Ding Dong Cake
Ding Dong Cake is a deliciously indulgent dessert that combines the rich flavors of chocolate with the nostalgic sweetness of mini marshmallows. This delightful cake is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for all occasions. With its luscious layers and creamy chocolate ganache, it evokes memories of delightful childhood treats while also being easy to prepare. In this step-by-step recipe, we’ll explore how to create a stunning Ding Dong Cake that’s sure to impress friends and family alike. Embrace the joy of baking and create a dessert that will leave everyone asking for more!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Ding Dong Cake is incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and effort, which makes it perfect even for beginner bakers. The chocolate cake mix cuts down on prep time while still delivering a moist and rich cake. Additionally, the combination of flavors and textures—from the fluffy marshmallows to the silky chocolate ganache—makes it a standout dessert at any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a birthday party, a family gathering, or simply looking to treat yourself, this cake will be a hit. Plus, it’s quick to put together, and the results are both impressive and satisfying!
Ingredients
- 1 box chocolate cake mix
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Imagine the aroma of velvety chocolate mingling with the light sweetness of fluffy marshmallows as you gather your ingredients. The chocolate cake mix brings convenience while promising a soft, moist crumb. The sour cream adds a decadent creaminess, and the heavy cream combined with the chocolate chips turns into a silky ganache that envelops the cake like a comforting blanket. Let’s dive into making this indulgent delight!
Step-by-Step Directions
Preheat Oven and Prepare Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to ensure that your cakes slide out easily after baking.
Mix the Cake Batter: In a large bowl, mix together the chocolate cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs until the batter is smooth and well combined. The aroma of chocolate will begin to fill your kitchen!
Incorporate Sour Cream: Gently fold in the sour cream until it’s well combined. This addition will keep your cake moist and creamy.
Bake the Cake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cakes will rise beautifully and fill your kitchen with a delightful scent.
Cool the Cakes: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before carefully transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This makes it easier to frost the cakes without smearing the icing.
Prepare the Ganache: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Once simmering, remove from heat and add the chocolate chips, stirring until they are completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
Add Vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract, which will enhance the rich chocolate flavor of the ganache.
Assemble the Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a layer of mini marshmallows over the top. The marshmallows will add a delightful chewy texture.
Layer with Ganache: Pour half of the chocolate ganache over the marshmallows. This flooding of chocolate will create a rich layer of flavor. Carefully place the second cake layer on top.
Finish with Ganache: Spread the remaining ganache over the top and sides of the cake. Allow the ganache to set for a few minutes before slicing into this heavenly creation.
Tips & Tricks
- Using Room Temperature Ingredients: For the best results, ensure that your eggs and sour cream are at room temperature before mixing. This helps to achieve a smoother batter.
- Chilling the Ganache: If you prefer a thicker ganache, let it cool in the refrigerator for a bit before using it on the cake.
- Add Textures: Consider sprinkling crushed nuts or a few chocolate shavings on top of the ganache for added texture and elegance.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Ding Dong Cake is a show-stopping dessert that can be served at various occasions—birthdays, festive celebrations, or just a Sunday family dinner. For an added treat, why not serve a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side? The creamy, cold ice cream pairs beautifully with the rich chocolate. Fresh berries can also brighten the plate and add a pop of refreshing flavor.
Nutritional Information
This Ding Dong Cake serves approximately 12 people. Each slice contains about 350 calories, primarily derived from sugars and fats. While it’s not a health food, balance is key. It’s great to enjoy this cake as a sweet treat in moderation while maintaining an overall healthy diet.
Storing Tips & Variations
To store leftover Ding Dong Cake, place any uneaten slices in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you wish to prolong its life, you can freeze the cake, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, for up to a month. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, let it thaw overnight in the fridge, and it will taste just as fresh!
For variations, consider adding different fillings between layers, like peanut butter or a homemade fruit preserves. You could also swap out chocolate chips in the ganache for white chocolate for a unique flavor twist.
Conclusion
Ding Dong Cake is not only a delightful treat but also a wonderful way to bring people together. Its rich chocolate flavor, complemented by creamy ganache and playful marshmallows, makes it a memorable dessert to share with loved ones. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe and let the celebration of flavors ignite in your kitchen. We’d love to hear about your experiences and how your version of this delightful cake turns out!
FAQs
Can I use homemade chocolate cake instead of a mix?
Absolutely! You can use your favorite homemade chocolate cake recipe. Just ensure the batter has a similar consistency to the mix.Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake the cakes a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator, wrapped tightly. Just assemble and frost the day you plan to serve it.What else can I add to the cake layers?
Consider adding chopped nuts, crushed cookies, or even a layer of whipped cream between the layers for added flavor and texture.How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the pans?
Greasing and flouring the pans is essential. You can also use parchment paper at the bottom of the pans for extra insurance against sticking.Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! You can use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix as a substitute. Just ensure all other ingredients used are gluten-free as well.
Ding Dong Cake
Ingredients
For the cake
- 1 box chocolate cake mix Use a quality brand for the best flavor.
- 1 cup water Room temperature.
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil Can substitute with melted butter.
- 3 large eggs Best if at room temperature.
- 1 cup sour cream Adds creaminess and moisture to the cake.
For the filling and ganache
- 1 cup mini marshmallows For layering between the cake.
- 1 cup chocolate chips Semi-sweet or dark chocolate works well.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream For the ganache.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract To enhance the chocolate flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, mix together the chocolate cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs until the batter is smooth.
- Fold in the sour cream until well combined.
Baking
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Allow cakes to cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
Ganache Preparation
- Heat heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it simmers. Remove from heat.
- Add chocolate chips and stir until melted and smooth. Stir in vanilla extract.
Assembling the Cake
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread mini marshmallows over the top.
- Pour half of the ganache over the marshmallows and place the second cake layer on top.
- Spread the remaining ganache over the top and sides of the cake. Let set before slicing.