Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake

This Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake is a delightful treat that perfectly combines the creaminess of ice cream with the sweetness of cake. Ideal for birthdays, celebrations, or any sweet tooth craving, this cake boasts layers of rich flavor and a fun crunchy texture. The use of Oreo cookies adds a beloved classic twist to this dessert, making it a crowd-pleaser at any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe requires simple ingredients and minimal prep time, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
• Delicious Flavor Combination: The blend of cookies and cream ice cream with soft cake layers creates a delightful taste experience that everyone will enjoy.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for birthdays, summer parties, or family gatherings, this cake suits various occasions and tastes.
• Impressive Presentation: With its layers and garnishes, this cake looks stunning on any dessert table, sure to wow your guests.
• Customizable Options: Feel free to adjust the flavors or mix in different types of cookies to make it your own!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this scrumptious recipe, gather the necessary tools that will help streamline your baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: This tool ensures that your butter and sugar are creamed together smoothly for a light and airy cake batter.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial in baking to achieve the perfect texture and flavor balance.
• Rubber spatula: Ideal for scraping down the sides of mixing bowls to ensure no mixture goes wasted.

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 Garnishing

• 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 Baking Pans

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans with butter or non-stick spray. Dust them lightly with flour to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Make the Cake 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 and mix well.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and kosher salt.
4. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients while alternating with milk. Mix until just combined.
5. Fold in the chopped Oreo cookies gently into the batter.

Step 3: Bake the Cake Layers

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

Step 4: Assemble Your Cake

Once cooled:
1. Place one layer on a serving platter.
2. Spread softened Cookies and Cream ice cream evenly over this first layer.
3. Top with the second layer of cake gently pressing down.

Step 5: Frosting & Garnishing

Spread whipped cream over the top layer of your cake:
1. Use a spatula for an even finish.
2. Sprinkle additional chopped Oreo cookies on top for decoration.
3. Freeze your assembled cake for at least 4 hours before serving for best results.

Now you have a stunning Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake ready to impress! Enjoy!

How to Serve Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake

Serving a Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake is as fun as making it! This delightful dessert can be enjoyed in various ways, enhancing your experience with each slice. Here are some suggestions to make your serving even more special.

Classic Slice

• Serve a generous slice of the cake on its own for a simple yet satisfying dessert experience.

With Fresh Berries

• Add a side of fresh strawberries or blueberries for a burst of fruity flavor that balances the sweetness.

Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce

• A drizzle of chocolate sauce over the cake adds an elegant touch and extra indulgence.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Enhance each slice with a dollop of whipped cream for added creaminess and texture.

Garnished with Chopped Oreos

• Sprinkle additional chopped Oreo cookies on top for an extra crunch and visual appeal.

How to Perfect Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake

Achieving the perfect Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake requires some attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure your cake turns out delicious every time.

• Use room temperature ingredients – Allowing butter, eggs, and milk to reach room temperature helps achieve a smooth batter.

• Soften ice cream properly – Let your ice cream sit out for about 10-15 minutes before assembling the cake for easier spreading.

• Layer carefully – Spread the ice cream evenly between the cake layers to ensure balanced flavor in every bite.

• Freeze thoroughly before serving – Allow the assembled cake to freeze for at least 4 hours to set properly before slicing.

• Decorate just before serving – Add whipped cream and Oreo garnishes right before serving to keep them fresh and appealing.

Best Side Dishes for Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake can elevate your dessert experience. Consider these delightful options:

1. Chocolate Chip Cookies – A classic treat that complements the cake’s creamy texture with its chewy crunch.

2. Fruit Salad – A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a light, healthy contrast to the richness of the cake.

3. Vanilla Ice Cream – For those who can’t get enough ice cream, serve vanilla on the side for a classic pairing.

4. Brownies – Rich, fudgy brownies add another layer of indulgence and create a decadent dessert platter.

5. Milkshakes – A cookies-and-cream milkshake can enhance the flavors while providing an extra creamy beverage option.

6. Chocolate Fondue – Dip fruits or cookies into warm chocolate fondue for an interactive dessert experience that everyone will love.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake, avoid these common pitfalls for the best results.

• Boldly skip the room temperature eggs: Using cold egg whites can prevent proper whipping. Always let your eggs reach room temperature for better volume and texture.
• Boldly overlook the cake cooling: If you don’t allow the cake layers to cool completely, your ice cream will melt. Cool them on a wire rack for at least an hour.
• Boldly fail to measure accurately: Baking is a science. Use precise measurements for ingredients to ensure your cake rises perfectly.
• Boldly ignore softening ice cream: Trying to spread hard ice cream can lead to a messy cake. Let your ice cream sit out for about 10-15 minutes before assembling.
• Boldly skip the garnish: Not adding extra chopped Oreo cookies on top can make your dessert less appealing. Garnish generously for that perfect finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake

• Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing flavor.

Reheating Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake

• Oven: Preheat at 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 10 minutes, but this is rarely necessary as it’s served cold.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on low power for about 20 seconds. Be careful not to melt the ice cream too much.
• Stovetop: Not recommended, as it may affect the cake’s structure and texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

What can I use instead of animal-derived gelatin?

You can use plant-based gelling agents like agar-agar or pectin as substitutes in recipes requiring gelatin.

Can I customize the Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake?

Absolutely! You can add different flavors of ice cream or mix in various toppings like nuts or chocolate chips for unique variations.

How do I know when my cake layers are done?

Insert a toothpick into the center of each layer; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, they’re ready!

Can I make this cookies and cream ice cream cake ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it a day ahead and store it in the freezer until you’re ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

This Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake is a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Its creamy layers combined with sweet cake create an irresistible dessert experience. Feel free to customize it by using different flavored ice creams or additional toppings to match your taste!