Here’s a delicious recipe for a homemade Ding Dong Cake that will satisfy your chocolate cravings! Let’s get started:

📝 Ingredients:

For the cake layers:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water

For the cream filling:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the chocolate ganache:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips

🍫🍶📝🍞 Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until smooth.
5. Stir in the boiling water until the batter is well combined. It will be thin, but that’s okay.
6. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
8. Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. While the cakes are cooling, prepare the cream filling. In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
10. Once the cakes are completely cooled, spread the cream filling evenly over one of the cake layers. Then, place the second cake layer on top to create a sandwich.
11. To make the chocolate ganache, heat the heavy cream in a saucepan until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and pour over the chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. Let it sit for a minute, then stir until smooth and glossy.
12. Pour the chocolate ganache over the assembled cake, allowing it to drip down the sides.
13. Refrigerate the cake for about an hour to allow the ganache to set.
14. Once set, slice and serve this decadent Ding Dong Cake to enjoy its irresistible chocolatey goodness!

Now you’re ready to indulge in this heavenly treat!

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. Can I use a different type of flour for this recipe?

• While all-purpose flour is typically preferred for baking cakes, you can experiment with alternative flours such as cake flour or gluten-free flour blends. However, the texture and consistency of the cake may vary.

2. Can I substitute cocoa powder with chocolate for the cake batter?

• Yes, you can substitute cocoa powder with melted chocolate. Use an equal amount of melted chocolate as the amount of cocoa powder called for in the recipe. Ensure the melted chocolate is cooled slightly before adding it to the batter.

3. Can I make the cream filling in advance?

• Yes, you can prepare the cream filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the cake. Just make sure to whip it again briefly before using to ensure it’s fluffy.

4. How should I store leftovers of the Ding Dong Cake?

• Store any leftover Ding Dong Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The cream filling and ganache may soften slightly, but the cake will still be delicious.

5. Can I freeze the Ding Dong Cake?

• Yes, you can freeze the Ding Dong Cake for longer storage. Wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

6. Can I use a different type of chocolate for the ganache?

• Yes, you can use different types of chocolate for the ganache, such as milk chocolate or dark chocolate, depending on your preference. Just keep in mind that it may alter the flavor profile slightly.

7. Can I make this cake ahead of time for a special occasion?

• Yes, you can bake the cake layers in advance and store them tightly wrapped at room temperature for up to two days before assembling the cake. Assemble the cake and add the ganache topping closer to the time you plan to serve it for the best results.

8. Can I use a different type of frosting instead of ganache?

• Absolutely! You can use your favorite frosting such as buttercream or cream cheese frosting instead of ganache for a different flavor profile.

9. Can I make mini Ding Dong Cakes instead of one large cake?

• Yes, you can use smaller cake pans or even muffin tins to create individual-sized Ding Dong Cakes. Adjust the baking time accordingly.

10. Can I omit the cream filling and just use ganache?

• While the cream filling adds a delicious creamy texture to the cake, you can certainly omit it if you prefer and just use the ganache as both filling and topping.