Ding Dong Cake

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If you love the iconic Hostess Ding Dongs, you will swoon for this over-the-top dessert. Instead of a single serving experience, this is a full-size cake that has major wow factor. Between thick layers of moist chocolate cake is a decadent creme filling that tastes just like the original. The entire cake is then draped in a rich layer of shiny chocolate ganache. The dessert tastes familiar but better than the store-bought version and will be a hit at any gathering.

• For the Chocolate Cake:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour

• 2 cups granulated sugar

• 6 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder

• 2 teaspoons baking soda

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 2 cups lukewarm water

• 3/4 cup vegetable oil

• 2 tablespoons white vinegar

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• For the Creme Filling:

• 2 cups powdered sugar (divided)

• 1/2 cup solid vegetable shortening

• 1/4 cup butter (softened)

• 1 pinch salt

• 1 teaspoon meringue powder

• 1 1/2 tablespoons water

• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

• For the Chocolate Ganache:

• 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips

• 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream

• 2 tablespoons light corn syrup