Ding Dong Cake
Ding Dong Cake is a delightful combination of rich chocolate flavor and fluffy marshmallow goodness that is sure to make your taste buds dance! This indulgent treat is not only comforting and nostalgic but also incredibly easy to make, making it the perfect dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a family gathering, or simply craving something sweet, this Ding Dong Cake will not disappoint. With a step-by-step approach, you’ll have this delicious cake baked and ready to impress in no time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One of the best things about Ding Dong Cake is its simplicity. Made from a box of chocolate cake mix, it requires minimal preparation, making it a great recipe for bakers of all skill levels. With its creamy ganache and fluffy marshmallow layers, this cake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, sure to delight both kids and adults alike. Plus, it brings back nostalgic memories of the beloved treat that inspires its name, making it a fun and sentimental bake. So grab your baking gear and prepare to create a memorable dessert that will surely become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 box chocolate cake mix: This serves as the foundation for our rich and moist cake layers, offering that delicious chocolate flavor.
- 1 cup water: Simple yet essential, this helps hydrate the cake mix to create a fluffy texture.
- ½ cup vegetable oil: This adds moisture and makes the cake decadently soft.
- 3 large eggs: Ensuring structure and richness, eggs are crucial in binding the cake ingredients together.
- 1 cup sour cream: The tangy creaminess helps keep the cake luscious and adds depth to the chocolate flavor.
- 1 cup mini marshmallows: Sweet and chewy, these little pillows of joy create a delightful surprise within the cake.
- 1 cup chocolate chips: Rich and melty, they enhance the chocolate experience with every bite.
- ½ cup heavy cream: This creamy base is essential for our luscious chocolate ganache.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla rounds out the flavors beautifully.
Step-by-Step Directions
Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to ensure easy release after baking.
Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Mix until smooth, ensuring no lumps remain.
Incorporate Sour Cream: Gently fold in the sour cream until it is fully blended into the batter, enhancing the moisture.
Divide & Bake: Carefully pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean when done.
Cool the Cakes: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes. After that, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prepare the Ganache: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat. Watch for it to start simmering, then remove from heat. Stir in the chocolate chips until melted and smooth.
Add Vanilla: Incorporate the teaspoon of vanilla extract into the ganache for that extra pop of flavor.
Assemble the Cake: Place one layer of the cake on your serving plate. Spread a layer of mini marshmallows onto the top.
Layer with Ganache: Drizzle half of your luxurious chocolate ganache over the marshmallows.
Finish Assembly: Top with the second cake layer, and pour the remaining ganache over the top and sides of the cake. Allow the ganache to set before slicing.
Tips & Tricks
- Cool Completely: Ensure the cakes are fully cooled before assembling, as a warm cake can cause the ganache to slide off.
- Chill the Ganache: If you find your ganache too runny, let it chill in the fridge for a few minutes to firm up.
- Decorate Your Cake: Consider adding extra mini marshmallows on top for a visually appealing finish.
- Use Quality Chocolate: The quality of your chocolate chips can greatly affect the flavor experience, so opt for a good-quality brand.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
This Ding Dong Cake is perfect for dessert tables at birthday parties, family gatherings, or holiday celebrations. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to add an extra layer of creaminess. For beverage pairings, consider serving it with cold milk or a rich cup of coffee to balance the sweetness!
Nutritional Information
A typical serving of Ding Dong Cake contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on portion size and specific ingredient brands used. It is rich in carbohydrates but also provides some protein from the eggs and dairy. Remember, balance is key; enjoy this treat as part of a varied diet!
Storing Tips & Variations
To keep your Ding Dong Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing individual slices. Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. For variations, try adding different flavors of chips or incorporating fruit like raspberries between the layers for a fruity twist!
Conclusion
I encourage you to try this wonderful Ding Dong Cake and embrace the delightful baking experience! Not only will you savor every bite of this delectable dessert, but you’ll also create heartwarming memories with friends and family. Once you’ve made it, please come back and share your experience—I’d love to hear how it turned out!
FAQs
Can I use a homemade chocolate cake recipe instead of a cake mix?
Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite homemade chocolate cake recipe. Just ensure it bakes into two 9-inch pans.Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the cake a day in advance. Just store it covered at room temperature. Assemble it on the day you plan to serve it.What can I substitute for sour cream?
Greek yogurt or buttermilk can both be great alternatives if you don’t have sour cream on hand.How can I make the ganache thinner or thicker?
To thin out the ganache, add a splash more heavy cream. To thicken it, let it cool slightly, which will allow it to firm up.Can I make a cupcake version of Ding Dong Cake?
Yes! Use the same batter and bake it in a cupcake tin. Adjust the baking time to about 15-18 minutes, depending on your oven.
Ding Dong Cake
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 1 box chocolate cake mix Foundation for rich and moist cake layers.
- 1 cup water Essential for hydrating the cake mix.
- ½ cup vegetable oil Adds moisture and softness.
- 3 large eggs Provides structure and richness.
- 1 cup sour cream Enhances moisture and depth of flavor.
- 1 cup mini marshmallows Creates a delightful surprise inside the cake.
- 1 cup chocolate chips Enhances the chocolate experience.
- ½ cup heavy cream Essential for the ganache.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Rounds out the flavors.
Instructions
Baking the Cake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Mix until smooth.
- Gently fold in the sour cream until fully blended into the batter.
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Preparing the Ganache
- In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until simmering, then remove from heat.
- Stir in the chocolate chips until melted and smooth, then add the vanilla extract.
Assembling the Cake
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread mini marshmallows on top.
- Drizzle half of the ganache over the marshmallows.
- Top with the second cake layer and pour the remaining ganache over the top and sides of the cake.
- Allow the ganache to set before slicing.