Imagine biting into a slice of cake that’s soft, fluffy, and bursting with the rich flavor of Oreos.
This Cookies and Cream Cake combines creamy frosting, moist chocolate layers, and cookie crumbles for a treat that’s truly indulgent.
Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or simply treating yourself, this cake is easy to make and irresistibly delicious.
Follow our recipe to create your own show-stopping dessert today!
Table of Contents
Ingredients You’ll Need for Cookies and Cream Cake
For the Cake:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk (room temperature)
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup hot water
For the Cookies and Cream Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups crushed Oreos
For Assembly and Decoration:
- 1 cup whole Oreos, halved or crushed
- Additional frosting for piping
How to Make Cookies and Cream Cake
1. Prepare the Cake Batter
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until well combined.
- Gradually stir in the hot water, mixing until the batter is smooth and slightly thin. This step ensures a moist cake.
2. Bake the Cake
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
3. Make the Frosting
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy and smooth.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition.
- Pour in the heavy cream and vanilla extract. Beat on high speed until the frosting is light and fluffy.
- Fold in the crushed Oreos, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
4. Assemble the Cake
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a generous layer of frosting over the top.
- Add the second cake layer and frost the entire cake with a thin crumb coat. Chill for 15 minutes.
- Apply a second, thicker layer of frosting, smoothing the surface with a spatula.
5. Decorate the Cake
- Press crushed Oreos onto the sides of the cake for added texture.
- Use a piping bag with a star tip to add decorative swirls of frosting on the top.
- Garnish with halved Oreos or additional crushed cookies for a stunning finish.
6. Serve and Enjoy
- Slice the cake with a sharp knife and serve on dessert plates. Pair with a glass of milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate indulgence.
Comprehensive Guide
Nutritional Value
Ingredient | Nutritional Benefits |
---|---|
All-Purpose Flour | Provides carbohydrates for energy; enriched with vitamins like iron and folic acid. |
Cocoa Powder | Contains antioxidants like flavonoids that support heart health. |
Eggs | High in protein and essential nutrients like vitamin D and choline. |
Buttermilk | Low in fat but rich in calcium, supporting bone health. |
Oreos | Adds flavor and texture; enjoyed in moderation as a treat. |
Butter | Source of healthy fats and vitamin A for skin and eye health. |
Powdered Sugar | Sweetens desserts; adds to the overall flavor profile. |
Vanilla Extract | Provides aromatic flavor compounds with minimal calories. |
Benefits of Cookies and Cream Cake
- A Crowd-Pleaser for All Occasions:
- Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or casual gathering, this cake never fails to impress.
- Easy to Customize:
- Swap in gluten-free flour or use low-sugar alternatives for dietary needs.
- Perfect Balance of Flavors and Textures:
- Moist chocolate cake layers meet creamy, crunchy frosting for a dessert that’s irresistible.
- Fun to Make:
- Involve kids in decorating or crushing the Oreos for a fun family activity.
- Memory Maker:
- The nostalgic flavor of Oreos adds a comforting, familiar touch, making it a memorable treat.
Example: A reader shared that this cake became the centerpiece of her child’s birthday party, earning rave reviews from both kids and adults.
Overcoming Challenges
- Keeping the Cake Moist:
- Use room-temperature ingredients and avoid overmixing the batter to maintain its softness.
- Preventing Crumbly Frosting:
- Sift powdered sugar before mixing, and ensure butter is properly softened for a smooth consistency.
- Balancing Sweetness:
- Add a pinch of salt to the frosting to balance the flavors and prevent it from being overly sweet.
- Perfect Assembly:
- Chill the cake layers before frosting to prevent crumbs from mixing into the outer coat.
Future Trends
- Creative Flavors:
- Incorporating flavored Oreos (e.g., mint or peanut butter) for a unique twist.
- Mini Desserts:
- Developing single-serving options like cupcakes or cake jars to cater to individual preferences.
- Health-Conscious Alternatives:
- Using plant-based ingredients and natural sweeteners for a healthier take on this classic.
- Global Appeal:
- Experimenting with regional variations, such as pairing with green tea or using matcha Oreos.
Tips and Tricks Section
- Use High-Quality Cocoa Powder:
- Opt for Dutch-processed cocoa for a richer chocolate flavor.
- Freeze Cake Layers:
- Freezing the layers for 15 minutes before frosting makes assembly easier.
- Crush Oreos Consistently:
- Use a food processor for even crumbs, or place cookies in a ziplock bag and crush with a rolling pin.
- Add a Surprise Filling:
- Spread a layer of crushed Oreos or ganache between the cake layers for added texture.
- Decorate with Style:
- Pipe extra frosting rosettes or drizzle melted chocolate for a bakery-style finish.
Variations and Adaptations
- Gluten-Free Option:
- Substitute gluten-free flour blends and ensure the Oreos used are gluten-free.
- Low-Sugar Alternative:
- Replace half the sugar with erythritol or monk fruit sweetener for a reduced-sugar version.
- Dairy-Free Version:
- Use plant-based milk (almond or soy) and vegan butter for the frosting.
- Cupcake Adaptation:
- Turn the recipe into cupcakes for a portable, party-friendly dessert.
- Extra Chocolatey:
- Add chocolate chips to the batter for an extra indulgent treat.
Cookies and Cream Cake – FAQ
Can I make the cake layers ahead of time?
Yes, bake the layers in advance, wrap them tightly, and freeze for up to a month. Thaw before frosting.
How do I store leftover cake?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Let it come to room temperature before serving.
Can I use a different type of cookie?
Absolutely! Try substituting Oreos with other sandwich cookies like vanilla or mint-flavored options.
What’s the best way to crush Oreos?
Use a food processor for fine crumbs or a ziplock bag and rolling pin for a chunkier texture.
Can I make this cake without a stand mixer?
Yes, a hand mixer works perfectly fine for both the batter and frosting.