Summer just got a whole lot sweeter! As the temperatures rise, there’s no better way to beat the heat than with a cold and creamy dessert. And what’s more indulgent than a rich and decadent ice cream cake? In this article, we’re counting down our top 20 decadent ice cream cake recipes that are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. From classic combinations like cookies and cream to unique flavor pairings like strawberry shortcake, these cakes are the perfect way to cap off a summer night. So go ahead, get creative in the kitchen, and treat yourself (and your friends) to a slice (or two) of ice cream cake heaven.
Chocolate Fudge Brownie Ice Cream Cake
Elevate your dessert game with this decadent cake that combines the richness of chocolate, the gooiness of fudge, and the creaminess of ice cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1 cup fudge brownie mix
– 1 pint vanilla ice cream
– Whipped cream and chocolate shavings for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine sugar, butter, eggs, and milk. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour in the fudge brownie mix and stir until well incorporated.
6. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Let cool completely before slicing into squares and layering with ice cream.
8. Top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake
Sweeten your day with this refreshing dessert that combines the flavors of strawberry shortcake with creamy ice cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 quarts vanilla ice cream, softened
– 1 cup sliced strawberries
– 1 cup whipped cream
– 6-8 shortcake biscuits (homemade or store-bought)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the softened ice cream and sliced strawberries. Mix until well combined.
2. Split the shortcake biscuits in half horizontally.
3. Place a biscuit half on the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Top with a layer of the strawberry-ice cream mixture, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
4. Repeat steps 2 and 3 two more times, ending with a layer of ice cream on top.
5. Dust the top with confectioners’ sugar.
6. Cover and freeze for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: None needed! This dessert is best served frozen.
Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake!
Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake
Elevate your dessert game with this show-stopping Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake, featuring a creamy ice cream base, crunchy cookies, and a sweet vanilla cake crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1 cup crushed chocolate sandwich cookies (e.g. Oreos)
– 1 pint Cookies and Cream ice cream
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add softened butter; mix until a crumbly dough forms.
3. Press dough into prepared pan.
4. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until lightly golden.
5. Allow cake to cool completely.
6. Crush cookies; sprinkle half over cooled cake.
7. Scoop Cookies and Cream ice cream on top of cake, leaving a 1-inch border.
8. Top with remaining cookie crumbs.
9. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes (cake) + freezing time for ice cream
Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Cake
Cool off with this refreshing dessert that combines the creaminess of ice cream, the crunch of chocolate chips, and the invigorating flavor of peppermint.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 quarts mint chocolate chip ice cream
– 1 cup crushed Oreo cookies
– 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together crushed Oreos and melted butter until well combined.
3. Press the Oreo mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
4. Scoop the mint ice cream on top of the crust.
5. Sprinkle chocolate chips over the ice cream.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the edges are set and the center is slightly softened.
7. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Salted Caramel Pretzel Ice Cream Cake
Satisfy your sweet and salty cravings with this unique dessert, featuring a moist cake base, crunchy pretzels, and creamy salted caramel ice cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup pretzel rods, crushed
– 1/4 cup salted caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 pint salted caramel ice cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 8-inch round cake pans.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, and eggs in a large bowl.
3. Add softened butter and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.
4. Fold in crushed pretzels.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Allow cakes to cool completely before assembling the cake.
7. Place one cake layer on a serving plate, drizzle with salted caramel sauce, and top with scoops of ice cream. Repeat with second cake layer.
8. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes (cake), 30 minutes (assembly)
Peanut Butter Cup Ice Cream Cake
A decadent treat that combines the richness of peanut butter cups with the creamy delight of ice cream cake.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 quarts vanilla ice cream
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 1/2 cup peanut butter cups, crushed
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups confectioners’ sugar
– 12-15 chocolate sandwich cookies (e.g., Oreos), crushed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
3. In a separate bowl, combine peanut butter cups and softened butter; mix until well combined.
4. Fold the whipped cream into the peanut butter cup mixture until smooth.
5. Press half of the crushed cookies into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Spread the ice cream mixture over the cookies.
7. Top with the remaining cookies.
8. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None (no cooking required)
Neapolitan Ice Cream Cake
A classic Neapolitan-inspired dessert featuring layers of creamy ice cream, rich chocolate cake, and a touch of colorful sprinkles.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 quart Neapolitan ice cream (strawberry, chocolate, and vanilla)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
– Sprinkles, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients; divide evenly between prepared pans.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool completely.
6. Assemble cake by spreading a layer of ice cream on top of one cake layer, followed by another cake layer, and finally the remaining ice cream.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar and garnish with sprinkles.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes (including baking time)
Rocky Road Ice Cream Cake
Get ready to wow your friends and family with this decadent Rocky Road Ice Cream Cake, featuring layers of creamy ice cream, crunchy nuts, and gooey marshmallows.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint rocky road ice cream
– 1 cup crushed peanuts
– 1/2 cup mini marshmallows
– 1/4 cup chopped dark chocolate or chocolate chips
– 12-16 wafers (ice cream sandwich cookies)
– Whipped cream and additional marshmallows for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Scoop the rocky road ice cream into a 9×13 inch pan or a freezer-safe container.
2. Sprinkle crushed peanuts, mini marshmallows, and chopped dark chocolate over the ice cream.
3. Place wafers on top of the mixture, creating a single layer.
4. Cover with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight.
5. Just before serving, top with whipped cream and additional marshmallows if desired.
Cooking Time: 4+ hours (or overnight)
Vanilla Bean and Raspberry Swirl Ice Cream Cake
Elevate your dessert game with this show-stopping cake, featuring layers of creamy vanilla ice cream, sweet raspberry swirl, and crunchy cookie crumbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 quarts vanilla bean ice cream
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup crushed cookies (such as wafers or chocolate sandwich cookies)
Instructions:
1. Scoop the ice cream into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the raspberries and granulated sugar. Spoon the raspberry mixture over the ice cream in a zigzag pattern.
3. Drizzle the melted butter and vanilla extract evenly over the top of the cake.
4. Sprinkle the crushed cookies over the top of the cake.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: None! This is a no-bake dessert, perfect for hot summer days or easy entertaining.
Banana Split Ice Cream Cake
This decadent dessert combines the classic flavors of a banana split with the richness of an ice cream cake, perfect for special occasions or simply satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 quarts vanilla ice cream
– 1 cup sliced bananas
– 1 cup crushed pineapple
– 1 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 cup caramel sauce
– 1 cup whipped cream
– 12-15 wafers (homemade or store-bought)
– Chocolate syrup and cherry halves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Prepare the ice cream cake base by spreading a layer of vanilla ice cream on the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
2. Arrange sliced bananas on top of the ice cream, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Drizzle caramel sauce over the bananas and sprinkle with chopped walnuts.
4. Top with whipped cream and crushed pineapple.
5. Place wafers on top to form the cake’s structure.
6. Freeze for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving. Garnish with chocolate syrup and cherry halves.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (including freezing time)
Enjoy your Banana Split Ice Cream Cake!
Tiramisu Ice Cream Cake
Elevate your dessert game with this unique fusion of Italian flavors and creamy ice cream. This Tiramisu Ice Cream Cake is a show-stopper that’s sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 1 pint of coffee ice cream
– 1 cup of heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
– 12-16 ladyfingers
– 1 cup of strong brewed coffee
– 1/4 cup of granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup of cocoa powder
Instructions:
1. Start by making the ladyfinger layers. In a large bowl, combine the softened butter and vanilla extract. Dip each ladyfinger into the mixture, coating both sides evenly.
2. Assemble the cake by placing a layer of ladyfingers in a 9-inch springform pan. Top with a scoop of coffee ice cream, followed by a drizzle of brewed coffee and a sprinkle of granulated sugar.
3. Repeat the layers two more times, ending with a layer of ladyfingers on top.
4. Chill the cake in the freezer for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None needed! Just assemble and chill.
Coconut Mango Ice Cream Cake
Experience the tropical paradise with this creamy coconut mango ice cream cake that combines the sweetness of mango and the richness of coconut.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 8-10 ice cream cones (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, and unsweetened shredded coconut.
3. Pour mixture into ice cream cones, filling about 3/4 of the way.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden brown.
5. Allow cakes to cool completely before serving.
6. Top with diced mango and a drizzle of honey (optional).
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Matcha Green Tea Ice Cream Cake
Elevate your dessert game with this unique and refreshing Matcha Green Tea Ice Cream Cake! Layers of creamy green tea ice cream, crunchy cookie crust, and whipped cream create a delightful treat that’s perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups matcha-flavored ice cream
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 1/2 cups crushed cookies (e.g., wafers or biscuits)
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat your freezer to its coldest setting.
2. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. Add granulated sugar and vanilla extract; mix until combined.
3. Spoon half of the ice cream into a 9-inch springform pan. Top with whipped cream, spreading evenly.
4. Sprinkle crushed cookies over the whipped cream layer.
5. Repeat steps 2-4, ending with a layer of whipped cream on top.
6. Drizzle melted butter over the whipped cream layer to prevent freezer burn.
Cooking Time:
– Chill in the freezer for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving.
Berry Cheesecake Ice Cream Cake
A creamy and fruity dessert that combines the richness of cheesecake with the coolness of ice cream, all wrapped up in a moist cake.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1 pint vanilla ice cream
– Whipped cream and additional berries for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, eggs, and butter until smooth.
3. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
4. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
5. Allow cake to cool completely.
6. In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add confectioners’ sugar and mix until combined.
7. Spread ice cream over cooled cake. Top with cheesecake mixture and mixed berries.
8. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes (cake), 2 hours (refrigeration)
Lemon Curd Ice Cream Cake
Brighten up any occasion with this refreshing and decadent lemon curd ice cream cake, featuring a creamy lemon curd filling sandwiched between layers of moist vanilla cake and scoops of tangy lemon ice cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– Lemon curd (store-bought or homemade)
– Lemon ice cream
– Whipped cream and lemon zest for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until just combined.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Allow cakes to cool completely before assembling the cake.
8. Spread lemon curd on top of one cake layer, then top with a scoop of lemon ice cream.
9. Place the second cake layer on top and frost with whipped cream and garnish with lemon zest.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Red Velvet Ice Cream Cake
Red Velvet Ice Cream Cake Recipe
Experience the decadent combination of rich red velvet cake, creamy ice cream, and velvety chocolate ganache.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 large egg yolks
– 2 tablespoons red food coloring
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Ice cream (your favorite flavor)
– Whipped cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine butter, eggs, egg yolks, and red food coloring. Beat until smooth.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients, alternating with milk, beginning and ending with dry ingredients. Beat just until combined.
5. Pour batter into 2 (9-inch) round cake pans lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Let cool completely before assembling the cake.
8. Cut cakes in half horizontally to create four layers.
9. Place a layer of ice cream between each cake layer, finishing with an ice cream top.
10. Top with whipped cream and chocolate ganache (if using).
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Funfetti Birthday Cake Ice Cream Cake
Celebrate a special birthday with this show-stopping ice cream cake, featuring a funfetti cake crust and a creamy vanilla ice cream filling. This recipe is perfect for a summer party or any occasion that calls for a sweet surprise.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup funfetti sprinkles
– 1 pint vanilla ice cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in funfetti sprinkles.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Let cake cool completely before assembling the ice cream cake.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Espresso Coffee Ice Cream Cake
Experience the perfect blend of rich espresso and creamy ice cream in this decadent cake.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup strong brewed espresso
– 1 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup ice cream (espresso or vanilla)
– Whipped cream and chocolate shavings for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, egg yolks, and vanilla extract. Whisk until combined.
4. Add brewed espresso and whisk until smooth.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, whisking until just combined.
6. Pour in softened butter and mix until a thick batter forms.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
8. Let cool completely before spreading with ice cream and topping with whipped cream and chocolate shavings (if desired).
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pistachio Rosewater Ice Cream Cake
Elevate your dessert game with this unique and refreshing Pistachio Rosewater Ice Cream Cake, featuring the sweetness of pistachios and the floral charm of rosewater.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh pistachios
– 2 tablespoons rosewater extract
– 12 ounces ice cream (your favorite flavor)
– 1 cup whipped cream
– 1 cup crushed wafers or cookies (for crust)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your freezer to its coldest setting.
2. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream and whole milk until stiff peaks form.
3. Add the granulated sugar, chopped pistachios, and rosewater extract; mix until combined.
4. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Once set, scoop the ice cream into a large bowl and fold in whipped cream.
6. Assemble the cake by spreading half of the ice cream mixture on the crust, followed by a layer of crushed wafers or cookies, and finishing with the remaining ice cream.
7. Freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None (since it’s an ice cream cake!)
S’mores Ice Cream Cake
S’mores Ice Cream Cake Recipe
Get ready to take your campfire treats to the next level with this S’mores Ice Cream Cake! Layers of chocolate ice cream, toasted marshmallows, and graham cracker crumbs come together in a decadent dessert that’s perfect for any outdoor enthusiast.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 quarts chocolate ice cream
– 12-15 marshmallows
– 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until well combined.
3. Press the crumb mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
4. Scoop the chocolate ice cream over the crust, spreading it evenly.
5. Place marshmallows on top of the ice cream and toast them in the oven for 30-45 seconds or until golden brown.
6. Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating overnight.
7. Slice and serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 1 hour (including toasting time)
Summary
Beat the summer heat with these 20 decadent ice cream cake recipes! From classic flavors like chocolate and strawberry to unique combinations like mint chocolate chip and salted caramel pretzel, there’s something for everyone. Try making a cookies and cream cake, or go all out with a tiramisu or banana split-inspired dessert. Each recipe is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and impress your friends and family. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced baker, these ice cream cakes are the perfect treat for warm-weather gatherings.