Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake

This Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake is a delightful dessert that’s perfect for any celebration. With layers of sweet cake and creamy ice cream, it offers an irresistible combination of flavors and textures. This cake is not only visually stunning but also easy to make, making it ideal for birthdays, holidays, or just a fun family treat. The standout feature? You can customize it with your favorite toppings or mix-ins!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of cake and Cookies and Cream ice cream creates a rich and indulgent taste experience.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it at parties, picnics, or as a special dessert at home—this cake fits any occasion.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add extra toppings or swap out cookie brands to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before getting started with your Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake, gather the necessary tools. Having the right equipment on hand will make your baking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when whipping egg whites or creaming butter and sugar together.
• Measuring cups: Ensures precise measurements for ingredients, which is crucial for baking success.
• Rubber scraper: Helps mix ingredients thoroughly while preventing waste from sticking to the sides of bowls.

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 Filling

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

For the 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 the Oven and Pans

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

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

1. In a mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
2. Add in the vanilla extract, mixing well.
3. In another bowl, sift together the cake flour, baking powder, and kosher salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients.
4. Pour in the whole milk, mixing until just combined.
5. Gently fold in the chopped Oreo cookies.

Step 3: Bake the Cake Layers

1. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
2. Bake in preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
3. Allow cakes to cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 4: Assemble Your Cake

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

Step 5: Finish with Whipped Cream

1. Top with whipped cream or store-bought topping.
2. Sprinkle additional chopped Oreo cookies over for garnish.
3. Freeze for at least 4 hours before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake!

How to Serve Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake

Serving your Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake can elevate the dessert experience. Here are some delightful ways to present this sweet treat.

Share with Friends

• Invite friends over for a casual get-together and serve slices of cake alongside fresh fruit, like strawberries or raspberries, for a refreshing contrast.

Pair with Coffee

• Enjoy a slice of this ice cream cake with a hot cup of coffee or espresso. The bitter notes of coffee balance the sweetness of the cake beautifully.

Create a Dessert Bar

• Set up a dessert bar where guests can customize their slices with toppings like extra chopped Oreo cookies, chocolate syrup, or sprinkles for added fun.

Serve with Fresh Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of fresh whipped cream on top of each slice. This light addition enhances the cake’s creaminess and provides a lovely presentation.

Use Festive Plates

• Present the cake on colorful or themed plates. This simple touch makes serving more inviting and adds to the celebration atmosphere.

How to Perfect Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake

To make an unforgettable Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake, follow these essential tips for perfection.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your butter, egg whites, and milk are at room temperature. This helps achieve a smooth batter that rises evenly during baking.

• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix just until the ingredients are combined. Overmixing can lead to dense cake layers instead of light and fluffy ones.

• Chill Before Serving: Allow the assembled cake to chill in the freezer for several hours before serving. This helps set the ice cream layers properly, making it easier to slice.

• Use Quality Ice Cream: Opt for high-quality Cookies and Cream ice cream for richer flavor. Homemade versions can also elevate this dessert if you have time to prepare them.

Best Side Dishes for Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake

Enhancing your meal with side dishes can make enjoying your Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake even more delightful. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness that complements the rich flavors of the cake.
2. Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over each slice for an indulgent touch.
3. Vanilla Yogurt: A side of vanilla yogurt provides a tangy contrast that balances sweetness.
4. Nutty Granola: Sprinkle nutty granola next to each slice for added crunch and texture.
5. Ice Cream Cones: Serve mini ice cream cones filled with additional ice cream as a fun side treat.
6. Cookies Platter: Offer a selection of assorted cookies alongside, enhancing the cookies theme while giving guests more variety.
7. Milkshakes: A small milkshake can be an exciting addition, echoing the ice cream flavor in a different form.
8. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These elegant treats add sophistication while providing a fruity contrast to the sweet cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake, it’s easy to slip up. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Bold ingredient choices: Using the wrong type of cookies can affect the flavor. Stick with classic Oreos for the best results.
• Bold mixing too much: Overmixing the batter can lead to a tough cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for a fluffy texture.
• Bold not letting ice cream soften: Trying to spread hard ice cream can be messy and uneven. Always allow it to soften at room temperature before layering.
• Bold skipping chilled utensils: Warm tools can melt your ice cream layer while you work. Chill your mixing bowl and spatula for better results.
• Bold ignoring cake cooling time: Adding ice cream before the cake cools can cause it to melt. Ensure your cake is completely cool before assembling.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover slices in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake

• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil for best preservation.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months without compromising quality.

Reheating Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), then warm slices for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat a slice on medium power for about 30 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How long does Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake last?

This delightful cake can last up to three days in the refrigerator and two months in the freezer when stored correctly.

Can I use homemade ice cream in this recipe?

Absolutely! Homemade Cookies and Cream ice cream will add a personal touch and unique flavor to your cake.

What type of frosting works best?

Whipped cream or store-bought whipped topping complements this cake perfectly, adding lightness without overpowering flavors.

Can I customize my Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake?

Yes! You can add different cookie varieties or mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts for extra texture and flavor variation.

Final Thoughts

This Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake is a versatile dessert that combines creamy indulgence with sweet layers of cake. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite cookies or experimenting with different frostings. It’s sure to impress at any gathering, so give it a try!