Cookie Dough Cake

Cookie Dough Cake is a decadent dessert that combines the nostalgic flavor of chocolate chip cookies with the soft texture of a classic layer cake. Fluffy vanilla cake layers are studded with chocolate chips and filled with creamy edible cookie dough, then finished with rich frosting for a bakery-style presentation. It’s a celebration-worthy treat that’s surprisingly approachable for home bakers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Two Desserts in One – Combines cake and cookie dough in every slice.
• Soft, Moist Texture – Butter and sugar create a tender crumb.
• Customizable Mix-Ins – Swap chocolate chips for candies or nuts.
• Perfect for Celebrations – Ideal for birthdays and special occasions.
• Beginner-Friendly Method – Straightforward creaming technique.
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor – Classic chocolate chip taste everyone loves.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Cake Layers

• 2 cups all-purpose flour – Provides structure and stability.
• 1½ teaspoons baking powder – Ensures proper rise and light texture.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Balances sweetness.
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened – Adds richness and tenderness.
• ¾ cup granulated sugar – Sweetens and helps aerate the batter.
• ½ cup brown sugar – Adds moisture and subtle caramel notes.
• 2 large eggs, room temperature – Provide structure and emulsification.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – Enhances flavor.
• ¾ cup chocolate chips – Adds texture and cookie-inspired flavor.

For the Edible Cookie Dough Filling

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened – Creates creamy base.
• ½ cup brown sugar – Adds classic cookie dough flavor.
• 1 cup heat-treated all-purpose flour – Safe for raw consumption.
• 2 tablespoons milk – Loosens consistency.
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances sweetness.
• ½ cup mini chocolate chips – Evenly distributed chocolate bites.

For the Frosting (Optional but Recommended)

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 1–2 tablespoons milk or cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Extra chocolate chips for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat and Prepare Pans

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, beat softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.

Combine Wet and Dry

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Gently fold in chocolate chips.

Bake the Cake Layers

Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool completely before assembling.

Prepare Edible Cookie Dough

Beat butter and brown sugar until smooth. Mix in vanilla and milk. Gradually add heat-treated flour, then fold in mini chocolate chips. Chill for 20–30 minutes for easier spreading.

Assemble the Cake

Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread an even layer of cookie dough filling on top. Add the second cake layer and frost as desired.

Decorate and Serve

Frost the exterior of the cake and garnish with additional chocolate chips. Slice and serve.

Recipe Notes & Tips

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients – Ensures smooth mixing and better rise.
• Heat-Treat Flour – Bake flour at 350°F for 5 minutes to make it safe for raw consumption.
• Do Not Overmix Batter – Prevents dense cake texture.
• Chill Cookie Dough Filling – Makes layering easier.
• Level Cake Layers – Trim tops if needed for even stacking.
• Use Mini Chips for Filling – Distributes chocolate more evenly.

Nutritional Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Bake Time: 25–30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 8 slices
• Calories: Approximately 360 kcal per serving
• Carbohydrates: 46g
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 18g
• Sugar: 28g

Perfect Pairings

• Cold Glass of Milk – Classic cookie complement.
• Vanilla Ice Cream – Enhances indulgence.
• Fresh Strawberries – Adds freshness.
• Hot Coffee or Espresso – Balances sweetness.

Ideal Occasions

• Birthday Celebrations – Fun and festive centerpiece.
• Family Gatherings – Comforting and nostalgic.
• Holiday Dessert Tables – Unique showstopper.
• Weekend Baking Projects – Great for creative bakers.

Storage & Serving Tips

• Store Refrigerated – Keeps fresh up to 3 days.
• Bring to Room Temperature Before Serving – Improves texture and flavor.
• Freeze Individual Slices – Wrap tightly for up to 2 months.
• Use Sharp Knife for Clean Slices – Wipe blade between cuts.

Creative Variations to Try

• M&M Version – Swap chocolate chips for colorful candies.
• Nutty Twist – Add chopped walnuts or pecans.
• Chocolate Cake Base – Replace part of flour with cocoa powder.
• Peanut Butter Upgrade – Add a peanut butter layer between cake tiers.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Dense Cake Texture – Avoid overmixing batter.
• Filling Too Soft – Chill longer before assembling.
• Cake Sticking to Pan – Always line with parchment paper.
• Overbrowning – Cover loosely with foil during final minutes of baking.

Why This Recipe Works

Cookie Dough Cake succeeds because it combines two complementary textures: a tender butter-based cake and a rich, creamy cookie dough filling. The creaming method incorporates air into the butter and sugars, producing a light crumb. Brown sugar contributes moisture and caramel notes, while chocolate chips provide familiar cookie flavor. Heat-treated flour ensures the filling is safe to eat while maintaining authentic cookie dough texture. At approximately 360 calories per slice, this dessert offers indulgence in balanced portions.

Final Thoughts

Cookie Dough Cake is the ultimate treat for cookie lovers and cake enthusiasts alike. With its moist layers, creamy filling, and chocolate-studded finish, it’s a dessert that feels both nostalgic and impressive. Easy to customize and perfect for celebrations, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your baking rotation.