Cookie Dough Cake

Globs of cookie dough baked into layers of sweet vanilla cake make this Cookie Dough Cake a delightful treat. Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or just a sweet indulgence, this cake combines rich flavors and textures to create an unforgettable dessert. With its creamy cookie dough buttercream and silky chocolate ganache, it stands out at any gathering.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Cookie Dough Layer
• For the Cake Layers
• For the Cookie Dough Buttercream
• For the Ganache Topping
• How to Make Cookie Dough Cake
• Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pans
• Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough Layer
• Step 3: Bake the Cookie Dough Layer
• Step 4: Prepare Cake Batter
• Step 5: Bake Cake Layers
• How to Serve Cookie Dough Cake
• Individual Slices
• With Ice Cream
• Garnished with Fresh Fruits
• Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce
• As Part of a Dessert Platter
• How to Perfect Cookie Dough Cake
• Best Side Dishes for Cookie Dough Cake
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Cookie Dough Cake
• Reheating Cookie Dough Cake
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use different types of chocolate chips?
• How do I make the cookie dough filling?
• What if I don’t have Greek yogurt?
• How long does it take to bake Cookie Dough Cake?
• Can I customize this recipe?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent Flavor: The combination of cookie dough and cake creates a rich taste that is hard to resist.
• Versatile Occasion: Ideal for birthdays, holidays, or casual get-togethers; this cake suits any event.
• Fun to Make: Baking this cake can be a great activity with family or friends, adding joy to your kitchen.
• Stunning Presentation: The layered look and chocolate ganache make it visually appealing for guests.
• Customizable Ingredients: You can easily swap ingredients or adjust the sweetness to match your taste preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Cookie Dough Cake, having the right tools is essential. These tools will help you achieve the best results while making the baking process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking pans (8-inch)
• Offset spatula
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Makes mixing ingredients easier and ensures a smooth batter without lumps.
• Baking pans: Proper sizes ensure even baking and help maintain the cake’s structure.
• Offset spatula: Great for spreading frosting evenly over the cake for a professional look.

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 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 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 Your Baking Pans

Grease three 8-inch round cake pans. Line the bottoms with parchment paper to ensure easy removal after baking.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough Layer

In a mixing bowl:
1. Cream together unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar until fluffy.
2. Add milk and vanilla extract; mix well.
3. Gradually add flour and salt; stir until combined.
4. Fold in mini chocolate chips.
5. Spread evenly into prepared pans.

Step 3: Bake the Cookie Dough Layer

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden. Let cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.

Step 4: Prepare Cake Batter

In a large bowl:
1. Cream unsalted butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
3. In another bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this to the creamed mixture alternately with milk and yogurt.
4. Fold in mini chocolate chips.

Step 5: Bake Cake Layers

Divide batter evenly among prepared pans. Bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely on racks before frosting.

Continue with frosting steps as needed!

How to Serve Cookie Dough Cake

Cookie Dough Cake is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether it’s for a birthday party or a casual gathering, serving this cake creatively can enhance the experience for your guests.

Individual Slices

• Serve slices on colorful plates for a fun presentation.
• Add a dollop of whipped cream on the side to complement the rich flavors.

With Ice Cream

• Pair each slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
• Consider using cookie dough flavored ice cream for an extra treat.

Garnished with Fresh Fruits

• Top each slice with fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries.
• This adds a refreshing contrast to the sweet cake.

Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce

• Offer warm chocolate sauce for drizzling over each slice.
• The combination of chocolate and cookie dough is irresistible.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Include Cookie Dough Cake in a dessert platter alongside cookies and brownies.
• This allows guests to sample a variety of treats.

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How to Perfect Cookie Dough Cake

To ensure your Cookie Dough Cake turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use room temperature ingredients: This helps achieve a smoother batter and better texture.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Mix just until combined to keep your cake light and fluffy.
• Check for doneness: Insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean or with moist crumbs.
• Cool layers completely: Allow the cake layers to cool fully before frosting to prevent melting.
• Chill the frosting: If it’s too soft, refrigerate the buttercream briefly before spreading it on the cake.
• Add extra toppings: Enhance presentation by sprinkling mini chocolate chips or cookie crumbles on top.

Best Side Dishes for Cookie Dough Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Cookie Dough Cake can elevate your dessert spread. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing balance to the rich flavors of the cake.
2. Chocolate Mousse: This creamy dessert complements the cookie dough taste while adding elegance.
3. Vanilla Pudding: Smooth vanilla pudding can add another layer of flavor that pairs well with cake.
4. Caramel Sauce: Drizzling caramel sauce enhances sweetness and adds depth to each bite.
5. Coffee or Espresso: The bitterness of coffee contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the cake.
6. Nutty Cookie Crusts: Serve small portions of nutty crusts for added texture and flavor contrast.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Skipping ingredient room temperature: Using cold butter or eggs can affect the texture of your cake. Always let these ingredients come to room temperature before starting.
• Overmixing the batter: This can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until combined for a lighter texture.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Too much flour can ruin your cake. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurement.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Every oven is different. Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is at the right temperature for baking.
• Underbaking the cake: A gooey center can ruin the overall experience. Always check with a toothpick; it should come out clean when done.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover slices in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Cookie Dough Cake

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Cookie Dough Cake

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

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making this Cookie Dough Cake, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

Can I use different types of chocolate chips?

Yes! Feel free to substitute with dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or even white chocolate chips based on your preference.

How do I make the cookie dough filling?

Simply mix together flour, sugar, butter, vanilla, and mini chocolate chips until well combined and creamy.

What if I don’t have Greek yogurt?

You can easily replace Greek yogurt with sour cream or even unsweetened applesauce for a similar texture.

How long does it take to bake Cookie Dough Cake?

The total baking time is about 30 minutes, but keep an eye on it as ovens may vary.

Can I customize this recipe?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, change the flavor of the frosting, or even incorporate other flavors like caramel or sprinkles.

Final Thoughts

This Cookie Dough Cake is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite flavors and toppings. Whether it’s for a birthday or just because you crave something sweet, this cake is sure to impress everyone. Give it a try and enjoy!