Cookies and Cream Cake

I used to think making a bakery-style chocolate cake required fancy equipment or a culinary degree. Then I discovered the simple power of adding hot coffee to the batter. It doesn’t make the cake taste like a latte; instead, it wakes up the cocoa in a way that takes the flavor from “good” to “wow” instantly.

this Recipe

This Cookies and Cream Cake is the ultimate celebration of that simple trick. We’re talking moist, deep chocolate layers sandwiched with a fluffy, crunchy Oreo buttercream that feels nostalgic yet totally fresh. It is the perfect balance of soft cake and cookie crunch.

The Flavor Pop

You are going to love this recipe because it proves that special doesn’t have to be complicated. The contrast between the tender, dark chocolate crumb and the sweet, crunchy buttercream is absolute magic.

• The Coffee Hack: The hot coffee blooms the cocoa powder, creating a depth of flavor you just can’t get with milk alone.
• Texture Heaven: Smooth buttercream meets crunchy cookie bits in every single bite.
• Simple Assembly: No fancy piping skills required—the crushed Oreos make it look amazing effortlessly.

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Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor

Here are the stars of the show that make this cake pop. You likely have most of these in your pantry already.

• Hot Coffee: This is my favorite flavor pop! It intensifies the chocolate. Use decaf if you prefer, but don’t skip it.
• Buttermilk: This ensures the cake stays incredibly moist and tender.
• Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: The base of our rich chocolate flavor.
• Oreos: You will need them for both the buttercream filling and the crunchy topping.
• Unsalted Butter: Make sure it is at room temperature for the smoothest frosting.

How to Make It

Step 1: Prep the Pans

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spray two 8-inch round cake pans with nonstick cooking spray or line them with parchment paper. Set them aside so they are ready to go.

Step 2: Whisk the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, sift together the flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Give it a good whisk to ensure everything is evenly distributed.

Step 3: The Wet Mix

In a separate bowl, combine the room-temperature buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until fully blended.

Step 4: The Coffee Magic

With your mixer on low speed, slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture. Once combined, carefully pour in the hot coffee. Mix just until combined—the batter will be thin, and that is exactly what we want.

Step 5: Bake and Cool

Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pans. Bake for 30 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out mostly clean. Let them cool in the pans for 30 minutes before transferring to a rack to cool completely.

Step 6: That Oreo Buttercream

Beat the butter until light and creamy. Slowly add the confectioners’ sugar, 2 cups at a time, mixing until smooth. Fold in the finely crushed Oreo crumbs, then add milk one tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 7: Stack and Decorate

Place one cake layer on your serving plate. Spread about a cup of buttercream on top and sprinkle with chopped Oreos. Add the second layer, cover the whole cake in the remaining buttercream, and top with more chopped cookies.

Jasmine’s Flavor Tips

Here is how you can ensure your cake turns out perfect every single time.

• Room Temp is Key: Make sure your buttermilk, eggs, and butter are at room temperature. This helps the batter and frosting emulsify perfectly for a smooth texture.
• Crush it Fine: For the buttercream, crush your Oreos into fine crumbs. Large chunks can clog piping tips if you decide to pipe the frosting.
• Don’t Overmix: Once you add the flour, mix gently. Overmixing can make the cake dense rather than airy.
• Chocolate Lover? If this base recipe creates a craving for even more depth, you have to try my Old Fashioned Chocolate Cake next for a different take on classic cocoa flavors.

Make It Yours

This recipe is a fantastic canvas for your own creativity. Here are a few ways to switch up the flavor pop.

• Minty Twist: Swap regular Oreos for Mint Oreos and add a drop of peppermint extract to the frosting for a cool, refreshing bite.
• Golden Delight: Use Golden Oreos and a vanilla cake base for a non-chocolate version that still has that great cookie crunch.
• Candy Crunch: Not feeling cookies? You can swap the Oreos for chopped candy bars. If that sounds good, check out my Snickers Cake Recipe for inspiration.

Simple Serving Ideas

This cake is a showstopper on its own, but a few simple touches can make it even better.

• Classic Pairing: Serve a slice with a tall glass of cold milk. The creamy milk balances the rich chocolate perfectly.
• Dessert Spread: Planning a party? This cake looks stunning on a table next to other rich chocolate treats.
• Add Freshness: A few fresh strawberries or raspberries on the plate add a tart contrast that cuts through the sweetness beautifully.

The Sweet Spot

This cake proves that you don’t need complicated techniques to create a dessert that wows your friends and family. Just a little hot coffee and plenty of cookies does the trick. I was originally inspired by the classic combo found at i am baker, and this version brings that same joy to your kitchen with my favorite simple tweaks.

If you are looking for another crowd-pleaser to add to your rotation, don’t miss our chocolate fudge cake.

I would love to see your creations! Share your snaps with me on Instagram or pin this recipe for later on Pinterest.