Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Brownie Ice Cream Cake is an incredible dessert for several reasons:

Perfect Layering – The combination of warm, gooey brownies and cold, creamy ice cream creates a contrast of textures that everyone will love.
Customizable Flavors – Use your favorite ice cream flavor to make the cake truly your own. Whether you prefer chocolate, vanilla, or a mix of both, you can make it as sweet or rich as you like.
Simple Ingredients – You don’t need complicated ingredients to create this masterpiece. The recipe uses simple pantry staples.
Make-Ahead – The cake can be assembled ahead of time and frozen, which makes it a perfect dessert for busy days or special occasions.
Crowd-Pleasing – With its perfect blend of chocolatey brownies and refreshing ice cream, this cake is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

To create this delicious Brownie Ice Cream Cake, gather the following ingredients:

For the Brownies:

1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks)
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon baking powder

For the Ice Cream Layer:

1 quart of your favorite ice cream (such as chocolate, vanilla, or any mix you prefer)

For the Topping:

Whipped cream
Chocolate syrup
Sprinkles or chopped nuts (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Follow these simple steps to create your Brownie Ice Cream Cake:

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
Melt Butter: In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over low heat. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
Mix Sugar and Eggs: Stir in granulated sugar, mixing until combined. Add eggs one at a time, stirring well after each addition. Mix in vanilla extract.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix together flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder.
Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until well combined and the batter is smooth.
Bake the Brownies: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow cooling in the pan for at least 30 minutes.
Prepare Ice Cream: While the brownies are cooling, soften the ice cream slightly at room temperature for easier spreading.
Layer Ice Cream: Once the brownies are cooled, remove from the pan and cut into even layers. Place one layer of brownies back into the baking dish. Spread a layer of softened ice cream on top, then cover with the second layer of brownies.
Freeze the Cake: Cover the assembled cake with plastic wrap and freeze for at least 2 hours, or until set.
Add Toppings: Once frozen, remove the cake from the freezer. Top it with whipped cream, chocolate syrup, and any desired garnishes like sprinkles or nuts.
Slice and Serve: Cut into squares and serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Servings and Timing

Preparation Time: 4 minutes (excluding baking and freezing time)
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes (for baking the brownies)
Total Time: Approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes (including cooling and freezing time)
Servings: 8-10 servings

Variations

Ice Cream Flavor: Feel free to experiment with different ice cream flavors like mint chocolate chip, cookies and cream, or coffee for a twist on the traditional chocolate and vanilla.
Brownie Add-ins: Add chocolate chips, nuts, or swirls of caramel into the brownie batter for extra texture and flavor.
Vegan Version: Use dairy-free ice cream and replace the butter with a vegan alternative to make this dessert plant-based.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: This Brownie Ice Cream Cake should be stored in the freezer to keep the ice cream firm. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and it will last for up to 2 weeks.
Reheating: This dessert is best served frozen, so there’s no need to reheat it. Just slice it straight from the freezer.

FAQs

1. Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the cake and store it in the freezer until you’re ready to serve. This makes it a great make-ahead option.

2. What if I don’t have a 9×13 inch baking dish?

You can use any other baking dish of a similar size, or you can even use individual ramekins for single-serving cakes.

3. Can I use store-bought brownies?

Absolutely! If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought brownies and skip the baking step.

4. Can I use a different type of ice cream?

Yes, you can use any ice cream flavor you prefer. Some fun options include chocolate chip cookie dough, peanut butter cup, or strawberry.

5. Can I freeze the brownies before adding the ice cream?

Yes, you can freeze the brownies for a few hours before adding the ice cream. This can make it easier to handle the layers.

6. How do I know when the brownie layer is fully baked?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the brownies—if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the brownies are done.

7. Can I top the cake with something other than whipped cream?

Yes, you can top the cake with chocolate ganache, fruit, or even marshmallow fluff for a fun twist.

8. Can I make this cake without the brownie layer?

Yes, if you prefer, you can make an ice cream cake with just the ice cream and toppings for a lighter version.

9. How should I serve the cake?

Let the cake sit for a few minutes at room temperature before slicing for easier cutting.

10. Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free brownie mix or recipe in place of the traditional flour-based brownies for a gluten-free version.

Conclusion

This Delicious Brownie Ice Cream Cake is a perfect dessert for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to special celebrations. With its layers of fudgy brownies and creamy ice cream, it’s a treat that everyone will love. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite flavors and toppings, making it a versatile and fun dessert. Whether you’re serving it for a crowd or just indulging yourself, this cake is sure to delight!