Cookies and Cream Cake

Cookies and Cream Cake is an indulgent dessert that combines the rich flavor of cookies and cream with a light and fluffy cake. With its layers of delightful Oreo cookie bits and creamy whipped frosting, this cake is truly a dream for anyone who loves the classic cookie. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, an anniversary, or just a simple family gathering, this cake will surely impress your guests and become a household favorite.

The crumb of the cake is soft and rich, thanks to the butter and sour cream, while bits of Oreos bring a delicious crunch to every slice. Topped with a luscious whipped cream frosting that is light yet satisfying, it’s the perfect way to end any meal. Decorated with additional Oreos or mini versions on top, this cake doesn’t just taste good, it looks fantastic too. Each bite offers a heavenly combination of creamy and crunchy, making it a delightful treat for the senses.

This cake is not just for special occasions; it can be enjoyed at any time. It’s simple to make, using mostly pantry staples and a couple of special ingredients that elevate it to gourmet status. Even if you are new to baking, you’ll find this recipe straightforward and rewarding.

In the following sections, we will explore what you need to make this delicious Cookies and Cream Cake from gathering ingredients to baking and decorating, as well as how to serve and store it for the best experience.

Ingredients for Cookies and Cream Cake

To create this delightful Cookies and Cream Cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:

List of ingredients with measurements

• 2 and 1/2 cups cake flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 1 and 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large egg whites, at room temperature
• 3/4 cup sour cream, at room temperature
• 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
• 3/4 cup whole milk, at room temperature
• 1 and 1/4 cups chopped Oreos
• For the Whipped Cream Frosting:6 ounces full-fat brick cream cheese, softened to room temperature
• 3/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 and 1/2 cups cold heavy cream
• 1 cup chopped Oreos
• Optional: mini or regular Oreos for garnish

Optional ingredient substitutions

If you find yourself missing any ingredients or prefer alternatives, here are some options to consider:

• Instead of cake flour, you can use all-purpose flour, but the texture may be slightly denser.
• Greek yogurt can be substituted for sour cream in the batter, adding a nice tang.
• You can replace granulated sugar with brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
• For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and almond or soy milk in place of whole milk.

How to Make Cookies and Cream Cake

Making Cookies and Cream Cake is an enjoyable and straightforward process. Follow these steps to bake a delightful cake that will be the centerpiece of your dessert table.

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously grease a 9×13 inch cake pan with butter or cooking spray to ensure that your cake won’t stick once it’s baked. Next, in a bowl, whisk together the cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. This dry mix is essential for creating the right texture in your cake.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened unsalted butter on high speed until it is smooth and creamy. This should take about a minute. Gradually add in the granulated sugar, then beat for an additional two minutes. The mixture should be light and fluffy at this stage.

Step 3: Incorporate Wet Ingredients

Now it’s time to add the egg whites. Beat on high speed until they are fully incorporated. After that, add the sour cream and vanilla extract. Mix everything on medium speed until well combined. It’s important not to overmix at this stage because you want to retain the cake’s light texture.

Step 4: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures

With your mixer on low speed, gradually add in the dry flour mixture. Once it’s almost combined, slowly pour in the milk until everything is just mixed together. Again, be careful not to overmix. Once the batter looks consistent, take a spatula to gently fold in the chopped Oreos. This adds a lovely texture and flavor to your cake.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan and spread it out evenly. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for about 32–35 minutes. You can check if it’s done by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean, it’s ready. Allow your cake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.

Step 6: Prepare the Whipped Cream Frosting

While your cake cools, prepare the frosting. In another large bowl, beat the cream cheese on medium-high speed until it is creamy and smooth. Next, gradually mix in the confectioners’ sugar and the vanilla extract. Once combined, lower the speed and slowly pour in the cold heavy cream. Increase to high speed and beat until stiff peaks form, giving your frosting a rich and fluffy texture.

Step 7: Frost the Cake

Once your cake has cooled, take out about 1 cup of the whipped cream frosting and set it aside for later use. Fold the chopped Oreos into the remaining frosting. Spread this mixture onto the top of the cooled cake with an offset spatula for even coverage. If you have extra mini or regular Oreos, feel free to use them as a decorative garnish.

Step 8: Serve or Refrigerate

You can serve the cake immediately after frosting, or you may cover it and let it sit at room temperature for a few hours to let the flavors blend. Alternatively, you can cover it and refrigerate for up to one day. Remember to let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.

How to Serve Cookies and Cream Cake

The Cookies and Cream Cake is perfect for serving at casual get-togethers or formal celebrations. Here are some ideas on how to present it nicely.

Best ways to serve Cookies and Cream Cake

When ready to serve, slice the cake into squares and place them on dessert plates. You can also serve it directly from the pan, making it easy for guests to help themselves. Consider adding a spoonful of extra whipped cream alongside the cake for those who adore creaminess.

Serving suggestions or pairings

This cake pairs well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to keep with the cookies and cream theme. A drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce over the top can also elevate the experience, giving it an extra layer of richness. Additionally, serving coffee or milk on the side can enhance the dessert’s flavors.

How to Store Cookies and Cream Cake

Storing your Cookies and Cream Cake properly ensures that it remains fresh and delicious for days to come.

Proper storage methods

After slicing the cake or if you have leftovers, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. This keeps it from drying out and helps maintain its softness. Refrigerate the cake, as the whipped cream frosting is best enjoyed chilled.

Tips for reheating or freezing

If you want to enjoy the cake later, it can be frozen, but it’s best to freeze it without the frosting. Wrap the separate layers tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. To thaw, simply move it to the refrigerator overnight and frost it just before serving. Leftover frosted cake can be kept in the refrigerator for up to five days.

Tips to Make Cookies and Cream Cake

Here are some useful tips that can help ensure your Cookies and Cream Cake turns out perfectly every time.

Common mistakes to avoid

One common mistake is overmixing the batter after adding the dry ingredients, which can lead to a dense cake. It’s essential to mix just enough to combine everything and then fold in the Oreos gently. Another issue may be baking too long; always check at the minimum baking time first to avoid dry cake.

Helpful tips for better results

Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature before you begin to help the batter mix evenly. Use high-quality Oreos for the best flavor, as they are the star ingredient in this dessert. Lastly, chilling the whipped cream in the bowl and beaters before making the frosting can help it whip up even better.

Variation of Cookies and Cream Cake

If you want to switch things up or cater to specific dietary preferences, consider these variations of the Cookies and Cream Cake.

Suggested variations or twists on the recipe

You can add a layers of chocolate cake alternating with your cookies and cream cake layers for a chocolate cookies and cream cake. Another fun twist is to bake the same batter as cupcakes and frost them for individual servings, perfect for parties or picnics.

Adjustments for dietary preferences

For a vegan-friendly version, you can use plant-based butter, a vegan cream cheese alternative, and substitute flax eggs for the egg whites. There are also gluten-free flour blends available that’ll work well instead of traditional flour if you need a gluten-free recipe.

FAQs

What can I do if the dish isn’t turning out right?

If the cake doesn’t rise properly, you may want to check your baking powder and baking soda’s freshness. Make sure to follow the measurements closely. If you find that the cake is too dense, remember to fold in the dry ingredients gently without overmixing.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cake layers ahead of time and keep them stored in the refrigerator for up to three days before frosting. It’s best to frost the cake on the day you plan to serve it for optimal flavor.

What can I substitute for ingredients?

For those who are unable to have dairy, substituting products like almond milk instead of whole milk and coconut cream for the heavy cream are fantastic options. For a nut-free cake, ensure that the alternatives you choose do not contain nuts or nut derivatives.

With this extensive guide to making a fabulous Cookies and Cream Cake, you’ll be prepared to impress! Enjoy your baking, and treat your taste buds to this scrumptious creation.

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