Cookies and Cream Cake That’s Loaded with Crunchy, Creamy Flavor

Cookies and cream cake is a dream come true for anyone who loves the classic flavor combo of chocolate cookies and vanilla cream. This cake delivers everything you expect from your favorite sandwich cookie, but in the form of a moist, layered dessert.

Whether you’re baking for a birthday, a weekend party, or just because, this cookies and cream cake is easy to make and full of texture, crunch, and rich taste. It’s the kind of cake that looks like it came from a bakery, but is totally doable in your home kitchen.

Here’s how to make the ultimate cookies and cream cake from scratch, plus some fun variations and serving tips to make it your new go-to celebration cake.

Why You’ll Love This Cake

This cake combines soft chocolate or vanilla layers with crushed chocolate sandwich cookies in both the batter and the frosting. You get smooth creaminess, a touch of crunch, and bold cookie flavor in every bite.

Unlike boxed mixes or pre-made frosting, this version uses fresh ingredients and real whipped components to build texture and keep the cake light yet indulgent.

Ingredients for Cookies and Cream Cake

For the Cake:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup crushed chocolate sandwich cookies (like Oreos, with filling)

For the Frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
• 3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• 1 ½ cups crushed sandwich cookies

Optional Topping:

• Whole sandwich cookies
• Chocolate ganache drizzle
• Whipped cream rosettes

How to Make It

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease and line two 8-inch cake pans with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

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

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This should take about 3 to 4 minutes.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla. Mix until everything is well combined.

Step 5: Add Dry Ingredients and Milk

Add the dry ingredients in three batches, alternating with the milk. Mix on low until just combined.

Step 6: Fold in Crushed Cookies

Gently fold in the crushed cookies with a spatula. Avoid overmixing, so the batter stays airy.

Step 7: Bake the Layers

Divide the batter evenly between the pans. Bake for 28 to 32 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool fully.

Making the Cookies and Cream Frosting

Step 1: Beat the Butter

In a large bowl, beat the butter until creamy and pale, about 2 minutes.

Step 2: Add Powdered Sugar

Add powdered sugar one cup at a time, mixing on low speed. Increase to medium-high and beat until fluffy.

Step 3: Add Cream and Vanilla

Pour in the heavy cream, vanilla, and a pinch of salt. Beat until smooth and spreadable.

Step 4: Fold in Crushed Cookies

Gently mix in the cookie crumbs. You want pieces small enough to spread but big enough to taste.

Assembling the Cake

Step 1: Level the Cake

If needed, level the tops of each cake layer with a serrated knife.

Step 2: Fill and Stack

Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of frosting on top. Add the second layer and frost the top and sides of the cake.

Step 3: Decorate

Use whole cookies around the edge or on top. Add a drizzle of ganache or pipe whipped cream for an extra touch.

Refrigerate the cake for 30 minutes before slicing to help it set.

Flavor Variations

Chocolate Base: Swap the vanilla cake for a rich chocolate cake recipe for a deeper flavor.
Mint Cookies and Cream: Add a few drops of mint extract to the frosting and use mint chocolate cookies.
Peanut Butter Twist: Add a swirl of peanut butter to the frosting for a sweet and salty combo.

Storage Tips

This cake stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Keep it covered in an airtight container. Let it come to room temperature before serving for the best texture. You can also freeze unfrosted cake layers for up to 2 months.

When to Serve Cookies and Cream Cake

This cake is great for:

• Birthday parties
• Graduation celebrations
• Family get-togethers
• Kids’ parties
• Weekend dessert cravings

It looks impressive but doesn’t require fancy techniques, so it’s perfect for both beginner bakers and experienced decorators.

Cookies and cream cake is more than just a nod to a favorite snack. It’s a satisfying, crowd-pleasing dessert that blends nostalgic flavors with homemade charm. With layers of soft cake, creamy frosting, and real cookie crunch, it’s a treat that feels familiar yet elevated. Once you try it, don’t be surprised if it becomes your most-requested cake for every celebration.