Cookie Dough Cake

Globs of cookie dough baked into layers of sweet vanilla cake make this Cookie Dough Cake a showstopper for any occasion. Whether it’s a birthday party, holiday gathering, or just a weekend treat, this cake promises to delight everyone with its rich flavors and fun textures. The combination of cookie dough buttercream and silky chocolate ganache elevates this dessert to another level, ensuring it stands out on any dessert table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The mix of vanilla cake and cookie dough creates a delightful taste that appeals to both kids and adults.
• Perfect for Celebrations: Ideal for birthdays and parties, this cake adds a touch of fun and excitement to your celebrations.
• Easy to Make: Despite its impressive appearance, this recipe is straightforward and perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Versatile Layers: You can customize the layers with different fillings or toppings, making it unique every time.
• Decadent Presentation: The chocolate ganache adds a polished finish that will impress your guests.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the delicious world of Cookie Dough Cake, ensure you have the right tools ready. Having everything prepared will streamline your baking process, making it enjoyable rather than stressful.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula
• Cake pans (8-inch)
• Cooling rack
• Piping bags (for decoration)

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: These are essential for achieving the perfect texture in your batter and frosting.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to baking success to ensure consistent results each time.

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 Filling

• 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 Layers

• 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 Filling

First, cream together the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar until fluffy. Add the milk and vanilla extract; mix well. Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until combined. Stir in mini chocolate chips. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

In a stand mixer, beat together unsalted butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time along with vanilla extract. Mix until well incorporated. In another bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients while alternating with milk and yogurt until fully combined. Fold in mini chocolate chips.

Step 3: Bake the Cake Layers

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease three 8-inch round cake pans. Divide the batter evenly between pans. Bake for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.

Step 4: Prepare the Cookie Dough Buttercream

In a large bowl, beat together unsalted butter and powdered sugar until smooth. Add flour, light brown sugar, milk, vanilla extract, salt, and mini chocolate chips; mix until combined.

Step 5: Assemble the Cake

Once layers are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of cookie dough filling followed by cookie dough buttercream on top. Repeat with remaining layers.

Step 6: Finish with Ganache

For ganache, heat heavy cream until just simmering then pour over chopped chocolate in a bowl. Let sit for 5 minutes before stirring until smooth. If needed, add vegetable oil for shine. Pour ganache over assembled cake allowing it to drip down the sides.

Enjoy your deliciously indulgent Cookie Dough Cake!

How to Serve Cookie Dough Cake

Serving Cookie Dough Cake is all about enhancing its deliciousness while making it visually appealing. Here are some creative ideas to make your presentation stand out.

With a Scoop of Ice Cream

• Pair a slice of cookie dough cake with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream for a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.

Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce

• A generous drizzle of warm chocolate sauce on top adds an indulgent touch, enhancing the cake’s richness.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Light and fluffy whipped cream can balance the sweetness of the cake and add an airy element to each bite.

Garnished with Extra Cookie Dough Bites

• Add small dollops of cookie dough on top to reinforce the theme and provide an extra treat for cookie lovers.

Served at Room Temperature

• Allow the cake to come to room temperature before serving. This helps enhance the flavors and makes it easier to slice.

Accompanied by Fresh Berries

• Fresh strawberries or raspberries add a refreshing tartness that complements the sweetness of the cake perfectly.

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How to Perfect Cookie Dough Cake

To achieve the ultimate Cookie Dough Cake, consider these helpful tips for success.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Measure Flour Accurately: Use the spoon-and-level method for flour. This ensures you don’t add too much, which can lead to a dense cake.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until ingredients are combined. Overmixing can result in tough cake layers.
• Chill Your Cookie Dough: If you’re making homemade cookie dough bites, chilling them will help them hold their shape when added to the batter.
• Let It Cool Completely: Before frosting, make sure your cake layers are completely cooled. This prevents melting your frosting.
• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to tweak vanilla extract amounts or add different types of chocolate chips for variety in flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Cookie Dough Cake

When serving Cookie Dough Cake, pairing it with delightful side dishes can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides a light and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the cake.
2. Chocolate Chip Cookies: For true cookie lovers, serving mini chocolate chip cookies alongside creates a fun dessert platter.
3. Vanilla Pudding: A creamy vanilla pudding offers a smooth texture that complements the chewy elements of the cake.
4. Ice Cream Sundae Bar: Set up a sundae bar so guests can create their own desserts using ice cream, toppings, and sauces.
5. Coffee or Espresso: A warm cup enhances dessert flavors and balances sweetness with its robust taste.
6. Milkshakes: Thick milkshakes made with chocolate or vanilla further indulge your sweet tooth while pairing well with cookie dough elements.
7. Nutty Granola Parfait: Layers of granola and yogurt can provide a crunchy contrast that adds texture without overpowering flavors.
8. Cheesecake Bites: These rich bites offer another layer of creaminess that pairs delightfully with your cake’s flavor profile.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Overmixing the batter: This can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until combined to keep it light and fluffy.
• Using cold ingredients: Cold butter or eggs can affect the texture. Make sure everything is at room temperature for best results.
• Incorrect measuring of flour: Too much flour can make your cake dry. Use a kitchen scale or spoon and level method for accuracy.
• Skipping the cooling time: Cutting into a warm cake can cause it to crumble. Let your layers cool completely before frosting.
• Not chilling the ganache: If the ganache isn’t set, it won’t drip properly. Allow it to cool slightly before pouring over your cake.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Keep layers separated with parchment paper if stacked.

Freezing Cookie Dough Cake

• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating Cookie Dough Cake

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

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making this delicious Cookie Dough Cake, check out these FAQs.

What makes Cookie Dough Cake unique?

The blend of cookie dough and cake creates a delightful contrast of textures and flavors, making it irresistible.

Can I use different types of chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix semi-sweet, milk chocolate, or even white chocolate chips based on your preference.

How do I know when my cake is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it’s ready!

Can I customize my Cookie Dough Cake?

Yes! You can add nuts, different flavored extracts, or even layer with your favorite frosting for more variety!

How should I serve Cookie Dough Cake?

Serve chilled or at room temperature as a delightful dessert at parties or gatherings!

Final Thoughts

This Cookie Dough Cake is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to customize it according to your taste. Whether you want an extra layer of frosting or different chocolate types, this recipe adapts beautifully. Give it a try and enjoy creating lasting memories around this heavenly treat!