If you're a fan of rich chocolate cake, fluffy cream filling, and silky ganache, the Ding Dong Cake will absolutely steal your heart. Inspired by the iconic Hostess Ding Dongs, this layered dessert combines nostalgia and homemade decadence in one show-stopping treat. Whether you're making it for a party, birthday, or simply to satisfy your deepest chocolate craving, this cake is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through every step of crafting the perfect Ding Dong Cake—from gathering ingredients to baking, assembling, and storing leftovers. Let’s get started!
What Is a Ding Dong Cake?
A Ding Dong Cake is a layered chocolate cake designed to mimic the famous Hostess Ding Dongs. While the original snack comes in a small, puck-shaped package filled with cream and coated in a chocolate shell, this homemade version upgrades everything. You get two thick, moist chocolate cake layers with a generous cream filling in the center and a rich ganache coating on top.
What makes this cake special is the perfect balance between textures and flavors. The soft, fluffy cream filling provides a delightful contrast to the bold chocolate layers, while the ganache gives the cake a smooth, elegant finish.
Ingredients for Ding Dong Cake
To create this indulgent dessert, you’ll need three sets of ingredients: one for the cake, one for the filling, and one for the ganache.
For the Chocolate Cake Layers
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup hot water
For the Cream Filling
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Ganache
- 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
- 1 cup heavy cream
How to Make Ding Dong Cake from Scratch
Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Cake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add the buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla. Beat until well combined.
- Slowly mix in the hot water. The batter will be thin, which is perfect.
- Divide the batter evenly between the pans.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow cakes to cool completely in pans for 10 minutes, then remove and let them cool fully on wire racks.
Tip: Let the cakes cool completely before adding the filling. Warm cakes can melt the filling and ruin the texture.
Step 2: Make the Cream Filling
- In a small saucepan, whisk the flour and milk until smooth.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thick.
- Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the cooled flour mixture and vanilla. Beat until the mixture is smooth, fluffy, and resembles whipped cream.
This cream filling is light but stable, perfect for sandwiching between rich cake layers without oozing out.
Step 3: Make the Chocolate Ganache
- Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it just starts to boil.
- Pour the hot cream over the chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl.
- Let it sit for two minutes.
- Stir until completely smooth and glossy.
- Let the ganache cool slightly before pouring over the cake.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand.
- Spread the cream filling evenly over the top.
- Gently place the second cake layer on top of the filling.
- Pour the ganache over the top of the cake, letting it drip down the sides. Use a spatula to smooth it out if needed.
- Refrigerate the cake for at least one hour before slicing and serving.
Helpful Tips for Perfect Ding Dong Cake
- Use room temperature ingredients: This helps everything blend evenly, especially when making the batter and cream.
- Don’t rush the cooling process: Letting both the cake and cream cool completely ensures perfect layering.
- Use quality chocolate: The ganache flavor really shines, so using premium chocolate makes a big difference.
- Chill before slicing: A cold cake cuts cleaner and holds its shape beautifully.
Variations to Try
- Mini Ding Dong Cakes: Use cupcake tins instead of cake pans to make individual-sized cakes.
- Add espresso: A splash of espresso or strong coffee in the batter enhances the chocolate flavor.
- Peanut butter twist: Add a layer of peanut butter to the cream filling for a decadent twist.
- Mint chocolate: Replace vanilla in the cream with peppermint extract and garnish with crushed mint candies.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is rich and satisfying on its own, but a few additions can elevate it:
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream.
- Garnish with chocolate shavings or cocoa powder.
- Pair with hot coffee, milk, or even a glass of red wine for adults.
- Top with fresh berries for a bright, tangy contrast.
How to Store and Freeze Ding Dong Cake
Refrigerator Storage:
Store the assembled cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to five days. The ganache may firm up, so let the cake sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before serving.
Freezer Storage:
To freeze, cut the cake into slices and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, followed by foil. Store in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Cake
- Nostalgic Flavors: It brings childhood memories back with every bite.
- Moist Texture: The cake layers are rich, soft, and full of deep chocolate flavor.
- Dreamy Filling: Light, fluffy cream balances the richness perfectly.
- Elegant Presentation: The glossy ganache gives a polished, professional look.
- Simple to Make: Despite its layered appearance, it’s beginner-friendly and doesn’t require fancy tools.
Ding Dong Cake for Special Occasions
This cake isn’t just a weekend bake. It’s a star at:
- Birthday parties
- Holiday gatherings
- Office celebrations
- Potlucks
- Dessert tables at weddings or showers
It looks fancy, tastes incredible, and always disappears fast.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to fall in love with chocolate all over again, make this Ding Dong Cake your next baking project. With its moist chocolate layers, fluffy filling, and glossy ganache topping, it's everything you love in one unforgettable dessert. Whether you're baking for a crowd or treating yourself, this cake delivers comfort, nostalgia, and indulgence in every single slice.