Dreamy Milk and Cookies Layer Cake

 

Dreamy Milk and Cookies Layer Cake
Introduction

The Dreamy Milk and Cookies Layer Cake is a delightful fusion of childhood nostalgia and sophisticated flavors. This decadent cake features layers of moist vanilla cake infused with milk, sandwiched between creamy cookie dough frosting and adorned with crunchy cookie crumbles. Topped with a smooth vanilla buttercream and more cookie pieces, this cake is a celebration of the classic milk and cookies combo, elevated to a new level of indulgence. Let’s dive into how to create this dreamy dessert from scratch.
Ingredients
For the Vanilla Cake:

-3 cups cake flour
-1 tablespoon baking powder
-1/2 teaspoon salt
-1 cup unsalted butter, softened
-2 cups granulated sugar
-4 large eggs, room temperature
-1 tablespoon vanilla extract
-1 cup whole milk, room temperature

For the Cookie Dough Frosting:

-1 cup unsalted butter, softened
-1 cup light brown sugar, packed
-2 cups all-purpose flour
-1 teaspoon vanilla extract
-1/2 teaspoon salt
-4-6 tablespoons milk
-1 cup mini chocolate chips

For the Vanilla Buttercream:

-1 1/2 cups unsalted butter, softened
-6 cups powdered sugar
-1/4 cup whole milk
-1 tablespoon vanilla extract

For Decoration:

-Crushed chocolate chip cookies
-Mini chocolate chip cookies (for garnish)

Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Vanilla Cake Layers

1-Preheat Oven and Prep Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans, then line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy removal.

2-Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together cake flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

3-Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together with an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.

4-Add Eggs and Vanilla - Add the eggs one at a time, beating thoroughly after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

5-Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Milk: Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture in three additions, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just blended, being cautious not to overmix.

6-Divide and Bake: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula. Bake at 350°F (175°C) in a preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

7-Cool: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove from the pans and transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough Frosting

1-Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and packed brown sugar until light and fluffy.

2-Add Flour and Vanilla: Gradually add the flour, vanilla extract, and salt to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing until fully combined.

3-Adjust Consistency: Add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the frosting reaches a smooth and spreadable consistency.

4-Fold in Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the frosting. Set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Vanilla Buttercream

1-Beat Butter: In a separate mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer on medium speed until creamy and smooth.

2-Add Powdered Sugar and Milk: Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, alternating with the milk and scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.

3-Add Vanilla: Mix in the vanilla extract until the buttercream is light and fluffy. Adjust the consistency with more milk if needed.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

1-Level Cake Layers: If needed, level the tops of the cooled cake layers with a serrated knife to create flat surfaces.

2-Place First Layer: Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a generous layer of cookie dough frosting evenly over the top.

3-Add Second Layer: Place the second cake layer on top of the frosting and press down gently. Spread another layer of cookie dough frosting over the top.

4-Add Third Layer: Place the final cake layer on top, pressing down gently. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the vanilla buttercream, using an offset spatula to create a smooth finish.

5-Decorate: Sprinkle crushed chocolate chip cookies over the top of the cake. Place mini chocolate chip cookies around the edges or on top for decoration.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1-Chill: For best results, chill the cake in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the frosting to set.

2-Slice and Serve: Use a sharp knife to slice the Dreamy Milk and Cookies Layer Cake into generous slices. Serve chilled and enjoy the creamy, cookie-filled layers of this delightful dessert.

Tips for Success

-Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature for even mixing and a lighter texture in the cake.
-Layering Tips: Press each layer of frosting evenly over the cake layers to create even and beautiful layers.
-Decoration Ideas: Get creative with your cookie decorations—try different shapes or types of cookies for a personalized touch.
-Chilling: Chilling the cake before serving helps it hold its shape and enhances the flavors of the frosting and cake layers.

Conclusion

The Dreamy Milk and Cookies Layer Cake is a celebration of childhood memories and sophisticated flavors, combining moist vanilla cake, creamy cookie dough frosting, and a crunchy cookie crumble topping. This dessert is perfect for birthdays, special occasions, or any time you crave a decadent treat. Enjoy creating and sharing this indulgent cake with your loved ones, and savor each bite of its irresistible flavors!

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