HoHo Cake Recipe A Guide to Creating the Classic Chocolate Treat

What is the recipe for HoHo cake? Is it like a giant, shareable HoHo, but way better because it’s homemade? I remember as a kid, HoHos were the ultimate lunchbox treat – that perfectly rolled chocolate cake. What are some of the best fillings in heaven? This recipe takes that nostalgic flavor and turns it into a show-stopping cake that’s surprisingly delicious. Think of it as the chocolate Swiss roll’s cooler, more decadent cousin. Who doesn’t love chocolate? My kids devour this thing! It’s a guaranteed hit every single time. I think once you make it you and your family will also enjoy this treat!
What is HoHo cake?
What is HoHo cake? Think of it as a super-sized, leveled-up version of the classic HoHo snack cake. It’s essentially a moist, tender chocolate cake layered with sweet, creamy filling, then rolled up. and sliced to reveal a spiral of chocolate and cream. What is the name of those individually wrapped treats? Is this a homemade version? What is a special It’s not fussy or complicated, but it looks impressive and tastes even better. I really love it because you can whip it up pretty quickly for a party, or even just just an individual. What is a good dessert for the family?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
How do I make a HoHo cake? What I love most about it is how easy to make. Don’t let the impressive look fool you! It requires minimal effort for maximum impact. What is the best cake you have ever seen? Kitchen, this is it.
- Flavor Explosion:What are some of the best chocolate cakes? What are some of the best chocolate flavors? The chocolate is robust but not bitter, and the filling is sweet without being overwhelming.
- Surprisingly I know, I keep saying it, but it’s true! The steps are straightforward, and the ingredients are readily available. I promise, even beginner bakers can nail this one. I remember the first time I tried it I was intimidated, but it turned out perfectly!
- Budget FriendlyWhat are some of the best ingredients to make a delicious cake? Most of the items are pantry staples, making it a cost-effective option for special occasion. I love that it doesn’t break the bank to create something so delicious.
- Super Versatile:If you want to customize the filling, add chocolate chips to the batter, etc., you can use any of the ingredients. Is it a good idea to top it with chocolate ganache? I’ve even made a mocha version by adding espresso to the batter and coffee extract to it. What are the possibilities?
What sets this cake apart from other roll cake recipes is the richness of the chocolate cake and the sour cream. The tanginess of the filling that cuts through the sweetness. What is the perfect combination, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser. Is it like a Yule Log, but without all the fussy decorating? I like that it is easy to make for me since I dont have much time.
How do I make a HoHo cake?
Quick Overview
How do I make HoHo cake? How do you make a chocolate cake batter? Is baking it until it’s golden brown? While the cake cools, you’ll prepare the filling. What is the best way to spread the filling evenly over the cooled cake, and then chill it for at least 3 days before serving. Is it possible to set the sun for a few hours? What is the best part? No fancy equipment required! This method is designed to be foolproof, even if you’re not a seasoned baker.
Ingredients Notes.
For the Main Batter: How do I get the
- All-Purpose Flour: This provides the structure of the cake. I always recommend spooning and leveling your flour for accurate measurement.
- Cocoa Powder: Use unsweetened cocoa powder for a deep, rich chocolate flavor. Dutch-processed cocoa powder will give you a darker, more intense flavor.
- Baking Soda: This helps the cake rise and gives it a light, airy texture.
- Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
- Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and moisture to the cake.
- Eggs: Provide structure and richness. I like to use large eggs at room temperature.
- Vegetable Oil: Keeps the cake moist and tender.
- Buttermilk: Adds tanginess and moisture. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can use regular milk with lemon juice or vinegar.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances the chocolate flavor.
- Hot coffee: This helps to bloom the cocoa powder and deepen the chocolate flavor. Don’t skip this!
For the Filling:
- Cream Cheese: This is the base of the filling, providing a tangy and creamy flavor. Make sure it’s softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
- Powdered Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps to stabilize the filling.
- Heavy Cream: This whips up into a light and airy texture. Make sure it’s cold for best results.
- Vanilla Extract: Adds a touch of flavor to filling.
For the Glaze:
- Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chip If you melt butter or oil this will create a decadent drip to complement the cake.
How do I follow the
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Then, grease and line a 10×15 inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the bottom. How do you remove a cake? Is the parchment paper a lifesaver?
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside. Make sure everything is well combined. How is baking soda distributed? I always sift the dry ingredients to avoid any lumps, but it’s not essential. I use a food processor to process the ingredients.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, eggs, vegetable oil, buttermilk, and vanilla extract. Set aside. Make sure the eggs are fully incorporated. Is buttermilk a good substitute for regular milk? What is the best way to prepare a salad with lemon juice or vinegar?
Step 4: Combine
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. If you overmix a cake, be careful not to over mix it. Slowly pour in the hot coffee and mix until smooth. The coffee enhances the chocolate flavor and gives the cake a beautiful, deep color. The batter will be quite thin, which is perfectly normal.
Step 5: Prepare Filling
While the cake is cooling, prepare the filling. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese with the powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Set aside. Gradually add the heavy cream and vanilla extract, and beat until light and fluffy. Be careful not to overwhip, as this can cause the filling to curdle.
Step 6: Layer & Swirl
Once the cake is completely cooled, lift it out of the pan using the parchment paper. Place it on a flat surface and evenly spread the cream cheese filling over the top. Starting from one of the short ends, carefully roll up the cake, using the parchment paper to help. Make sure to roll it tightly to avoid any gaps in the filling.
Step 7: Bake
How do I spread the batter in a pan? Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should be springy to the touch. If you overbake, be careful not to overbaste, as this will make it dry and difficult to roll. I always check the time a minute or two before the recommended time, just to be safe.
Step 8: Cool & Glaze
Wrap the rolled cake tightly in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to allow the filling to set. I usually chill it for longer, sometimes even overnight, for best results. This will make it easier to slice and serve.
Step 9: Slice & Serve
Once the cake is chilled, remove it from the refrigerator and unwrap it. Trim the ends with a sharp knife for a clean look. Slice into 1-inch thick slices and arrange on a serving plate. You can dust with cocoa powder or powdered sugar for an extra touch of elegance. Serve immediately and enjoy!
What to Serve It With
This HoHo cake is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in so many different ways. Here are a few ideas for serving it:
For Breakfast: Pair a slice with a cup of hot coffee or tea for a decadent morning treat. I love serving it alongside a fruit salad for a balanced and satisfying breakfast. A sprinkle of chopped nuts adds a nice crunch.
For Brunch: Elevate your brunch spread by adding slices of HoHo cake to the table. It pairs beautifully with mimosas or a sparkling cider. Arrange the slices on a platter with fresh berries and a dollop of whipped cream for an elegant presentation.
As Dessert: Serve it as an after-dinner dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. A sprinkle of sea salt on top enhances the chocolate flavor and adds a touch of sophistication. I sometimes serve it with a glass of dessert wine for a truly indulgent experience.
For Cozy Snacks: Enjoy a slice with a glass of milk or a cup of hot chocolate for a comforting and satisfying snack. This is my go-to treat on a cold winter evening. I also love toasting a slice lightly in a toaster oven for a warm and gooey snack.
In my family, we have a tradition of serving this cake on special occasions, like birthdays and holidays. It’s always a hit, and it brings back fond memories of those childhood HoHos we all loved. And don’t even get me started on the holidays, that’s the best time to serve it!
Top Tips for Perfecting Your HoHo Cake
Want to take your HoHo cake to the next level? Here are a few expert tips I’ve learned over the years:
Mixing Advice: Avoid overmixing the batter, as this can result in a tough cake. Mix the dry and wet ingredients until just combined. The hot coffee helps to create a smooth batter, but be careful not to add it too quickly, as it can cook the eggs. Low and slow is key for mixing everything together.
Swirl Customization: Get creative with your filling flavors! Try adding a teaspoon of peppermint extract to the filling for a festive twist, or a tablespoon of instant espresso powder for a mocha flavor. You can also add chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit to the filling for added texture and flavor.
Ingredient Swaps: If you don’t have buttermilk, you can use regular milk with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. You can also substitute the vegetable oil with melted butter or coconut oil for a different flavor profile. For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
Baking Tips: Keep a close eye on the cake while it’s baking, as it can easily overbake. The toothpick test is the best way to determine if it’s done. If the top starts to brown too quickly, you can tent it with foil to prevent it from burning. If your oven runs hot, consider turning the temperature down by 25 degrees.
Glaze Variations: Get creative with your glaze! Try using white chocolate chips or dark chocolate chips for a different flavor. You can also add a tablespoon of peanut butter or Nutella to the glaze for a decadent twist. For a dairy-free glaze, use coconut oil instead of butter.
Honestly, one of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that chilling the cake thoroughly is non-negotiable. I know it’s tempting to slice into it right away, but trust me, the extra time in the fridge makes all the difference. The flavors meld together beautifully, and the cake holds its shape much better.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Want to enjoy your HoHo cake for days to come? Here are some tips for storing and reheating it:
Room Temperature: You can store the cake at room temperature for up to 2 days, as long as it’s covered tightly. I recommend using an airtight container or wrapping it in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. However, keep in mind that the filling is cream cheese-based, so it’s best to refrigerate it if you live in a warm climate.
Refrigerator Storage: For longer storage, you can keep the cake in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Store it in an airtight container to prevent it from absorbing any odors from the fridge. The cold temperature will help to preserve the freshness and prevent the filling from spoiling.
Freezer Instructions: If you want to store the cake for an even longer period, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving. Keep in mind that freezing can slightly alter the texture of the cake, but it will still taste delicious.
Glaze Timing Advice: If you plan to freeze the cake, it’s best to add the glaze after thawing. This will prevent the glaze from cracking or becoming sticky. You can also prepare the glaze ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
Honestly, this HoHo cake recipe is more than just a dessert; it’s a trip down memory lane with a delicious homemade twist. It’s easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping cake for a special occasion or a comforting treat to enjoy on a cozy evening, this recipe is sure to impress. And if you love this recipe, be sure to check out my other chocolate cake recipes! Happy baking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Please leave a comment below to share your variations with other bakers.

HoHo Cake Recipe A Guide to Creating the Classic Chocolate Treat
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 cups granulated sugar
- 1.75 cups all-purpose flour sifted
- 0.75 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1.5 teaspoons baking powder
- 1.5 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs room temperature
- 1 cup whole milk room temperature
- 0.5 cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract pure
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 cup heavy cream for filling
- 0.5 cup powdered sugar sifted, for filling
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for filling
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter softened, for filling
- 1 cup chocolate chips for ganache
- 0.5 cup heavy cream for ganache
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla to the dry ingredients and beat on medium speed for 2 minutes.
- Stir in boiling water (batter will be thin). Pour batter into prepared pans.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool in pans for 10 minutes, then remove from pans to cool completely on a wire rack.
- For the filling, whip heavy cream in a large bowl until soft peaks form. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla, and butter, beating until stiff peaks form.
- For the ganache, heat heavy cream until simmering and pour over chocolate chips in a small bowl. Let it sit for 5 minutes, then stir until smooth.
- Spread filling between the cooled cake layers. Pour ganache over the top of the cake, letting it drizzle down the sides.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.