Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake

This Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake is a delightful treat perfect for any celebration. Featuring layers of luscious ice cream nestled between two scrumptious cake layers, this dessert offers a rich blend of flavors and textures. Whether it’s a birthday party, family gathering, or just a special dessert night, this cake is sure to impress. Its combination of creamy ice cream and soft cake makes it a standout choice that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe simplifies the process of creating an impressive dessert, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of cookies and cream ice cream with rich vanilla cake delivers an indulgent taste experience.
• Versatile Occasion: Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just because, this cake fits seamlessly into any event.
• Stunning Presentation: The beautiful layers topped with whipped cream and Oreo crumbs create an eye-catching dessert centerpiece.
• Customizable Options: Feel free to switch up the flavors or add extra toppings to make it your own!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the deliciousness, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: This tool ensures that your batter is mixed thoroughly, giving you a light and fluffy cake texture.
• 9-inch round cake pans: Using these pans helps achieve even baking and allows for perfectly layered cakes.
• Spatula: Ideal for spreading frosting evenly on your cake layers for that professional finish.

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 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: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing your cake pans with butter or non-stick spray will help ensure easy release after baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and granulated sugar. Beat until light and fluffy.
2. Add in the vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
3. Gradually mix in the flour, baking powder, salt, and milk until you have a smooth batter.
4. Carefully fold in the chopped Oreo cookies.

Step 3: Bake the Cake Layers

1. Divide the batter evenly between two greased 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Bake for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. Allow cooling in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.

Step 4: Assemble Your Cake

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

Step 5: Frost and Garnish

1. Use whipped cream to frost the top and sides of the assembled cake.
2. Garnish with additional chopped Oreo cookies for added texture and flavor.

Now your Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake is ready for slicing! Enjoy this delightful dessert at any occasion!

How to Serve Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake

Serving Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake is all about enhancing its rich flavors and creating a delightful experience for your guests. This cake can be served in various ways to suit different occasions.

Individual Slices

• Serve individual slices topped with additional chopped Oreo cookies for a crunchy texture.

Ice Cream Scoops

• Add a scoop of Cookies and Cream ice cream on the side for an extra creamy treat.

Whipped Cream Topping

• Dollop some whipped cream on each slice before serving to enhance the cake’s richness.

Chocolate Sauce Drizzle

• Drizzle chocolate sauce over the top of each slice for added sweetness and visual appeal.

Fresh Berries

• Pair with fresh strawberries or raspberries to add a fruity contrast to the sweet cake.

How to Perfect Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake

Creating the perfect Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out delicious every time.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ingredients like egg whites and milk blend better when at room temperature, leading to a fluffier cake.
• Softened ice cream: Allow your ice cream to soften slightly before layering. This makes it easier to spread evenly between the cake layers.
• Chill before serving: Let the assembled cake chill in the freezer for at least a few hours. This helps it hold its shape when slicing.
• Experiment with flavors: Try adding different cookie varieties or flavored ice creams for unique twists on this classic dessert.

Best Side Dishes for Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake

Pairing your Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake with complementary side dishes can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits that balances the sweetness of the cake.
2. Chocolate Chip Cookies: Classic chocolate chip cookies add an extra crunch and delicious flavor that pairs well with ice cream.
3. Mini Brownies: Rich, fudgy brownies create a decadent dessert platter alongside the ice cream cake.
4. Fruit Sorbet: A light fruit sorbet offers a refreshing palate cleanser between bites of rich cake.
5. Vanilla Pudding: Silky vanilla pudding provides a creamy contrast that complements the cake’s texture well.
6. Nutty Granola: A sprinkle of granola adds crunch and nuttiness, enhancing the overall dessert experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake, it’s essential to steer clear of common pitfalls that may affect the final result.

• Ignoring room temperature ingredients: Using cold eggs or butter can lead to a lumpy batter. Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing.
• Overmixing the batter: This can make your cake dense. Mix just until combined for a light, fluffy texture.
• Not measuring accurately: Baking is a science; too much or too little of an ingredient can ruin your cake. Use proper measuring cups and spoons.
• Skipping the chilling time: Allowing the ice cream cake to set properly in the freezer ensures perfect slicing later. Don’t rush this step!
• Using low-quality cookies: The flavor of your Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake relies heavily on the cookies used. Choose high-quality Oreo cookies for the best taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover cake in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake

• Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap before placing it in a freezer-safe container.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months without compromising taste.

Reheating Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place cake inside for about 10 minutes, ensuring it doesn’t melt too much.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 15-20 seconds.
• Stovetop: Not recommended as it may melt unevenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use homemade ice cream for my Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake?

Yes! Homemade cookies and cream ice cream works wonderfully and allows you to control flavors and sweetness.

How do I customize my Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake?

You can add different types of cookies or mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts to create your own twist on this classic dessert.

What should I do if my ice cream is too hard?

If your ice cream is too hard to spread, let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes until softened.

How long does it take to make a Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake?

The total time from prep to serving is around 530 minutes, including freezing time. Be patient, as this dessert requires some waiting!

Final Thoughts

This Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with different flavors or toppings based on your preferences. It’s perfect for any celebration or simply a treat when you’re craving something sweet. Give it a try, and impress your friends and family with this delightful dessert!