If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that perfectly marries the comfort of a classic chocolate chip cookie with the celebratory flair of cake, look no further than the Chocolate Chip Cookie Cake. This scrumptious creation is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for birthdays, family gatherings, or simply as a sweet treat to enjoy on a cozy evening. With its chewy texture, delightful chocolatey goodness, and optionally topped with luscious chocolate buttercream, this recipe promises happiness in every bite.
Why We Love This Chocolate Chip Cookie Cake Recipe
There’s something universally appealing about the combination of chocolate and buttery cookie goodness. This Chocolate Chip Cookie Cake recipe stands out for several reasons. First, it captures the nostalgic flavors of chocolate chip cookies in a convenient cake format. Whether you’re serving family or hosting a festive gathering, this cake serves as an excellent centerpiece.
Key highlights include its rich taste, ease of preparation, and the fact it can be easily dressed up with toppings like chocolate buttercream or additional chocolate chips. Plus, making one large cookie cake eliminates the hassle of rolling and cutting cookies. It’s an effortless delight that can be put together in no time.
Ingredients About Chocolate Chip Cookie Cake
Creating your Chocolate Chip Cookie Cake is a straightforward process that requires a handful of simple ingredients. Below is the list you’ll need to gather before diving in:
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup packed light or dark brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 egg yolk, at room temperature
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour, spooned & leveled
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 and 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- Optional: chocolate buttercream for topping
Each ingredient plays a crucial role in contributing to the cake’s wonderful flavor and texture. Make sure to gather them all for a seamless baking experience.
How to Make Chocolate Chip Cookie Cake Directions
Now, let’s get your cake in the oven! Follow these steps carefully, and your Chocolate Chip Cookie Cake will be ready in no time.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C). Then, grab a 9-inch pie dish or a cake pan and spray it generously with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter and packed brown sugar. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat them together until the mixture is creamy and light, which should take about three minutes. This step is crucial, as it incorporates air into the mixture, leading to a lighter cake.
Next, add in the egg and the egg yolk, along with the pure vanilla extract. Beat these ingredients together until they are completely combined. The eggs add richness and moisture, while the vanilla enhances the overall flavor.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt. Each of these dry ingredients adds structure and creates the perfect cake texture.
Gradually add the dry mixture to your wet ingredients while mixing on low speed. Do not overmix; just combine them until you see no dry ingredients. Once combined, gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips. This is where the magic happens; each bite will reveal delightful chocolate treasures!
Take your dough and press it evenly into your prepared pan. This might take a bit of effort to get it even, but make sure the surface is level for even baking.
Bake in your preheated oven for 22 to 26 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. You can test for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center of the cake. It should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter.
Once done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool completely on a wire rack. This is important, as the cake needs time to set and won’t hold its shape if you try to move it too early.
If desired, you can decorate your cooled cake using optional chocolate buttercream or sprinkle more chocolate chips on top. The sweetness of the frosting complements the cake beautifully and adds an impressive finishing touch.
How to Serve Chocolate Chip Cookie Cake
Serving your Chocolate Chip Cookie Cake can be as fun and creative as making it! Start by slicing the cake into generous wedges. Consider serving each slice warm for that fresh-out-of-the-oven appeal. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic dessert experience. The combination of warm cake and cold ice cream is incredibly satisfying!
If you opt for the chocolate buttercream topping, a simple presentation can elevate your dessert for a special occasion. Drizzle some melted chocolate or chocolate sauce over each serving for an extra indulgence. Adding a sprinkle of sea salt can also enhance the chocolate flavor, creating an irresistible sweet-and-salty combination.
For an added touch, you can decorate the plate with fresh berries or mint leaves. Not only does this add color, but it can create an appealing contrast to the rich chocolate flavor.
Expert Tips: Chocolate Chip Cookie Cake
To achieve the best Chocolate Chip Cookie Cake, consider these expert tips:
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter, eggs, and any other cold ingredients are at room temperature. This helps amalgamate them more evenly, resulting in a smoother batter.
Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cake as it bakes. You want it to be golden on the edges while still soft in the center. It’s better to err on the side of slightly underbaking; it will continue to cook when you take it out of the oven.
Flour Measurement: When measuring flour, scoop it into your measuring cup and then level it off with a knife. Avoid packing it down, which can lead to a dense cake.
Use a Mixer: While you can certainly make this cake by hand, using a hand or stand mixer will give you a creamier batter, which will lead to a softer cake.
Decorate Thoughtfully: If using frosting, let the cake cool completely before applying. Otherwise, it will melt, and you won’t get that beautiful look that you desire.
How to Store Chocolate Chip Cookie Cake
If you happen to have leftovers (though they’re likely to disappear quickly!), storing your Chocolate Chip Cookie Cake is easy. Once cooled, cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It will remain fresh at room temperature for up to three days.
If you want to keep your cake longer, consider freezing it. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. The cake will stay good for up to two months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, simply thaw it at room temperature and maybe warm it in the microwave for a few seconds to bring back that delicious, fresh-baked taste.
Variation of Chocolate Chip Cookie Cake
One of the best aspects of the Chocolate Chip Cookie Cake is its versatility. You can tailor this basic recipe to fit different tastes and occasions. Here are some variations to consider:
Nutty Addition: Add chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans to the batter for a delightful crunch. Nuts pair beautifully with chocolate and can elevate the flavor profile.
Stuffed Version: Try making a stuffed cookie cake by adding a layer of cookie dough to the bottom, filling it with cream cheese or Nutella, and then topping with more dough before baking.
Oreo Twist: For a fun variation, add crushed Oreo cookies to the batter. The cookies will lend a unique flavor and texture that many will love.
Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Cake: Swirl in some peanut butter into the batter for a delicious twist. The nutty flavor complements the chocolate chips seamlessly.
Seasonal Variations: Consider adding pumpkin spice or peppermint extract for a seasonal twist. You can synergize with holidays and their respective flavors to keep the dessert fresh and festive.
FAQ About Chocolate Chip Cookie Cake
What is a Chocolate Chip Cookie Cake?
A Chocolate Chip Cookie Cake is a large, round cake that incorporates the rich flavors of chocolate chip cookies. It features a chewy texture and is often topped with frosting or additional chocolate chips for an enhanced experience.
How long does it take to bake a Chocolate Chip Cookie Cake?
Typically, a Chocolate Chip Cookie Cake takes between 22 to 26 minutes to bake. The key is to monitor it closely to ensure it doesn’t overbake, keeping the center nice and soft.
How can I decorate my Chocolate Chip Cookie Cake?
You can decorate your cake with chocolate buttercream, a drizzle of chocolate sauce, or by sprinkling additional chocolate chips on top. Fresh fruits or mint can provide a refreshing contrast.
Can I freeze Chocolate Chip Cookie Cake?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze your Chocolate Chip Cookie Cake. Make sure to wrap slices individually and store them in a freezer-safe bag for optimal freshness.
What variations can I try with this recipe?
You can try adding nuts, fillings, or even different flavored extracts to twist this classic cookie cake recipe. Seasonal flavors like pumpkin spice or peppermint are delightful during the holidays.
Chocolate Chip Cookie Cake
Equipment
- Oven
- Mixing Bowl
- 9-inch Pie Dish or Cake Pan
- Electric Mixer
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter (softened to room temperature)
- 1 cup packed light or dark brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 large egg yolk (at room temperature)
- 2 tsp. pure vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)
- 2 tsp. cornstarch
- 1 tsp. baking soda
- 1/2 tsp. salt
- 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- Optional: chocolate buttercream for topping
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and spray a 9-inch pie dish or cake pan with nonstick spray.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
- Add the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract, beating until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients on low speed until just combined.
- Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips.
- Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 22 to 26 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- If desired, top with chocolate buttercream or additional chocolate chips before serving.
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