Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Ice Cream Cake Recipe

If you love the combination of creamy ice cream and indulgent cookie dough, then this Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Ice Cream Cake is for you! Perfect for summer birthdays, special occasions, or when you want to impress a crowd, this frozen dessert brings together the best of both worlds: layers of rich, creamy vanilla ice cream, a chewy chocolate chip cookie crust, and chunks of safe-to-eat cookie dough. It's a decadent treat that’s easy to assemble and even easier to devour. Ready to dive into a cool, sweet, and irresistible cake? Let’s get started!

this Recipe

What is a Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Ice Cream Cake?

A Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Ice Cream Cake is a frozen dessert made of layers of creamy ice cream, cookie dough, and often a crust or base made from cookies or cookie dough. It typically includes safe-to-eat, egg-free cookie dough pieces mixed into the ice cream, along with a layer of chocolate chip cookie crust at the bottom. The cake is topped with whipped cream, chocolate drizzle, or even more cookie dough balls for a fun and delicious finishing touch. It’s a refreshing and indulgent dessert that's perfect for hot weather or any time of the year.

Ingredients List for Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Ice Cream Cake

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this mouth-watering Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Ice Cream Cake:

For the Cookie Dough Crust:

• 1 ½ cups chocolate chip cookie crumbs (about 15-20 cookies, crushed)
• ¼ cup melted butter

For the Edible Cookie Dough:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (heat-treated for safety)
• ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
• ¾ cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup mini chocolate chips

For the Ice Cream Layer:

• 1 ½ quarts vanilla ice cream (softened slightly)

For the Whipped Cream Topping:

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Decoration:

• Chocolate sauce or ganache (optional, for drizzling)
• Extra cookie dough balls or mini chocolate chips (for garnish)

Substitutions and Variations

Here are some easy substitutions and variations you can try for this Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Ice Cream Cake:

• Different Ice Cream Flavors: Swap the vanilla ice cream for chocolate, cookie dough ice cream, or even mint chocolate chip for a fun twist.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free cookies for the crust and a gluten-free flour blend in the edible cookie dough for a gluten-free version of this dessert.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute dairy-free ice cream, butter, and milk to make a dairy-free version of this ice cream cake. There are great non-dairy ice cream options available that will still give you a creamy texture.
• Chocolate Base: Instead of a cookie crust, you can use crushed chocolate sandwich cookies (like Oreos) to make a chocolatey base for the cake.
• Cookie Butter Layer: For a decadent twist, add a layer of cookie butter or Nutella between the cookie dough and ice cream layers.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s walk through the process of making this show-stopping Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Ice Cream Cake.

Step 1: Heat-Treat the Flour for Edible Cookie Dough

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the flour for the cookie dough onto a baking sheet and bake for 5-7 minutes to kill any harmful bacteria. Set aside to cool completely before using.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough Crust

In a medium bowl, combine the chocolate chip cookie crumbs with the melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly moistened. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form the crust. Place the pan in the freezer to set while you prepare the cookie dough.

Step 3: Prepare the Edible Cookie Dough

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the milk and vanilla extract, mixing until combined. Gradually add the heat-treated flour, stirring until a dough forms. Fold in the mini chocolate chips. Set aside a portion of the dough to roll into balls for decorating later. Spread the remaining cookie dough over the chilled cookie crust, pressing it evenly to form a layer. Return the pan to the freezer.

Step 4: Add the Ice Cream Layer

Take the softened vanilla ice cream and spread it evenly over the cookie dough layer in the pan. Use a spatula to smooth the surface. Place the cake in the freezer for at least 4-6 hours (or overnight) to firm up.

How to Make Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Ice Cream Cake: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 5: Whip the Cream

Just before serving the cake, prepare the whipped cream topping. In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together using a hand mixer or stand mixer until stiff peaks form. Set aside.

Step 6: Decorate the Cake

Remove the ice cream cake from the freezer. If the cake is difficult to remove from the springform pan, run a warm cloth or knife around the edge of the pan to help release it. Spread the whipped cream over the top of the cake.

For a final touch, drizzle chocolate sauce or ganache over the top. Garnish with cookie dough balls and sprinkle with mini chocolate chips for a beautiful presentation.

Step 7: Serve the Cake

Slice the cake with a sharp knife (run it under hot water for easier slicing). Serve immediately and enjoy the delicious combination of creamy ice cream, chewy cookie dough, and crunchy cookie crust!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not softening the ice cream properly: If the ice cream is too hard when you try to spread it, it may tear up the cookie dough layer. Let the ice cream sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes to soften slightly for easy spreading.
• Skipping heat-treating the flour: For safety, it’s important to heat-treat the flour before using it in the cookie dough to eliminate any potential bacteria.
• Freezing time: Make sure to give the cake enough time to freeze fully before slicing. Cutting into it too soon may result in a messy, melted cake.
• Too much whipped cream: Keep the whipped cream layer light and fluffy—don’t overbeat it, or it could turn grainy.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Now that your Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Ice Cream Cake is ready, it’s time to serve and present it like a pro!

How to Serve Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Ice Cream Cake

• Temperature: This cake should be served straight from the freezer. If it’s too hard to slice, let it sit out for 5-10 minutes to soften slightly.
• Portion Size: Due to the rich nature of the cookie dough and ice cream combination, serve smaller slices, especially if you’re serving it after a meal.
• Accompaniments: Serve the cake with an extra drizzle of chocolate sauce or caramel, and a dollop of whipped cream on the side for an extra decadent treat.

Presentation Ideas for Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Ice Cream Cake

• Drizzle Chocolate or Caramel Sauce: A decorative drizzle of chocolate or caramel over the whipped cream adds an elegant touch.
• Cookie Dough Balls: Scatter the reserved cookie dough balls on top of the cake for a fun and visually appealing garnish.
• Chocolate Shavings or Chips: Sprinkle chocolate shavings or mini chocolate chips over the whipped cream for added texture and presentation.
• Crushed Cookie Border: Press crushed chocolate chip cookies around the bottom edge of the cake for an extra cookie crunch.

Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Ice Cream Cake Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: This ice cream cake can be made a few days in advance. Just be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap if you’re storing it for more than a day to prevent freezer burn.
• Storage: Store leftovers in the freezer, wrapped in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 5 days.
• Freezing Tip: If you’re in a hurry, place the cake in the freezer for an initial 1-2 hours before adding the final layers or toppings to help the ice cream firm up faster.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use store-bought cookie dough for this cake?
A: Yes, you can use store-bought edible cookie dough, but make sure it’s labeled as safe to eat raw. Homemade cookie dough adds a fresher, more customizable flavor, but store-bought works just fine in a pinch.

Q: How do I prevent the ice cream from melting too quickly?
A: Make sure your ice cream is firm and the cake is completely frozen before serving. It also helps to keep the cake in the freezer until just before serving and to slice it quickly.

Q: Can I use different types of cookies for the crust?
A: Absolutely! You can use chocolate sandwich cookies, graham crackers, or even peanut butter cookies as the base for the crust. Just be sure to adjust the amount of butter to ensure the crumbs hold together.

Q: Can I use other ice cream flavors?
A: Definitely! You can use chocolate, coffee, mint chocolate chip, or any other flavor of ice cream you love. The possibilities are endless with this versatile recipe

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Conclusion

There you have it! A luscious, creamy, and downright irresistible Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Ice Cream Cake that’s perfect for any occasion. With its layers of cookie dough, cookie crust, and ice cream, this dessert is a refreshing and decadent way to satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether you follow the classic recipe or mix in your own creative twists, this ice cream cake is sure to impress your friends and family. So, gather your ingredients and make this delightful frozen treat for your next celebration!

Enjoy your cookie dough-filled dessert adventure! 🍪🍦🎂

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