
This Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Ice Cream Cake is my solution for birthdays and summer parties where everyone craves both cookies and ice cream. With its crunchy cookie crust and creamy layers packed with gooey dough bites and chocolate chips it is the dream dessert for cookie lovers and freezes beautifully.
Ingredients
- Chocolate cookie crumbs They form a rich crunchy base and any chocolate wafer or sandwich cookies work fine
- Melted butter Melts into the crumbs to hold the crust together Go for real butter for flavor
- Vanilla or cookie dough ice cream Softened just enough to stir Easily swap for chocolate or coffee ice cream if you like
- Mini chocolate chips They dot every bite with chocolate Go mini for better distribution
- Edible cookie dough Make your own or buy it premade Ensure it is meant to be eaten raw
- Extra cookie dough balls These make the topping extra fun and everyone fights over them
- Chocolate chips Both mini and regular sizes amp up the chocolatey look and taste
- Whipped cream A classic finish if you want a festive look at serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make the Crust:
- Combine chocolate cookie crumbs and melted butter fully until the mixture feels like wet sand. Press it as firmly as you can into the bottom of a springform pan using your hands or a flat measuring cup for an even surface. Freeze for 20 minutes to set it up hard so it holds the ice cream later.
- Mix the Ice Cream Filling:
- Put the softened ice cream in a big bowl. Add in the mini chocolate chips and break up the edible cookie dough into small chunks before mixing them in. Stir thoroughly to make sure every scoop will get some dough and chips.
- Assemble the Cake:
- Spoon the ice cream mixture onto your now frozen crust. Level the top with a spatula so the cake is even and smooth. Place the whole pan in the freezer uncovered for at least 6 hours but overnight is best for a solid sliceable cake.
- Unmold and Decorate:
- When fully frozen loosen the cake from the springform pan. Move to a serving platter or cake stand. Top with extra cookie dough balls more chocolate chips and whipped cream if you are going all out. Let it stand a few minutes before slicing for the perfect texture.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Cut with a sharp knife run under warm water for clean slices. Serve right away so the ice cream stays just firm enough.

Storage Tips
Keep the cake well covered in the freezer to avoid freezer burn
It can be stored for up to two weeks
If you have leftover slices wrap each in plastic wrap and keep in a freezer safe container
Ingredient Substitutions
Gluten free crumbs or cookies give an easy allergy adaptation
Swap vanilla ice cream for salted caramel for a fun flavor twist
Vegan cookie dough and dairy free ice cream also work if you need
Serving Suggestions
Slice big wedges and serve on a chilled plate to slow melting
Extra toppings like chocolate sauce sprinkles or even caramel take it to the next level
For an over the top sundae effect offer a build your own toppings bar
Cultural and Historical Context
Ice cream cakes have roots in both Italian semifreddo and American party desserts
The addition of cookie dough speaks to the modern obsession with raw dough treats
This cake taps into the nostalgia of ice cream parlor favorites and summer birthdays
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I make the crust stay firm?
Firmly press the cookie crumb and butter mixture into the pan and freeze until solid before adding the ice cream layer. This ensures a sturdy base for slicing.
- → Can I use any ice cream flavor?
Vanilla or cookie dough ice cream works best, but you can substitute your favorite flavors for a personalized twist.
- → How long do I need to freeze the cake?
Freeze the assembled cake for at least 6 hours or overnight for the ice cream to set fully and create clean, easy slices.
- → Is store-bought edible cookie dough safe for this?
Yes, using store-bought or homemade edible cookie dough, which is made without raw eggs or untreated flour, is safe for consumption in frozen desserts.
- → What toppings work well for serving?
Decorate with extra cookie dough balls, chocolate chips, drizzled chocolate, or swirls of whipped cream to enhance the cake’s appearance and flavor.