Cookie Dough Cake

Cookie Dough Cake is an irresistible treat that combines the best elements of cake and cookie dough. The layers of soft, sweet vanilla cake are interspersed with delightful globs of cookie dough, making it perfect for celebrations like birthdays or family gatherings. Its rich cookie dough buttercream and glossy chocolate ganache elevate this dessert to a whole new level. It’s a showstopper that will impress both kids and adults alike!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent Flavor: The combination of cookie dough and chocolate creates a rich taste that satisfies any sweet tooth.
• Versatile for Occasions: Ideal for birthdays, holidays, or just a special treat, this cake fits any celebration.
• Easy to Follow: With clear instructions, even novice bakers can create this stunning dessert.
• Impressive Presentation: The layered look with drippy ganache makes this cake visually stunning, perfect for sharing on social media.
• Customizable Options: You can easily swap ingredients or add toppings to make it your own.

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the necessary tools before starting. Having everything ready will save you time and effort while creating your Cookie Dough Cake.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Cake pans (8-inch)
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: These tools make mixing the batter and buttercream effortless, giving you a smooth consistency.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple sizes helps in organizing ingredients effectively during preparation.

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

• 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

Begin by creaming together the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy. Then add in the milk and vanilla extract. Gradually mix in the flour and salt until combined, followed by the mini chocolate chips. Chill this mixture while you prepare the cake batter.

Step 2: Make the Vanilla Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a stand mixer, beat together unsalted butter and sugar until light. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract. In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients alternately with milk and Greek yogurt until well mixed.

Step 3: Combine Layers

Grease three 8-inch cake pans and pour equal amounts of batter into each. Drop spoonfuls of chilled cookie dough into each layer before baking. Bake for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center. Let cool completely on wire racks.

Step 4: Prepare Cookie Dough Buttercream

In a large bowl, beat unsalted butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, flour, brown sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth. Fold in mini chocolate chips.

Step 5: Assemble Your Cake

Once cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread an even layer of cookie dough buttercream on top before adding the second layer. Repeat with remaining layers.

Step 6: Make Chocolate Ganache

Heat heavy cream over medium heat until simmering. Pour over chopped bittersweet chocolate in a bowl; let sit for a minute then stir until smooth. If desired, add vegetable oil for extra shine.

Step 7: Finish with Ganache

Pour warm ganache over assembled cake allowing it to drip down the sides for that perfect finish! Decorate as desired with additional cookie dough pieces or sprinkles if you like.

Enjoy every slice of this luscious Cookie Dough Cake!

How to Serve Cookie Dough Cake

Serving your Cookie Dough Cake can elevate the experience for everyone. Whether it’s a birthday party or a casual gathering, these serving suggestions will make your cake a hit.

Classic Slice

• A generous slice of cake topped with extra cookie dough buttercream for that classic indulgent experience.

Ice Cream Delight

• Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream to create a delightful contrast of temperatures and flavors.

Drizzle It Up

• Add some chocolate ganache on top of each slice for an extra layer of richness that guests will love.

Festive Toppings

• Decorate slices with sprinkles or crushed cookies to add color and texture, making it more visually appealing.

Mini Cakes

• Cut the cake into smaller rounds and serve as mini cakes for easy sharing at parties.

Coffee Pairing

• Offer a cup of coffee or espresso alongside for a perfect balance of sweetness and bitterness.

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How to Perfect Cookie Dough Cake

To ensure your Cookie Dough Cake turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Use room temperature ingredients: This helps in creating a smooth batter that incorporates air well, leading to a fluffier cake.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Mix until just combined to prevent the cake from becoming dense and tough.

• Chill the cookie dough: Allowing the cookie dough bits to chill before adding them to the batter prevents them from sinking to the bottom during baking.

• Bake evenly: Rotate your cake pans halfway through baking for even cooking and browning.

• Let it cool completely: Cooling your cake layers completely before frosting will help maintain the integrity of the layers and prevent melting.

Best Side Dishes for Cookie Dough Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Cookie Dough Cake can enhance its flavors and offer variety. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cake.

2. Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture complements the cake’s richness perfectly, providing a delightful contrast.

3. Whipped Cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream can enhance each slice without overpowering it.

4. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These provide a decadent touch that pairs wonderfully with chocolate ganache on the cake.

5. Nutty Trail Mix: A crunchy trail mix adds texture and can be a healthy alternative alongside dessert.

6. Coffee or Espresso: The bitterness of coffee serves as an excellent counterbalance to the sweetness of the cookie dough cake.

7. Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses offers a savory option that contrasts beautifully with sweet flavors.

8. Caramel Sauce: Drizzling caramel sauce over slices enhances flavor depth and adds an extra level of decadence.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking a Cookie Dough Cake can be a delightful experience, but it’s important to avoid common pitfalls.

• Skipping room temperature ingredients: Using cold butter or eggs can lead to uneven mixing. Always let your ingredients sit out until they reach room temperature for the best results.
• Overmixing the batter: This can cause your cake to become dense. Mix just until combined for a light and fluffy texture.
• Not measuring flour accurately: Too much flour can dry out the cake. Use the spoon-and-level method for precise measurements.
• Ignoring baking time: Every oven is different; check for doneness a few minutes before the timer goes off. Use a toothpick inserted in the center – it should come out clean or with a few crumbs.
• Forgetting to cool layers properly: Assembling warm layers can cause melting frosting. Allow each layer to cool completely on a wire rack.

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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 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Cookie Dough Cake

• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Cookie Dough Cake

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making and enjoying your Cookie Dough Cake.

Can I use different types of chocolate chips?

Yes! Feel free to mix in dark chocolate or white chocolate chips for varied flavors.

How do I make my Cookie Dough Cake more moist?

Adding Greek yogurt or sour cream enhances moisture and flavor.

Can I freeze the cookie dough layers separately?

Absolutely! You can freeze each layer before assembly, just ensure they are well-wrapped.

What’s the best way to decorate my Cookie Dough Cake?

Consider adding extra chocolate chips on top or drizzling with ganache for an appealing look.

How long does it take to make a Cookie Dough Cake?

The total time is about 2 hours and 30 minutes, including prep and baking.

Final Thoughts

This Cookie Dough Cake is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with various flavors of frosting or mix-ins. Whether for birthdays or just a sweet treat, this cake is sure to impress everyone at the table!

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Cookie Dough Cake

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• Author: Dina
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x

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Description

Indulge in the ultimate dessert experience with this Cookie Dough Cake, a delightful fusion of soft vanilla cake and rich cookie dough. Perfectly layered with creamy cookie dough buttercream and topped with glossy chocolate ganache, this cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at birthdays, holidays, or any special occasion. Its decadent flavors and impressive presentation make it an irresistible treat for both kids and adults alike. With easy-to-follow instructions, even novice bakers can create this stunning masterpiece that looks as good as it tastes!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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
• 4 oz bittersweet chocolate, chopped
• 4 oz (1/2 cup) heavy cream
• 2–3 tsp vegetable oil

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Instructions

1. Cream unsalted butter with sugars for the cookie dough until fluffy; mix in milk and vanilla, followed by flour and mini chocolate chips. Chill.
2. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Beat together unsalted butter and sugar for the cake batter; add eggs one at a time. Mix dry ingredients separately, then alternate adding them with milk and yogurt to wet mixture.
3. Grease three cake pans, pour in batter, and drop spoonfuls of chilled cookie dough into each layer before baking for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
4. Prepare cookie dough buttercream by creaming unsalted butter and gradually adding powdered sugar and other ingredients until smooth.
5. Once cooled, stack layers with buttercream between them. Finish with warm chocolate ganache poured over the top.

• Prep Time: 40 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
• Calories: 410
• Sugar: 36g
• Sodium: 210mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 13g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: <0g
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 65mg