Oreo Layer Cake with Cookies and Cream Frosting Recipe
Decadent, creamy, and full of chocolate goodness, this Oreo layer cake with cookies and cream frosting is a dessert that steals the spotlight at any celebration. Moist chocolate cake layers are filled and topped with a luscious frosting studded with crushed Oreo cookies, creating a perfect mix of smooth creaminess and crunchy texture in every bite.
Perfect for birthdays, parties, or special gatherings, this cake elevates the classic cookies and cream experience. Its rich flavor and beautiful presentation make it a treat that both kids and adults will love, leaving everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients Needed
To make Oreo layer cake with cookies and cream frosting you will need ingredients for both the chocolate cake and the frosting. Below is a table showing the ingredients along with approximate calorie values.
Ingredient | Quantity | Calories Approx |
---|---|---|
All purpose flour | 2 ½ cups | 1100 |
Granulated sugar | 2 cups | 1540 |
Unsweetened cocoa powder | ¾ cup | 150 |
Baking powder | 2 ½ teaspoons | 10 |
Baking soda | 1 ½ teaspoons | 0 |
Salt | 1 teaspoon | 0 |
Eggs | 2 large | 140 |
Whole milk | 1 cup | 150 |
Vegetable oil | ½ cup | 960 |
Vanilla extract | 2 teaspoons | 24 |
Boiling water | 1 cup | 0 |
Oreo cookies for cake layers | 12 cookies | 600 |
Unsalted butter for frosting | 1 cup | 810 |
Powdered sugar | 4 cups | 1920 |
Cream cheese | 8 ounces | 400 |
Oreo cookies for frosting | 12 cookies | 600 |
Heavy cream | 2 tablespoons | 50 |
Step by Step Cooking Instructions
Prepare the Cake Batter
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and grease two 9 inch round cake pans. In a large bowl combine flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix well to ensure the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl whisk together eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until smooth. Slowly pour in the boiling water while mixing gently. The batter will be thin, which helps create a moist cake.
Fold in Cookie Pieces
Crush 12 Oreo cookies roughly and fold them into the batter. This adds bursts of cookie flavor throughout the cake layers. Be careful not to over mix so the cake stays light and fluffy.
Bake the Cake Layers
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove them and let them cool completely on a wire rack.
Prepare the Cookies and Cream Frosting
In a large mixing bowl beat unsalted butter until creamy. Add cream cheese and continue to beat until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and beat until fully combined. Stir in heavy cream and fold in 12 crushed Oreo cookies.
Assemble the Cake
Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of frosting over the top. Place the second cake layer on top and cover the entire cake with the remaining frosting. Smooth the surface and sides as desired.
Decorate and Serve
For a finishing touch, press a few whole Oreo cookies or additional crushed cookies on top of the cake. Chill the cake for a short time to set the frosting before slicing. Serve and enjoy the rich combination of chocolate, cream, and cookies in every bite.
Tips for customizing the Recipe
You can easily adjust this Oreo layer cake to suit your taste or occasion. For a richer chocolate experience, add a few tablespoons of espresso or strong coffee to the cake batter to enhance the cocoa flavor. You can also mix in finely chopped dark chocolate for extra indulgence.
The frosting can be varied by adding a splash of vanilla or almond extract to complement the cookies and cream flavor. For a lighter option, use whipped cream in place of some of the butter or cream cheese to make the frosting fluffier and less dense.
Decorations can be personalized as well. Top the cake with whole cookies, chocolate shavings, or even a drizzle of melted chocolate. These small adjustments allow you to create a visually stunning and flavorful cake while keeping the classic cookies and cream experience intact.
Nutritional Information
Oreo layer cake with cookies and cream frosting is a rich and indulgent dessert that delivers both sweetness and texture. Each slice provides energy mainly from carbohydrates and fats, making it a satisfying treat for special occasions. The chocolate cake layers offer a soft and moist base, while the crushed cookies add crunch and additional sugar.
The frosting combines butter, cream cheese, and powdered sugar, contributing to protein and fat content while creating a smooth, creamy texture. Though this cake is higher in calories, it is perfect for celebrations or sharing with family and friends, allowing each person to enjoy a modest portion.
For those seeking a slightly lighter version, you can reduce the amount of frosting or use low fat cream cheese and whipped cream in the frosting. These small adjustments keep the taste and texture enjoyable while lowering the overall calorie content.
Serving Suggestion

Oreo layer cake with cookies and cream frosting is best served slightly chilled or at room temperature to allow the frosting to set and the flavors to meld. Slice the cake into generous pieces and serve on a decorative plate for a stunning dessert presentation. It pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee, hot chocolate, or a cold glass of milk.
For an extra touch, garnish each slice with a whole Oreo cookie or a sprinkle of crushed cookies. You can also add fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce to elevate the presentation and flavor. This cake is ideal for birthdays, gatherings, or any occasion where a decadent dessert is desired.
How to Store and Keep Fresh
Allow the Oreo layer cake to cool completely before storing to maintain the texture of both the cake and frosting. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. At room temperature, the cake will stay fresh for up to two days.
For longer storage, refrigerate the cake for up to five days. If you want to keep it for an extended period, freeze individual slices or the whole cake in a sealed container for up to two months. Thaw in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before serving to enjoy the cake at its best.
Conclusion
Oreo layer cake with cookies and cream frosting is a decadent dessert that combines moist chocolate cake, creamy frosting, and crunchy cookie pieces in every bite. It is perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or simply as a treat to share with family and friends. The balance of textures and flavors makes each slice both indulgent and memorable.
This cake is versatile and easy to customize with different toppings, flavors, or frosting variations. Serving it slightly chilled or at room temperature enhances its taste and texture, making it a centerpiece dessert that impresses both visually and in flavor. Baking this cake at home ensures a fresh, rich, and satisfying dessert experience that everyone will enjoy.
FAQs
Q1: Can I make the Oreo layer cake ahead of time
Yes, you can bake the cake layers a day in advance and store them covered in the refrigerator. Assemble and frost the cake just before serving to maintain freshness and texture.
Q2: Can I use a different type of cookie for the frosting
Absolutely, you can substitute Oreos with any sandwich cookies or even chocolate chip cookies. Each option will give a slightly different texture and flavor while keeping the cake delicious.
Q3: How do I store leftover cake slices
Store leftover slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. For longer storage, freeze individual slices or the whole cake, then thaw in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before serving.