Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cake

Name: Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 tsp baking soda; ½ tsp salt; 1 cup buttermilk; ½ cup vegetable oil; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup mini chocolate chips; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; ¼ cup granulated sugar; ¼ cup brown sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; ½ tsp salt; ½ cup mini chocolate chips; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; ¼ cup cocoa powder; ¼ cup heavy cream; 1 tsp vanilla extract; Pinch of sea salt

Highlighted under: Bakery-Style Treat Recipes

I love indulging in desserts that whisk me back to my childhood, and this Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cake does just that. The combination of rich, gooey cookie dough layered with moist chocolate cake is a delightful treat. Every bite takes me back to the sunny afternoons spent baking with friends, sharing laughter and sweet moments. This cake not only satisfies my sweet tooth but also brings back cherished memories, making it a perfect dessert for gatherings or simply enjoying at home.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-30T04:37:28.424Z

When I first made this Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cake, I was amazed by how well the flavors melded together. The key is the perfect balance between the rich chocolate and the buttery cookie dough that really makes this cake stand out. Using mini chocolate chips in the dough adds a delightful surprise in every bite. I’ve perfected the baking time to ensure the cake stays incredibly moist, while the cookie dough layer is deliciously chewy.

One tip I always share is to let the cake cool completely before frosting it. This helps the frosting to set beautifully on the surface, preventing it from melting into the cake. Adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the frosting gives it that gourmet touch which I adore. This cake always wins rave reviews and leaves everyone asking for the recipe!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh cookie dough
Moist cake with a delightful chewy layer
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

The Importance of Quality Ingredients

When making the Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cake, using high-quality chocolate chips and butter significantly enhances the flavor. I recommend opting for semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips, as their depth complements the sweetness of the cake. For the butter, use unsalted to control the saltiness and ensure a rich, creamy texture in both the cookie dough and frosting layers.

Another tip is to sift the cocoa powder before mixing it into the dry ingredients. This process aerates the cocoa and prevents clumps, leading to a smoother batter. Additionally, using room temperature ingredients like eggs and butter helps create an even cake and ensures better incorporation, which results in a fluffier texture.

Layering Techniques for Success

To achieve a beautiful presentation, it’s crucial to let the cake cool completely before adding the cookie dough layer. If the cake is still warm, the cookie dough may melt or spread unevenly, compromising the look and structure. Cooling times can vary, but I suggest letting it sit for at least 30-45 minutes on a wire rack for optimal results.

When assembling, consider using a spatula to evenly distribute the cookie dough layer. Dabbing small amounts across the surface of the cake before spreading can help to maintain an even thickness, preventing any one area from becoming too heavy. This way, every slice has a delightful balance of cake and cookie dough.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this decadent cake:

For the Cake

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
1 cup buttermilk
½ cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup mini chocolate chips

For the Cookie Dough Layer

½ cup unsalted butter, softened
¼ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup brown sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
½ tsp salt
½ cup mini chocolate chips

For the Frosting

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
¼ cup cocoa powder
¼ cup heavy cream
1 tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of sea salt

With these ingredients ready, we can move on to the exciting part: baking the cake!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cake:

Prepare the Cake Batter

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, mix the buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla. Combine the wet and dry ingredients, then fold in mini chocolate chips.

Bake the Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the batter into a greased 9-inch round cake pan and bake for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let it cool completely.

Make the Cookie Dough Layer

In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until creamy. Add the vanilla, flour, and salt, mixing until combined. Stir in mini chocolate chips.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cake is cool, spread the cookie dough layer evenly over the top of the cake.

Make the Frosting

To create the frosting, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and cocoa powder. Pour in heavy cream and vanilla, mixing until smooth and fluffy.

Frost and Serve

Spread the frosting over the cookie dough layer. For a gourmet touch, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top before slicing. Enjoy!

Your delicious Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cake is ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For an even richer flavor, try adding a splash of espresso powder to the cake batter. It enhances the chocolate experience beautifully.

Storing and Serving Tips

This cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you plan to keep it longer, I recommend refrigerating it, where it can last for about a week. However, be aware that the cookie dough layer may become firmer in the fridge; consider allowing it to sit at room temperature for an hour before serving to soften slightly.

For an extra special presentation, consider garnishing the cake with additional mini chocolate chips or drizzling melted chocolate on top before serving. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also intensifies the chocolate flavor, providing an even more decadent experience.

Customizing Your Cake

Feel free to experiment with the cake flavor by adding a teaspoon of espresso powder to the dry ingredients, which can enhance the chocolate taste without being overly coffee-like. You could also incorporate nuts, such as chopped walnuts or pecans, into either the cake batter or cookie dough for added texture and flavor.

If you're looking for a gluten-free option, replace the all-purpose flour in both the cake and cookie dough layers with a gluten-free blend. Just ensure that the blend contains xanthan gum to replace the binding properties of gluten, which is crucial for holding the structure of the cake.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular chocolate chips instead of mini ones?

Yes, you can use regular chocolate chips; just note that they may create larger pockets of chocolate in the cake.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for a week.

→ Can I freeze this cake?

Absolutely! You can freeze the cake before frosting, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, for up to 3 months.

→ What can I substitute for buttermilk?

You can use regular milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice mixed in to create a buttermilk substitute.