If you love rich chocolate desserts, Ding Dong Cake is a dream come true. Inspired by the classic chocolate snack cake, this homemade version features moist chocolate cake layers, a fluffy cream filling, and a silky chocolate ganache coating. The result is a decadent dessert that tastes even better than the original treat.
This cake is perfect for birthdays, special occasions, or anytime you want to impress chocolate lovers. Each slice delivers the perfect balance of deep chocolate flavor and smooth, creamy filling.
Why You’ll Love This Ding Dong Cake
Ultra rich chocolate flavor
The chocolate cake is moist, tender, and intensely chocolaty.
Creamy nostalgic filling
The light vanilla cream filling recreates the classic Ding Dong taste.
Smooth chocolate ganache coating
A silky ganache layer wraps the cake in glossy chocolate goodness.
Perfect for celebrations
This cake is a showstopper dessert for birthdays, holidays, or gatherings.
Ingredients
Chocolate Cake
- 1¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 cup buttermilk (room temperature)
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup freshly brewed hot coffee
Cream Filling (Ermine Frosting)
- 1 cup whole milk
- 5 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup butter (2 sticks), softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Chocolate Ganache
- 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, finely chopped
- 12 ounces heavy cream
Ingredient Tips and Substitutions
Chocolate Cake
This recipe uses a classic moist chocolate cake batter. You can also use a boxed chocolate cake mix if you want a quicker version.
Coffee in the batter
Hot brewed coffee enhances the chocolate flavor without making the cake taste like coffee. If needed, you can substitute hot water.
Cream filling
The filling is called Ermine frosting (also known as boiled milk frosting). It has a silky texture and a subtle sweetness that perfectly balances the rich cake.
Ganache
Semi-sweet or milk chocolate both work well. Chocolate chips can also be used instead of chopped chocolate.
How to Make Ding Dong Cake
1. Prepare the cake
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 8-inch round cake pans.
In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
In another bowl, whisk together buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla.
Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients. Mix on low speed until combined.
Add the hot coffee and mix gently until the batter is smooth.
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans.
Bake for 30–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the cakes to cool completely before assembling.
2. Make the cream filling
In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together milk and flour.
Cook while whisking for 3–5 minutes until the mixture thickens into a pudding-like texture.
Remove from heat and allow it to cool completely.
In a mixer, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the cooled milk mixture and beat until smooth.
Add vanilla and whip for several minutes until the frosting becomes light and creamy.
3. Prepare the ganache
Place the chopped chocolate in a heat-safe bowl.
Heat the heavy cream until it begins to simmer.
Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit for 2 minutes.
Whisk until smooth and glossy.
4. Assemble the cake
Level the cooled cakes if necessary.
Place one cake layer on a serving plate.
Spread the cream filling evenly on top.
Add the second cake layer.
Pour the chocolate ganache over the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides.
Let the ganache set for a few minutes before slicing.
Storage Tips
To keep the cake fresh:
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- The cake will stay fresh for 3–4 days.
- Let it come to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Can You Freeze Ding Dong Cake?
Yes, this cake freezes very well.
- Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
- Place it in a freezer-safe container.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
For convenience, you can freeze individual slices. Thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature before serving.
Final Thoughts
Homemade Ding Dong Cake takes the nostalgic flavor of the classic snack cake and turns it into a rich, elegant dessert. With layers of moist chocolate cake, silky vanilla filling, and smooth chocolate ganache, it’s the ultimate treat for chocolate lovers.
Whether you serve it at a party or enjoy it as a weekend baking project, this cake is guaranteed to impress.