Cookies & Cream Sheet Cake Recipe

If you’re a fan of indulgent desserts, you’re in for a treat! This Cookies & Cream Sheet Cake is everything you love about cookies and cream but in the form of a decadent, crowd-pleasing cake. Perfect for gatherings, birthdays, or just a sweet craving, this recipe will leave your friends and family asking for more. Keep reading to discover how to create this irresistible dessert, step by step. Whether you're an experienced baker or just getting started, you'll find everything you need right here. Let’s dive into the world of cookies, cream, and cake!

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What is a Cookies & Cream Sheet Cake?

A Cookies & Cream Sheet Cake is a moist, rich cake layered with crushed chocolate cookies (typically Oreo cookies) and velvety cream frosting. The cookies bring a delightful crunch and chocolatey flavor, while the cream offers a light, fluffy contrast. Unlike traditional layered cakes, this sheet cake is baked in a large rectangular pan, making it easy to slice and serve, especially for larger crowds. The simplicity of the sheet cake format combined with the indulgence of cookies and cream makes this recipe a favorite among dessert lovers.

Ingredients List for Cookies & Cream Sheet Cake

Before you begin, gather all your ingredients. Here's everything you’ll need for the cake base:

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour – The foundation of the cake, providing structure.
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder – To ensure the cake rises perfectly.
• ½ teaspoon baking soda – Helps create a soft, fluffy texture.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavors of all the ingredients.
• ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened – Adds richness and moisture to the cake.
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar – For sweetness and caramelization during baking.
• 3 large eggs – Provides structure and helps the cake set.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – For a rich, aromatic flavor.
• 1 cup whole milk – Ensures a tender crumb.
• 10-12 crushed chocolate sandwich cookies (like Oreos) – For that signature cookies & cream flavor.

Ingredients List for Cookies & Cream Frosting

The frosting is where this cake truly shines. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened – The creamy base of the frosting.
• 4 cups powdered sugar – For a smooth, sweet texture.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds depth of flavor to the frosting.
• ¼ cup heavy cream – Helps achieve the perfect consistency.
• 10 crushed chocolate sandwich cookies – Mixed into the frosting for extra flavor and texture.

Substitutions and Variations

Not everyone has all the ingredients on hand, and that’s okay! Here are a few substitutions and variations you can try:

• Butter: You can substitute with margarine or plant-based butter for a dairy-free option.
• Whole Milk: Almond milk, soy milk, or any plant-based milk can be used instead.
• Eggs: For an egg-free version, replace each egg with ¼ cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water).
• Cookies: Instead of Oreos, try using other chocolate sandwich cookies or even chocolate chip cookies for a fun twist.
• Gluten-Free: Swap the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make this cake gluten-free.

Feel free to experiment with these variations depending on your dietary preferences or the ingredients available in your kitchen!

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients, it’s time to start baking! Follow this simple step-by-step guide to make the perfect Cookies & Cream Sheet Cake:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking pan with butter or nonstick spray, and line it with parchment paper for easier cake removal.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

• In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
• Set aside.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

• In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer. Beat until light and fluffy, around 3-5 minutes.
• Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
• Stir in the vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients.
• Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense cake.

Step 5: Add the Crushed Cookies

• Gently fold in the crushed chocolate cookies into the batter until evenly distributed.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

• Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth out the top with a spatula.
• Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Let the cake cool completely in the pan before frosting.

How to Cook Cookies & Cream Sheet Cake: A Step-by-Step Guide

Now, let's talk about assembling and frosting this delicious creation.

Step 7: Prepare the Frosting

• While the cake is cooling, beat the softened butter in a large bowl until smooth.
• Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, mixing at low speed.
• Add the vanilla extract and heavy cream, beating until the frosting is light and fluffy.
• Fold in the crushed cookies, making sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the frosting.

Step 8: Frost the Cake

• Once the cake has completely cooled, generously spread the frosting over the entire surface.
• For an extra touch, sprinkle some crushed cookies on top for decoration.

Step 9: Chill Before Serving

• For best results, refrigerate the cake for 30-60 minutes before serving to let the frosting set.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a Cookies & Cream Sheet Cake, there are a few common pitfalls that can affect the outcome:

1. Overmixing the Batter: This can lead to a dense, chewy cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
2. Not Letting the Cake Cool: If you frost the cake while it’s still warm, the frosting will melt and create a mess.
3. Skimping on Crushed Cookies: Be generous with the crushed cookies! They’re the star of the show.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Serving a sheet cake doesn’t have to be boring. Here are some tips to elevate your presentation:

How to Serve Cookies & Cream Sheet Cake

• Cut into clean, even squares using a sharp knife for a polished look.
• Serve chilled or at room temperature, depending on your preference.
• Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Presentation Ideas for Cookies & Cream Sheet Cake

• Decorate with whole cookies placed on top for a visually appealing touch.
• Drizzle with a bit of chocolate syrup or melted white chocolate for added flair.
• Serve the cake on a platter lined with cookie crumbs for an elegant look.

Cookies & Cream Sheet Cake Recipe Tips

Here are a few pro tips to ensure your cake turns out perfectly every time:

• Use room temperature ingredients: This helps the batter mix together more smoothly and results in a more tender cake.
• Crush the cookies just right: You want small chunks, not cookie dust. A rolling pin and a zip-top bag work great for crushing the cookies.
• Don’t skip the parchment paper: This makes it much easier to lift the cake out of the pan and cut neat slices.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this cake in advance?

Yes! You can bake the cake a day in advance and frost it the next day. Store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

2. How do I store leftover Cookies & Cream Sheet Cake?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

3. Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake (unfrosted) for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and frost before serving.

4. Can I use a different type of frosting?

Absolutely! Cream cheese frosting or a chocolate ganache would be delicious alternatives.

Conclusion

There you have it—a delicious and easy-to-make Cookies & Cream Sheet Cake that’s perfect for any occasion. With its moist texture, rich flavor, and creamy frosting loaded with cookies, this cake is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you're making it for a special event or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, this recipe is bound to impress. Don’t forget to experiment with the substitutions and variations to make this dessert uniquely yours. Happy baking!

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