Chocolate Chip Cookie Ice Cream Cake Recipe

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If you’re searching for the ultimate indulgence that combines two undeniable favorites, this Chocolate Chip Cookie Ice Cream Cake Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine the buttery warmth of a freshly baked chocolate chip cookie layered beneath cool, creamy cookie dough ice cream, finished with a fluffy topping and playful garnishes. It delivers the perfect balance of textures and flavors, making it the star of any gathering or a decadent treat to enjoy at home anytime. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become your go-to dessert for celebrations and cozy nights alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This delightful dessert uses simple, well-loved ingredients that come together easily but pack a punch of flavor and texture. Each component plays a crucial role—from the rich butter in the cookie base to the creamy, dreamy ice cream layer that contrasts perfectly with the soft cookie crumb.

• ¾ cup salted butter, room temperature: Adds richness and helps create the perfect cookie texture.
• ¾ cup dark brown sugar: Gives a deep, caramel-like sweetness and chewy texture to the cookie layer.
• ¼ cup granulated sugar: Balances sweetness and ensures the cookie has just the right crunch.
• 1 egg: Binds the cookie dough together and adds moisture.
• 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract: Brings warmth and enhances all the sweet flavors.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure to the cookie base without weighing it down.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Leavens the cookie, giving it a tender crumb with slight lift.
• 1¼ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips: The classic melty pockets of chocolate that make this cookie unforgettable.
• 1.5 quarts cookie dough ice cream (store-bought or homemade): The creamy, flavorful centerpiece that complements the cookie base perfectly.
• 4 oz Cool Whip: Adds a light, airy finish that balances richness.
• Mini Chips Ahoy cookies, for garnish: Adds crunch and a playful touch.
• Chocolate sauce (e.g., Smucker’s sundae syrup), for drizzle: Provides a luscious, chocolatey finish that ties it all together.

How to Make Chocolate Chip Cookie Ice Cream Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for ensuring even baking. Then, line the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper. This makes removing your cake afterward a breeze and prevents it from sticking, keeping that cookie base perfectly intact.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, beat the salted butter, dark brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3 to 4 minutes with an electric mixer. This step creates the base for a tender, flavorful cookie crust that will hold up nicely under the ice cream layer.

Step 3: Add the Egg and Vanilla

Next, mix in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined. These ingredients enrich the dough and add the warm, inviting aroma that’s signature to chocolate chip cookies. Don’t skip the vanilla—it’s a game changer!

Step 4: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients

Stir in the all-purpose flour and baking soda until you see no more streaks of flour. Be careful not to overmix here; the dough should come together but remain soft and pliable, the perfect texture to press into the pan.

Step 5: Fold in the Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips to ensure an even distribution throughout the dough. The chips will melt slightly during baking, creating those signature gooey pockets of chocolate everyone loves.

Step 6: Bake the Cookie Base

Press the cookie dough evenly into your prepared pan, smoothing the top for a neat layer. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to turn golden brown. This signals the cookie is baked through but still tender in the middle—absolutely ideal for supporting the ice cream layer.

Step 7: Cool the Cookie Layer

Once baked, allow the cookie to cool mostly in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Patience here is key to prevent melting your ice cream when layering!

Step 8: Soften the Ice Cream

While the cookie cools, let your cookie dough ice cream sit out at room temperature for a few minutes until it softens slightly. This will make spreading it onto your cookie base much easier and more even.

Step 9: Assemble the Cake

Return the cooled cookie base to the springform pan and spread the softened ice cream evenly over it. Level the surface smoothly, then place the whole pan in the freezer to firm up completely. This step is essential to keep clean slices later on.

Step 10: Add the Finishing Touches

Once the ice cream is firmly frozen, gently remove the cake from the pan. Decorate the edges by piping or spooning Cool Whip around, then sprinkle with Mini Chips Ahoy cookies for extra crunch. Finally, drizzle with chocolate sauce to add a rich, inviting gloss.

Step 11: Set and Chill

Store your assembled cake in the freezer until you’re ready to serve. When it’s time, let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes to soften just enough to slice without losing its shape.

How to Serve Chocolate Chip Cookie Ice Cream Cake Recipe

Garnishes

Adding garnishes like extra Mini Chips Ahoy cookies and a drizzle of chocolate sauce not only looks stunning but also introduces delightful layers of texture and taste with every bite. For a festive touch, you might even add sprinkles or a handful of chopped nuts.

Side Dishes

This cake holds its own as a show-stopping dessert, but pairing it with fresh berries or a warm fruit compote can create a wonderful contrast of temperatures and flavors for your guests. A cup of rich coffee or cold milk is also a perfect companion.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, consider serving individual slices topped with a small scoop of vanilla ice cream and a sprig of mint. Or, go all in on the whimsy by layering mini versions of this cake in parfait glasses for a fun twist that’s sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover slices should be tightly wrapped in plastic or stored in an airtight container in the freezer to maintain freshness. This way, you can enjoy your Chocolate Chip Cookie Ice Cream Cake Recipe anytime without losing any of that delicious texture or flavor.

Freezing

This ice cream cake freezes beautifully. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap and then foil to avoid freezer burn. When stored properly, it can keep for up to two weeks, making it a fantastic make-ahead dessert for busy days or special occasions.

Reheating

No reheating is necessary with this dessert. Instead, let the cake thaw for about 10 minutes at room temperature before serving to get the ideal balance between soft cookie and creamy ice cream.

FAQs

Can I use homemade ice cream for this recipe?

Absolutely! Homemade cookie dough ice cream adds a personal touch and you can customize the inclusions to your liking. Just make sure it’s firm but spreadable.

What if I don’t have a springform pan?

A regular cake pan can work, but lining it with parchment and ensuring easy removal will be key. You might also consider using a silicone pan for easier release.

Can I substitute the cookie dough ice cream with another flavor?

Yes! Vanilla or chocolate ice cream both pair wonderfully with the cookie base, but cookie dough ice cream keeps the theme classic and extra special.

How far in advance can I make the cake?

You can assemble the cake up to 2 days in advance and keep it frozen until serving. Just be sure to wrap it well to avoid ice crystals forming.

What’s the best way to cut neat slices?

Let the cake sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before slicing and use a sharp, warm knife (dip in hot water and dry) to make clean cuts.

Final Thoughts

And there you have it—a dessert that’s easy to make but sure to wow every time. This Chocolate Chip Cookie Ice Cream Cake Recipe brings together the magic of cookies and ice cream in a way that’s guaranteed to become a beloved classic. I can’t wait for you to try it and share this delicious memory with friends and family. Get your ingredients ready because this cake is pure happiness on a plate!

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