Cookie Dough Cake
Cookie Dough Cake is the ultimate dessert that combines layers of fluffy vanilla cake with globs of delicious cookie dough, all topped with a rich cookie dough buttercream and silky chocolate ganache. Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or just a sweet treat at home, this cake will surely impress everyone who takes a bite. Its unique combination of textures and flavors makes it stand out from traditional cakes, ensuring you have a memorable dessert experience.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of cookie dough and vanilla cake creates a mouthwatering taste that’s hard to resist.
- Versatile Occasion: This cake is perfect for birthdays, parties, or any gathering where you want to impress.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward instructions, even novice bakers can create this delightful dessert.
- Decadent Presentation: The chocolate ganache and cookie dough topping make for an eye-catching centerpiece.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite toppings or adjust the sweetness to suit your taste.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools and prepare your kitchen. Having everything ready will help streamline the baking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- 8-inch round cake pans
- Cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Electric mixer: Ensures thorough mixing for a light and fluffy cake batter.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the best flavor and texture in your cake.
Ingredients
Globs of cookie dough baked into layers of sweet vanilla cake, all smothered in cookie dough buttercream and coated in silky chocolate ganache.
For the Cookie Dough
- 1/2 cup (110g) unsalted butter, room temp
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 2/3 cup (130g) light brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup (60ml) milk
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups (260g) all-purpose flour SEE NOTES
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup (180g) mini chocolate chips
For the Vanilla Cake Layers
- 1 1/2 cups (330g) unsalted butter, room temp
- 2 cups (400g) sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 cups (400g) all-purpose flour SEE NOTES
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
- 1/2 cup (125g) 2% Greek yogurt(sour cream also works)
- 1 cup (180g) mini chocolate chips
For the Cookie Dough Buttercream
- 1 1/2 cups (330g) unsalted butter, room temp
- 5 cups (550g) powdered sugar
- 1 cup (130g) all-purpose flour SEE NOTES
- 3/4 cup (140g) light brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup (60ml) milk
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup (90g) mini chocolate chips
For the Chocolate Ganache
- 4oz bittersweet chocolate, chopped
- 4oz (1/2 cup) heavy cream
- 2-3 tsp vegetable oil
How to Make Cookie Dough Cake
Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough
Start by making the cookie dough so it can chill while you bake the cakes. In a mixing bowl:
1. Cream together the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar until fluffy.
2. Mix in milk and vanilla extract.
3. Gradually add in all-purpose flour and salt until combined.
4. Fold in mini chocolate chips.
5. Shape dough into small balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2: Bake the Cake Layers
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease three 8-inch round cake pans.
1. In a large bowl, cream together unsalted butter and sugar until light.
2. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition along with vanilla extract.
3. Combine all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt in another bowl. Gradually mix into wet ingredients alternating with milk and Greek yogurt until smooth.
4. Gently fold in mini chocolate chips.
5. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans and drop spoonfuls of chilled cookie dough on top.
6. Bake for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Cool completely before frosting.
Step 3: Prepare the Cookie Dough Buttercream
While cakes cool:
1. Beat unsalted butter until creamy.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar, flour, light brown sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and salt; beat until smooth.
3. Fold in mini chocolate chips.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
Once cooled:
1. Place one layer on a serving plate and spread with cookie dough buttercream.
2. Repeat with remaining layers.
3. Frost the top and sides smoothly with remaining buttercream.
Step 5: Make Chocolate Ganache
Heat heavy cream until simmering; pour over chopped bittersweet chocolate in a bowl:
1. Let sit for a few minutes before stirring until smooth.
2. If too thick, add vegetable oil to reach desired consistency.
Step 6: Finish Your Cake
Pour ganache over the frosted cake allowing it to drip down the sides:
– Decorate with extra cookie dough balls if desired.
Enjoy your delectable Cookie Dough Cake!
How to Serve Cookie Dough Cake
Serving your Cookie Dough Cake can be as fun as making it! This delightful cake pairs well with various accompaniments, enhancing its rich flavors. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dessert experience.
With a Scoop of Ice Cream
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic choice that complements the sweetness of cookie dough.
- Chocolate Chip Ice Cream: For an extra chocolatey treat, this flavor adds a nice contrast.
Drizzled with Caramel Sauce
- Warm Caramel Sauce: A warm drizzle enhances the cake’s richness and adds a gooey texture.
- Salted Caramel: For a sweet-and-salty twist, salted caramel brings in a delightful crunch.
Topped with Fresh Berries
- Strawberries: Fresh strawberries add a fruity freshness that cuts through the sweetness.
- Raspberries: Tart raspberries provide a beautiful color and a zesty punch.
Served with Whipped Cream
- Sweetened Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, this topping softens the cake’s richness.
- Chocolate Whipped Cream: For chocolate lovers, this adds an extra layer of indulgence.
How to Perfect Cookie Dough Cake
Perfecting your Cookie Dough Cake ensures that it not only looks good but tastes amazing too. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix just until combined to keep your cake light and fluffy.
- Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick inserted into the center; it should come out clean when the cake is done baking.
- Cool Layers Completely: Ensure each layer is fully cooled before frosting to prevent melting and sliding.
- Chill Your Frosting: If your buttercream is too soft, chilling it briefly will make it easier to spread smoothly on the cake.
Best Side Dishes for Cookie Dough Cake
Pairing side dishes with your Cookie Dough Cake can enhance its enjoyment. Here are some delightful options that complement the cake beautifully.
- Coffee: A cup of coffee balances the sweetness with its rich, robust flavor.
- Milkshakes: Chocolate or vanilla milkshakes create a creamy pairing that’s always popular.
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad offers freshness and balance against the rich cake.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can provide savory notes that contrast nicely with sweet desserts.
- Chocolate Fondue: Dipping fruits or marshmallows in chocolate fondue makes for an interactive dessert experience.
- Pecan Pie Bars: These bars add another layer of sweetness and texture that complements the cookie dough theme.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking a Cookie Dough Cake can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to avoid. Here are some mistakes that can impact your baking success.
- Skipping the room temperature ingredients: Using cold butter or eggs can result in uneven mixing and poor texture. Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature before starting.
- Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can lead to a dense cake rather than a light one. Mix just until combined for the best results.
- Not measuring flour correctly: Scooping flour directly from the bag can pack it down and lead to excess flour. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurement.
- Ignoring oven temperature: Each oven is different; always check with an oven thermometer. Baking at the wrong temperature can ruin your cake.
- Using expired baking powder: Old baking powder won’t give your cake the rise it needs. Always check expiration dates for optimal freshness.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover slices in an airtight container.
- The cake will last up to 5 days in the fridge.
Freezing Cookie Dough Cake
- Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor.
Reheating Cookie Dough Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), wrap cake in foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 20-30 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
- Stovetop: Place on low heat in a skillet with a lid, warming slowly for about 5-10 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making a Cookie Dough Cake.
Can I use different types of chocolate chips?
Yes! You can use dark chocolate or white chocolate chips for different flavors.
How do I make this cake gluten-free?
Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup.
Is this cake suitable for special occasions?
Absolutely! This delicious Cookie Dough Cake is perfect for birthdays or celebrations.
Can I add additional flavors?
Feel free to incorporate flavors like almond extract or spices such as cinnamon for an exciting twist!
Final Thoughts
The Cookie Dough Cake is not just a dessert; it’s an experience filled with joy and comfort. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or simply indulging yourself, this recipe offers endless customization options. Add your favorite toppings or mix-ins to create a version that’s uniquely yours!
Cookie Dough Cake
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves 12 slices 1x
Description
Indulge in the ultimate dessert experience with our Cookie Dough Cake. This show-stopping treat features fluffy layers of vanilla cake generously filled with delectable cookie dough, all enveloped in a creamy cookie dough buttercream and finished with a rich, silky chocolate ganache. Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or just a sweet escape at home, this cake is guaranteed to impress. With its unique blend of flavors and textures, it transforms traditional cake into an unforgettable delight that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup (110g) unsalted butter, room temp
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 2/3 cup (130g) light brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup (60ml) milk
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups (260g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup (180g) mini chocolate chips
- 1 1/2 cups (330g) unsalted butter, room temp
- 2 cups (400g) sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 cups (400g) all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
- 1/2 cup (125g) 2% Greek yogurt
- 1 cup (180g) mini chocolate chips
- 1 1/2 cups (330g) unsalted butter, room temp
- 5 cups (550g) powdered sugar
- 1 cup (130g) all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup (140g) light brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup (60ml) milk
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup (90g) mini chocolate chips
- 4oz bittersweet chocolate, chopped
- 4oz (1/2 cup) heavy cream
- 2–3 tsp vegetable oil
Instructions
- Prepare the cookie dough by creaming butter and sugars until fluffy, then mix in milk and vanilla. Gradually incorporate flour and salt; fold in mini chocolate chips. Chill.
- For the cake layers, cream butter and sugar; add eggs one at a time with vanilla. Combine dry ingredients and alternate mixing with milk and yogurt. Fold in mini chocolate chips and dollop chilled cookie dough on top before baking.
- Make the buttercream by beating butter, gradually adding powdered sugar and other ingredients until smooth; fold in mini chocolate chips.
- Assemble the cake by layering with buttercream between each layer, frost the top and sides.
- Prepare chocolate ganache by heating cream, pouring over chopped chocolate, stirring until smooth, then pour over frosted cake.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 38g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 67g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
