Cookies & Cream Sheet Cake Recipe

Are you looking for a dessert that will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth? This Cookies & Cream Sheet Cake recipe is just what you need! Imagine the soft, moist texture of a fluffy cake combined with the rich, creamy taste of crushed chocolate sandwich cookies (Oreos!) in every bite. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a potluck, or simply craving something sweet, this sheet cake is sure to be a hit. Read on to learn how to make this indulgent dessert from scratch!

What is a Cookies & Cream Sheet Cake?

A Cookies & Cream Sheet Cake is a delightful combination of classic vanilla cake and everyone’s favorite cookie, Oreos. The sheet cake is typically baked in a rectangular pan, making it perfect for serving a crowd. With crushed cookies mixed into the batter and a rich cookies-and-cream frosting on top, this cake offers a creamy, chocolatey flavor in every bite.

Sheet cakes are easy to make and even easier to slice and serve, making them ideal for parties, picnics, or casual get-togethers. Plus, they’re versatile enough to customize with various toppings and flavor enhancements. Ready to bake? Let’s get started!

Ingredients List for Cookies & Cream Sheet Cake

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this rich and decadent Cookies & Cream Sheet Cake:

For the Cake:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 ¼ cups buttermilk
• 15-20 crushed chocolate sandwich cookies (Oreos)

For the Cookies & Cream Frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• 12-15 crushed chocolate sandwich cookies (for the frosting and garnish)

Optional Toppings:

• Extra crushed Oreos for garnish
• Chocolate chips or chocolate shavings
• Oreo cookie halves for decorating the top of the cake
• Whipped cream for added flair

Now that you have your ingredients gathered, it’s time to bake the cake!

Substitutions and Variations

Before jumping into the baking process, let’s explore some substitution and variation ideas. Whether you have dietary restrictions or want to add a personal twist to the recipe, here are some options:

Dairy-Free Option:

• Butter Substitution: Use a dairy-free margarine or coconut oil instead of butter.
• Buttermilk Alternative: Make dairy-free buttermilk by mixing 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar into 1 ¼ cups of almond milk, soy milk, or any non-dairy milk.

Gluten-Free Variation:

• Flour Substitute: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour. Just ensure the blend contains xanthan gum or a similar binder to provide the right texture.

Flavor Enhancements:

• Mint Cookies & Cream: Add a teaspoon of peppermint extract to the frosting and use mint-flavored chocolate sandwich cookies for a fresh twist.
• Chocolate Overload: Add ½ cup of cocoa powder to the cake batter and use chocolate Oreos for a rich, chocolatey version of this sheet cake.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Here’s a detailed breakdown of how to create this irresistible Cookies & Cream Sheet Cake from scratch. Follow these steps carefully, and you’ll have a perfectly moist, flavorful cake in no time.

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Prepare the Pan

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease a 9x13-inch sheet cake pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal after baking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

• In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside for now.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

• In another large bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This process should take about 3-4 minutes.
• Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
• Mix in the vanilla extract until everything is fully combined.

Step 4: Alternate Adding the Buttermilk and Dry Ingredients

• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined after each addition. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the cake dense.

Step 5: Fold in the Crushed Cookies

• Gently fold in the crushed Oreos using a spatula. Be careful not to overmix to maintain the integrity of the cookie pieces.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

• Pour the batter into your prepared sheet pan and smooth it out evenly.
• Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before frosting.

How to Make Cookies & Cream Frosting: A Step-by-Step Guide

While the cake cools, it’s time to whip up the delicious Cookies & Cream Frosting. Here’s how to make it:

Step 1: Cream the Butter

• In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy.

Step 2: Add the Powdered Sugar

• Gradually add the powdered sugar one cup at a time, mixing on low speed to avoid a sugar cloud.
• Continue to beat until the mixture is smooth and fluffy.

Step 3: Add Heavy Cream, Vanilla, and Salt

• Slowly mix in the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. If the frosting is too thick, add a little more cream. If it’s too thin, add more powdered sugar until you reach the desired consistency.

Step 4: Fold in Crushed Cookies

• Gently fold in the crushed Oreos. Be careful not to overmix, as this could break the cookies down too much, leading to a grainy texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though this recipe is straightforward, there are a few common pitfalls to avoid to ensure your Cookies & Cream Sheet Cake turns out perfect:

• Overmixing the Batter: When folding in the crushed cookies, don’t overmix, as this can cause the cookies to dissolve and create a muddy texture.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and a fluffier cake.
• Not Cooling the Cake Fully Before Frosting: If the cake is still warm when you apply the frosting, it will melt and become runny. Let the cake cool completely to avoid this issue.

Serving and Presentation Tips

A Cookies & Cream Sheet Cake can be just as beautiful as it is delicious. Here are some tips to present your cake in a way that will wow your guests:

How to Serve Cookies & Cream Sheet Cake

• Slice Carefully: Use a long, sharp knife to cut clean, even slices. Wipe the blade with a damp cloth between cuts to keep the edges of each slice neat.
• Serve with Ice Cream: Pair each slice of cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an even more indulgent dessert experience.

Presentation Ideas for Cookies & Cream Sheet Cake

• Crushed Oreo Garnish: Sprinkle additional crushed Oreos on top of the frosted cake for a professional look.
• Oreo Halves: Decorate the edges of the cake with Oreo halves for an eye-catching presentation.
• Drizzle with Chocolate Syrup: Drizzle a little chocolate syrup over the frosted cake for extra decadence.

Cookies & Cream Sheet Cake Recipe Tips

Here are a few extra tips to make sure your sheet cake is nothing short of spectacular:

• Chill the Frosting: If your kitchen is warm, pop the frosting in the fridge for 10 minutes before applying it to the cake. This will prevent it from becoming too soft.
• Don’t Skip the Buttermilk: Buttermilk gives the cake its tender texture, so don’t substitute it with regular milk. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a quick substitute by mixing 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar with 1 ¼ cups of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake the cake a day in advance and store it in the fridge, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. Frost it the day you plan to serve it for the freshest results.

How do I store leftover Cookies & Cream Sheet Cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Let the cake sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving to allow the frosting to soften slightly.

Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, you can freeze the unfrosted cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. When you’re ready to serve, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and frost it fresh.

Conclusion

This Cookies & Cream Sheet Cake is an easy, crowd-pleasing dessert that combines the soft texture of cake with the beloved flavors of Oreo cookies. Whether you’re serving it at a party or just indulging in a sweet treat at home, this recipe is sure to become one of your favorites. With its creamy, cookie-filled frosting and moist cake layers, it’s perfect for any occasion. So, grab your ingredients and start baking your own Cookies & Cream masterpiece today!

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