
There is something undeniably magical about the combination of soft vanilla cake and crunchy chocolate cookies that makes everyone’s eyes light up. This Cookies and Cream Oreo Cake brings together everything you love about classic Oreos and turns them into a celebration-worthy dessert that feels both nostalgic and downright indulgent. Whether you bake it for a birthday or just because you crave comfort, every slice tastes like joy layered in cookies and cream.
My first try at this cake was for my daughter’s birthday and it quickly became the most requested treat for family gatherings. It always disappears in minutes because it reminds everyone of their childhood favorites but feels upgraded for special occasions.
Ingredients
- Vanilla cake mix or homemade vanilla cake batter: gives a moist dependable base and saves time when needed
- Sour cream: makes the cake extra tender and keeps it from drying out
- Large eggs: bind the ingredients and help the cake rise beautifully
- Vegetable oil: adds richness and a soft crumb without overpowering flavor
- Vanilla extract: enhances all the sweet creamy notes in the cake and frosting
- Milk: ensures the cake batter is velvety smooth and bakes evenly
- Crushed Oreo cookies: bring that unmistakable cookies and cream texture throughout both cake and frosting Use fresh Oreos for best crunch
- Granulated sugar: subtly boosts sweetness and structure in the cake
- Heavy cream: whips into a light stable frosting that carries the cookie flavor
- Cream cheese: gives the frosting a tangy balance and ensures it holds up for layering
- Powdered sugar: sweetens and thickens the whipped frosting without grittiness
- White chocolate chips: are perfect for elegant drizzles and an extra layer of sweetness Use good quality chips that melt smoothly
Instructions
- Prepare the Pans:
- Grease and flour two nine inch round cake pans thoroughly to ensure a smooth release that preserves the cake’s shape once baked
- Mix the Cake Batter:
- Combine the cake mix with sour cream eggs vegetable oil vanilla extract and milk in a large mixing bowl Stir or use a mixer on low until the batter is completely smooth with no visible streaks
- Fold in the Oreos:
- Gently fold the freshly crushed Oreo cookies and granulated sugar into the batter using a spatula so the cookies remain chunky and evenly distributed
- Bake the Cakes:
- Divide the batter between your prepared pans and smooth the top Bake in the center of a preheated three hundred fifty degree oven for twenty five to thirty minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean The cakes will start to pull away from the edges when ready
- Cool the Cakes:
- Allow the cakes to cool in their pans for about ten minutes then turn out onto a wire rack so they cool completely before frosting This prevents melting the cream topping
- Make the Oreo Frosting:
- Beat together the cold heavy cream and softened cream cheese in a large bowl until the mixture turns thick and fluffy Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract then continue beating until you see stiff peaks Fold in the remaining crushed Oreos being careful not to overmix For a lighter consistency add just a splash more cream
- Layer and Frost the Cake:
- Place one cooled cake layer on your serving plate Cover the top generously with Oreo frosting then set the second layer on top Continue to frost the top and sides smoothing everything with a spatula for a bakery finish
- Add White Chocolate Drizzle:
- If using melt white chocolate chips in a microwave safe bowl in short bursts Stir until smooth then drizzle over the frosted cake in zig zags or swirls for a striking visual
- Decorate with Oreos:
- Place whole Oreo cookies on top for showstopper appeal and sprinkle extra crushed cookies around the edges for that irresistible finishing touch
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Use a sharp knife to slice through the cake and reveal the cookies and cream layers on every plate Serve fresh for best results

Every time I open a package of Oreos to crush into the batter I remember those summer nights baking with my sister We would sneak a few cookies for ourselves and laugh over the way the kitchen smelled of sweet vanilla and cocoa There is no quicker way to spark memories than with the scent of fresh Oreo cake
Storage Tips
This cake keeps beautifully covered at room temperature for up to two days or chilled in the fridge for up to five days Use an airtight cake dome or plastic wrap to prevent the frosting from drying out If you want to enjoy slices later pop them in the microwave for just a few seconds to bring back that soft fresh taste
Ingredient Substitutions
If you only have chocolate cake mix on hand try it for an even deeper Oreo flavor For a lighter option Greek yogurt can take the place of sour cream Use gluten free sandwich cookies if you need a wheat free version The white chocolate drizzle can be swapped with dark chocolate for contrast
Serving Suggestions
Serve each slice with extra whipped cream and a few fresh berries if you want to cut the sweetness a bit This cake makes a fabulous base for birthday candles or celebration toppers and it feels right at home next to a tall glass of cold milk
Cultural Context
Cookies and cream desserts have quickly become American classics ever since the original Oreo was introduced over a century ago Turning these cookies into cakes pie fillings and cupcakes lets everyone relive some of the happiest flavors of childhood
Seasonal Adaptations
Swap regular Oreos for seasonal flavors like peppermint in winter or golden vanilla Oreos in spring Add a layer of fresh berries inside for summer celebrations Use pastel candy pearls or sprinkles along with the cookies to theme the cake for holidays
Success Stories
I once baked this cake for a school bake sale and watched as it completely vanished in the first ten minutes The soft frosting and big Oreo pieces won over every single kid and parent who tried it My neighbor still asks for the recipe every year
Freezer Meal Conversion
You can bake and freeze the cooled cake layers ahead of time just wrap well in plastic and foil Defrost overnight at room temperature then frost just before serving The assembled cake can also be frozen in slices pack each securely to keep the frosting intact

This cake will quickly become a favorite for birthdays and celebrations Keep experimenting with decorations and enjoy the cookies and cream magic in every bite
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I achieve a tender cake texture?
Use sour cream and eggs to add moisture and structure, and mix just until combined to avoid overworking the batter.
- → Can homemade vanilla cake be used instead?
Yes, a homemade vanilla base works well. Just ensure it matches the liquid ratios for a similar texture.
- → What’s the best way to crush Oreos evenly?
Pulse Oreos in a food processor or seal in a bag and crush with a rolling pin for consistent crumbs.
- → How do I prevent runny frosting?
Use cold heavy cream and softened cream cheese, and beat until stiff peaks form for a stable, fluffy topping.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days to keep the layers moist and the frosting fresh.