ice cream cake – recipesshubb

Ice Cream Cake

Ice cream cake is the ultimate celebration dessert—cool, creamy, and endlessly customizable. Combining layers of ice cream, crunchy fillings, and a soft cake or cookie base, this no-bake (or minimal-bake) dessert is perfect for birthdays, holidays, and summer gatherings.

The best part? You don’t need special equipment or professional skills. With a little planning and freezer time, you can create a stunning ice cream cake that looks impressive and tastes even better.

Ingredients

Ice Cream Layers

1½ quarts vanilla ice cream, softened
1½ quarts chocolate ice cream, softened

Crunch Layer

2 cups chocolate sandwich cookies or chocolate biscuits, crushed
4 tablespoons melted butter

Cake Base (Optional)

1 prepared chocolate or vanilla cake layer (store-bought or homemade)

Toppings

Whipped cream or whipped topping
Chocolate sauce or hot fudge
Sprinkles, chopped nuts, or chocolate chips

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pan

Line a 9-inch springform pan or cake pan with plastic wrap, leaving extra hanging over the sides for easy removal.

2. Make the Crunch Layer

Mix crushed cookies with melted butter until evenly combined. Press firmly into the bottom of the pan to form a compact layer. Freeze for 10 minutes to set.

3. Add the First Ice Cream Layer

Spread vanilla ice cream evenly over the crust. Smooth the top and freeze for 20–30 minutes, until firm.

4. Add Cake Layer (Optional)

If using a cake layer, place it on top of the vanilla ice cream and gently press down. Freeze for 15 minutes.

5. Add the Second Ice Cream Layer

Spread chocolate ice cream evenly over the cake or vanilla layer. Smooth the top and freeze for 4–6 hours, or until completely firm.

6. Decorate

Remove cake from pan using plastic wrap. Frost with whipped cream, drizzle with chocolate sauce, and decorate with sprinkles or toppings of choice.

7. Serve

Let the cake sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes before slicing for clean cuts.

Tips for the Perfect Ice Cream Cake

Soften ice cream just enough to spread easily—don’t let it melt.
Freeze between layers to keep them defined.
Use a hot knife (wipe between cuts) for clean slices.
Make ahead: Ice cream cake can be prepared up to 3 days in advance.

Flavor Variations

Cookies & Cream: Use cookies and cream ice cream with Oreo crust
Strawberry Shortcake: Vanilla ice cream, strawberry sauce, and vanilla cake
Mint Chocolate Chip: Add fudge and chocolate cookie crunch
Peanut Butter Cup: Swirl peanut butter sauce between layers

Storage

Wrap ice cream cake tightly and store in the freezer for up to 1 week. Keep covered to prevent freezer burn.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ice cream cake combines everything people love about dessert—cake, ice cream, crunch, and toppings—in one show-stopping treat. It’s customizable, make-ahead friendly, and guaranteed to impress kids and adults alike.