Cookie cakes are a delightful treat that combines the best of both worlds – cookies and cakes! If you’re a fan of both, then making a cookie cake is a must-try. The best part? You can easily make a cookie cake using refrigerated dough. In this simple guide, we will walk you through the steps of making a scrumptious cookie cake using pre-made dough. So grab your apron and let’s get baking!
Gather Your Ingredients
Before you start baking, it’s important to gather all the necessary ingredients. For a basic cookie cake, you will need the following:
– One package of refrigerated cookie dough
Choose your favorite brand and flavor of refrigerated cookie dough. You can find these dough packages in the refrigerated section of your local grocery store. The great thing about using pre-made dough is that it saves you time and effort.
– A round cake pan or a baking sheet
Depending on the size and shape you desire for your cookie cake, you can use either a round cake pan or a baking sheet. Make sure to grease the pan or line the baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookie from sticking.
– Optional toppings
To add an extra touch of flavor and decoration, you can gather some optional toppings. This can include chocolate chips, sprinkles, nuts, or even a drizzle of melted chocolate on top. Get creative and choose toppings that complement the flavor of your cookie dough.
Prepare the Dough
Once you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to start preparing the dough. Follow these simple steps:
1. Preheat your oven
Begin by preheating your oven to the temperature specified on the package of your refrigerated cookie dough. Usually, the oven should be set to around 350°F (175°C).
2. Open the package
Carefully open the package of refrigerated cookie dough. You may need to use a knife or scissors to cut through any packaging seals.
3. Shape the dough
Take the dough out of the package and place it onto a clean, floured surface. Use your hands to shape the dough into a large, flattened disk. Ensure that the thickness of the dough is consistent throughout.
4. Transfer the dough
Depending on your choice of baking pan or sheet, now is the time to transfer the shaped dough. If using a round cake pan, gently place the dough into the greased pan. Press it down to ensure it spreads evenly. For a baking sheet, transfer the dough directly onto the greased or lined sheet.
Baking the Cookie Cake
Once your dough is in the pan or on the sheet, it’s time to bake your cookie cake to delicious perfection. Here’s what you need to do:
1. Checking the baking time
Refer to the instructions on the package to determine the recommended baking time. Typically, cookie cakes take around 15-20 minutes to bake, but this can vary depending on the brand and the thickness of your dough.
2. Keeping an eye on the cake
While your cookie cake bakes, it’s crucial to monitor its progress. Keep an eye on the color of the edges – they should turn golden brown while the center remains slightly soft. Be careful not to overbake, as this can result in a dry and crumbly cake.
3. Testing for doneness
To ensure your cookie cake is fully baked, you can perform a simple toothpick test. Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake, and if it comes out with a few moist crumbs, your cake is ready to be taken out of the oven.
4. Allowing the cake to cool
Once your cookie cake is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and place it on a wire rack to cool. Let it sit for at least 10-15 minutes before attempting to remove it from the pan or sheet.
Adding the Finishing Touches
Now that your cookie cake is baked and cooled, it’s time to add some finishing touches and make it even more enticing. Here are a few optional steps you can follow:
1. Decorating with toppings
If you opted for toppings, now is the perfect time to sprinkle them onto the cookie cake. Whether it’s chocolate chips, colorful sprinkles, chopped nuts, or a combination of them all, the toppings will enhance the appearance and flavor of the cake.
2. Drizzling with chocolate
For a more indulgent cookie cake, you can melt some chocolate (either milk, dark, or white) and drizzle it on top of the cake. This adds a luxurious touch and makes the cake visually appealing.
3. Adding a personalized message
To make the cookie cake extra special, consider adding a personalized message using icing or frosting. You can pipe “Happy Birthday,” “Congratulations,” or any other message that suits the occasion. Get creative with different colors and styles.
Serving and Storing the Cookie Cake
Congratulations! Your delicious cookie cake is now complete and ready to be served. Here are some serving and storing tips:
1. Cutting and serving
To cut the cookie cake, use a sharp knife or a pizza cutter. Start from the center and work your way towards the edges. This will help you achieve neat slices. Serve the cookie cake on a platter or individual plates, and enjoy!
2. Storing leftovers
If you have any leftovers (which is unlikely!), make sure to store them properly. Place the remaining cookie cake in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap. You can keep it at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate it for a longer shelf life.
In conclusion, making a cookie cake with refrigerated dough is a simple and enjoyable baking experience. With just a few ingredients and easy steps, you can create a delightful treat that will impress your loved ones. So why not give it a try and indulge in the best of both worlds – cookies and cakes!