Cookie Dough Cake

Globs of cookie dough baked into layers of sweet vanilla cake make this Cookie Dough Cake a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or just craving something sweet, this cake stands out with its rich flavors and fun textures. Its combination of cookie dough buttercream and silky chocolate ganache elevates it to a level that will impress your guests. Perfect for gatherings or an indulgent dessert at home, the Cookie Dough Cake is sure to be a favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent Flavor: The blend of cookie dough and vanilla cake creates a taste sensation that’s hard to resist.
• Impressive Presentation: Layers of cake, frosting, and ganache come together for a visually stunning dessert.
• Versatile Treat: Ideal for birthdays, celebrations, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth at home.
• Fun to Make: Preparing this cake involves mixing, layering, and decorating, making it an enjoyable baking experience.
• Kids Approved: With cookie dough in every bite, children will love this cake just as much as adults.

Tools and Preparation

Baking a delicious Cookie Dough Cake requires some essential tools. Having the right equipment not only makes the process easier but also ensures better results. Here are the must-haves for creating this delightful dessert.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• 8-inch round cake pans
• Parchment paper
• Cake stand or serving plate

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: A must-have for achieving creamy butter and smooth batters quickly.
• Rubber spatula: Perfect for folding ingredients without deflating the batter.
• Cake pans: Ensures even baking and helps retain the shape of your layers.

Ingredients

To make your Cookie Dough Cake, gather these 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 SEE NOTES
• 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 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
• 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
• 4oz bittersweet chocolate, chopped
• 4oz (1/2 cup) heavy cream
• 2–3 tsp vegetable oil

How to Make Cookie Dough Cake

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease three 8-inch round cake pans with butter or cooking spray. For easy removal, line the bottom with parchment paper.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine:
Unsalted butter
Granulated sugar
Light brown sugar
Add milk and vanilla extract. Mix until creamy. Gradually add all-purpose flour and salt until combined. Stir in mini chocolate chips. Set aside.

Step 3: Bake the Cake Layers

In another bowl, beat unsalted butter until light. Gradually add granulated sugar followed by eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.

Combine the dry ingredients with wet ingredients alternating with milk and Greek yogurt until smooth. Fold in mini chocolate chips. Pour batter evenly into prepared pans.

Bake for about 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool completely before removing from pans.

Step 4: Prepare Cookie Dough Buttercream

In a large bowl, beat unsalted butter until fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar and flour while mixing on low speed. Add milk, vanilla extract, salt, then fold in mini chocolate chips.

Step 5: Assemble the Cake

Place one layer on a serving plate. Spread cookie dough filling on top followed by another layer of cake. Repeat with remaining layers.

Step 6: Add Chocolate Ganache

In a small saucepan over medium heat, warm heavy cream until just simmering. Remove from heat; add chopped bittersweet chocolate stirring until melted smooth. Allow it to cool slightly before pouring over assembled cake.

Your delicious Cookie Dough Cake is now ready! Enjoy every bite!

How to Serve Cookie Dough Cake

Serving your delicious Cookie Dough Cake in style can enhance the experience for you and your guests. Here are some creative serving suggestions to make your dessert stand out.

With Vanilla Ice Cream

• Pairing this cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream creates a delightful contrast of cold and warm, enhancing the cookie dough flavor.

Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce

• A rich chocolate sauce drizzled over each slice adds an extra layer of indulgence and makes for an impressive presentation.

Garnished with Whipped Cream

• Light, fluffy whipped cream can balance the richness of the cake and buttercream, making each bite even more enjoyable.

Served with Fresh Berries

• Fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries provide a tartness that complements the sweetness of the cake perfectly.

Accompanied by Coffee or Tea

• Serving slices of Cookie Dough Cake alongside a cup of coffee or tea creates a cozy atmosphere, ideal for gatherings or afternoon treats.

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How to Perfect Cookie Dough Cake

To achieve the best results with your Cookie Dough Cake, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure a moist, flavorful treat every time.

• Use room temperature ingredients: This helps create an even batter and ensures that everything mixes together smoothly.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Mix until just combined for light and fluffy layers.
• Chill cookie dough balls: Before adding them to the batter, chilling helps maintain their shape while baking, preventing them from sinking.
• Check for doneness: Use a toothpick to test if the cake is done; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.
• Let it cool completely: Cooling allows the flavors to settle and makes frosting easier without melting.
• Store properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Cookie Dough Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Cookie Dough Cake can elevate any occasion. Here are some fantastic options that complement this sweet treat.

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the richness of the cake.
2. Chocolate Mousse: This light and airy dessert pairs wonderfully with cookie dough flavors, creating a decadent duo.
3. Cheesecake Bites: Mini cheesecake bites offer creamy textures that work well alongside the soft layers of cake.
4. Brownies: Adding fudgy brownies provides another chocolatey element, perfect for true dessert lovers.
5. Milkshakes: A thick milkshake can be a fun drink pairing that enhances the indulgent experience.
6. Caramel Sauce Dipped Pretzels: The salty-sweet crunch of pretzels dipped in caramel complements the softness of the cake beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking a Cookie Dough Cake can be tricky, but avoiding common mistakes will ensure your cake turns out perfectly.

• Using cold ingredients: Cold butter and eggs can affect the texture of your cake. Always bring them to room temperature before starting.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Too much flour can make your cake dense. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurements.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to a tough cake. Mix until just combined for a lighter texture.
• Skipping the baking powder: Baking powder is essential for rising. Always check its freshness before using it in your recipe.
• Not letting the cake cool properly: Cutting into a warm cake can cause it to crumble. Allow it to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Cookie Dough Cake in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Cookie Dough Cake

• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Cookie Dough Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 15-20 seconds per slice.
• Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Cookie Dough Cake.

Can I use different types of chocolate chips?

You can definitely experiment with other types of chocolate chips, such as dark or white chocolate, to customize your Cookie Dough Cake.

How do I make the cookie dough filling?

Mix together unsalted butter, brown sugar, and flour with mini chocolate chips for a delicious cookie dough layer between cake layers.

What makes this Cookie Dough Cake so special?

The combination of moist vanilla cake and rich cookie dough buttercream creates an irresistible dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking to enjoy this delightful Cookie Dough Cake without gluten.

How do I store leftover Cookie Dough Cake?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freeze slices wrapped securely for later enjoyment.

Final Thoughts

This Cookie Dough Cake is not just delicious; it’s also versatile! You can customize it by adding different flavors or toppings. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or just satisfying your sweet tooth, this cake is sure to impress. Try it out and enjoy every bite!