Ding Dong Cake is a decadent and nostalgic dessert inspired by the popular chocolate snack cake. It features layers of moist chocolate cake filled with a creamy filling and covered in a rich chocolate ganache. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients:
For the Chocolate Cake Layers:
- – 2 cups all-purpose flour
- – 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
- – 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- – 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- – 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- – 1 teaspoon salt
- – 2 large eggs
- – 1 cup buttermilk
- – 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- – 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- – 1 cup hot water
For the Filling:
– 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 cups powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Ganache:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, and line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add the eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Beat on medium speed until well combined.
4. Gradually add the hot water to the batter, mixing until smooth. The batter will be thin.
5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Tap the pans gently on the counter to remove any air bubbles.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
7. Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to wire racks to cool completely.
8. While the cakes are cooling, prepare the filling. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
9. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract until smooth and combined.
10. Once the cakes have cooled completely, place one cake layer on a serving platter or cake stand. Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the top.
11. Place the second cake layer on top of the filling, creating a sandwich.
12. Prepare the chocolate ganache by heating the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Remove from heat and add the chopped chocolate and butter. Stir until the chocolate is completely melted and the ganache is smooth.
13. Pour the warm ganache over the top of the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides. Use an offset spatula to spread the ganache evenly over the top and sides of the cake.
14. Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour to allow the ganache to set before serving.
15. Slice and serve the Ding Dong Cake, and enjoy the delicious chocolatey goodness!
This Ding Dong Cake is sure to be a hit with chocolate lovers of all ages. It’s perfect for birthdays, special occasions, or any time you’re craving a decadent treat reminiscent of the classic snack cake. Enjoy!