Want a dessert that's both incredibly easy and incredibly delicious? Look no further than the cookie cake! This guide will walk you through making a perfectly gooey, chewy, and utterly irresistible cookie cake that's sure to impress. Forget complicated baking – this recipe is simple enough for even a beginner baker.
What You'll Need:
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it perfect for a spontaneous baking session.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips (or your favorite mix-ins!)
Equipment:
- 9x13 inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer (handheld or stand)
- Spatula
- Parchment paper (optional, for easier cleanup)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Let's get baking! Follow these simple steps for a perfect cookie cake every time.
Step 1: Prep the Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease your 9x13 inch baking pan. Lining it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides, makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This is where an electric mixer really shines – it makes the process much quicker and easier.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
Step 5: Gradually Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
Step 6: Stir in Chocolate Chips
Fold in your chocolate chips (or other desired mix-ins).
Step 7: Bake the Cookie Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs attached.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy!
Let the cookie cake cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before serving. Cut into squares and enjoy warm, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream!
Tips for the Perfect Cookie Cake:
- Don't overmix the batter: Overmixing can lead to a tough cookie cake.
- Check for doneness: Start checking for doneness around the 25-minute mark. Every oven is slightly different.
- Get creative with mix-ins: Nuts, sprinkles, dried fruit – the possibilities are endless!
- Cool completely for easier slicing: If you let the cake cool completely before slicing, you'll get nice, clean edges.
Beyond the Basics: Variations and Upgrades
This recipe is a fantastic starting point, but feel free to experiment! Try different types of chocolate chips, add nuts, or even create a funfetti cookie cake by adding sprinkles. You could also explore variations like a peanut butter cookie cake or a snickerdoodle cookie cake by adjusting the base recipe accordingly.
Making a cookie cake is a fun and rewarding experience. Enjoy the process, and most importantly, enjoy the delicious results!
