Why You’ll Love this Ho Ho Cake Recipe
If you’re a chocolate lover like me, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Ho Ho Cake recipe.
The rich, decadent layers of chocolate make each bite an indulgent experience. I love how this cake perfectly combines a moist chocolate base with a creamy filling, reminiscent of childhood treats.
Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to whip up! You can impress your friends and family without spending all day in the kitchen.
Trust me, once you serve this cake, you’ll be the star of any gathering. So, grab your apron and get ready for a chocolate adventure!
Ingredients of Ho Ho Cake
When it comes to baking a delightful treat like Ho Ho Cake, having the right ingredients on hand is essential. This cake isn’t just any dessert; it’s a chocolate lover’s dream come true. The combination of moist chocolate cake, creamy filling, and rich icing is simply irresistible.
Plus, you probably have most of these ingredients already lurking in your pantry, right? So, let’s plunge into what you’ll need to create this delicious masterpiece.
Ingredients for Ho Ho Cake:
- 1 (18 1/4 ounce) box chocolate fudge cake mix
- 3 eggs
- 1/2 cup oil
- 5 tablespoons flour
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup margarine (softened to room temperature)
- 1/2 cup vegetable shortening
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup margarine (melted and cooled)
- 1 egg (for the icing)
- 3 ounces semisweet chocolate (melted)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar
Now, while gathering these ingredients, keep in mind that the quality of the chocolate you use can make a noticeable difference in flavor. If you can splurge a little, go for a higher-quality semisweet chocolate.
It’s like treating your taste buds to a little luxury. Also, be sure to have some extra eggs on hand, because, let’s be real, who hasn’t cracked one too many?
And if you’re like me and have a habit of spilling flour everywhere, consider covering your work area with a towel to catch those rogue dust clouds. Happy baking!
How to Make Ho Ho Cake
To make a Ho Ho Cake, you’ll start by greasing a 10 1/2-by-14-by-2-inch pan. Trust me, this step is essential. Nobody enjoys wrestling with a stuck cake.
Once your pan is ready, grab that 18 1/4-ounce box of chocolate fudge cake mix and prepare it according to the instructions on the box. This usually means mixing it with 3 eggs and 1/2 cup of oil until everything is combined and smooth. Pour the batter into your greased pan and pop it into a preheated 350-degree oven for about 20 minutes. The smell of chocolate will waft through your kitchen, and you might find yourself tempted to sneak a taste—but hold on, it’s not ready yet.
After baking, let the cake cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This cooling time is key; you want to guarantee that your cake doesn’t fall apart when you layer on the filling.
Now, let’s tackle that creamy filling. In a small saucepan, add 5 tablespoons of flour and gradually stir in 1 1/2 cups of milk. This is where you’ll need to channel your inner chef and keep stirring over medium heat until the mixture thickens, which should take about 10 minutes.
Once it reaches the right consistency, transfer it to a bowl, cover the surface with plastic wrap (this prevents a skin from forming, which is just…not appetizing), and refrigerate it until cool—about 2 hours. While you wait, you can take a moment to reflect on your life choices or maybe just watch a few cat videos online.
Once your flour mixture is cool, it’s time to bring it all together. In the bowl of an electric mixer, combine that cooled mixture with 1/2 cup of softened margarine, 1/2 cup of vegetable shortening, and 1 cup of sugar. Beat everything on high speed for about 7 to 8 minutes until it’s light and fluffy.
Spread this delightful concoction over the cooled cake, and then chill again until the filling is somewhat firm—this might take another couple of hours. Meanwhile, prepare the icing by mixing melted margarine, 1 egg, 3 ounces of melted semisweet chocolate, 2 1/2 tablespoons of hot water, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract in a large bowl.
Beat it together, then slowly add 1 1/2 cups of confectioners’ sugar until smooth. Spread this luscious icing over the cake, making sure not to disturb that creamy filling underneath. Chill it one last time until you’re ready to serve, and enjoy the sweet satisfaction of your homemade Ho Ho Cake.
Just remember, you might want to keep it away from anyone who claims to be “on a diet.”
Ho Ho Cake Substitutions & Variations
While making a Ho Ho Cake is a delightful experience, don’t hesitate to experiment with substitutions and variations to make it your own.
For a healthier twist, try using applesauce instead of oil or swap out regular flour for whole wheat flour. If you’re feeling adventurous, add coffee to the chocolate filling for a rich flavor.
You can also switch up the frosting by using cream cheese or a whipped topping. For a fun twist, mix in some crushed peppermint candies or nuts.
The possibilities are endless, so let your creativity shine while you bake! Enjoy the process!
What to Serve with Ho Ho Cake
If you’re looking to elevate your Ho Ho Cake experience, consider pairing it with a few complementary sides.
A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a creamy contrast that balances the rich chocolate flavors beautifully. Fresh berries, like raspberries or strawberries, provide a tartness that cuts through the sweetness, making each bite more exciting.
You might also enjoy a drizzle of warm chocolate sauce for an indulgent touch. For a revitalizing twist, serve it alongside a light whipped cream infused with mint.
These simple additions can really enhance the overall enjoyment of your delightful Ho Ho Cake.
Additional Tips & Notes
Enhancing your Ho Ho Cake experience can be as simple as keeping a few tips in mind.
First, make sure your cake is completely cool before spreading the filling; this prevents it from melting. I recommend chilling the cake after frosting for a firmer texture.
If you want a richer flavor, try adding a pinch of espresso powder to the chocolate icing. For a fun twist, sprinkle crushed candies or nuts on top before chilling.
Finally, use high-quality chocolate for the filling—it makes a big difference!
Enjoy your delicious creation; it’s sure to impress family and friends!