Go Back

Ice Cream Cake Recipe

An ice cream cake is a fun, frozen dessert that combines layers of cake and ice cream, making it the perfect treat for celebrations and warm-weather gatherings.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 25 minutes
Total Time 6 hours 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

For the Cake Base (optional):
  • 1 thin layer of chocolate or vanilla cake store-bought or homemade
  • OR substitute with a brownie base or cookie crust
For the Ice Cream Layers:
  • 1.5 quarts about 6 cups ice cream (choose 1–2 flavors you like best)
  • Optional mix-ins: crushed cookies sprinkles, fudge, or caramel sauce
For the Topping:
  • 2 cups whipped cream stabilized or frosting
  • Sprinkles chocolate shavings, cookie crumbs, or fudge drizzle for decoration

Method
 

  1. Bake or prepare your cake base, then let it cool completely.
  2. Line a springform pan with parchment paper or plastic wrap.
  3. Place the cake layer at the bottom of the pan.
  4. Let the ice cream sit out for 10–15 minutes until soft enough to spread.
  5. Spread a thick layer of softened ice cream over the cake.
  6. Add cookie crumbs, fudge, or caramel if you want an extra layer.
  7. If using a second cake layer, place it on top and cover with more ice cream.
  8. Smooth the top, cover with plastic wrap, and freeze for 4–6 hours (or overnight).
  9. Once frozen, remove from the pan and frost with whipped cream.
  10. Decorate with sprinkles, fudge drizzle, or crushed cookies.
  11. Let it sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before slicing.
  12. Slice with a warm knife and serve immediately.