love this homemade version. It brings back all the sweet memories while tasting way better than the boxed version.
• Perfect Balance of Flavors: With a rich chocolate cake, creamy filling, and glossy chocolate ganache, this cake has the perfect balance of sweetness, creaminess, and decadence.
• Crowd-Pleaser: It’s always a hit at parties, gatherings, or even just a sweet treat for the family. It’s one of those cakes that disappears the second you serve it.
• Fun to Make: You’ll love the process of making this cake! It’s like a little baking adventure, with the joy of filling and icing making the experience that much more satisfying.
• Customizable: While the recipe is already perfect, feel free to experiment by adding a bit of flavoring to the filling or even some sprinkles on top. Make it your own!

Ingredients

This Ding Dong Cake uses simple ingredients that come together to make a rich and delicious dessert. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Chocolate Cake

• All-purpose flour
• Granulated sugar
• Cocoa powder
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Eggs
• Whole milk
• Vegetable oil
• Vanilla extract
• Boiling water

For the Creamy Filling

• Marshmallow fluff (or marshmallow cream)
• Powdered sugar
• Vanilla extract
• Heavy cream

For the Chocolate Ganache

• Semi-sweet chocolate chips
• Heavy cream
• Butter

(Note: The full ingredient list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Now let’s walk through the process to make this irresistible Ding Dong Cake:

1. Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper. This will help your cake layers come out perfectly.

2. Prepare the Cake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add in the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth. The batter will be thin, but that’s exactly what we want for a moist, fluffy cake.

3. Add Boiling Water

Once your batter is mixed, carefully add the boiling water and stir it in until the batter is well-combined. The batter will look watery, but don’t worry—this will create a wonderfully moist cake.

4. Bake the Cake

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

5. Make the Creamy Filling

While your cakes are cooling, make the filling. In a mixing bowl, beat together the marshmallow fluff, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and heavy cream until smooth and fluffy. You want it to be spreadable but not too runny—like a thick whipped cream consistency.

6. Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes have cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of the creamy filling on top, then carefully place the second cake layer on top, pressing down gently to sandwich the filling.

7. Make the Chocolate Ganache

For the ganache, heat the heavy cream and butter in a small saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and stir in the chocolate chips until melted and smooth. Let the ganache cool slightly before pouring it over the top of the cake.

8. Pour the Ganache Over the Cake

Pour the ganache over the top of the cake, letting it drip down the sides for that gorgeous, glossy finish. You can smooth it out with a spatula if you prefer an even coat.

9. Chill and Serve

Let the cake chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour to allow the ganache to set. Once the ganache has firmed up, slice and serve! Every bite will have that perfect mix of fluffy chocolate cake, creamy filling, and rich ganache.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 12-16 slices
• Calories per serving: 380
• Total Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 55mg
• Sodium: 100mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 43g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 30g
• Protein: 4g
• Vitamin A: 6%
• Vitamin C: 0%
• Calcium: 4%
• Iron: 8%

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including chilling time)

How to Serve Ding Dong Cake

This Ding Dong Cake is a showstopper and makes a fabulous centerpiece for any occasion. Here are some serving ideas:

• Serve with a Scoop of Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream on the side adds an extra indulgent touch.
• With Fresh Berries: Fresh strawberries or raspberries on the side add a tart contrast to the rich chocolate and creamy filling.
• For a Fun Party Dessert: Slice the cake into smaller squares for easy serving at a party or potluck. It’s an instant crowd-pleaser!
• With Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream on top of each slice takes this cake to a whole new level of deliciousness.

Additional Tips

• Make Ahead: This cake can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more after sitting for a while, so it’s a great make-ahead dessert!
• Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Be sure to let the cake come to room temperature before serving if you like it slightly softened.
• Customize the Ganache: For a different twist, try using white chocolate chips for the ganache instead of semi-sweet chocolate for a sweeter, lighter topping.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use a different type of filling?
A1: Yes! If you want to change things up, you can use whipped cream or a buttercream filling instead of marshmallow fluff.

Q2: Can I make the cake layers ahead of time?
A2: Absolutely! You can bake the cake layers up to 2 days in advance. Just store them tightly wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature.

Q3: Can I use a different type of chocolate for the ganache?
A3: Yes! You can use milk chocolate or dark chocolate chips for the ganache, depending on your flavor preference.

Q4: How do I know when the cake is fully baked?
A4: The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, or with just a few moist crumbs attached.

Q5: How do I store the cake?
A5: Store leftover cake in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just be sure it’s tightly covered so it doesn’t dry out.

Q6: Can I freeze this cake?
A6: Yes, you can freeze the cake. Wrap the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. It will stay good for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Q7: Can I use a box cake mix instead of homemade?
A7: Yes, you can substitute a chocolate cake mix if you prefer. Just follow the package instructions, then proceed with the filling and ganache.

Q8: Can I make the filling without marshmallow fluff?
A8: Yes, you can make a simple vanilla buttercream filling if you prefer. Just whip together butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a little heavy cream.

Q9: How do I get the ganache to drip perfectly?
A9: Allow the ganache to cool slightly before pouring it over the cake. If it’s too hot, it will run off too quickly. Let it set for a minute before pouring to achieve the perfect drip effect.

Q10: How long should I chill the cake?
A10: Chill the cake for at least an hour to let the ganache set, but you can chill it longer if you like. The ganache will firm up more as it cools.

Conclusion

This Ding Dong Cake is the perfect homemade twist on a childhood favorite. With its rich chocolate cake, creamy filling, and glossy ganache, it’s a dessert that’s sure to impress everyone you serve it to. Whether you’re baking it for a celebration or just for a fun treat, this cake will quickly become a go-to recipe in your baking rotation!

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