Imagine a dessert that brings all the nostalgia of your favorite childhood treat, but with a rich, decadent twist that feels completely homemade. The Ding Dong Cake is exactly that—a luscious layered chocolate cake filled with fluffy cream and topped with a glossy ganache that makes it look as elegant as it is indulgent.

Each bite of this cake is a celebration of contrasts: moist chocolate cake layered with sweet, whipped filling and silky chocolate topping. It has all the joy of unwrapping a store-bought Ding Dong, but elevated with real ingredients, richer flavor, and a homemade touch that transforms it into a show-stopping dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Ding Dong Cake

This cake checks every box for chocolate lovers. It’s easy enough to make for a casual weekend treat, yet special enough to serve at a birthday or holiday table. The cream filling adds a delightful surprise, balancing the dense chocolate layers with a cloud-like sweetness. And the ganache? That smooth, glossy finish is a pure chocolate lover’s dream.

What Kind of Cake Mix Should I Use?

For simplicity and consistency, a devil’s food cake mix works beautifully here. It offers a deep cocoa flavor and moist texture that pairs perfectly with the sweet cream filling. But if you’re feeling adventurous, you can make your own chocolate cake from scratch. Just make sure it’s sturdy enough to hold the filling without crumbling.

Ingredients for the Ding Dong Cake

To create this rich, layered treat, you’ll need a mix of pantry staples and a few special ingredients to bring out the cake’s classic flavor. The result is a dessert that tastes just like the iconic snack cake—but even better.

Devil’s food cake mix
Eggs
Water
Oil
Butter
Granulated sugar
Milk
Flour
Vanilla extract
Marshmallow fluff
Heavy whipping cream
Chocolate chips

The cake mix provides a rich base, while the eggs, oil, and water give it the right moisture and structure. The filling comes to life with marshmallow fluff, butter, and sugar, creating that signature Ding Dong creaminess. For the ganache, chocolate chips and heavy cream melt together into a luscious topping that sets beautifully.

How To Make the Ding Dong Cake

Step 1: Bake the Cake Layers

Prepare the devil’s food cake according to the package instructions, then divide the batter into two round cake pans. Bake until a toothpick comes out clean and let them cool completely.

Step 2: Whip the Filling

In a saucepan, melt butter with sugar and milk. Stir in flour to thicken slightly, then let it cool. Beat the mixture with marshmallow fluff and vanilla extract until it’s fluffy and smooth.

Step 3: Assemble the Cake

Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread the cream filling evenly across the top, then gently place the second cake layer over it.

Step 4: Make the Ganache

Heat heavy whipping cream in a saucepan, then pour it over chocolate chips in a bowl. Let sit for a minute, then stir until the ganache is silky. Pour it over the cake, letting it drip down the sides.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the cake for at least an hour to let the ganache set. Slice and serve cold or at room temperature for the full effect.

How to Store and Serve This Decadent Cake

This cake is best stored in the refrigerator, covered, to keep the filling and ganache fresh. It will stay delicious for up to 5 days, though it’s unlikely to last that long once everyone gets a slice. It can feed about 10 to 12 people, making it perfect for gatherings or family celebrations.

To serve, let the cake sit at room temperature for 15 to 20 minutes if chilled, so the cream softens slightly. Each slice delivers that perfect trio of cake, cream, and ganache with every forkful.

What to Serve With Ding Dong Cake?

Coffee or Espresso

A hot cup of coffee or a shot of espresso pairs beautifully with the rich chocolate and cream.

Fresh Berries

The tartness of raspberries or strawberries adds a bright contrast to the cake’s sweetness.

Vanilla Ice Cream

A scoop of vanilla ice cream makes this dessert even more indulgent and adds a creamy chill.

Whipped Cream

A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream complements the chocolate without overpowering it.

Salted Caramel Sauce

For an extra decadent twist, drizzle a bit of salted caramel over the top.

Milk

A cold glass of milk is the classic pairing and great for kids and grown-ups alike.

Chocolate Shavings or Sprinkles

Add a festive touch to each slice with a sprinkle of chocolate curls or colorful sprinkles.

Want More Cake Ideas with a Surprise Inside?

If you love this Ding Dong Cake, here are a few more irresistible cake creations to explore:

Delicious Lemon Cake to Die For with zesty flavor and a moist crumb.
Mini Cinnamon Roll Cheesecakes that deliver swirls of cinnamon joy.
Ooey Gooey Bars with a melty center that makes every bite a delight.
Best Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries for a fruity, creamy twist.
Old Time Oven Peach Cobbler that brings comforting warmth to the table.

Save This Recipe For Later

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you serve it chilled or room temp? Add a ganache twist of your own? I love hearing how you personalize these nostalgic treats.

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