Cookies & Cream Ice Cream Cake

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Experience the perfect blend of rich chocolate cake and creamy cookies & cream ice cream in this delightful dessert. This easy-to-make cake is layered with smooth, decadent ice cream and crunchy cookie pieces, making it a crowd-pleaser for any celebration. Ideal for parties, birthdays, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, this recipe will take your dessert game to the next level!

Emma

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-11-20T13:00:32.750Z

This Cookies & Cream Ice Cream Cake combines the best of both worlds: rich chocolate cake and delightful cookies & cream ice cream. Perfect for any occasion, this dessert is sure to wow your guests!

A Sweet Treat for Any Occasion

Cookies & Cream Ice Cream Cake is the ultimate dessert for a variety of celebrations. Whether you're hosting a birthday party, a family gathering, or just looking for a delicious way to treat yourself, this cake fits perfectly. Its combination of rich chocolate cake with creamy ice cream and crunchy cookie pieces creates a delightful contrast that appeals to both kids and adults alike. You can customize it for any event by changing decorations or serving sizes, making it a versatile option for your dessert table.

The excitement of digging into a layered cake is universal, and this Cookies & Cream Ice Cream Cake delivers just that! The smooth layers of ice cream meld beautifully with the moist chocolate cake, creating an indulgent experience that everyone will love. It's a dessert that not only looks impressive but also tastes divine. With each bite, you’ll savor the creaminess of the ice cream mixed with the chocolate flavor, making it an irresistible choice for those special moments.

Tips for the Perfect Ice Cream Cake

When preparing your Cookies & Cream Ice Cream Cake, there are a few key tips to ensure the best results. First, make sure to use high-quality ingredients, particularly for your chocolate cake and ice cream. This will enhance the flavors and make every bite memorable. Additionally, allow your cake layers to cool completely before assembling. This prevents the ice cream from melting too quickly when layered, keeping your cake intact and visually appealing.

Another essential tip is to slightly soften the ice cream before spreading it on the cake layers. This will make it easier to work with, giving you smoother layers. Use a spatula to create a nice, even surface when applying the ice cream. Don’t forget to press the second layer of cake down gently after adding the ice cream; this helps to stabilize the structure. Once assembled, ensure that the cake is well frozen before slicing to achieve clean, beautiful layers.

Storing and Serving Ideas

After making your delicious Cookies & Cream Ice Cream Cake, you might wonder about storage options. Ideally, store any leftovers in an airtight container or cover the cake tightly with cling film to prevent freezer burn. It can typically be kept in the freezer for up to two weeks, although we doubt it will last that long! When you’re ready to serve it again, let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before slicing, ensuring you get clean cuts that showcase those beautiful layers.

If you're looking to elevate the presentation further, consider garnishing the cake before serving. Crushed Oreo cookies or chocolate shavings can add extra texture and visual appeal. You can also drizzle some chocolate or caramel sauce on top for added richness. Serving it alongside a scoop of additional ice cream or whipped cream can make it an even more decadent treat. No matter how you choose to serve it, this cake is sure to impress your guests and become a favorite at any gathering.

Ingredients

Chocolate Cake

  • 1 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 cups sugar
  • 1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 cup boiling water

Cookies & Cream Ice Cream

  • 2 quarts cookies & cream ice cream
  • 1 cup crushed Oreo cookies

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting for best results.

Instructions

Bake the Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. In a large bowl, mix together flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes. Stir in boiling water until well combined. Pour batter evenly into prepared pans.

Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of cookies & cream ice cream over the top. Sprinkle crushed Oreo cookies on the ice cream.

Add the second cake layer on top and press down gently. Spread more ice cream over the top and sides of the cake. Freeze for at least 1 hour to set.

Serve

Slice the cake, serve, and enjoy! Store any leftovers in the freezer.

This cake can be decorated with additional crushed cookies or chocolate sauce, if desired.

Exploring Flavor Combinations

While the classic combination of chocolate cake and cookies & cream ice cream shines brightly in this recipe, don’t shy away from experimenting with flavors. You could try substituting chocolate cake with vanilla or red velvet for a unique twist. Pair it with different ice cream flavors like mint chocolate chip or peanut butter for a delicious contrast. Customizing your cake can lead to delightful surprises and keep your dessert game fresh and exciting, appealing to adventurous palates.

Incorporate fruit into the mix for a refreshing element. Layering in fresh strawberries or raspberries can add a burst of flavor that complements the ice cream and cake beautifully. You could also infuse the ice cream with chunks of fruit or even make a fruit sauce to drizzle on top. Mixing and matching flavors allows you to cater to varied tastes and create your signature version of this beloved cake.

Healthier Alternatives

For those watching their calories or seeking healthier alternatives, there are ways to lighten up this Cookies & Cream Ice Cream Cake. Consider making a lower-sugar chocolate cake by substituting sugar with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup. Additionally, you can opt for a light or low-fat ice cream. Many brands offer delicious lower-calorie ice creams that can still satisfy your sweet tooth without compromising flavor.

Another option is to incorporate whole grain flour in your cake recipe for added nutritional benefits. Using almond or coconut flour can introduce healthy fats and fibers. You can also include Greek yogurt in the ice cream layer to add protein, making the dessert a bit healthier while still being creamy and satisfying. By making these substitutions, you can enjoy this delightful cake with less guilt.

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Questions About Recipes

→ How long can I keep this cake in the freezer?

You can keep it in the freezer for up to a month. Just ensure it's well-wrapped.

→ Can I use store-bought cake?

Yes, store-bought cake can save time if you're in a hurry.

Cookies & Cream Ice Cream Cake

Experience the perfect blend of rich chocolate cake and creamy cookies & cream ice cream in this delightful dessert. This easy-to-make cake is layered with smooth, decadent ice cream and crunchy cookie pieces, making it a crowd-pleaser for any celebration. Ideal for parties, birthdays, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, this recipe will take your dessert game to the next level!

Prep Time20 minutes
Cooking Duration30 minutes
Overall Time1 hour 50 minutes

Created by: Emma

Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 10 servings

What You'll Need

Chocolate Cake

  1. 1 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  2. 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  3. 2 cups sugar
  4. 1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  5. 1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
  6. 1 teaspoon salt
  7. 2 large eggs
  8. 1 cup whole milk
  9. 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  10. 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  11. 1 cup boiling water

Cookies & Cream Ice Cream

  1. 2 quarts cookies & cream ice cream
  2. 1 cup crushed Oreo cookies

How-To Steps

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. In a large bowl, mix together flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes. Stir in boiling water until well combined. Pour batter evenly into prepared pans.

Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 02

Once the cakes are cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of cookies & cream ice cream over the top. Sprinkle crushed Oreo cookies on the ice cream. Add the second cake layer on top and press down gently. Spread more ice cream over the top and sides of the cake. Freeze for at least 1 hour to set.

Step 03

Slice the cake, serve, and enjoy! Store any leftovers in the freezer.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 350
  • Total Fat: 18g
  • Sugars: 30g