Ding Dong Cake Recipe

If you have a soft spot for nostalgic, chocolatey treats filled with fluffy cream and rich ganache, then you’re going to fall head over heels for this Ding Dong Cake Recipe. It captures the essence of the classic Ding Dongs with layers of moist cocoa cake, a luscious marshmallow-buttercream filling, and a decadent chocolate ganache that drapes beautifully over the top. Every bite is a perfect balance of textures and flavors that feels like a warm, sweet hug from your favorite childhood dessert.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients come together in the simplest way possible, yet each one is essential for crafting the perfect Ding Dong Cake. From the cocoa powder that gives the cake its deep chocolate flavor to the marshmallow fluff that creates the iconic, pillowy filling, every component has a role that contributes to the unforgettable taste and texture.

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure and body of your cake for a tender crumb.
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds rich, intense chocolate flavor that makes the cake irresistibly decadent.
• 2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps with moisture retention.
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder: Ensures the cake rises beautifully and stays light.
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda: Works with the baking powder to create the perfect lift.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the chocolate’s depth.
• 2 large eggs, room temperature: Bind the ingredients and add richness.
• 1 cup whole milk, room temperature: Contributes moisture and helps achieve a tender texture.
• ½ cup vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist and adds a lovely softness.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Brings warmth and complexity to the flavor profile.
• 1 cup boiling water: Intensifies the cocoa flavor while making the batter perfectly smooth.
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Essential for the creamy, fluffy filling.
• 2 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the fluffy frosting layer.
• 1 jar marshmallow fluff (7 oz): Creates that iconic pillowy, sweet filling that defines Ding Dong.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (for filling): Lifts the flavor of the cream filling beautifully.
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: Forms the glossy ganache topping for that extra chocolate punch.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Infuses richness into the ganache and helps it set with a silky finish.

How to Make Ding Dong Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pans and Preheat

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s hot and ready for the perfect bake. Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper, which guarantees your cakes will come out clean and smooth without any sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This step distributes all the leavening agents and cocoa evenly, setting the stage for a balanced, airy cake with rich color and intense chocolate flavor.

Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients

Now, whisk in the eggs, whole milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. These wet ingredients bring moisture, fat, and flavor—contributing a soft crumb and that luscious cake texture you crave.

Step 4: Incorporate Boiling Water

Gradually stir in the boiling water. The batter will look very thin—that’s perfectly normal. This crucial step helps bloom the cocoa, intensifying the chocolate flavor while making the cake incredibly moist and tender.

Step 5: Bake the Cake Layers

Divide the batter evenly between your prepared pans and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know when it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the layers cool for 10 minutes in the pans before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 6: Whip Up the Marshmallow Filling

While the cakes cool, beat the softened butter in a large bowl until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and beat until fluffy. Next, fold in the marshmallow fluff and vanilla extract, mixing until delightfully light and creamy. This filling is the heart of the Ding Dong Cake Recipe—it’s sweet, fluffy, and perfectly pillowy.

Step 7: Assemble the Cake

Place one cooled cake layer on your serving plate and slather the marshmallow filling evenly over the top. Gently place the second cake layer on top and press down just slightly. Chill the assembled cake for 15 to 20 minutes to let the filling firm up and hold its shape.

Step 8: Prepare the Chocolate Ganache

Put the semi-sweet chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan just until it simmers—avoid boiling. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate chips and wait two minutes before stirring to a smooth and glossy finish. Let it cool slightly to thicken the ganache just enough to glaze the cake beautifully.

Step 9: Finish with Ganache and Chill

Pour the ganache over your chilled cake. Spread it evenly with an offset spatula and let it elegantly drip down the sides—that’s exactly the kind of indulgence you want! Refrigerate the whole cake for another 15 to 20 minutes so the ganache sets perfectly.

How to Serve Ding Dong Cake Recipe

Garnishes

Although this Ding Dong Cake Recipe is stunning on its own, adding fresh raspberries or edible gold dust elevates its look beautifully. Toasted coconut or a sprinkle of sea salt on the ganache creates a delightful contrast that will wow your guests visually and taste-wise.

Side Dishes

Pair the cake with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream to balance the richness. A cup of strong coffee or a creamy latte acts as the perfect companion, cutting through the chocolate’s decadence while complementing the marshmallow filling.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing the cake into small squares for a party platter or layer cupcake-sized versions for an adorable twist. You can also create mini Ding Dong-inspired cake pops by rolling leftover cake crumbs into balls, dipping them in chocolate, and topping with extra marshmallow fluff for a fun handheld treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This cake keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days when covered tightly with plastic wrap or kept in an airtight container. The filling and ganache stay fresh and luscious, making every bite as good as the first day.

Freezing

You can freeze slices of Ding Dong Cake wrapped securely in plastic and foil for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and refresh the ganache with a gentle warm-up to enjoy the full glory of flavors and textures.

Reheating

Because of the delicate marshmallow filling and ganache, we recommend serving this cake chilled or at room temperature rather than reheating. If you want to soften the ganache slightly, let the slice sit out for about 15 minutes before eating—that way, the flavors sing and textures remain perfect.

FAQs

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

Absolutely! Semi-sweet chocolate offers a nice balance, but you can opt for dark chocolate for a richer taste or milk chocolate if you prefer it sweeter and creamier. Just adjust the sweetness accordingly.

Is marshmallow fluff necessary for the filling?

The marshmallow fluff is key to capturing that authentic Ding Dong experience—it creates the iconic light and airy filling. You could experiment with homemade marshmallow or a whipped marshmallow cream, but fluff is by far the easiest and most reliable.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend suitable for cakes. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum or a similar binder to keep the texture just right.

How do I prevent the chocolate ganache from cracking?

To keep your ganache smooth and crack-free, avoid overheating the cream and stir gently when combining with chocolate. Also, allow it to cool and set at room temperature before chilling it in the fridge.

Can I double the recipe for a larger cake?

Definitely. Just double all your ingredients and bake in larger pans or multiple pans. Keep a close eye on baking time, as the thickness of batter may change, but the Ding Dong Cake Recipe scales beautifully.

Final Thoughts

Making this Ding Dong Cake Recipe is truly a joyful baking adventure, bringing together nostalgic flavors with a homemade touch that everyone will love. It’s indulgent without being complicated, and its beautiful layers make it the star of any celebration or cozy night in. Trust me, once you try this cake, it will quickly become one of your all-time favorites too!

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