The magnificent blend of creamy vanilla, rich chocolate, and the unmistakable crunch of Oreo cookies makes Cookies and Cream Cake an irresistible dessert sensation that captivates dessert lovers everywhere. This classic combination transforms a simple cake into an extraordinary treat that bridges nostalgia with modern dessert artistry. The contrasting textures of tender cake layers, smooth frosting, and crunchy cookie bits create a multi-dimensional taste experience that’s impossible to resist.
What makes this cake truly special is its impressive appearance paired with its surprisingly approachable preparation. Even baking beginners can create this showstopper that looks professionally crafted while using straightforward techniques and readily available ingredients. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a dinner party, or simply treating yourself to something special, this Cookies and Cream Cake delivers the perfect balance of elegance and comfort in every slice.
Cookies and Cream Cake
Equipment
- 8-Inch Cake Pans
- Offset spatula
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large egg whites
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup chocolate sandwich cookies crushed, for batter
- 3 cups buttercream frosting for layering and decorating
- 1 cup chocolate sandwich cookies crushed, for frosting
- 6 whole chocolate sandwich cookies for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 8-inch cake pans.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In another bowl, beat the butter and sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg whites one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the crushed chocolate sandwich cookies.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops.
- Bake for 28-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely.
- For the frosting, fold the crushed chocolate sandwich cookies into the buttercream frosting.
- Spread a layer of frosting over one cake layer, then place the second cake layer on top.
- Frost the entire cake with the cookies and cream buttercream, smoothing the edges.
- Garnish with whole chocolate sandwich cookies on top before serving.
Notes
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.
- Serving Tip: Add a drizzle of chocolate ganache for an extra indulgent touch.
- Customization: Use chocolate cake layers instead of vanilla for a double chocolate cookies and cream cake.
Nutrition
The Delightful History of Cookies and Cream Cake
The story of Cookies and Cream Cake begins with the beloved Oreo cookie itself, which has been an American dessert staple since its introduction in 1912. However, the cookies and cream flavor combination as we know it didn’t gain widespread popularity until the early 1980s, when it revolutionized the ice cream industry. Creative bakers soon realized that this winning flavor profile could translate beautifully to cakes and other baked goods.
What started as an experimental dessert trend has evolved into a bakery menu essential found in patisseries worldwide. The cake’s popularity soared through the 1990s and has remained steadfast, with modern bakers continuing to reinvent and refine the classic recipe. This enduring appeal speaks to the perfect harmony between the chocolatey cookies and creamy base that satisfies our deepest dessert cravings. In recent years, social media has further propelled the Cookies and Cream Cake 2025 iterations to new heights, with bakers creating increasingly elaborate designs while maintaining the core flavors we all love.
The beauty of this cake lies in its adaptability – from elaborate wedding cakes to casual cupcakes, the cookies and cream profile transitions seamlessly across different dessert formats. If you’re a fan of Oreo-inspired treats, you might also enjoy exploring these creative Oreo cookie recipes for more delicious ideas.
Essential Ingredients and Equipment
Creating the perfect Cookies and Cream Cake requires gathering the right ingredients and tools before you begin. Having everything prepared and measured will make the baking process smooth and enjoyable.
Here are the ingredients you’ll need:
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup dark cocoa powder
- 1½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 cup buttermilk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup hot water
- 24 Oreo cookies (plus extra for decoration)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 4 cups powdered sugar, divided
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
Equipment you’ll need to assemble:
- Two 9-inch round cake pans
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Mixing bowls (various sizes)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- Parchment paper
- Cooling rack
- Cake turntable (optional but helpful)
- Offset spatula for frosting
- Food processor or plastic bag with rolling pin (for crushing Oreos)
The quality of your ingredients matters when creating this Easy Cookies and Cream Cake. For the best flavor, use fresh ingredients and real vanilla extract rather than imitation. The Oreo cookies should be fresh and crisp to maintain their distinctive crunch when incorporated into the cake components.
Step-by-Step Cookies and Cream Cake Instructions
Let’s break down the process of creating this stunning layered dessert into manageable steps. Follow these instructions carefully for the best results.
For the Chocolate Cake Layers:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat the eggs, buttermilk, oil, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Don’t overmix.
- Slowly add the hot water to the batter and mix until fully incorporated. The batter will be quite thin.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few crumbs.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto a cooling rack to cool completely.
For the Cookies and Cream Filling:
- In a food processor, pulse 12 Oreo cookies until finely crushed. Set aside.
- Beat 1 cup of heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
- In another bowl, beat the cream cheese and 1 cup of powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy.
- Fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture gently.
- Stir in the crushed Oreos until evenly distributed.
For the Oreo Buttercream Frosting:
- Pulse the remaining 12 Oreo cookies in a food processor until finely ground.
- In a large bowl, beat the butter until creamy.
- Gradually add the remaining 3 cups of powdered sugar, alternating with the remaining 1 cup of heavy cream.
- Beat until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the ground Oreos until well incorporated.
Assembling Your Cookies and Cream Cake:
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake board.
- Spread the cookies and cream filling evenly over the first layer.
- Place the second cake layer on top of the filling.
- Cover the entire cake with the Oreo buttercream frosting, creating a smooth finish or decorative swirls as desired.
- Decorate the cake with additional Oreo cookies – whole, halved, or crumbled – around the top edge or as desired.
This Best Cookies and Cream Cake Recipe creates a perfect balance between chocolate cake, creamy filling, and Oreo buttercream. The layering process might seem complicated, but taking your time with each step ensures spectacular results. For a truly professional look, chill the cake for about 30 minutes before applying the final layer of frosting.
If you’re interested in more creative cake designs, check out this neon layer cake tutorial for a fun twist on traditional cake decorating.
Complete Cookies and Cream Cake Recipe
Here’s the full recipe for easy reference:
Cookies and Cream Cake
Prep Time: 45 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Cooling Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 12
Difficulty: Intermediate
Nutritional Information (per slice):
Calories: 628
Protein: 7g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 17g
Carbohydrates: 79g
Sugar: 58g
Fiber: 2g
Sodium: 375mg
Ingredients:
For the cake layers, filling, and buttercream frosting, use the ingredients listed in the “Essential Ingredients and Equipment” section above.
Instructions:
Follow the detailed step-by-step instructions provided in the previous section.
Recipe Notes:
- Make sure all refrigerated ingredients are at room temperature before beginning.
- For the best texture, don’t overmix the cake batter after combining wet and dry ingredients.
- The hot water in the cake batter helps bloom the cocoa powder for a richer chocolate flavor.
- You can make the cake layers a day ahead and store them wrapped in plastic at room temperature.
- For the cleanest slices, refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 1 hour before serving, and cut with a warm, clean knife.
Creative Variations and Helpful Tips
This Cookies and Cream Cake recipe serves as a wonderful foundation for creative adaptations. Here are some exciting variations to consider for your next baking adventure:
Delicious Variations:
- Cookies and Cream Cake with Cream Cheese Filling: Double the cream cheese in the filling for a tangier, cheesecake-like center.
- Chocolate Ganache Drip: Add a dramatic chocolate ganache drip over the frosted cake for an elegant finish.
- Mint Chocolate Version: Add 1/2 teaspoon of mint extract to the buttercream for a refreshing twist.
- Golden Oreo Variation: Use Golden Oreos instead of regular ones for a vanilla-based version.
- Coffee-Infused Cake: Replace the hot water with hot coffee in the cake batter for a deeper flavor profile.
For those who appreciate vintage-inspired baking aesthetics while preparing this treat, you might enjoy browsing our retro-inspired churro apparel to wear while creating your masterpiece in the kitchen.
Pro Tips for Baking Success:
- Level your cake layers with a serrated knife before assembly to create a perfectly flat surface.
- Create a “crumb coat” by applying a thin layer of frosting first, then refrigerating for 20 minutes before adding the final frosting layer.
- Reserve some crushed Oreos to sprinkle between the layers for extra texture and flavor.
- For cleaner slices, freeze the cake for about 15 minutes before cutting with a hot knife.
- Make your own buttermilk by adding 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes.
If you’re new to baking layer cakes, don’t be intimidated! This Easy Cookies and Cream Cake Recipe for Beginners is forgiving and adaptable. The most important thing is to enjoy the process and not worry about absolute perfection. Each cake has its own unique character, which is part of the charm of homemade baking.
For those who love blue desserts, you might also want to try making a blue velvet cake using similar techniques with a different color palette.
How to Store Cookies and Cream Cake
Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the freshness and texture of your Cookies and Cream Cake. Follow these guidelines to ensure your cake stays delicious whether you’re storing it for a few hours or several weeks.
Room Temperature Storage:
A freshly made Cookies and Cream Cake can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 days, provided your home isn’t too warm. Cover the cake with a cake dome or loosely tent it with aluminum foil to protect it from dust and air exposure. This method works best when the filling doesn’t contain highly perishable ingredients like fresh fruits.
Refrigerator Storage:
When storing Cookies and Cream Cake in the refrigerator, first chill it uncovered for about 15 minutes to firm up the frosting. Then wrap the cake in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to prevent it from absorbing other flavors from the fridge. The cake will stay fresh for up to 5 days when refrigerated properly. For the best taste experience, allow refrigerated cake to sit at room temperature for 30-45 minutes before serving to soften the frosting and enhance the flavors.
Freezer Storage:
Freezing is an excellent option for longer-term storage of Cookies and Cream Cake. You can freeze individual slices or the entire cake. For whole cakes, place the cake in the freezer unwrapped until the frosting hardens (about 1 hour), then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. For slices, wrap each piece individually. When properly stored, the cake will maintain quality for up to 2 months in the freezer.
Thawing Instructions:
To thaw frozen Cookies and Cream Cake, transfer it from the freezer to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight while still wrapped. Once thawed, remove the wrapping and allow the cake to come to room temperature for about 1-2 hours before serving. This gradual thawing process prevents condensation from making the cake soggy and preserves the texture of both the cake and creamy frosting.
If you’re interested in exploring more Oreo-based desserts that store well, check out the latest Oreo cakes and pastry innovations for inspiration.
Celebrating Special Moments with Cookies and Cream Cake
A homemade Cookies and Cream Cake transforms ordinary gatherings into memorable celebrations. This versatile dessert adapts beautifully to any occasion, making it perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, graduation parties, or simply brightening a weekend family dinner. The striking black-and-white aesthetic creates an impressive visual statement that announces “this is a special moment.”
What makes this cake particularly special is its universal appeal. From young children to grandparents, almost everyone appreciates the familiar, comforting flavor combination. The cake strikes that perfect balance between sophisticated appearance and nostalgic taste, making it appropriate for both casual gatherings and more formal celebrations.
Consider customizing the decoration to match your specific occasion. For birthdays, add colorful sprinkles or candles between the Oreo garnish. For holidays, coordinate with seasonal colored icing accents or themed cake toppers. The neutral black-and-white palette serves as a perfect canvas for personalization.
The most rewarding aspect of serving this Cookies and Cream Cake isn’t just the delighted expressions when people take their first bite—it’s the connections formed when sharing something made with care and attention. Food has always been a powerful way to bring people together, and this beloved dessert combination does exactly that, creating sweet memories that last long after the last crumb has been enjoyed.