One of the most beloved treats among dessert lovers is the cookie dough cake. This indulgent dessert combines the rich, sweet flavor of cookie dough with the lightness of cake, creating a delightful experience with each bite. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a gathering, or simply looking to satisfy your sweet tooth, cookie dough cake is an irresistible choice that delights both kids and adults alike.
Why We Love This Cookie Dough Cake
Cookie dough cake brings together two favorites: cake and cookie dough. The layers of fluffy cake complement the gooey, rich cookie dough, resulting in a sweet symphony of textures and flavors. This cake offers a nostalgic vibe, reminiscent of sneaking bites of raw cookie dough right from the mixing bowl as a child. The best part is, this version is entirely safe to eat! Each slice is a perfect balance of sweet and buttery, rewarding every guest with a taste of nostalgia. The fun presentation, featuring cookie dough pieces sprinkled throughout, makes it a visual treat that draws everyone’s attention. Plus, this cake is versatile enough to cater to a variety of flavor preferences, whether you prefer classic chocolate chip or adventurous add-ins.
Ingredients for Cookie Dough Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chip cookie dough (edible version)
- Frosting of your choice
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and mini chocolate chip cookie dough pieces.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
- Once the cakes are completely cooled, frost as desired and decorate with additional cookie dough pieces if you like.
How to Serve Cookie Dough Cake
Serving cookie dough cake is just as enjoyable as baking it. Begin by slicing the cake into generous wedges to highlight its delicious layers. You can serve it plain or dress it up with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on each slice. Both options enhance the flavor without overtaking the cake’s natural sweetness. Consider adding a sprinkle of mini chocolate chips or cookie crumbs on top for a touch of flair. For an extra special treat, serve each slice with a drizzle of chocolate syrup or a side of chocolate frosting for dipping. This is not just a treat; it’s an experience best shared with family and friends. Include plates and forks for a tidy serving, and maybe even some fresh fruit on the side to provide a refreshing balance to the rich cake.
Expert Tips for Cookie Dough Cake
To ensure you achieve the best cookie dough cake possible, keep a few expert tips in mind. First, always measure your flour correctly, using the spoon-and-level method to avoid dry or dense cake. When mixing, be careful not to overmix the batter. This can create a tough texture instead of a light and fluffy one. If you want extra cookie dough flavor, consider adding a pinch of cookie extract if you have it on hand. When it comes to frosting, a cream cheese frosting pairs beautifully with the cookie dough and adds a tangy contrast. Make sure your cakes are completely cool before frosting to prevent melting. Finally, for added visual appeal, decorate with some edible cookie dough bites or chocolate chips on top. This not only looks beautiful but also gives that cookie dough flair in every slice!
How to Store Cookie Dough Cake
Proper storage is crucial to maintain the freshness and flavor of your cookie dough cake. If you have leftovers, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap to keep it from drying out. Place it in the refrigerator to extend its shelf life for up to a week. If you prefer, you can also store individual slices in airtight containers. If you want to keep the cake for a longer period, consider freezing it. Before freezing, make sure to wrap each slice or the entire cake well in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil for added protection against freezer burn. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw the cake in the refrigerator overnight and let it come to room temperature before serving.
Variations of Cookie Dough Cake
The beauty of cookie dough cake lies in its versatility. You can experiment with different flavors and textures to create your perfect version. For instance, consider using different types of chocolate chips, such as dark or white chocolate, or incorporating butterscotch chips for an exciting twist. You can also replace some of the all-purpose flour with almond flour for a gluten-free version. For a fun flavor combination, mix in nuts or dried fruit, like walnuts or cherries, in the batter for added crunch and taste. If you prefer, you can layer the cake with different flavored frostings, such as peanut butter or chocolate ganache, adding another level of richness. Want to mix it up even further? Experiment with the cake itself by adding cocoa powder to make a chocolate cookie dough cake. The flavor possibilities are endless, making this dessert a canvas for your creativity.
FAQ about Cookie Dough Cake
What is cookie dough cake?
Cookie dough cake is a dessert that combines cake layers with edible cookie dough, creating a delicious and indulgent treat.
Is it safe to eat cookie dough cake?
Yes, cookie dough cake uses ingredients that are safe to eat, such as heat-treated flour and no raw eggs, making the cookie dough suitable for consumption.
How do I make the cookie dough for the cake?
You can make edible cookie dough by combining flour, sugar, butter, and milk without any raw eggs, providing a safe option for cakes.
Can I customize the flavors in cookie dough cake?
Absolutely! You can use various mix-ins like different chocolate chips, nuts, or even different flavored frostings to create your unique version.
How long does cookie dough cake last?
When stored properly in the fridge, cookie dough cake can last for up to a week, and it can even be frozen for up to three months.
What should I serve with cookie dough cake?
You can serve cookie dough cake with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or even chocolate syrup for an enhanced dessert experience.