Decadent Layered Ice Cream Cake
Indulge in the ultimate frozen dessert experience with this Decadent Layered Ice Cream Cake. Perfect for special occasions or just a treat to satisfy your sweet cravings, this cake elevates the traditional ice cream cake with layers of creamy ice cream, a rich chocolate fudge topping, and a crispy cookie crust. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility; you can mix and match different ice cream flavors and toppings to create your own signature dessert. Think cookies and cream paired with crushed Oreos, or gooey caramel layered with vanilla for a delightful surprise. It’s not just a cake – it’s an unforgettable dessert experience that will impress family and friends alike. Who needs a Dairy Queen cake when you can create a masterpiece at home?
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
small chocolate chip cookies
1 (18 ounce) package (divided; must be store-bought, not soft cookies)
melted butter or margarine
1/4 cup (melted)
sugar
2 tablespoons (granulated)
Hershey's hot fudge topping
1 1/2 cups (divided; or use favorite brand)
ice cream
2 quarts (slightly softened but not melted; use any flavor desired)
whipped cream
to taste (for garnish)
maraschino cherry
to taste (for garnish)
Instructions
1
Begin by preparing a 9-inch springform pan, ensuring it is clean and dry.
2
Finely crush HALF of the small chocolate chip cookies until they resemble coarse crumbs.
3
In a mixing bowl, combine the cookie crumbs with melted butter (or margarine) and sugar. Stir well until everything is nicely combined.
4
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared springform pan to form a solid crust. Make sure to pack it tightly for maximum support.
5
Take the remaining whole cookies and stand them upright around the perimeter of the pan, creating a decorative edge.
6
Pour 1 cup of the Hershey's hot fudge topping over the cookie crust, spreading it evenly to create a rich layer of chocolate.
7
Place the pan in the freezer for about 30-40 minutes to allow the fudge to set.
8
While the fudge is setting, slightly soften the first quart of ice cream (keeping it firm) and spread it evenly over the chocolate fudge layer in the pan. Freeze for another 20-30 minutes.
9
For the second quart of ice cream, use an ice cream scoop to create balls and arrange them decoratively across the top of the first ice cream layer.
10
Cover the entire cake with plastic wrap or foil and freeze for an additional 4 hours, or until it is completely firm.
11
When you’re ready to serve, carefully remove the sides of the springform pan. Drizzle the remaining hot fudge topping generously over the top, then add whipped cream as desired.
12
Garnish with maraschino cherries to elevate the presentation and serve immediately.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Decadent Layered Ice Cream Cake?
It is a rich frozen dessert featuring layers of ice cream, a chocolate fudge center, and a crunchy cookie crust.
What type of pan is required for this recipe?
A 9-inch springform pan is required to ensure the cake can be removed easily while maintaining its shape.
Can I use soft chocolate chip cookies for the crust?
No, the recipe specifies using store-bought, crunchy cookies rather than soft ones to provide a solid structure.
How do I prepare the cookie crust?
Crush half of the cookies and mix them with melted butter and sugar, then press the mixture firmly into the pan.
What is the purpose of the whole cookies in this cake?
The whole cookies are placed upright around the edge of the pan to create a decorative and tasty border.
Which brand of chocolate fudge is recommended?
The recipe suggests Hershey's hot fudge topping, but you can use any favorite brand.
How much fudge is used in the middle layer?
You should pour one cup of hot fudge over the cookie crust as the initial chocolate layer.
How long should the fudge layer freeze before adding ice cream?
Allow the fudge layer to set in the freezer for 30 to 40 minutes.
How much ice cream do I need in total?
You will need two quarts of ice cream in any flavor of your choice.
How do I soften the ice cream for the first layer?
Slightly soften the ice cream so it is pliable enough to spread but still firm enough to hold its shape.
How long should the first ice cream layer freeze?
The first layer should freeze for 20 to 30 minutes before you add the decorative top layer.
How is the second quart of ice cream applied?
Use an ice cream scoop to create balls and arrange them decoratively over the top of the first layer.
What is the total final freezing time?
The entire cake needs to be frozen for at least 4 hours or until it is completely firm.
How do I remove the cake from the pan?
Once fully frozen, carefully release and remove the sides of the springform pan.
What garnishes are suggested for serving?
The cake is finished with extra hot fudge drizzle, whipped cream, and maraschino cherries.
Is this a no-bake recipe?
Yes, this is a completely no-bake dessert that relies on freezing rather than baking.
Can I use different ice cream flavors?
Yes, the recipe is versatile; you can use flavors like vanilla, cookies and cream, or caramel.
Can I substitute margarine for butter in the crust?
Yes, melted margarine can be used instead of butter to bind the cookie crumbs.
How do I prevent the cookies from falling over?
Pressing the crust firmly and leaning the whole cookies against the side of the pan will help keep them upright.
Should I cover the cake while it freezes?
Yes, cover the cake with plastic wrap or foil before the final 4-hour freeze to protect it.
Can I make this cake in advance?
Yes, this cake is perfect for making a day or two in advance as it stores well in the freezer.
How do I get clean slices when serving?
For clean slices, dip your knife in warm water and wipe it dry between each cut.
Is the sugar in the crust necessary?
The sugar helps with both flavor and binding the crumbs, but it can be reduced if preferred.
Can I use a different type of cookie for the crust?
While chocolate chip is recommended, other crunchy cookies like Oreos would also work.
How many servings does this cake provide?
Depending on the slice size, a 9-inch cake typically serves 10 to 12 people.
Do I need to heat the fudge before drizzling it on top?
The fudge should be at room temperature or slightly warmed for easy drizzling, but not hot.
Can I use homemade whipped cream?
Absolutely, fresh homemade whipped cream is a great addition for the final garnish.
What should I do if the ice cream gets too soft?
If the ice cream becomes too runny, return it to the freezer for a few minutes to firm up before spreading.
Is this cake suitable for birthdays?
Yes, its impressive layers and decorative edge make it a great alternative to store-bought birthday cakes.
How should leftovers be stored?
Keep any remaining cake in the freezer, ideally in an airtight container or tightly wrapped.