Name: Ho Ho Cake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar; 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 2 teaspoons baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 cup buttermilk; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 2 large eggs (room temperature); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup freshly brewed strong hot coffee; 1 1/4 cups 2% milk; 5 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup salted butter; 1/2 cup vegetable shortening; 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips; 1 cup heavy whipping cream

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 75 reviews

If you are looking for a show-stopping dessert that blends rich chocolate flavor with a silky, dreamy filling, the Ho Ho Cake Recipe is your new best friend. This cake is delightfully moist thanks to its unique blend of coffee and cocoa, layered with a luscious crème filling, and topped with a glossy chocolate ganache that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a craving for something indulgent, this Ho Ho Cake Recipe delivers on both flavor and elegance, sure to make you the star baker in any crowd.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows baking ingredients arranged on a table with a white marbled background. There is a container of Cool Whip on the left, a pack of Nestlé Toll House semi-sweet chocolate chips in front, and a box of Kroger Super Moist Devil's Food cake mix behind. In the center, there is a container of Hershey's cocoa powder. To the right, a white plate holds five brown eggs. Behind the eggs, there are two cartons of Hood heavy cream and whole milk, and bottles of Wesson canola oil and Mazola corn oil. All items are neatly placed and clearly visible, with natural light highlighting the textures and colors. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe combines simple pantry staples that each play a crucial role in creating the cake’s irresistible texture and taste. From the perfect cocoa powder that gives the chocolate depth to the buttermilk that ensures moistness, every ingredient works together harmoniously.

All-purpose flour (1 3/4 cups + 5 tablespoons): Provides structure for both the cake and filling, key to that perfect crumb and creamy consistency.
Granulated sugar (1 3/4 cups + 1 cup): Sweetens every component and balances the bitterness of cocoa and coffee.
Unsweetened cocoa powder (3/4 cup): Infuses the cake layers with a deep, rich chocolate flavor.
Baking powder (1 teaspoon) and baking soda (2 teaspoons): Work together to ensure the cake rises beautifully and stays tender.
Salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors and keeps your taste buds fully satisfied.
Buttermilk (1 cup): Adds tang and moisture for a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Vegetable oil (1/2 cup): Keeps the cake divine and moist without any heaviness.
Large eggs (2, room temperature): Bind everything together and enrich the cake’s crumb.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Gives a sweet, warm background note that makes the chocolate pop.
Strong hot coffee (1 cup): Intensifies chocolate flavor and adds subtle complexity without overpowering.
2% milk (1 1/4 cups): Essential for the creamy flour-based filling that’s full of smoothness.
Salted butter (1/2 cup): Adds richness and silkiness to the filling.
Vegetable shortening (1/2 cup): Helps create a light, fluffy texture in the filling that holds its shape beautifully.
Semi-sweet chocolate chips (12 ounces): The star of the ganache, providing velvety chocolate goodness.
Heavy whipping cream (1 cup): Creates that perfect ganache consistency, glossy and luscious.

How to Make Ho Ho Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pans and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350ºF and greasing three 8-inch round cake pans. Make sure to flour them lightly so the cakes come out easily once baked. Getting this step right sets the stage for perfectly shaped layers that will stack up beautifully.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

Whisk together your flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt thoroughly in a large bowl. This combination ensures even distribution of leavening agents and cocoa for a consistent crumb and flavor throughout your cakes.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients and Create Batter

Using a stand mixer, blend buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually add your dry ingredient mix on low speed, then slowly stir in the hot coffee. Don’t be surprised if the batter looks thin—that’s exactly how it’s supposed to be, helping achieve that moist, tender crumb the Ho Ho Cake Recipe is known for.

Step 4: Bake the Cake Layers

Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pans, then bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, transfer them to a cooling rack and allow the magic to settle in while you prepare the filling.

Step 5: Make the Creamy Filling

In a saucepan, gently whisk together the milk and 5 tablespoons of flour over medium-low heat until the mixture thickens into a runny pudding consistency. Press plastic wrap directly on its surface to prevent a crust from forming. Meanwhile, cream the granulated sugar, salted butter, and shortening until fluffy, then beat the cooled milk-flour mixture in at high speed for 7 minutes. This luscious filling is a signature element that makes the Ho Ho Cake Recipe so unforgettable.

Step 6: Assemble and Add Ganache

Spread the filling evenly between each cooled cake layer. For the ganache, pour hot cream over chocolate chips, let sit for three minutes, then stir until silky smooth. After it thickens for about 20 minutes, pour the ganache on top of your cake and gently spread it towards the edges so it drips subtly down the sides. This finishing touch will impress everyone with its glossy, decadent charm.

Step 7: Optional Décor and Chill

For an extra nostalgic touch, decorate the cake with Swiss Cake Rolls or any favorite treats on top, then store it in the refrigerator to set everything perfectly before serving.

How to Serve Ho Ho Cake Recipe

The image shows a chocolate cake with two thick layers of dark brown chocolate sponge separated by a creamy white layer in the middle. The whole cake is covered in a shiny dark chocolate glaze that looks smooth and glossy. A single slice has been taken out and placed on a white plate in the front, showing the clear layers. Both the cake and the slice sit on white plates on a white marbled surface. In the background, there is a cream-colored cloth adding softness to the scene. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A light dusting of powdered sugar, fresh berries, or even small pieces of Swiss Cake Rolls add delightful texture and visual appeal. These simple garnishes complement the rich layers perfectly without stealing the spotlight from your masterpiece.

Side Dishes

Pairing your Ho Ho Cake Recipe with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream elevates the dessert experience. A cup of coffee or cold milk also balances the richness beautifully, making every bite feel like a treat.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving individual slices on pretty plates with a drizzle of raspberry sauce or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for contrast. For parties, a dessert platter featuring mini slices alongside fruit and chocolate curls will wow your guests and showcase your baking prowess.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Ho Ho Cake Recipe fresh by storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. This ensures the filling stays creamy and the ganache firm but luscious.

Freezing

If you need to save some for later, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving to preserve that incredible texture and flavor.

Reheating

The Ho Ho Cake Recipe is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. If you prefer it slightly warmed, let individual slices sit at room temperature for 20 minutes or microwave briefly in short bursts to avoid melting the ganache too much.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk in the Ho Ho Cake Recipe?

Yes, you can substitute buttermilk with regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar, which helps maintain the cake’s tender texture and slight tang.

Is the coffee taste very strong in this cake?

The coffee enhances the chocolate flavor without making the cake taste like coffee. It adds depth and richness, so if you prefer, you can use decaf or strong brewed hot water instead.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

To make the Ho Ho Cake Recipe gluten-free, swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking. Just ensure your blend includes xanthan gum or add it separately for similar texture.

How long does it take for the ganache to set before spreading?

Allow the ganache to rest about 20 minutes after mixing so it thickens slightly. This makes it easier to pour and spread without running off too quickly.

What’s the best way to cut this cake without smudging the ganache?

Use a sharp, warm knife (dip the blade in hot water and wipe dry) for smooth, clean cuts. Wipe the knife between slices to keep the layers neat and beautiful.

Final Thoughts

This Ho Ho Cake Recipe is truly a labor of love that rewards you with a rich, moist cake complemented by a dreamy filling and luscious ganache. It’s one of those desserts that feels special no matter the occasion, and once you try making it yourself, it might just become your favorite go-to recipe. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and get ready to impress everyone with this absolutely delicious treat!