Decadent Ding Dong Cake: A Chocolate Lover’s Dream Come True

Prepare to indulge in chocolatey bliss with our irresistible Ding Dong Cake recipe! Inspired by the beloved snack cake, this homemade version takes the classic treat to new heights with layers of moist chocolate cake, creamy filling, and rich chocolate ganache. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a sweet indulgence, this cake is guaranteed to satisfy your chocolate cravings and leave you coming back for more. So, preheat your oven and get ready to embark on a deliciously decadent journey!

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 1 3/4 cups (210g) all-purpose flour
• 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup (90g) good unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
• 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup (240ml) boiling water

For the Filling:

• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
• 8 ounces (225g) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Ganache:

• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
• 12 ounces (340g) semisweet 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.
2. In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add the eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes, then stir in the boiling water. The batter will be thin.
4. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
6. Remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. While the cakes are cooling, prepare the filling. In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. In another bowl, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until well combined.
8. Once the cakes have cooled completely, place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread the filling evenly over the top of the cake layer. Place the second cake layer on top.
9. To make the ganache, heat the heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Remove from heat and add the chopped chocolate and butter. Let it sit for 1-2 minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy.
10. Pour the ganache over the top of the assembled cake, allowing it to drip down the sides.
11. Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the filling and ganache to set.

Cook Notes and Variations:

• Make-Ahead Option: The cake layers can be baked and cooled ahead of time. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before assembling the cake.
• Customize the Filling: Get creative with the filling by adding a layer of raspberry jam or chopped nuts for added flavor and texture.
• Gluten-Free Version: For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
• Vegan Option: Substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) and use dairy-free alternatives for the milk, cream cheese, and heavy cream to make a vegan-friendly version of this cake.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

• Keto-Friendly: Replace the granulated sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or monk fruit sweetener in both the cake and filling. Use almond flour or coconut flour in place of all-purpose flour for a lower-carb option.
• Low-Carb Twist: Reduce the amount of sugar in the cake and filling, or use a sugar-free chocolate for the ganache. Additionally, opt for full-fat dairy products and unsweetened cocoa powder to keep the carb count low.

In conclusion, our Ding Dong Cake is a show-stopping dessert that combines rich chocolate cake, creamy filling, and luscious ganache for an indulgent treat that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re a chocolate lover or simply looking for a decadent dessert to satisfy your sweet tooth, this cake is guaranteed to be a hit. With its moist cake layers, creamy filling, and velvety ganache, it’s the perfect indulgence for any occasion. So, gather your ingredients and treat yourself to a slice of chocolatey paradise!