Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake

This Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake is a delightful dessert that combines rich cake layers with creamy ice cream, making it perfect for any celebration. Whether it’s a birthday party, family gathering, or just a special treat, this cake stands out with its luscious flavors and appealing texture. The combination of Oreo cookies and ice cream creates an irresistible taste that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easily Customizable: You can adjust the flavor by using different ice creams or toppings to suit your taste.
• Decadent Flavor: The mix of sweet cake, creamy ice cream, and crunchy Oreos offers an unforgettable taste experience.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: This cake works well for parties, holidays, or just a cozy night in.
• Simple to Make: With straightforward ingredients and clear steps, even novice bakers can create this stunning dessert.
• Impressive Presentation: Layering the cake with ice cream not only tastes great but also looks beautiful on any dessert table.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake, having the right tools is essential for a smooth cooking experience. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: This tool makes whipping egg whites and blending batter effortless, ensuring a light texture in your cake.
• Offset spatula: Perfect for smoothing icing or whipped cream 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

Instructions:

Servings: 12
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 530 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keywords: ice cream cake, cookies and cream cake, cookies and cream ice cream cake, homemade ice creak cake
Nutrition Facts: Calories: 738 kcal, Carbs: 97 g, Protein: 12 g, Fat: 34 g, Saturated Fat: 20 g, Cholesterol: 103 mg, Sodium: 333 mg, Fiber: 2 g, Sugar: 65 g

How to Make Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Pans

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans with butter or cooking spray and line the bottoms with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix the Batter

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add in the vanilla extract.
3. Gradually mix in the flour, baking powder, salt, and milk until just combined.

Step 3: Fold in Oreo Cookies

Gently fold in the chopped Oreo cookies into the batter until evenly distributed.

Step 4: Bake the Cake Layers

Pour equal amounts of batter into each prepared pan. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 5: Assemble the Cake

Once cooled:
1. Place one layer of cake on a serving plate.
2. Spread softened Cookies and Cream ice cream over this layer evenly.
3. Top with the second layer of cake.
4. Frost with whipped cream on top and around the sides of the entire cake.

Step 6: Garnish

Finish by sprinkling additional chopped Oreo cookies on top for decoration.

Now your delicious Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake is ready to serve! Enjoy this delightful dessert at your next gathering!

How to Serve Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake

Serving your Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake can elevate any occasion. Whether it’s a birthday party or a cozy family gathering, there are plenty of ways to present this delightful dessert.

Creative Serving Suggestions

• With Fresh Berries: Pair the cake with strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries for a fresh twist.
• Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: Add a drizzle of chocolate sauce on top for an extra sweet touch.
• Ice Cream Scoops: Serve alongside a scoop of cookies and cream ice cream for double the flavor.
• Whipped Cream: Top each slice with a dollop of whipped cream to enhance its creamy texture.
• Oreo Crumble Garnish: Sprinkle additional chopped Oreo cookies on each serving for added crunch.

How to Perfect Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake

Creating the perfect Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake involves some key techniques. Follow these tips to ensure your cake is a hit every time.

• Bold Ingredients: Use high-quality ingredients, especially your ice cream and cookies, to enhance flavor.
• Bold Layering Technique: Allow each layer of ice cream and cake to freeze thoroughly before adding the next. This helps maintain structure.
• Bold Presentation: Decorate the top with whipped cream and Oreo pieces for an appealing look that invites everyone to dig in.
• Bold Freezing Time: Be patient with freezing; let the cake chill for at least 6 hours before serving. This ensures it holds its shape.
• Bold Temperature Check: Let the cake sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before cutting. This makes slicing easier.

Best Side Dishes for Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake

Complementing your Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake with side dishes can enhance the overall experience. Here are some delightful options that pair well.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the richness of the cake.
2. Chocolate Chip Cookies: These classic treats provide a crunchy contrast to your soft ice cream cake.
3. Pecan Pie Bars: The nutty flavor of pecans matches well with the sweet notes of cookies and cream.
4. Mini Cheesecakes: Individual cheesecakes offer an elegant touch without overwhelming sweetness.
5. Ice Cream Sundaes: A fun addition where guests can build their own sundaes using various toppings.
6. Coffee or Espresso: A warm cup of coffee pairs perfectly with dessert, bringing out flavors in both the drink and cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can ruin this delightful dessert. Here are a few tips to ensure you nail this recipe.

• Using cold ingredients: Cold butter or eggs can prevent proper mixing and result in a dense cake. Always use ingredients at room temperature for the best texture.
• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can lead to a tough cake. Mix just until combined to keep it light and fluffy.
• Not softening ice cream: If your ice cream is too hard, it won’t spread easily between the cake layers. Let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before using.
• Skipping the chilling time: Not allowing the cake to chill properly can make slicing difficult. Be sure to freeze it for at least 4 hours after assembling.
• Ignoring the garnishing: Skipping the garnish can leave your cake looking plain. Add extra chopped Oreo cookies on top for a fun and tasty finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake in an airtight container.
• It can last in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake

• Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil for best results.
• This cake can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Warm slices on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 15-20 seconds until slightly warm.
• Stovetop: Use a non-stick pan over low heat, warming each slice for about 1-2 minutes per side.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use homemade ice cream?

Yes, homemade ice cream works great in this Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake! Just ensure it’s well-churned and softened before using.

How long does it take to make this cake?

The total time is around 530 minutes, which includes prep time, cooking, and chilling.

Can I customize my Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake?

Absolutely! You can add different mix-ins like chocolate chips or substitute other cookies if you like.

What is the best way to serve this cake?

Slice your Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake with a sharp knife, dipping it in warm water between cuts for cleaner slices.

Final Thoughts

This Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake is a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Its creamy filling paired with soft cake layers creates a satisfying dessert. Plus, you can customize it with different toppings or flavors! Give this cake a try; it’s sure to impress your family and friends!