Name: Ice Cream Cake (Any Flavor!)
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 1/3 cup all-purpose flour; 3 Tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 1/2 cups Hot Fudge Sauce; 48 oz Ice cream (your favorite kind, softened); 1 cup heavy cream; 2 Tablespoons powdered sugar

This mouthwatering ice cream cake recipe brings together the best of both worlds – creamy, cold ice cream and soft, fluffy cake! With just 55 minutes of total prep and cooking time, you can create this showstopping dessert that’s perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any special occasion. Each heavenly slice delivers the perfect balance of textures and flavors while keeping things simple enough for bakers of all skill levels. At 514 calories per serving, this versatile treat lets you customize the ice cream flavor to match any celebration.

For the Classic Cake Base

Dry Mix: 1/3 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 cups granulated sugar, 3 Tbsp cocoa powder, 1/2 tsp baking powder, 1/4 tsp each of baking soda and salt – sift together for best results
Wet Mix: 2 Tbsp Greek yogurt, 1/4 cup buttermilk, 2 Tbsp oil, 1/2 tsp vanilla extract – brings moisture and richness
Final Touch: 1/4 cup boiling water – creates perfect cake texture

For the Ice Cream Layer

Ice Cream Base: 48 oz of your favorite ice cream, softened for easy spreading
Fudge Layer: 1½ cups hot fudge sauce – creates delicious separation between layers

For the Whipped Topping

Cream Mix: 1 cup heavy cream, 2 Tbsp powdered sugar, 1/2 tsp vanilla extract – whips into perfect peaks

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep Work: Heat oven to 350°F and prepare 8 or 9-inch pan with cooking spray
Cake Base: Combine dry ingredients, then mix in wet ingredients for 1 minute until smooth
Baking Magic: Add boiling water to create thin batter, pour into pan, and bake 15 minutes
Layering: Once cooled, spread fudge sauce over cake, then add softened ice cream layer
Setting Time: Freeze several hours until ice cream firms up completely
Final Touch: Top with freshly whipped cream mixture and your favorite decorations

Make-Ahead Tips

This ice cream cake is perfect for planning ahead! You can make the chocolate cake layer up to 2 days before assembly – just wrap it well and keep it at room temperature. When you’re ready to build your cake, having all your layers at the right temperature makes assembly so much easier. Let your ice cream soften on the counter for exactly 10-15 minutes – any longer and it’ll be too soft to work with!

Storage Tips

Keep your finished ice cream cake super fresh by storing it properly in the freezer. Without the whipped cream topping, it’ll stay yummy for up to 3 months. Once you add the whipped cream, try to enjoy it within a week. Here’s a helpful trick: wrap the cake in plastic wrap, then add a layer of aluminum foil – this prevents freezer burn and keeps your cake tasting fresh!

Flavor Mix & Match Ideas

The best part about this recipe is how easy it is to customize! Try mint chocolate chip ice cream with extra chocolate fudge, or go for cookies and cream ice cream with crushed cookies on top. Love fruit? Strawberry ice cream pairs beautifully with this chocolate cake base. You can even switch up your toppings – try crushed nuts, candy pieces, or colorful sprinkles to make it extra special!

Serving Success

For the prettiest slices, dip your knife in hot water and wipe it dry between cuts. Let the cake sit out for about 5 minutes before serving – this makes it easier to slice and gives the ice cream that perfect, creamy texture. Want to make it extra fancy? Add a drizzle of warm fudge sauce right before serving!