Ding Dong Cake Recipe

If you have a soft spot for nostalgic treats that bring a burst of joy with every bite, this Ding Dong Cake Recipe is a must-try. Imagine layers of moist, rich chocolate cake hugging a fluffy, sweet marshmallow cream center, all cloaked in a glossy, decadent chocolate ganache. It’s that perfect blend of classic flavors and textures that feels like a warm hug from childhood, elevated to an impressive dessert you’ll be proud to serve to friends and family.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple yet essential ingredients is the foundation of this Ding Dong Cake Recipe. Each item plays a vital role in building the luscious texture, rich chocolate flavor, and creamy filling that makes this cake so unforgettable.

• All-purpose flour (1 ¾ cups or 220 g): Provides the structure for the cake’s tender crumb.
• Unsweetened cocoa powder (¾ cup or 65 g): Delivers that deep chocolate flavor that defines this dessert.
• Granulated sugar (2 cups or 400 g): Sweetens the cake, balancing the cocoa’s bitterness perfectly.
• Baking powder (1 ½ teaspoons): Helps the cake rise for that light, airy texture.
• Baking soda (1 ½ teaspoons): Works with the baking powder to give a soft, tender crumb.
• Salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances the chocolate flavor, ensuring it’s never flat or dull.
• Large eggs (2, room temperature): Bind ingredients and add moisture for richness.
• Whole milk (1 cup or 240 ml, room temperature): Adds creaminess and keeps the cake moist.
• Vegetable oil (½ cup or 120 ml): Contributes to the moist texture without overpowering flavor.
• Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons total): Brings warmth and depth to both cake and filling.
• Boiling water (1 cup or 240 ml): Enhances the cocoa for an intensified, lush chocolate taste.
• Unsalted butter (1 cup or 226 g, softened): Key for creating the creamy, fluffy marshmallow filling.
• Powdered sugar (2 cups or 250 g): Sweetens the filling to silky perfection.
• Marshmallow fluff (1 jar, 7 oz or 198 g): Provides that iconic light, pillowy center that makes this cake memorable.
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips (1 cup or 170 g): The star ingredient for a smooth and glossy ganache topping.
• Heavy cream (1 cup or 240 ml): Blended with chocolate to create the luscious ganache.

How to Make Ding Dong Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pans and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper to ensure your cakes come out perfectly without sticking. This small prep step saves you frustration later.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This blend sets the stage for a tender, cocoa-rich cake base that will shine through in every mouthful.

Step 3: Incorporate Wet Ingredients

Add the eggs, whole milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Beat until the batter becomes smooth and evenly combined. The room temperature ingredients help everything blend seamlessly for a consistent batter.

Step 4: Add Boiling Water

Carefully stir in the boiling water. The batter will look thin, and that’s exactly what you want – this step intensifies the chocolate flavor and ensures a moist, tender crumb. Don’t worry about the thinness; it’s a hallmark of this cake’s magic.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Divide the batter evenly between your prepared pans, then bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once done, allow them to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely. Cooling fully is key to prevent melting the marshmallow filling later.

Step 6: Prepare the Marshmallow Cream Filling

In a large bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until fluffy and light. Then blend in the marshmallow fluff and vanilla extract until the filling is creamy, airy, and spreadable. This dreamy layer is what sets the Ding Dong Cake apart.

Step 7: Assemble the Cake Layers

Place one cake layer on your serving plate and spread the marshmallow filling evenly over the top. Then gently place the second cake layer on top, pressing down just slightly. Pop the cake into the fridge for 15 to 20 minutes to let the filling firm up, making the next steps easier and neater.

Step 8: Make the Chocolate Ganache

Put the semi-sweet chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. In a saucepan over medium heat, warm the heavy cream until it’s just simmering—avoid boiling. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate chips, and let it sit for two minutes before stirring until smooth and glossy. Let the ganache cool a bit to thicken before pouring.

Step 9: Glaze the Cake

Pour the ganache evenly over your chilled cake, using an offset spatula to spread it smoothly and encourage delicious drips down the sides. Refrigerate the cake for 15 to 20 minutes more to set the ganache into a silky shell.

Step 10: Slice and Serve

Once the ganache has set, your masterpiece is ready to be sliced and enjoyed. Each bite offers a perfect balance of moist chocolate cake, fluffy marshmallow cream, and rich chocolate glaze.

How to Serve Ding Dong Cake Recipe

Garnishes

While the cake is show-stopping on its own, you can add visual appeal and texture with a few fun garnishes. Consider sprinkling flaky sea salt on the ganache for a sweet-salty contrast or adding a few extra mini marshmallows toasted lightly on top to mimic that campfire s’mores vibe.

Side Dishes

Pair this indulgent cake with simple sides that complement rather than compete. A dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream will temper the richness perfectly. For a fresh note, serving with a handful of raspberries or strawberries adds a lovely burst of tartness.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, cut the cake into mini squares for bite-sized delights, or layer individual slices with extra marshmallow fluff between in glass trifle cups for a playful take. You can also drizzle some caramel sauce over the ganache for a decadent twist that guests won’t forget!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Ding Dong Cake keeps beautifully in the refrigerator, stored in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. It stays fresh and moist for up to 4 days, giving you plenty of time to enjoy this treat without worry.

Freezing

If you want to savor this cake later, it freezes well. Wrap the whole cake or individual slices in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Frozen Ding Dong Cake Recipe holds up for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating

To enjoy a slice at room temperature or a bit warmer, simply remove from the fridge and let it sit for about 30 minutes. Because of the marshmallow filling and ganache, careful reheating in the microwave in short bursts can help bring back that just-baked feel without melting the layers too much.

FAQs

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

Absolutely! While semi-sweet chocolate is classic, you can use bittersweet for a richer taste or milk chocolate for a sweeter, creamier topping. Just keep the same ratio of cream to chocolate for the perfect ganache texture.

Is it necessary to use boiling water in the batter?

Yes, adding boiling water intensifies the cocoa flavor and creates a moist cake. The thin batter might seem unusual, but it’s key to achieving that tender crumb typical of this cake.

Can I substitute marshmallow fluff with homemade marshmallow cream?

Definitely! If you enjoy making your own marshmallow cream from scratch, it works perfectly in this recipe and gives a fresh, fluffy filling. Just ensure it’s stable enough to spread and set between the cake layers.

How do I know when the cake layers are fully baked?

The best test is to insert a toothpick into the center of the cakes. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cakes are done. Avoid overbaking to keep them moist and tender.

Can this Ding Dong Cake Recipe be made gluten-free?

Yes, by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking, you can make this cake gluten-free. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum or other binders for the best texture.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something magical about this Ding Dong Cake Recipe that brings comfort and delight with every slice. It’s easy enough to make at home but impressive enough to steal the show at any celebration. So go ahead, treat yourself and your loved ones to this nostalgic, chocolaty masterpiece—you’ll be so glad you did!

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