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 it’s a birthday celebration, a family gathering, or just a special dessert for yourself, this cake stands out with its unique flavor and texture. The combination of soft cake layers, creamy cookie dough buttercream, and rich chocolate ganache creates an unforgettable dessert experience that friends and family will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent Flavor: The blend of cookie dough and vanilla cake results in a rich taste that pleases any sweet tooth.
• Eye-Catching Presentation: With its beautiful layers and glossy ganache, this cake is perfect for impressing guests at parties.
• Fun to Make: Baking this cake can be a fun activity with friends or kids, allowing everyone to join in on the deliciousness.
• Versatile Occasion Choice: Ideal for birthdays, celebrations, or simply as a treat to enjoy at home.
• Cookie Dough Goodness: Who doesn’t love cookie dough? This recipe satisfies that craving in every layer.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Cookie Dough Cake, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will make the baking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• 8-inch round cake pans
• Cooling racks
• Piping bags

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Ensures that your batter is mixed thoroughly for a fluffy texture.
• 8-inch round cake pans: Perfect size for creating those lovely layered cakes that are easy to stack.
• Piping bags: Essential for decorating your cake with beautiful buttercream swirls.

Ingredients

Globs of cookie dough baked into layers of sweet vanilla cake make up this delicious dessert.

For the Cookie Dough Layer

• 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 Cake Batter

• 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 Ganache Topping

• 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 Layer

• In a mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
• Mix in the milk and vanilla extract until combined.
• Gradually add in the flour and salt until just mixed. Fold in mini chocolate chips.
• Scoop globs of cookie dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Chill while preparing the cake batter.

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• In a large bowl, beat together unsalted butter and sugar until light and fluffy using an electric mixer.
• Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
• In another bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add it to the wet mixture alternately with whole milk and Greek yogurt until smooth.
• Gently fold in mini chocolate chips.

Step 3: Bake the Cake Layers

• Divide the batter evenly among three greased 8-inch round cake pans.
• Add chilled cookie dough globs on top of each layer before placing them in the oven.
• Bake for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool completely on cooling racks.

Step 4: Prepare Cookie Dough Buttercream

• In a bowl, beat unsalted butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing on low speed.
• Mix in flour, light brown sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined. Fold in mini chocolate chips.

Step 5: Assemble the Cake

• Place one layer of cake on your serving plate; spread a layer of cookie dough buttercream on top.
• Repeat with remaining layers. Finally, frost the entire outside with more buttercream.

Step 6: Make Chocolate Ganache

• Heat heavy cream over medium heat until simmering; pour over chopped bittersweet chocolate in a bowl. Let sit for 5 minutes before stirring until smooth.
• Add vegetable oil to thin if necessary. Allow ganache to cool slightly before drizzling over the frosted cake.

Now you have your delicious Cookie Dough Cake ready to serve! Enjoy every bite!

How to Serve Cookie Dough Cake

Serving Cookie Dough Cake can transform any occasion into a sweet celebration. This cake is not only visually stunning but also delicious, making it the perfect centerpiece for gatherings.

For Birthdays

• Slice and Share: Cut the cake into generous slices and serve with ice cream for a delightful treat.
• Decorate with Sprinkles: Top each slice with colorful sprinkles to enhance its festive look.

With Coffee or Tea

• Pair with a Latte: The rich flavors of cookie dough cake complement a creamy latte perfectly.
• Enjoy with Herbal Tea: A light herbal tea balances the sweetness of the cake.

As a Dessert Buffet Item

• Mini Slice Variety: Offer mini slices alongside other desserts for guests to sample different treats.
• Create Dessert Plates: Serve slices on decorative plates with berries for a beautiful presentation.

With Milk

• Classic Combo: Serve slices with a cold glass of milk for that nostalgic cookie and milk experience.

For Special Occasions

• Garnished with Berries: Add fresh berries on top of each slice for a touch of color and freshness.
• Serve at Room Temperature: Allow the cake to sit out before serving to enhance its flavor and texture.

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How to Perfect Cookie Dough Cake

Perfecting your Cookie Dough Cake involves attention to detail. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Measure Flour Correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid dense cake; too much flour can ruin the texture.
• Don’t Overmix Batter: Mix just until combined to keep the cake light and fluffy.
• Cool Layers Completely: Allow each layer to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.
• Chill Buttercream if Necessary: If your buttercream becomes too soft, chill it briefly before applying.
• Drip Ganache Carefully: Pour ganache around the edges slowly for an even drip effect.

Best Side Dishes for Cookie Dough Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Cookie Dough Cake enhances its appeal. Here are some delicious options:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that complements the rich flavors of the cake.
2. Fresh Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing contrast that balances the sweetness of the cake.
3. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: Indulge in chocolate-covered strawberries for an elegant touch.
4. Whipped Cream: Add dollops of whipped cream on top of each slice for extra creaminess.
5. Coffee Flavored Mousse: The coffee flavor cuts through sweetness while adding richness.
6. Caramel Sauce Drizzle: A drizzle of caramel adds an extra layer of flavor that pairs beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking a Cookie Dough Cake can be a delightful experience, but certain mistakes can ruin the fun. Here are some common pitfalls to watch for:

• Using cold ingredients: Always ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature. Cold ingredients can lead to uneven mixing and a dense cake.
• Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can develop gluten, resulting in a tough texture instead of a light and fluffy cake.
• Not measuring flour accurately: Use a kitchen scale or the spoon-and-level method to measure flour. Too much flour can make your cake dry and crumbly.
• Skipping the cooling step: Allow your cake layers to cool completely before frosting. Frosting a warm cake can cause it to melt and slide off.
• Ignoring baking time: Keep an eye on your cake as it bakes. Every oven is different; check for doneness using a toothpick to avoid under or overbaking.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Cookie Dough Cake in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for up to three days.

Freezing Cookie Dough Cake

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

Reheating Cookie Dough Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm slices for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices for 20-30 seconds on medium power.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Cookie Dough Cake.

How do I make Cookie Dough for my Cookie Dough Cake?

To make cookie dough, combine melted butter, sugars, milk, vanilla extract, flour, salt, and chocolate chips. Make sure not to bake this dough!

Can I customize my Cookie Dough Cake?

Absolutely! You can add nuts or different types of chocolate chips for variety. Feel free to experiment with flavors like peanut butter or caramel as well.

What if I don’t have mini chocolate chips?

You can substitute regular chocolate chips or chop up larger chocolate bars into small pieces. Just ensure they mix well into the batter.

How long does the Cookie Dough Cake last?

The Cookie Dough Cake stays fresh for up to three days in the fridge and up to three months if properly frozen.

Can I use gluten-free flour in this recipe?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup if you need a gluten-free version of your Cookie Dough Cake.

Final Thoughts

This Cookie Dough Cake is not just delicious but also incredibly versatile. Whether you serve it at birthdays or special occasions, it’s sure to please everyone. Feel free to customize it with your favorite flavors or toppings for an even more delightful experience!