If you’re looking for a dessert that’s cool, creamy, and guaranteed to please, you can’t go wrong with a cookies and cream ice cream cake. This easy no-bake treat combines the crunch of chocolate cookies with smooth vanilla ice cream in the most satisfying way. Whether you’re planning a summer birthday, a weekend gathering, or just need a freezer-friendly dessert to brighten up your week, this cake is a classic for a reason. In this post, I’ll share the story behind my love for this cake, walk you through exactly how to make it, and answer some fun FAQs about the cookies and cream craze.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Why I Love Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake
There’s something unforgettable about the first time I made a cookies and cream ice cream cake. It was a hot summer weekend, and I wanted something cool, creamy, and nostalgic—something that tasted like childhood but felt a little extra. I had a pack of Oreos, a tub of vanilla ice cream, and just enough determination to try layering them together. One bite in, and it was everything I needed—crunchy, creamy, and perfectly sweet. This cake has since become a family tradition. Every birthday, every cookout, every last-minute celebration—it’s always on the table, and it always disappears first.
What makes cookies and cream ice cream cake such a favorite? It’s the mix of textures. Softened vanilla ice cream hugs crumbled cookie chunks that still have a little bite. Each frozen layer builds flavor, and every slice looks impressive without requiring any baking. It’s a recipe that’s forgiving and fun—just like the people you’ll serve it to.
And let’s be honest—cookies and cream is a flavor that never goes out of style. Whether it’s showing up in a milkshake or packed into a bar, it brings a comfort we can all relate to. If you love frozen desserts, you’ll also enjoy the cookie monster ice cream for its bold color and classic fun. Or if you’re looking for a post-workout treat with that same nostalgic taste, try the cookies and cream protein shake—it captures the same magic with a healthy twist.
Whether you’re eight or eighty, there’s something familiar and exciting about this ice cream cake. It’s not just a dessert—it’s a celebration you can hold in your hands.
For more Follow me on Facebook & Pinterest
Print
Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake – Easy No-Bake Frozen Favorite
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 1 9-inch cake 1x
Description
This cookies and cream ice cream cake is a no-bake dessert made with crushed chocolate cookies, vanilla ice cream, and whipped topping. It’s creamy, crunchy, and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
1 package chocolate sandwich cookies (Oreos)
1/2 cup melted butter
1.5 quarts vanilla ice cream, softened
1 cup whipped topping (Cool Whip)
Optional: chocolate syrup, extra cookie crumbs
Instructions
1. Crush the cookies and reserve 1/3 for mixing/topping.
2. Mix the remaining crumbs with melted butter to form the crust.
3. Press the crust into a pan and freeze for 10 minutes.
4. Fold half the reserved crumbs into softened ice cream.
5. Spread over crust, smooth, and freeze 4+ hours.
6. Top with whipped topping, remaining crumbs, and drizzle before serving.
Notes
Let the cake sit for 5–10 minutes before slicing for cleaner cuts.
Try swapping vanilla ice cream with chocolate for a richer version.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: cookies and cream, ice cream cake, Oreo dessert
Making the Perfect Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake
Ingredients You’ll Need
Making a cookies and cream ice cream cake is wonderfully simple, and the ingredients are easy to find. You don’t need a mixer, an oven, or even much time—just a few favorites that come together in a cold, creamy masterpiece.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 package of chocolate sandwich cookies (like Oreos)
- 1/2 cup melted butter (for the crust)
- 1.5 quarts vanilla ice cream, slightly softened
- 1 cup whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)
- Optional: chocolate syrup, extra cookie crumbs for topping
To start this cookies and cream ice cream cake, crush the cookies into fine crumbs. Use a food processor or place them in a bag and crush with a rolling pin. Set aside about 1/3 of the crumbs for mixing and topping. Combine the remaining crumbs with melted butter and press into the base of a springform pan or deep pie dish to form the crust.
Step-by-Step Assembly Process
Now it’s time to assemble your cake:
- In a large bowl, fold half of the leftover cookie crumbs into the softened vanilla ice cream.
- Spread the ice cream mixture over the prepared cookie crust.
- Smooth the top, then freeze the cookies and cream ice cream cake for 3–4 hours (or overnight).
- Before serving, spread whipped topping across the surface, sprinkle with remaining cookie crumbs, and drizzle with chocolate syrup.
- Use a warm knife to slice your cake easily and serve right away.
This cookies and cream ice cream cake is a guaranteed hit, whether you’re prepping it for a birthday party or just because it’s Tuesday. Want more fun ideas? You’ll love this chocolate chip cookie cake for a warm and chewy twist, or explore the chilled layers of the cookies and cream bar for a square-cut snack version.
Frozen, fun, and full of cookie chunks—this cake is everything dessert should be.
Creative Variations of Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake
Fun Twists for Any Occasion
One of the best parts about a cookies and cream ice cream cake is how customizable it is. Once you master the base recipe, it becomes a blank canvas for creativity. Want to make it extra indulgent? Swirl in chocolate fudge between the layers. Hosting a party? Add colorful sprinkles on top or use mini Oreo cookies for decorating the edges. You can even create mini individual versions by pressing the crust into muffin tins and layering smaller scoops of ice cream.
For holidays or celebrations, change the ice cream flavor entirely. A swirl of cookies and cream and chocolate ice cream adds even more depth, while mint chocolate chip gives it a cool, refreshing twist. One of my personal favorites is layering in a few spoonfuls of peanut butter before freezing—it adds just the right salty contrast.
Speaking of flavor twists, the cookies and cream protein bar proves just how many ways you can enjoy this classic combo outside of ice cream form.
Make It Your Own (Keto, Vegan, More)
This cookies and cream ice cream cake also works beautifully for special diets. For a vegan version, use non-dairy ice cream, plant-based whipped topping, and dairy-free chocolate sandwich cookies. If you’re going low-carb or keto, make the crust using almond flour and a keto-friendly sweetener with melted coconut oil.
Want to bake something else that’s allergy-friendly but still big on flavor? Try the chewy vegan chocolate chip cookies—they’re a perfect side treat to serve with a slice of cake.
No matter your dietary needs or flavor preferences, this ice cream cake recipe can adapt. That’s the beauty of it—it’s simple, versatile, and always delicious.
Serving, Storing, and Sharing
How to Serve It Beautifully
There’s something so satisfying about slicing into a frozen cookies and cream ice cream cake and revealing those layers of creamy goodness and cookie crunch. To make slicing easier, let the cake sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes before serving. Then use a sharp knife dipped in warm water to cut clean, smooth slices every time.
Want to go the extra mile? Add a generous drizzle of chocolate syrup or caramel sauce before serving. A dollop of whipped topping or a sprinkle of extra crushed cookies gives it that just-right bakery feel. This cake is freezer-friendly but still feels like a gourmet dessert on a plate.
Pair your slice with a cold drink for the perfect match. I personally love serving it with a glass of cookie butter cold brew—that nutty, spiced flavor is a fun contrast to the cookies and cream combo. If you’re in the mood for more rich indulgence, offer it with one or two double chunk chocolate cookies on the side for cookie lovers who want it all.
Storage Tips and Make-Ahead Tricks
The beauty of a cookies and cream ice cream cake is that it stores well and can be made ahead of time. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil after freezing to prevent freezer burn. You can keep it in the freezer for up to 5 days—if it lasts that long!
To prep ahead for events, assemble the cake the day before and let it firm up overnight. If you’re layering multiple cakes or need to travel, place parchment paper between layers or transport it in a cake carrier with an ice pack underneath.
This cookies and cream ice cream cake is one of those desserts that everyone loves and no one forgets. Whether you’re freezing it for the week or making it just hours before guests arrive, it holds up beautifully every time.
What percentage of people like cookies and cream ice cream?
Cookies and cream consistently ranks as one of the top three most popular ice cream flavors in the U.S. According to national surveys, over 40% of people list it among their favorites. It’s loved for its nostalgic combo of chocolate cookie chunks and vanilla ice cream—especially when turned into a frozen dessert like a cookies and cream ice cream cake.
Who is the TikTok ice cream cake guy?
You might be thinking of Dylan Lemay, the viral TikTok creator known for tossing scoops of ice cream and decorating cakes with flair. His videos showcasing how to build over-the-top ice cream cakes have racked up millions of views and inspired many to try making frozen cakes at home—including creative spins on cookies and cream ice cream cake.
Why is it called cookies and cream?
The name “cookies and cream” comes from its two iconic parts: chocolate cookies and vanilla cream. Originally made famous as an ice cream flavor in the late 1970s or early ’80s, it’s now a go-to combo found in shakes, bars, and desserts like this cookies and cream ice cream cake.
What does cookies and cream ice cream say about you?
If cookies and cream is your go-to flavor, you’re likely someone who loves comfort and nostalgia. It’s a classic choice that says you appreciate timeless treats and crave a balance of texture and flavor. You probably like things that are simple, but never boring—just like this cool and creamy ice cream cake.
Conclusion
Cookies and cream ice cream cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a celebration. It’s simple enough for a weekday treat, yet impressive enough for birthdays, cookouts, or any moment worth freezing in time. With layers of creamy vanilla ice cream, crunchy chocolate cookies, and a chilled whipped topping, every bite delivers flavor and texture that makes people smile.
Whether you’re making it for a crowd or sneaking slices from the freezer after dinner, this cake is sure to become a go-to favorite. If you love quick bakes with that same nostalgic feel, try these white chocolate chip cookies or whip up a batch of small batch chocolate chip cookies when you’re craving just a few warm bites.
This cake is easy, nostalgic, and endlessly customizable. So grab a pan, crush those cookies, and build your own cookies and cream ice cream cake. You deserve a slice of something cool and classic.