The irresistible combination of rich, buttery pound cake and the cool, creamy crunch of Oreo cookies creates a dessert that's truly heavenly. This Cookies and Cream Pound Cake recipe elevates the classic pound cake to new heights of indulgence, perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight desserts to elegant gatherings. Let's dive into the delicious details of creating this masterpiece.
What Makes This Cookies and Cream Pound Cake So Special?
This recipe isn't just about throwing Oreos into a pound cake batter. It's about achieving a perfect balance of textures and flavors. We'll incorporate crushed Oreos into the batter for a delightful cookie crunch in every bite, and we'll swirl in a luscious cookies and cream buttercream frosting for an extra layer of decadent deliciousness. The result is a moist, tender cake that's both intensely flavorful and incredibly satisfying.
Ingredients You'll Need:
For the Cake:
- 2 cups (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 6 large eggs
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups finely crushed Oreo cookies
For the Cookies and Cream Buttercream Frosting:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 3-4 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup finely crushed Oreo cookies
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Making the Cake:
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This is crucial for a tender crumb.
- Add Eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Don't overmix!
- Oreo Incorporation: Gently fold in the crushed Oreos and vanilla extract.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Let the cake cool completely in the pan before frosting.
Making the Cookies and Cream Buttercream Frosting:
- Beat Butter: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until light and fluffy.
- Add Sugar Gradually: Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Add Milk and Vanilla: Add the milk and vanilla extract and beat until smooth and creamy.
- Oreo Crumble: Stir in the crushed Oreos.
- Frost: Once the cake is completely cool, frost generously with the cookies and cream buttercream.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use different types of cookies instead of Oreos?
While Oreos provide the classic cookies and cream flavor, you can experiment! Chocolate sandwich cookies or even finely crushed chocolate wafers could work well. Keep in mind that the flavor profile will change.
How can I make sure my cake is moist?
Ensure your butter is softened but not melted. Don't overmix the batter, and let the cake cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! The cake can be baked a day or two in advance. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature. Frost it just before serving for the best texture and appearance.
What are some variations I can try?
Consider adding chocolate chips to the batter for an extra chocolatey kick, or using a different type of frosting, like a cream cheese frosting. You could also add a layer of chocolate ganache for an even richer dessert.
Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, you can freeze this cake, either unfrosted or frosted. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Conclusion:
This Cookies and Cream Pound Cake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The perfect blend of textures and flavors makes it a truly exceptional dessert. Follow the recipe carefully, and you'll be rewarded with a moist, delicious cake that’s sure to impress. Enjoy!
