Vanilla Ice Cream Cake Recipe || Easy Homemade

I created this Vanilla Ice Cream Cake recipe because I wanted to share a dessert that combines the best of both worlds—cake and ice cream.

This Vanilla Ice Cream Cake Recipe is a perfect way to enjoy the soft, comforting texture of cake paired with the creamy, cool goodness of vanilla ice cream.

It’s an indulgent treat that can be made for any occasion, from family gatherings to birthdays. What makes it so delicious is the perfect balance between the rich cake base, smooth ice cream, and fluffy whipped cream topping.

Inspired by my love for frozen desserts and my desire to make something unique, this ice cream cake is sure to please everyone with its refreshing, sweet flavors and fun texture.

It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will always leave you wanting more!

Why We Love This Vanilla Ice Cream Cake

We love this Vanilla Ice Cream Cake Recipe because it combines the best of both worlds: the rich, soft layers of cake and the creamy, indulgent ice cream.

The cake base provides a comforting, familiar texture, while the ice cream layer adds a refreshing sweetness, making every bite a perfect balance of flavors.

It’s versatile, easy to make, and customizable to suit any taste or occasion.

It’s for a celebration or a casual treat, this Vanilla Ice Cream Cake Recipe always brings smiles and satisfies cravings for something sweet and cool. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

How To Prepare Vanilla Ice Cream Cake Recipe?

Recipe Overview

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Freezing Time: 4 hours or overnight
• Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes (or overnight)
• Course: Dessert
• Difficulty: Easy
• Cuisine: American
• Yield: 8 servings

Kitchen Utensils Needed

• 9-inch springform pan
• Mixing bowls
• Spatula
• Spoon or ice cream scooper
• Knife (to cut the cake and ice cream)
• Plastic wrap or foil (for covering)

Ingredients

For the cake layer:

• 1 box of vanilla cake mix (or homemade vanilla cake)
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup of vegetable oil
• 1 cup of water
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the ice cream layer:

• 1 quart (4 cups) vanilla ice cream (softened)
• 1/2 cup chocolate syrup (optional)
• 1/2 cup crushed chocolate cookies or sprinkles (optional, for topping)

For the whipped cream topping:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Cake Base

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• In a bowl, prepare the vanilla cake mix according to the package instructions. Mix together the cake mix, egg, vegetable oil, water, and vanilla extract. Pour the batter into a greased 9-inch springform pan.
• Bake the cake for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan.

2. Prepare the Ice Cream Layer

• While the cake is cooling, soften the vanilla ice cream by letting it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes.
• Once the cake has cooled, remove the cake from the springform pan and place it on a plate.
• Spread the softened vanilla ice cream over the cake layer. Use a spatula to smooth the ice cream evenly. If you like, drizzle some chocolate syrup over the ice cream for added flavor.
• Return the cake to the springform pan and freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the ice cream to set.

3. Prepare the Whipped Cream Topping

• Once the ice cream layer is firm, it’s time to prepare the whipped cream. In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until stiff peaks form.
• Spread the whipped cream evenly over the ice cream layer, covering the entire surface.

4. Decorate and Serve

• Add any final touches such as crushed chocolate cookies, sprinkles, or a drizzle of chocolate syrup on top for extra decoration.
• Carefully remove the cake from the springform pan, cut it into slices, and serve.

Special Note:

Be sure to plan ahead as this recipe requires several hours of freezing time to set properly. It’s best to prepare the cake and ice cream a day in advance before assembling the final dessert.

Nutrition Facts Vanilla Ice Cream Cake Recipe

Nutrition	Amount
Calories	560 kcal
Total Fat	33g
Cholesterol	148mg
Sodium	290mg
Total Carbohydrates	62g
Sugars	44g
Protein	7g

Expert Tips

1. Choose premium vanilla ice cream for a smoother, creamier texture. You can also experiment with different flavors to add a twist, like strawberry or chocolate.

2. Before spreading the ice cream, let it soften for 10-15 minutes at room temperature. This makes it easier to spread evenly over the cake.

3. For a cleaner look and to prevent the layers from mixing, freeze the cake after adding each layer (the cake, ice cream, and whipped cream) for at least 30 minutes.

4.. Add crushed cookies, fruit, or even chocolate chips between the cake and ice cream layers for extra texture and flavor.

5. A springform pan helps you easily remove the cake once it’s frozen, giving you a clean, smooth finish without damaging the cake.

6. Add fresh fruits, crushed nuts, or chocolate shavings on top for a fun, festive touch that also enhances the flavor.

What Is The Stuff In The Middle Of An Ice Cream Cake?

The stuff in the middle of an ice cream cake typically consists of a layer of softened ice cream that forms the core of the dessert.

This ice cream layer is often placed on top of a cake base, creating a delightful contrast between the rich, spongy cake and the creamy, cool ice cream.

Depending on the recipe, you might also find additional fillings like crushed cookies, chocolate chips, or fruit in the middle, adding texture and extra flavor to each bite. It’s what makes an ice cream cake so fun and delicious!

Which Flavour Is Best In Ice Cream Cake?

The best flavor for an ice cream cake really depends on personal preference, but classic choices like vanilla, chocolate, and cookies & cream are always popular.

Vanilla offers a neutral, creamy base that pairs perfectly with any cake layer and toppings. Chocolate adds richness and depth, while cookies & cream gives a fun, crunchy texture.

For something more adventurous, you could try mint chocolate chip, strawberry, or even coffee for a unique twist.

Ultimately, the best flavor is one that matches your taste and complements the other layers and fillings in the cake!

Storage & Make Ahead

For the best results, store your Vanilla Ice Cream Cake Recipe in the freezer until you’re ready to serve. Keep it covered tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn and maintain its freshness.

You can make the cake ahead of time just assemble it and freeze it for at least 4 hours or overnight to let the layers set properly.

It will stay good in the freezer for up to a week. Simply let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before slicing and serving for easier cutting.

Conclusion

This Vanilla Ice Cream Cake Recipe is a must-try dessert that brings together the best of both worlds—rich, fluffy cake and creamy, refreshing ice cream.

It’s the ideal treat for any celebration or casual gathering, offering a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Not only is it easy to make, but it’s also highly customizable, so you can make it your own with different toppings or ice cream flavors.

Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just because, this cake is sure to become a go-to favorite that everyone will love.

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