Ice Cream Cake Recipe
Ice Cream Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the best of both worlds: the creamy goodness of ice cream and the soft, moist texture of cake.
Perfect for birthday parties, summer gatherings, or any celebration, an ice cream cake is a versatile treat that can be customized with your favorite flavors and toppings.
This recipe will guide you through making a classic ice cream cake with layers of cake, ice cream, and whipped topping, ensuring a delicious and impressive dessert that everyone will love.
Ingredients
For the Cake Layers
- 1 box of your favorite cake mix (or homemade cake recipe)
- Ingredients listed on the cake mix box (usually eggs, oil, and water)
For the Ice Cream Layers
- 2 quarts of ice cream (choose two complementary flavors, such as vanilla and chocolate or strawberry and cookies and cream)
- 1 cup hot fudge sauce (optional, for extra richness)
For the Whipped Topping
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Toppings
- Sprinkles
- Chopped nuts
- Fresh berries
- Chocolate shavings
- Caramel sauce
How to Make
Step 1: Bake the Cake Layers
Prepare the cake mix according to the package instructions. Divide the batter evenly between two 9-inch round cake pans. Bake according to the instructions, usually about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 2: Soften the Ice Cream
Remove the ice cream from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes to soften. This will make it easier to spread.
Step 3: Prepare the Whipped Topping
In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together on high speed until stiff peaks form. This can take about 3-5 minutes. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
Place one cake layer on a 9-inch springform pan or a cake platter. If using a springform pan, line the sides with parchment paper to help with easy removal later.
Step 5: Add the First Ice Cream Layer
Spread the first flavor of softened ice cream over the cake layer, smoothing it out with a spatula to create an even layer. If desired, drizzle hot fudge sauce over the ice cream layer for added richness.
Step 6: Add the Second Cake Layer
Place the second cake layer on top of the ice cream layer, pressing down gently to adhere.
Step 7: Add the Second Ice Cream Layer
Spread the second flavor of softened ice cream over the top cake layer, smoothing it out to create an even layer. Again, you can drizzle hot fudge sauce over this layer if desired.
Step 8: Freeze the Cake
Cover the cake with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze for at least 4 hours, or until the ice cream is firm.
Step 9: Add the Whipped Topping
Once the cake is firm, remove it from the freezer. If using a springform pan, release and remove the sides. Spread the whipped topping evenly over the top and sides of the cake using a spatula.
Step 10: Decorate
Decorate the cake with your choice of toppings, such as sprinkles, chopped nuts, fresh berries, chocolate shavings, or caramel sauce.
Step 11: Freeze Again
Return the cake to the freezer for at least 1 hour to allow the whipped topping to set.
Step 12: Serve
Before serving, let the cake sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes to make slicing easier. Use a sharp knife to cut clean slices, wiping the knife between cuts for neat slices. Enjoy!
Chef’s Note
Flavor Combinations: Get creative with your ice cream flavors! Try combinations like mint chocolate chip and cookies and cream, or strawberry and vanilla. The possibilities are endless.
Homemade Cake: If you prefer a homemade cake, you can use your favorite yellow, chocolate, or vanilla cake recipe. Just make sure to bake it in two 9-inch round cake pans.
Prevent Melting: When assembling the cake, work quickly to prevent the ice cream from melting. You can also place the cake in the freezer between steps if needed to keep it firm.
Storing the Cake: Store any leftover cake in the freezer, covered, for up to a week. If the cake has been decorated with fresh berries, it’s best to remove them before freezing and add fresh berries before serving.
Cutting Tips: For clean slices, dip your knife in hot water and wipe it dry before each cut.
Nutrition Information
Per Serving (Based on 12 Servings)
- Calories: 450
- Total Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 35g
- Protein: 5g
Key Nutrients
- Calcium: 15% DV
- Iron: 4% DV
- Potassium: 6% DV
- Vitamin A: 20% DV
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary depending on the specific ingredients and brands used. For more accurate nutritional information, consider using a nutrition calculator based on your exact ingredients and quantities.
Conclusion
Ice Cream Cake is a fun and delicious dessert that’s sure to impress at any gathering. With layers of cake and ice cream, topped with a fluffy whipped cream topping and your choice of decorations, it’s both visually stunning and incredibly tasty.
This versatile recipe allows for endless customization, making it easy to create a cake that suits your personal preferences and the occasion.
Follow these steps, and you’ll have a homemade ice cream cake that’s sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy every creamy, delightful bite!
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