Chocolate Ding Dong Cake: A Nostalgic Dessert Made Easy

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 30 minutes | Cooling Time: 1 hour | Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes Servings: 10-12 slices | Calories: 320 calories per slice

Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Ding Dong Cake

Remember those beloved packaged snack cakes from childhood? This Chocolate Ding Dong Cake captures all that nostalgic flavor but in an impressive, full-sized dessert that will transport you back to simpler times. With a moist chocolate cake, fluffy cream filling, and glossy chocolate ganache topping, this cake offers the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Whether you’re hosting a birthday party, planning a family gathering, or simply craving a slice of nostalgia, this easy-to-make cake delivers big on flavor without requiring advanced baking skills. It’s the perfect weekend baking project that’s sure to delight chocolate lovers of all ages!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the cake:

• 1 box chocolate cake mix
• Ingredients called for on the box (typically eggs, oil, and water)

For the cream filling:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the chocolate ganache:

• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 2 tbsp butter

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Cake

1. Preheat your oven according to the cake mix box instructions (typically 350°F/175°C).
2. Grease two 8-inch or 9-inch round cake pans with butter or cooking spray, or line with parchment paper for easy removal.
3. Mix the cake batter according to the directions on the box. This usually involves combining the dry mix with eggs, oil, and water.
4. Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans. Use a kitchen scale if available to ensure equal amounts.
5. Bake according to package directions, usually 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Cool completely by allowing the cakes to rest in their pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool fully.

Making the Cream Filling

1. Chill your mixing bowl and beaters in the freezer for 10 minutes before starting (this helps the cream whip better).
2. Pour the heavy cream into the chilled bowl and begin whipping on medium speed.
3. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla once the cream starts to thicken.
4. Continue whipping until stiff peaks form – when you lift the beater, the cream should hold its shape firmly.
5. Avoid over-whipping the cream, as it can become grainy and start to separate.

Assembling the Cake

1. Place one cake layer on your serving plate or cake stand.
2. Spread the whipped cream filling evenly over the first layer, leaving about ¼ inch from the edge (the weight of the top layer will push it outward).
3. Gently place the second cake layer on top of the filling, flat side up.
4. Press down slightly to secure the layers together.

Making the Chocolate Ganache

1. Melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat.
2. Add the chocolate chips and stir continuously until completely melted and smooth.
3. Remove from heat and let cool for 3-5 minutes, until slightly thickened but still pourable.
4. Pour the ganache in the center of the cake and use an offset spatula to gently guide it toward the edges.
5. Allow the ganache to drip decoratively down the sides of the cake.

Chilling and Serving

1. Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour to set the ganache and filling.
2. Slice with a warm knife (run under hot water and wipe dry) for clean cuts.
3. Serve chilled for the most authentic Ding Dong experience.

Expert Tips for the Perfect Ding Dong Cake

• For a more homemade version, substitute your favorite chocolate cake recipe instead of using a box mix.
• rong>Ensure layers are completely cool before adding the cream filling to prevent it from melting.
• For a more stable filling, you can use 8 oz of mascarpone cheese mixed with the whipped cream.
• Create a glossier ganache by adding 1 tablespoon of corn syrup to the melted chocolate and butter.
• rong>For a decorative touch, pipe a swirl of additional whipped cream on top of each slice before serving.

Delicious Variations to Try

• Mint Chocolate: Add ¼ teaspoon of mint extract to the whipped cream filling for a refreshing twist.
• Mocha Madness: Mix 1 tablespoon of instant coffee granules into the cake batter for a coffee-chocolate flavor.
• rong>Peanut Butter Cup: Swirl ¼ cup of creamy peanut butter into the whipped cream filling.
• Cherry Surprise: Spread a layer of cherry pie filling between the cake and cream layers.
• Double Chocolate: Add ¼ cup mini chocolate chips to the cream filling for extra texture and flavor.

<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! This cake actually tastes better when made a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld. Store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cream filling requires refrigeration.

Can I freeze this cake?

While you can freeze the unfilled cake layers, it’s not recommended to freeze the assembled cake as the texture of the whipped cream filling may change upon thawing.

ss="wp-block-heading">Can I use whipped topping instead of making whipped cream?

Yes, you can substitute 2 cups of thawed frozen whipped topping for the homemade whipped cream if you’re short on time.

How do I prevent my ganache from being too thick?

If your ganache becomes too thick to pour, add a teaspoon of warm cream or milk and stir until it reaches the desired consistency.

Nutrition Information

• Calories: 320 calories per slice (based on 12 servings)
• rong>Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Protein: 3g
• rong>Sugar: 24g
• Sodium: 280mg

*Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.

ss="wp-block-heading">Why This Chocolate Ding Dong Cake Stands Out

This homemade version of the classic snack cake delivers all the nostalgic flavor you remember but with the satisfaction of making it yourself. The combination of moist chocolate cake, light and fluffy cream filling, and rich chocolate ganache creates the perfect balance of textures and sweetness.

The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity – starting with a box mix means anyone can create this impressive dessert without advanced baking skills. Yet the end result looks and tastes like something from a high-end bakery. It’s the perfect celebration cake that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Enjoy the delightful contrast between the soft cake, creamy filling, and smooth chocolate coating in every bite. This Chocolate Ding Dong Cake isn’t just a dessert – it’s a trip down memory lane that tastes even better than you remember!