Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake

This Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake is a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of cookies and cream with a moist cake. Perfect for birthday parties, family gatherings, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, this cake is sure to impress. The layers of soft cake and creamy ice cream make it a standout dessert that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, anyone can whip up this cake without fuss.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of vanilla cake and cookies and cream ice cream creates an irresistible flavor profile.
• Versatile Dessert: This cake is perfect for various occasions, from celebrations to casual family dinners.
• Impressive Presentation: The layered look makes for a stunning centerpiece at any gathering.
• Customizable Options: You can easily switch up the ice cream flavor or add toppings to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake, you’ll need some essential tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• 9-inch round cake pans
• Spatula
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Speeds up the mixing process, ensuring a fluffy batter that rises beautifully.
• 9-inch round cake pans: Provides uniform baking for the cake layers, crucial for even texture and taste.
• Spatula: Perfect for spreading frosting evenly and layering ice cream with precision.

Ingredients

This cookies and cream ice cream cake features a generous serving of ice cream sandwiched between two sweet cake layers. Yield: 9-inch cake

For the Cake Layers

• 1 cup unsalted butter (227 g), softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar (400 g)
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 3 ½ cups cake flour (437 grams)
• 1 Tablespoon baking powder (15 grams)
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 cup whole milk (227 grams)
• ¾ cup chopped Oreo cookies

For the Ice Cream Layer

• 1.5 quarts Cookies and Cream ice cream, softened (store-bought or homemade)

For Topping

• 2 cups whipped cream or store-bought whipped topping
• Additional chopped Oreo cookies, to garnish

How to Make Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9-inch round cake pans with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add in the vanilla extract and mix until well combined.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture while alternating with milk. Mix until just combined.
5. Gently fold in the chopped Oreo cookies.

Step 3: Bake the Cakes

Pour equal amounts of batter into each prepared pan. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow them to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.

Step 4: Assemble Your Cake

1. Once completely cooled, place one layer of cake on a serving plate.
2. Spread half of the softened Cookies and Cream ice cream over this layer evenly.
3. Place the second layer of cake on top of the ice cream.
4. Spread whipped cream over the top layer of cake as desired.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

Top with additional chopped Oreo cookies for garnish. Freeze for at least an hour before serving to allow everything to set nicely.

Enjoy your delicious Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake!

How to Serve Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake

Serving this Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake is a delightful experience. It’s perfect for special occasions or just a sweet treat on a warm day. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dessert.

Classic Slice

• A simple slice of cake is always a hit. Serve it chilled with an extra dollop of whipped cream on top.

Chocolate Drizzle

• Drizzle melted chocolate over the top for an indulgent touch. This adds a rich flavor that complements the cookies and cream perfectly.

Fresh Berries

• Pair the cake with fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries. The tartness balances the sweetness of the cake.

Ice Cream Scoop

• Serve a scoop of Cookies and Cream ice cream alongside each slice. It enhances the ice cream experience and keeps the dessert cool.

Crushed Oreo Topping

• Sprinkle crushed Oreo cookies on each slice before serving. This adds texture and intensifies the cookie flavor.

Coffee Pairing

• Enjoy slices with a hot cup of coffee or espresso. The warmth of the beverage contrasts beautifully with the cold cake.

How to Perfect Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake

To create the perfect Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake, follow these tips for best results.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix your batter just until combined to avoid dense cake layers. Overmixing can lead to toughness.

• Chill Before Serving: Let the cake sit in the freezer for at least two hours before slicing. This helps it hold its shape while serving.

• Layer Wisely: Alternate layers of ice cream and cake evenly to ensure every bite has that delicious combination of flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake

Enhance your dessert experience with these delightful side dishes that pair wonderfully with Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake.

1. Vanilla Custard: A smooth custard complements the rich flavors of the cake, adding creaminess with each bite.

2. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a light contrast to the heavy cake, making it a balanced dish.

3. Chocolate Chip Cookies: Offer some classic chocolate chip cookies on the side for an extra crunch and sweetness alongside your cake.

4. Pecan Pie Bars: These sweet bars add a nutty flavor that pairs well with cookies and cream, enhancing the dessert experience.

5. Brownie Bites: Rich, fudgy brownie bites bring an additional layer of chocolate delight when served next to your cake.

6. Milkshakes: A creamy milkshake can be a fun drink option that echoes the ice cream theme of your dessert.

7. Caramel Sauce: Serve warm caramel sauce for drizzling over both ice cream cake slices and other desserts you may offer.

8. Mini Cheesecakes: Individual cheesecakes provide variety in texture and flavor, making them an appealing addition to any dessert spread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake can be rewarding, but there are a few common mistakes to watch out for.

• Boldly skip the cooling: Forgetting to let your cake layers cool completely can result in melting ice cream. Allow at least 30 minutes for the cakes to cool before assembling.

• Boldly ignore ingredient temperature: Using cold egg whites or milk can affect the batter’s texture. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for a fluffier cake.

• Boldly rush the assembly: Assembling the cake too quickly can lead to messy layers. Take your time to layer the ice cream and whipped cream evenly.

• Boldly overlook decoration: Skipping on garnishes like chopped Oreo cookies makes your cake less visually appealing. Always finish with a sprinkle of toppings for that wow factor.

• Boldly forget to soften ice cream: Using hard ice cream straight from the freezer will make layering difficult. Let it sit out for about 10-15 minutes before using.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Enjoy within 3-5 days for best flavor and texture.

Freezing Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing quality.

Reheating Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Heat for about 10 minutes until slightly warm.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 15 seconds on low power, checking constantly.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a pan over low heat, warming gently while covered.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making a Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake.

How long does the Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake last?

This cake lasts about 3-5 days in the refrigerator when stored properly. If frozen, it can maintain quality for up to 2 months.

Can I use homemade ice cream?

Absolutely! Homemade cookies and cream ice cream adds a personal touch and is perfect if you want custom flavors or ingredients.

What can I use instead of chopped Oreo cookies?

If you prefer, you can substitute with other sandwich cookies or chocolate wafer cookies for a different flavor profile in your Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake.

Is there a way to make this cake dairy-free?

Yes! Opt for dairy-free butter, milk alternatives, and non-dairy whipped topping. You can also look for dairy-free cookies to keep it entirely plant-based.

Final Thoughts

This Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding different cookie layers or using various ice cream flavors. Encourage friends and family to try making this delightful dessert—it’s sure to impress!