Ding Dong Cake

Ding Dong Cake

Ding Dong Cake is a delightful dessert that brings together rich chocolate flavors and a creamy filling. It resembles a classic snack cake that many of us loved as kids. This cake is perfect for any festive occasion or simply to please your family and friends. With its soft layers and luscious frosting, Ding Dong Cake is sure to make your dessert spread a hit.

Why Make This Recipe

Making Ding Dong Cake at home is a fun and rewarding experience. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also customizable. You can enjoy the satisfaction of baking from scratch and impressing your guests with a homemade treat. This cake combines different textures—from the soft chocolate layers to the creamy filling and the shiny ganache topping. It’s a dessert that stands out and brings joy to every slice.

How to Make Ding Dong Cake

Ingredients

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 5 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup firmly packed brown sugar
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup natural cocoa powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup neutral cooking oil (canola, vegetable, or avocado oil)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 egg yolk
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1/2 cup hot coffee (or hot water)
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon clear vanilla extract
• 8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream

Directions

1. In a saucepan, whisk together sugar, flour, salt, and milk for the filling base. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until it thickens like pudding. Let it cool completely.
2. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
3. In a large bowl, mix together flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
4. Add melted butter, oil, eggs, egg yolk, vanilla, and buttermilk to the dry ingredients. Beat everything together until smooth.
5. Stir in the hot coffee until well combined.
6. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Beat the softened butter for the filling until fluffy. Gradually add the cooled filling base and vanilla, beating until smooth.
10. Assemble the cake by spreading the filling between the cooled cake layers.
11. For the ganache, heat the heavy cream in a saucepan until it simmers. Pour it over the chocolate, let it sit for a minute, then stir until smooth.
12. Pour the ganache over the top of the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides. Let it set before slicing.

How to Serve Ding Dong Cake

Ding Dong Cake is best served at room temperature. Slice it into generous pieces and enjoy it on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. This cake pairs well with a cup of coffee or tea, making it a fantastic choice for gatherings and celebrations.

How to Store Ding Dong Cake

To store Ding Dong Cake, cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.

Tips to Make Ding Dong Cake

• Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature before you start baking. This helps the batter mix more easily.
• Don’t overmix the batter; mix just until combined for a fluffy cake.
• Use high-quality cocoa powder for a richer chocolate flavor.
• To add extra flavor, you can sprinkle some chocolate chips in the batter before baking.

Variation

You can add different flavors to the filling, like peppermint extract for a refreshing twist. You might also try adding a layer of fruit preserves between the cake layers for added sweetness and complexity.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes, you can use cake flour for a lighter texture, but it’s best to use all-purpose flour for this recipe to achieve the right consistency.

2. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the layers a day in advance and assemble the cake when you’re ready to serve it.

3. How do I know when my cakes are done?
Insert a toothpick in the center of the cakes. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, your cakes are done baking.

Enjoy making and eating this amazing Ding Dong Cake! It’s a treat that everyone will love.