Cookie Dough Cake

This Cookie Dough Cake is a delightful treat that brings together the comforting flavors of cookie dough and vanilla cake. Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, this cake features layers of soft cake infused with chunks of cookie dough, all topped with luscious cookie dough buttercream and a rich chocolate ganache. Its unique combination of textures and flavors makes it an irresistible dessert that will impress anyone who takes a bite.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent Flavor: The combination of vanilla cake and cookie dough creates a rich taste that’s sure to please.
• Versatile Occasions: Ideal for birthdays, celebrations, or any occasion where you want to impress guests.
• Eye-Catching Presentation: The chocolate ganache coating makes this cake not only delicious but visually stunning.
• Easy to Customize: Feel free to swap out mini chocolate chips for your favorite mix-ins!
• Fun to Make: Baking this Cookie Dough Cake is a joyful experience for both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Cookie Dough Cake, having the right tools on hand will make your baking process easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: Makes mixing ingredients effortless, ensuring a smooth batter.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining different components without any spills.
• Rubber spatula: Great for scraping down the sides of the bowl and folding in ingredients evenly.

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 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 Vanilla 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 Layer

Start by creaming together the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar until fluffy. Add the milk and vanilla extract, mixing until combined. Gradually incorporate the flour and salt until just combined. Finally, fold in the mini chocolate chips. Spread this mixture onto a lined baking sheet and freeze while you prepare the next steps.

Step 2: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease three 8-inch round baking pans with butter or non-stick spray.

Step 3: Make the Vanilla Cake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, beat together the unsalted butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add in eggs one at a time, followed by 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 combined.

Step 4: Bake the Cake Layers

Divide the batter evenly among three prepared pans. Bake for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Allow them to cool in pans before transferring to a cooling rack.

Step 5: Prepare Cookie Dough Buttercream

In a stand mixer, beat unsalted butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, followed by flour, brown sugar, milk, vanilla extract, salt, and mini chocolate chips. Mix until smooth.

Step 6: Assemble Your Cake

Once cooled, place one layer of cake on a serving plate. Spread a layer of cookie dough buttercream over it. Repeat with remaining layers.

Step 7: Create Chocolate Ganache

Heat heavy cream in a saucepan until just simmering. Pour over chopped bittersweet chocolate in a bowl; let sit for a few minutes before stirring until smooth. If desired for drizzling consistency add vegetable oil gradually.

Step 8: Finish Your Cake

Pour warm ganache over your assembled cake allowing it to drip down the sides beautifully. Decorate with more cookie dough pieces if desired!

Now you have an incredible Cookie Dough Cake ready to wow your friends and family! Enjoy every delicious bite!

How to Serve Cookie Dough Cake

Serving your Cookie Dough Cake can enhance its delightful taste and presentation. Here are some creative ideas to make your cake experience even better.

With a Scoop of Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic pairing that complements the sweetness of the cake.
• Cookie Dough Ice Cream: For true cookie lovers, this creates a deliciously indulgent combo.

Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce

• Warm Chocolate Sauce: A rich drizzle adds warmth and an extra layer of flavor.
• Caramel Sauce: Pairing this with chocolate sauce creates a decadent treat.

Garnished with Fresh Berries

• Strawberries: Their tartness balances the sweetness of the cake beautifully.
• Raspberries: These provide a pop of color and a tangy contrast.

Served at Room Temperature

• Letting the cake sit out for a while allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Lightly Sweetened Whipped Cream: Adds a fluffy texture and lightness to every bite.

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How to Perfect Cookie Dough Cake

To ensure your Cookie Dough Cake is always a hit, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This helps achieve a smoother batter and better rise.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to keep the cake light and fluffy.
• Chill Your Buttercream: Chilling it slightly before frosting makes spreading easier and neater.
• Level Your Cakes: Trim any domes off the tops of your cakes for even stacking.
• Use Quality Chocolate Chips: High-quality chips melt beautifully and enhance flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Cookie Dough Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Cookie Dough Cake can elevate your dessert table. Here are some great options.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness alongside sweet cake.
2. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These bite-sized treats add elegance and are easy to grab.
3. Mini Cheesecakes: Their creamy texture contrasts nicely with the cookie dough flavor.
4. Coffee or Espresso: The bitterness of coffee pairs perfectly with sweet desserts like cake.
5. Milkshakes: Opt for chocolate or vanilla milkshakes as a fun drink option for kids and adults alike.
6. Nutty Granola Bars: These offer a crunchy texture that complements the softness of cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Using cold ingredients: Starting with cold butter or eggs can lead to uneven mixing. Always bring your ingredients to room temperature before you start.
• Overmixing the batter: This can result in a dense cake instead of a light and fluffy one. Mix just until combined for best results.
• Skipping the flour measurement: Accurately measuring flour is crucial to prevent a dry cake. Use the spoon and level method rather than scooping directly from the bag.
• Not chilling the cookie dough: For the cookie dough pieces in your cake, chilling them helps maintain their shape while baking. Don’t skip this step!
• Ignoring oven temperature: Every oven is different, so using an oven thermometer can help ensure your cake bakes evenly at the right temperature.
• Rushing the cooling process: Allow your cake to cool completely before frosting. This prevents melting and ensures even spreading.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Cookie Dough Cake in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Cookie Dough Cake

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying.

Reheating Cookie Dough Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm slices for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices for 15-20 seconds on medium power for a quick warm-up.
• Stovetop: Place a slice in a pan over low heat, covering it with a lid to retain moisture while warming.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Cookie Dough Cake:

Can I use different types of chocolate chips?

Yes! You can substitute semi-sweet or white chocolate chips based on your preference.

How do I make my cake more moist?

Adding Greek yogurt or sour cream helps enhance moisture content in cakes.

Can I add nuts to my Cookie Dough Cake?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans would add great texture and flavor.

What is the best way to frost my cake?

Ensure your cake layers are cool and use an offset spatula for smooth frosting application.

How long does it take to bake the layers?

The layers typically bake for about 30 minutes, but always check with a toothpick for doneness.

Final Thoughts

This Cookie Dough Cake combines rich flavors and textures that make it perfect for any occasion. Its versatility allows you to customize it with different mix-ins or frosting options. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!

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Cookie Dough Cake

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• Author: Emma
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x

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Description

Indulge in the ultimate dessert experience with this Cookie Dough Cake. This delightful creation layers soft, fluffy vanilla cake with chunks of cookie dough, all enveloped in a rich cookie dough buttercream and topped with silky chocolate ganache. Whether it’s a birthday celebration or just a sweet craving, this cake is sure to impress with its mouthwatering flavors and stunning presentation. Easy to customize with your favorite mix-ins, it’s not just a treat; it’s an enjoyable baking adventure for everyone involved!

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

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Instructions

1. Prepare the cookie dough layer by creaming butter and sugars until fluffy. Mix in milk and vanilla, then fold in flour and chocolate chips. Freeze the mixture.
2. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease three 8-inch round baking pans.
3. Make the vanilla cake batter by beating butter and sugar until light. Add eggs one at a time, then alternate adding dry ingredients with milk and yogurt until combined.
4. Divide the batter among pans and bake for about 30 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely.
5. For the buttercream, beat softened butter and gradually add sugars, flour, milk, vanilla, salt, and chocolate chips until smooth.
6. Assemble the cake by layering cake rounds with cookie dough buttercream in between.
7. Create the ganache by heating cream and pouring it over chopped chocolate; stir until smooth and pour over the assembled cake.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 460
• Sugar: 38g
• Sodium: 230mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 13g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 61g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 70mg