Cookie Dough Cake

Globs of cookie dough baked into layers of sweet vanilla cake create a delightful Cookie Dough Cake that’s perfect for any celebration. This cake is not just a dessert; it’s an experience! With its layers of fluffy cake, rich cookie dough buttercream, and a luscious chocolate ganache, every bite offers a mouthwatering combination of flavors and textures. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or just craving something sweet, this cake will impress everyone at the table.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• How to Make Cookie Dough Cake
• Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough
• Step 2: Make the Cake Batter
• Step 3: Assemble Your Layers
• Step 4: Prepare the Frosting
• Step 5: Finish with Ganache
• How to Serve Cookie Dough Cake
• With a Scoop of Ice Cream
• Drizzled with Caramel Sauce
• Topped with Fresh Berries
• With Whipped Cream
• As Part of a Dessert Platter
• How to Perfect Cookie Dough Cake
• Best Side Dishes for Cookie Dough Cake
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Cookie Dough Cake
• Reheating Cookie Dough Cake
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use different types of chocolate chips in my Cookie Dough Cake?
• How do I make the cookie dough edible?
• Can I customize my Cookie Dough Cake?
• How do I know when my cake is done baking?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent Flavor: The combination of vanilla cake and cookie dough brings out a rich and satisfying taste that appeals to all ages.
• Eye-catching Presentation: The layers of cake and shiny chocolate ganache make this dessert not only delicious but also stunning to look at.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party, holiday gathering, or just a treat for yourself, this cake fits perfectly into any celebration.
• Easy to Customize: Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins like nuts or different types of chocolate chips to make it your own.
• Fun to Make: Baking this cake is not only simple but also enjoyable—get your kids involved for a fun family activity!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Cookie Dough Cake, gather the essential tools you’ll need. Having the right equipment makes the baking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: This tool makes mixing ingredients effortless, ensuring that your batter is light and fluffy.
• Offset spatula: Perfect for spreading frosting evenly across the layers for that professional finish.

Ingredients

Globs of cookie dough baked into layers of sweet vanilla cake, all smothered in cookie dough buttercream and coated in silky chocolate ganache.

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 the Cookie Dough

Start by combining the ingredients for the cookie dough.
In a mixing bowl, cream together 1/2 cup unsalted butter with 100g granulated sugar and 130g light brown sugar until smooth.
Add in 60ml milk and 2 tsp vanilla extract. Mix well.
Gradually incorporate 260g all-purpose flour and 1/2 tsp salt until combined.
Fold in 180g mini chocolate chips. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

Next, prepare the vanilla cake batter.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In another bowl, cream together 330g unsalted butter with 400g sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in three large eggs one at a time followed by an additional 2 tsp vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together 400g all-purpose flour, 2 tsp baking powder, and 1 tsp salt.
Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients while alternating with adding in 240ml whole milk and 125g Greek yogurt. Mix until smooth.
Gently fold in another batch of 180g mini chocolate chips.

Step 3: Assemble Your Layers

Now it’s time to bake your layers!
Pour half of the batter into each prepared 8-inch round pan.
Add spoonfuls of cookie dough on top before pouring remaining batter over it.
Bake for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Step 4: Prepare the Frosting

While cakes cool, whip up the cookie dough buttercream frosting.
Beat together softened butter with powdered sugar until creamy.
Add in remaining ingredients including flour, brown sugar, milk, vanilla extract, salt, and fold in mini chocolate chips.

Step 5: Finish with Ganache

Finally prepare the chocolate ganache topping.
Heat heavy cream until hot but not boiling; pour it over chopped bittersweet chocolate. Stir until smooth.

Assemble your cooled cakes by layering them with frosting between each layer before coating with ganache. Enjoy your delicious Cookie Dough Cake!

How to Serve Cookie Dough Cake

Cookie Dough Cake is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether it’s for a birthday party or a special occasion, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

With a Scoop of Ice Cream

• Vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of the cake, creating a sweet and creamy contrast.
• Chocolate or cookie dough ice cream enhances the dessert’s theme and adds extra texture.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• A warm caramel drizzle over each slice adds a sweet and gooey element that complements the chocolate chips in the cake.

Topped with Fresh Berries

• Strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries add a fresh, tart flavor that balances the sweetness of the cake beautifully.

With Whipped Cream

• Light and fluffy whipped cream makes for an airy topping that contrasts nicely with the dense cookie dough layers.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Serve slices alongside other desserts like brownies, cookies, or cupcakes for an indulgent dessert spread at gatherings.

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How to Perfect Cookie Dough Cake

To ensure your Cookie Dough Cake turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow butter, eggs, and milk to come to room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off for precise measurements; this prevents dense cake.
• Chill Cookie Dough Balls: Before adding to the batter, chilling cookie dough balls helps them hold their shape during baking.
• Avoid Overmixing: Mix ingredients just until combined to keep your cake light and fluffy.
• Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs when done.
• Let It Cool Completely: Allow layers to cool completely before frosting; this prevents melting and sliding of the frosting.

Best Side Dishes for Cookie Dough Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Cookie Dough Cake can enhance its deliciousness. Here are some great options:

1. Chocolate Chip Cookies: Classic cookies that echo the flavors of the cake while providing an additional crunchy texture.
2. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a light contrast to the richness of the cake.
3. Pecan Pie Bars: These bars add a nutty sweetness that complements the chocolate elements in your dessert.
4. Cheesecake Bites: Bite-sized cheesecakes offer a creamy counterpart that’s easy to share at parties.
5. Mini Cupcakes: Variety is key; mini cupcakes allow guests to sample different flavors without overwhelming them.
6. Milkshakes: A thick chocolate or vanilla milkshake pairs excellently with cake, making every bite even more indulgent.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking a perfect Cookie Dough Cake can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Ignoring ingredient temperature: Using cold butter or eggs can affect the cake’s texture. Always bring them to room temperature before mixing.
• Overmixing the batter: This can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until combined to keep it light and fluffy.
• Skipping the flour sifting: Not sifting flour can result in lumps and uneven texture. Sift your flour for a smoother batter.
• Not measuring accurately: Baking is precise; using too much or too little of an ingredient can ruin your cake. Use measuring cups and spoons for accuracy.
• Using stale ingredients: Old baking powder or expired flour can impact your cake’s rise and flavor. Check expiration dates before starting.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Cookie Dough Cake in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Cookie Dough Cake

• Wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Cookie Dough Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm slices for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices for 15-20 seconds until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Use a pan on low heat, covering it to retain moisture, for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding this delightful Cookie Dough Cake.

Can I use different types of chocolate chips in my Cookie Dough Cake?

Yes! You can use dark, milk, or even white chocolate chips according to your preference.

How do I make the cookie dough edible?

Make sure not to include raw eggs or unbaked flour in your cookie dough mixture. Use heat-treated flour for safety.

Can I customize my Cookie Dough Cake?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, different chocolates, or even sprinkles to make it uniquely yours.

How do I know when my cake is done baking?

The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Final Thoughts

This Cookie Dough Cake is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with different flavors and toppings, making it perfect for any occasion. Try it out, and enjoy a slice of joy!