Ding Dong Cake recipe

For the cake:

1. Spray two 9-inch cake pans with baking spray. Set aside. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a bowl, combine the flour, cocoa, salt, baking soda and baking powder. Set aside.
3. In a measuring cup, combine cooled coffee with milk*. Set aside.
4. In a large mixing bowl, beat butter and sugar for 5 minutes with an electric mixer. Beat in eggs, one at a time. Slowly add in dry ingredients and alternate with the coffee/milk mixture (about 3 additions of each).
5. Once all the ingredients are added, beat cake mixture for about 2-3 minutes until fluffy (scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed).
6. Divide cake batter into the two cake pans. Bake in oven for 25 minutes. Remove and allow to cool about 10 minutes in pan. Invert on a wire rack and cool completely.

For the cream filling:

1. In a small saucepan, combine the flour with milk, whisking until lumps removed. Turn on medium heat and continue to whisk until mixture becomes thick, like a pudding.
2. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla. Cool completely.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine butter and sugar, beat until light and fluffy (about 4 minutes). Slowly add in the COOLED milk mixture, beating until combined. It may curdle slightly in the beginning, that’s okay, keep beating until it becomes the texture of whipped cream!

For the ganache:

1. In a glass bowl (safe for the microwave) combine semi sweet chocolate with heavy cream. Heat for 1 minute. Remove from microwave and stir until smooth (you may need to heat for another 15-30 seconds). Do not over heat. Set aside while you begin to assemble the cake.

To assemble:

1. Place first layer of cooled cake on a cake plate. Top it with ALL of the cream filling. Add the second layer of cake on top.
2. Slowly pour the ganache over the cake, using an offset spatula to help cover the top and sides. Allow to set, about 15 minutes. Slice and enjoy!

Conclusion : 

This Copycat Hostess Ding Dong Cake is the ultimate celebration of classic chocolate indulgence, bringing together everything dessert lovers crave in one unforgettable slice. From the moist, deeply chocolatey cake layers to the smooth, fluffy cream filling and glossy ganache topping, every element works in perfect harmony to recreate — and even elevate — the nostalgic treat so many of us grew up loving. It’s the kind of cake that feels special enough for birthdays, holidays, or gatherings, yet comforting enough to enjoy as a weekend baking project just for fun.

What makes this recipe especially rewarding is the balance of flavors and textures. The coffee-enhanced chocolate cake delivers richness without overpowering sweetness, the cream filling adds a light and silky contrast, and the ganache ties everything together with a luxurious finish. Each bite feels decadent but well-rounded, making it hard to stop at just one slice.

Whether you’re baking this cake to impress guests, surprise your family, or simply satisfy a serious chocolate craving, it’s a dessert that never disappoints. Once you see how approachable and delicious this homemade version is, it may quickly become a go-to recipe in your kitchen — proof that sometimes the best treats are the ones that combine nostalgia with a homemade touch. Enjoy every bite and don’t be surprised if this cake becomes a requested favorite again and again. 🍫