Name: Sugar Cookie Cake: Your New Favorite Holiday Dessert
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 32 min
Total time: 62 min
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour (Use a kitchen scale for precision.); 1 teaspoon salt (Enhances flavor; no substitutions recommended.); 1 cup unsalted butter (Ensure room temperature for proper mixing.); 1 cup white granulated sugar (Can use brown sugar for a deeper flavor.); 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract (Adds flavor depth; no substitutions recommended.); 1 cup milk (Consider almond milk for a dairy-free version.); 1 tablespoon baking powder (Acts as a leavening agent; no substitutions recommended.); 1 teaspoon baking soda (Another leavening agent; no substitutions recommended.); 1/2 cup canola oil (Olive oil can be used as a substitute.); 3 large eggs (For an egg-free option, use flax eggs.); 1 cup sour cream (Greek yogurt can be used as an alternative.); 1 cup buttermilk (Substitute with a mix of milk and vinegar if unavailable.); 1/2 cup unsalted butter (Room temperature for mixing.); 1/2 cup white granulated sugar (Can use brown sugar for a hint of caramel flavor.); 1 cup all-purpose flour (Ensure it's heat-treated for safe eating.); 1/2 cup Christmas sprinkles (Use any colored sprinkles for different occasions.); 1 cup cream cheese (Ensure it's room temperature for smooth mixing.); 2 cups powdered sugar (No substitutions recommended.); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (No substitutions recommended.); 1 pinch salt (Balances the sweetness in the frosting.)

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The cheerful sound of jingling bells and the sweet aroma of baked treats signal that the holiday season is upon us! One bite of this Holiday Sugar Cookie Cake and you’ll be whisked away to those cozy moments of festive joy. This delightful cake unveils layers of moist vanilla cake and edible cookie dough, making it a whimsical centerpiece for any celebration. Topped with luscious cream cheese frosting and sprinkled with festive decorations, it’s not just a dessert; it’s an experience! Quick to prepare and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, this recipe marries the lightness of cake with the nostalgic flavors of Christmas cookies. Who knew the joy of cookie dough could be elevated to such sweet heights? Are you ready to get baking and spread some holiday cheer?

Why Will You Love This Sugar Cookie Cake?

Irresistible Flavor Fusion: The magic happens when moist vanilla cake meets edible cookie dough, creating a treat that’s beautifully festive and deeply satisfying.

Effortless Preparation: You’ll love how quick and simple this recipe is, even for beginner bakers! With clear steps and minimal fuss, you can whip it up in no time.

Showstopper Appeal: This cake is designed to impress, making it the perfect centerpiece for your holiday table, seamlessly blending tradition with creativity.

Adaptable for Any Celebration: Whether it’s Christmas or a casual get-together, swap in your favorite sprinkles or even try variations like my delicious Peanut Butter Cake for a unique twist!

Nostalgic Comfort: Bring back cherished holiday memories with a dessert that combines cake and cookies. It’s reminiscent of baking days with loved ones, making it perfect for sharing.

Make your festive gatherings extra special with this delightful creation that’s sure to be a hit!

Sugar Cookie Cake Ingredients

For the Cake Batter

All-purpose flour – Forms the cake structure and cookie dough; use a kitchen scale for precision.
Salt – Enhances flavor; no substitutions recommended.
Unsalted butter – Provides richness and moisture; ensure it is room temperature for proper mixing.
White granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and helps in creaming with butter for volume; can use brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
Pure vanilla extract – Adds flavor depth; no substitutions recommended.
Milk – Moistens the cookie dough; consider almond milk for a dairy-free version.
Baking powder – Acts as a leavening agent to help the cake rise; no substitutions recommended.
Baking soda – Another leavening agent for the cake; no substitutions recommended.
Canola oil – Adds moisture and softness; olive oil can be used as a substitute.
Large eggs – Binds ingredients and adds structure; for an egg-free option, use flax eggs.
Sour cream – Contributes moisture and tenderness; Greek yogurt can be used as an alternative.
Buttermilk – Enhances the cake’s softness and flavor; substitute with a mix of milk and vinegar if buttermilk is unavailable.

For the Edible Cookie Dough

Unsalted butter – Creates a rich flavor in the cookie dough; should also be at room temperature.
White granulated sugar – Sweetens the cookie dough; brown sugar can add a hint of caramel flavor.
All-purpose flour – Forms the base for the cookie dough; make sure it’s heat-treated for safe eating.
Christmas sprinkles – Adds a festive touch to the cookie dough; use any colored sprinkles for different occasions.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

Cream cheese – Offers a creamy texture and tang; ensure it’s room temperature for smooth mixing.
Powdered sugar – Sweetens the frosting for a fluffy texture; no substitutions recommended.
Vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor of the frosting; no substitutions recommended.
Pinch of salt – Balances the sweetness in the frosting; no substitutions recommended.

This delightful Sugar Cookie Cake will undoubtedly become a cherished tradition in your home, ensuring that every bite is a scrumptious celebration!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sugar Cookie Cake

Step 1: Prepare Cookie Dough
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) to heat-treat the flour. Spread the all-purpose flour on a baking sheet and bake for 8 minutes, allowing it to cool completely. In a mixing bowl, cream together room temperature unsalted butter and white granulated sugar on high speed for about 2 minutes until light and fluffy. Add pure vanilla extract and milk, mixing until well combined. Gradually incorporate the cooled flour mixture and a pinch of salt along with the Christmas sprinkles until just combined. Scoop, flatten into discs, and freeze 15 minutes for layering and additional decoration.

Step 2: Make Vanilla Cake Batter
Increase the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and prepare three 8-inch round cake pans by greasing and lining them with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, sift together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a large mixing bowl, cream room temperature unsalted butter, canola oil, and granulated sugar for 2 minutes until fluffy. Then add pure vanilla extract, large eggs, and sour cream, mixing until combined. Gradually alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk until the batter is smooth and well-mixed.

Step 3: Assemble and Add Cookie Dough Discs
Carefully divide the vanilla cake batter evenly among the prepared cake pans. Gently press 5 frozen cookie dough discs into the center of each layer of batter to incorporate that delightful holiday twist into the Sugar Cookie Cake. Ensure the discs are evenly spaced for even distribution.

Step 4: Bake
Place the cake pans in the preheated oven and bake for 26-32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean. Keep an eye on them as baking times may vary slightly based on your oven. Once baked, allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Make Cream Cheese Frosting
While the cakes are cooling, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a large mixing bowl, beat softened unsalted butter on medium speed for 2 minutes until creamy. Gradually add the room temperature cream cheese, continuing to beat until well combined. Slowly incorporate powdered sugar, pure vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until the frosting is fluffy and smooth, ready for a luscious finish on your Sugar Cookie Cake.

Step 6: Assemble Cake Layers
Once the cakes have cooled completely, trim the tops if necessary for a flat surface. Place the first cake layer on a serving platter, spreading a generous layer of cream cheese frosting on top followed by a layer of the edible cookie dough filling. Repeat with the second layer, then top with the final cake layer. Apply a light crumb coat of frosting around the entire cake, creating a smooth surface. Place the assembled cake in the freezer for about 15 minutes to set.

Step 7: Frost and Decorate
After chilling, remove the cake from the freezer and frost the entire exterior with the remaining cream cheese frosting, smoothing it out to achieve a beautiful finish. Top with the separated cookie dough balls and sprinkle generously with colorful Christmas sprinkles to add a festive touch to this delightful Sugar Cookie Cake.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Slice into this festive Sugar Cookie Cake and serve at your holiday gatherings! Its light, moist texture and creamy frosting will surely bring joy to your celebrations. Enjoy the combination of delicious cake and cookie dough layers, perfect for impressing friends and family!

Expert Tips for Sugar Cookie Cake

Measure Carefully: Use a kitchen scale for your all-purpose flour to avoid a dry cake. Spoon and level the flour accurately!
Ingredient Temperatures Matter: Make sure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for optimal mixing, leading to a smoother frosting.
Cool Layers Completely: Let cake layers cool fully before frosting. This prevents melting and ensures a beautiful finish on your Sugar Cookie Cake.
Chill the Cookie Dough: Freeze the cookie dough discs long enough to handle easily, helping them maintain their shape while baking.
Experiment with Sprinkles: Feel free to swap out Christmas sprinkles for any seasonal colors to customize your cake for various celebrations.
Avoid Overbaking: Watch the baking time closely—remove the cake when a toothpick inserted comes out clean, ensuring a light and moist texture.

Make Ahead Options

These Sugar Cookie Cakes are perfect for meal prep aficionados! You can prepare the edible cookie dough filling up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the ingredients, shaping the dough into discs, and freezing them until you’re ready to assemble the cake. Additionally, you can bake the cake layers up to 3 days ahead of time; simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain freshness. When you’re set to serve, layer the cooled cakes with frosting and frozen cookie dough, then frost the outside. With these make-ahead options, you’ll have an elegant dessert ready for your holiday celebrations with minimal last-minute effort!

What to Serve with Holiday Sugar Cookie Cake?

When you’re ready to create a festive feast, consider these delightful pairings to elevate your Sugar Cookie Cake experience.

Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy richness complements the cake’s sweet frosting while adding a smooth, chilly contrast. A scoop of vanilla ice cream under each slice brings joy to every bite!
Hot Cocoa: Cozy up with a warm cup of hot chocolate, balancing the cake’s sweetness with a deep, rich flavor. Top it with whipped cream and sprinkles for a delightful holiday treat.
Festive Fruit Salad: A mix of ripe berries and citrus adds freshness that lightens the indulgence of the cake. The bright colors and zesty flavors create a vibrant holiday palette on your plate.
Gingerbread Cookies: Keep the holiday spirit alive by pairing with classic gingerbread cookies. Their spicy warmth beautifully complements the sweet notes of the cake, creating a delightful flavor harmony.
Caramel Sauce Drizzle: A silky drizzle of caramel sauce enhances every bite, offering a sweet, buttery contrast to the cake’s textures. This decadent touch transforms each slice into a luxurious dessert moment.
Sparkling Apple Cider: Elevate your festive gathering with bubbly apple cider. The sweetness and slight tartness contrast wonderfully with the rich cake, ensuring a cheerful toast to the season’s best moments.
Chocolate Ganache: For an extra indulgent experience, consider a rich chocolate sauce poured over the slice. The deep flavor creates a wonderful depth that pairs exceptionally well with both the cake and cookie dough.
Sugar Cookie Milkshake: Blend some leftover cake with ice cream and milk for a deliciously creamy treat. It’s like having cake in drink form, perfect for a fun dessert surprise.
Peppermint Whipped Cream: A holiday twist on classic whipped cream, this minty version makes a festive topping that enhances both presentation and flavor. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the season!

Each of these options can perfectly complement the joy of your Holiday Sugar Cookie Cake, making your gatherings even more special!

Sugar Cookie Cake Variations

Feel free to get creative and make this Sugar Cookie Cake your own with these fun twists!

Dairy-Free: Substitute almond milk and dairy-free cream cheese to enjoy a lighter version without sacrificing flavor.
For a holiday treat that everyone can share, this option ensures no one misses out on the deliciousness.
Flavor Infusion: Use almond extract instead of vanilla for a delightful and unique twist that adds depth to your cake’s flavor.
This subtle change can energize your taste buds and bring a new experience to a classic favorite.
Cupcake Delight: Transform the cake batter into cupcakes! Bake for 18-22 minutes for adorable holiday treats.
They’re perfect for parties or to give as gifts. Just imagine icing these little beauties!
Chewy Chocolate Chip Dough: Mix in chocolate chips to the edible cookie dough for an extra layer of deliciousness.
The chocolate will pair beautifully with the sweetness of the cake, creating a double treat for cookie lovers.
Sprinkle Surprise: Swap Christmas sprinkles for pastel or seasonal-themed ones to match any occasion.
This simple change allows you to celebrate year-round, making every gathering a special event.
Extra Crunch: Add crushed nuts, like pecans or almonds, to the cookie dough for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
Nuts add not only a texture contrast, but they elevate the taste profile in a way that warms the heart.
Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle with caramel sauce before serving for a decadent touch that complements the sweetness.
This little indulgence takes every slice to the next level, making it an irresistible dessert!

For an added treat, pair your cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a slice of Oreo Cheesecake Decadent to double down on the dessert joy!

How to Store and Freeze Sugar Cookie Cake

Fridge: Store your Sugar Cookie Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezer: To freeze, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in an airtight container. It can last up to 3 months when properly stored.

Reheating: If you prefer a warm slice, thaw the cake in the fridge overnight and then reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before serving to restore its delightful texture.

Leftover Frosting: If you have extra cream cheese frosting, store it separately in the fridge in an airtight container for up to a week, and use it for topping other treats or snacks.

Sugar Cookie Cake Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best ripeness of my ingredients?
Absolutely! For the moistest results, use room temperature unsalted butter and eggs to create that fluffy texture. When it comes to your milk, opt for fresh, preferably whole or buttermilk, as they’ll add richness to your cake.

How should I store my Sugar Cookie Cake?
To keep your delightful Sugar Cookie Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This ensures that the flavors remain vibrant and delicious, making it ready to serve whenever you please!

Can I freeze my Sugar Cookie Cake?
Very! To freeze, first, let the cake cool completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in an airtight container. You can store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat for a few seconds in the microwave to restore its delightful texture.

What if my cake isn’t rising properly?
If you’re facing rising issues, it could be due to your leavening agents. Make sure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh—old baking powder can lose its effectiveness, leading to a dense cake. Also, ensure you’re not overmixing the batter, as that can result in a heavy texture.

What are some dietary considerations when making this cake?
If allergies are a concern, be mindful of gluten! You can use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour as an alternative to all-purpose flour. For an egg-free version, try using flax eggs—simply mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg and let it sit for a few minutes until thickened.

Can I use different decorations instead of Christmas sprinkles?
Absolutely! This cake is perfect for any celebration. Swap out the Christmas sprinkles for festive colors suitable for birthday parties or any themed event. The more the merrier—go for whatever fits the occasion!