Cookies & Cream Sheet Cake Recipe

If you’re a fan of cookies and cream, then this Cookies & Cream Sheet Cake is going to blow your mind! Imagine a fluffy, tender cake topped with a creamy frosting loaded with crushed Oreo cookies. It’s the perfect combination of a moist, decadent cake and the crunchy, chocolatey goodness of cookies in every bite. Whether you’re making this for a party, birthday, or just a special treat, this sheet cake is a surefire hit with kids and adults alike. Plus, it’s easy to make and serves a crowd! Read on for the full recipe and some helpful tips to make your Cookies & Cream Sheet Cake irresistible.

What Is a Cookies & Cream Sheet Cake?

A Cookies & Cream Sheet Cake is a deliciously moist cake infused with vanilla and packed with chunks of cookies, usually Oreos. It's baked in a large rectangular pan, making it perfect for serving a crowd. The cake is topped with a rich cookies-and-cream frosting that’s loaded with crushed cookies, creating a dessert that’s a dream come true for Oreo lovers. Sheet cakes are typically baked in a shallow pan, making them quicker to bake and easier to serve than layer cakes, without sacrificing flavor or presentation.

Ingredients List for Cookies & Cream Sheet Cake

Ingredients for the Cake:

• 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure to the cake.
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and keeps the cake moist.
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and flavor.
• ½ cup vegetable oil: Keeps the cake tender and moist.
• 1 cup whole milk: For a soft, tender crumb.
• 3 large eggs: Adds structure and richness to the batter.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor.
• 1 tablespoon baking powder: Helps the cake rise.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
• 15-20 Oreo cookies, coarsely chopped: Adds crunch and flavor throughout the cake.

Ingredients for Cookies & Cream Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened: Creates a smooth, tangy base for the frosting.
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds creaminess and richness.
• 4 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the frosting.
• 10-12 Oreo cookies, finely crushed: For folding into the frosting.
• 2-3 tablespoons heavy cream: Helps achieve the desired frosting consistency.

Optional Toppings:

• Additional Oreo cookie pieces: To garnish the top for extra crunch.
• Whipped cream: For a decorative finish around the edges of the cake.
• Chocolate chips or shavings: For added texture and flavor.

Substitutions and Variations

This Cookies & Cream Sheet Cake is highly customizable, so feel free to get creative with the ingredients or make adjustments based on dietary preferences.

• Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free butter, almond milk, and vegan cream cheese to make the cake and frosting.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and use gluten-free sandwich cookies like gluten-free Oreos.
• Add Chocolate Chips: For extra indulgence, fold chocolate chips into the batter or sprinkle them over the frosting.
• Different Flavored Cookies: Swap the classic Oreos for Golden Oreos, peanut butter sandwich cookies, or even mint-flavored Oreos for a fun twist.
• Cake Mix Shortcut: If you’re short on time, use a boxed white or vanilla cake mix and simply fold in the crushed Oreos before baking.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you’ve got all your ingredients ready, it’s time to get baking. Follow these easy steps to make your Cookies & Cream Sheet Cake.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Your Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch sheet cake pan (or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later) and set aside.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Add the vegetable oil and continue to mix. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.

Step 4: Add the Dry Ingredients Alternating with Milk

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix as this can make the cake dense.

Step 5: Fold in the Crushed Cookies

Gently fold in the coarsely chopped Oreo cookies, making sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared sheet pan, spreading it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, let the cake cool completely in the pan.

How to Make Cookies & Cream Frosting

Step 7: Prepare the Frosting Base

While the cake cools, make the frosting. In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.

Step 8: Add Powdered Sugar and Vanilla

Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition. Add the vanilla extract and continue mixing until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.

Step 9: Fold in Crushed Oreos

Fold in the finely crushed Oreos into the frosting, mixing just until they are evenly distributed.

Step 10: Adjust the Consistency

If the frosting is too thick, add 1 tablespoon of heavy cream at a time until you reach your desired consistency. You want the frosting to be thick enough to spread but smooth and creamy.

How to Assemble Cookies & Cream Sheet Cake: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 11: Frost the Cake

Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the cookies and cream frosting evenly over the top of the cake. Use a spatula to create a smooth finish, or leave some textured swirls for a rustic look.

Step 12: Garnish and Decorate

For an extra touch, garnish the top of the cake with additional Oreo cookie pieces, sprinkles, or even a drizzle of chocolate syrup. You can also pipe whipped cream around the edges of the cake for a decorative finish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overmixing the Batter: Be careful not to overmix the cake batter once you’ve added the flour. Overmixing can lead to a dense, tough cake instead of a light and fluffy texture.
• Not Softening the Cream Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is fully softened before making the frosting. If it’s too cold, it will result in lumpy frosting.
• Not Letting the Cake Cool Completely: Don’t rush to frost the cake while it’s still warm, as the frosting will melt and become runny. Wait until the cake is fully cooled.

Serving and Presentation Tips

This cake is not only delicious but also easy to serve and present beautifully. Follow these tips for serving and presentation.

How to Serve Cookies & Cream Sheet Cake

• Serve Chilled: For the best texture, chill the cake for about 30 minutes before slicing. This allows the frosting to set and makes cutting easier.
• Use a Clean Knife: When slicing the cake, wipe the knife clean between each cut to keep the slices neat and presentable.

Presentation Ideas for Cookies & Cream Sheet Cake

• Oreo Toppers: Place whole Oreos or Oreo halves on top of the cake for a fun and easy decoration.
• Drizzle Chocolate Sauce: A light drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce over the frosting adds an elegant touch.
• Extra Cookies on the Side: Serve each slice with a few extra Oreo cookies on the plate for an extra indulgent presentation.

Cookies & Cream Sheet Cake Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: You can make the cake a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to frost and serve.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter, cream cheese, and eggs are at room temperature before baking and making the frosting. This ensures a smooth batter and lump-free frosting.
• Don’t Skimp on Oreos: The more Oreos, the better! Feel free to add extra cookies to the frosting, the batter, or as a topping.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I freeze this sheet cake?

Yes, you can freeze the unfrosted cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw the cake in the fridge overnight before frosting.

How do I store leftover cake?

Store any leftover cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure to keep it covered to prevent the cake and frosting from drying out.

Can I make this into cupcakes instead of a sheet cake?

Absolutely! You can pour the batter into cupcake liners and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Frost and decorate the cupcakes as desired.

Can I use a different kind of cookie instead of Oreos?

Yes, feel free to swap out the Oreos for any other cookie of your choice, like chocolate chip cookies, shortbread, or even peanut butter sandwich cookies for a different flavor twist.

Conclusion

This Cookies & Cream Sheet Cake is the ultimate treat for any occasion! With its soft, moist vanilla cake loaded with Oreo cookie pieces and a creamy frosting packed with even more cookies, it’s a dessert that will delight everyone at the table. Whether you’re making it for a party, family gathering, or just a fun weekend treat, this cake is sure to become a favorite. So grab your apron, preheat the oven, and get ready to bake the most delicious Cookies & Cream Sheet Cake ever!

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