20 Easy Ice Cream Cake Recipes That Will Wow Your Guests (Especially #5!)

As the temperatures rise and summer approaches, nothing satisfies that sweet tooth quite like a delicious ice cream cake. Whether it’s a birthday party, a backyard barbecue, or a casual get-together with friends, ice cream cakes have a special way of bringing people together. With their creamy layers and delightful flavors, they are a treat that never goes out of style. I wanted to share this collection because I believe everyone deserves an easy way to create memorable moments around dessert.

If you love baking or simply want to impress your guests with something fun, this post is for you. You don’t need to be a professional baker to whip up these desserts. Each recipe is designed to be straightforward, allowing you to create stunning ice cream cakes without stress. With a variety of flavors—from classic vanilla to a decadent Nutella cake—there’s something here for everyone.

You’ll find 20 easy ice cream cake ideas that are not only delicious but also perfect for those warm summer days. Each recipe invites you to get creative, whether you want to layer flavors or add fun toppings. Get ready to wow your guests, especially with the standout recipe at #5! This guide will help you bring joy and sweetness to your summer celebrations with ease and flair.

Key Takeaways

– Discover 20 unique ice cream cake recipes ranging from classic flavors to creative combinations.

– Each recipe is easy to follow, making baking fun and stress-free for everyone.

– Impress your guests with stunning desserts that are perfect for any summer occasion.

– Explore flavor ideas that cater to various tastes, ensuring every guest finds something they love.

– Don’t miss the highlight of the list at #5, a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

1. Classic Vanilla Ice Cream Cake

If you want a cake everyone loves, look no further than this Classic Vanilla Ice Cream Cake. The soft, fluffy vanilla cake layers pair perfectly with creamy vanilla ice cream. You can customize it with your favorite toppings, making it a fun dessert for any occasion. Plus, it’s easy to make, so you can impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen!

Get ready to enjoy a sweet treat that’s both simple and satisfying. This cake is a great way to celebrate birthdays, summer gatherings, or just a fun family dinner.

Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients:
1 box vanilla cake mix
2 cups vanilla ice cream, softened
1/2 cup whipped cream
Sprinkles or chocolate shavings for garnish

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare two 9-inch round cake pans with cooking spray.
2. Mix the vanilla cake mix as per package instructions and bake for 25-30 minutes. Let it cool.
3. Place one layer of cake on a serving plate. Spread softened ice cream on top, then place the second layer over it.
4. Frost the entire cake with whipped cream and add your favorite toppings. Chill for 2 hours before serving.

FAQs:
Can I use other flavors? Absolutely! Feel free to swap vanilla for chocolate or any flavor you love.

2. Chocolate Fudge Ice Cream Cake

If chocolate is your weakness, this Chocolate Fudge Ice Cream Cake is just for you! It combines fudgy chocolate cake with creamy chocolate ice cream, creating a rich dessert that’s hard to resist. Each slice is pure indulgence, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. You’ll be the star of any gathering when you serve this cake!

Imagine layers of chocolate goodness melting in your mouth. It’s also a perfect dessert for celebrations or cozy nights in with friends and family.

Here’s how to whip it up:

Ingredients:
1 box chocolate cake mix
2 cups chocolate ice cream, softened
1/2 cup chocolate fudge sauce
Chocolate shavings for garnish

Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare cake pans with cooking spray.
2. Mix cake batter according to the package and bake for 25-30 minutes. Cool completely.
3. Layer one chocolate cake on a plate, spread half the softened ice cream, drizzle with fudge sauce, and top with the second cake.
4. Frost with additional fudge sauce and garnish with chocolate shavings. Chill for 2 hours.

FAQs:
Can I add nuts? Yes, crushed walnuts or pecans add a nice crunch.

3. Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake

Bright and fruity, this Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake is a summer delight! Each slice bursts with strawberry flavor, making it a favorite among fruit lovers. You’ll love the combination of fluffy cake and creamy ice cream, along with fresh strawberries. It’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, or any sunny day celebration.

This dessert is not only delicious but also easy to make, ensuring you can have more fun with friends and family.

Let’s get started with the recipe:

Ingredients:
1 box yellow cake mix
2 cups strawberry ice cream, softened
1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
1/2 cup whipped cream

Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your cake pans.
2. Bake the yellow cake as per instructions and let cool.
3. Place one layer on a plate, add a layer of softened strawberry ice cream, and fresh strawberries, then top with the second cake layer.
4. Frost with whipped cream and top with extra strawberries before chilling for 1-2 hours.

FAQs:
Can I use frozen strawberries? Yes, but fresh ones give the best taste.

Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake brings bright, fruity vibes to any sunny day—one of the easiest ice cream cake ideas for summer. It’s an easy-to-make dessert that pairs fluffy cake, creamy ice cream, and fresh strawberries—perfect for picnics. Prep ahead and slice when ready to wow your guests.

4. Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Cake

If you love mint, this Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream Cake is just the treat for you! It’s cool, creamy, and bursting with minty goodness. This cake is perfect for hot summer days, offering a refreshing flavor that will delight your taste buds. The combination of chocolate and mint is always a winner, making it a crowd-pleaser.

Prepare to impress your friends and family with this delightful dessert.

Here’s how you can make it:

Ingredients:
1 box chocolate cake mix
2 cups mint chocolate chip ice cream, softened
1 cup whipped cream
Chocolate curls for garnish

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare cake pans.
2. Mix the chocolate cake according to package instructions. Bake and cool completely.
3. Layer one cake, spread a layer of softened mint chocolate chip ice cream, and top with the second layer.
4. Frost with whipped cream and decorate with chocolate curls. Chill before serving.

FAQs:
Does this freeze well? Yes, it can be stored in the freezer for up to a week.

Mint lovers unite: these ice cream cake ideas come alive when you layer mint ice cream with chocolate chips and a crisp crust—freeze until firm for a fail-proof slice. Pro tip: brighten the mint with peppermint extract and a pinch of sea salt.

5. Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake

Get ready for a treat with this Cookies and Cream Ice Cream Cake! This dessert combines the classic flavors of cookies and cream ice cream with rich chocolate cake. Each bite is a delicious mix of chocolate and creamy goodness! It’s a great dessert that will surely impress your guests.

This cake is easy to make and perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday party or a family gathering.

Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients:
1 box chocolate cake mix
2 cups cookies and cream ice cream, softened
1 cup crushed Oreo cookies
1/2 cup whipped cream

Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your cake pans.
2. Bake the chocolate cake according to package directions. Allow to cool completely.
3. Layer one chocolate cake on your serving plate, spread half the softened cookies and cream ice cream, sprinkle crushed Oreos, and top with the second cake layer.
4. Frost the entire cake with whipped cream and garnish with more crushed Oreos. Chill for a couple of hours before serving.

FAQs:
Can I use homemade cookies? Absolutely! Homemade cookies work beautifully in this recipe.

6. Tropical Mango Ice Cream Cake

Bring a taste of the tropics to your table with this Tropical Mango Ice Cream Cake! It’s bright, fruity, and wonderfully refreshing. This cake is perfect for summer parties and warm weather celebrations, offering a burst of flavor that will transport you to a sunny beach.

Get ready to impress your friends with this delightful dessert that’s both simple and delicious!

Here’s how to create this tropical treat:

Ingredients:
1 box vanilla cake mix
2 cups mango ice cream, softened
1 cup fresh mango, diced
1/2 cup whipped cream

Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare cake pans.
2. Bake the vanilla cake as per package instructions and cool completely.
3. Layer one cake, spread the softened mango ice cream, top with diced mango, then place the second layer on top.
4. Frost with whipped cream and garnish with extra mango. Chill for at least an hour before serving.

FAQs:
Can I use frozen mango? Yes, just let it thaw and drain excess moisture.

7. Peanut Butter Cup Ice Cream Cake

Satisfy your cravings with this Peanut Butter Cup Ice Cream Cake! It combines creamy peanut butter ice cream with rich chocolate cake, making it a dream dessert for any peanut butter lover. This indulgent treat is perfect for any gathering and will leave your guests asking for seconds.

Prepare to enjoy a sweet flavor combination that’s hard to beat!

Here’s how to make this delicious cake:

Ingredients:
1 box chocolate cake mix
2 cups peanut butter cup ice cream, softened
1/2 cup mini peanut butter cups, chopped
Whipped cream for topping

Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare cake pans.
2. Bake the chocolate cake as directed, then cool.
3. Layer one cake, spread the softened peanut butter cup ice cream, sprinkle chopped mini cups, and top with the second layer.
4. Frost the cake with whipped cream and add more mini cups on top. Chill for a couple of hours before serving.

FAQs:
How long can I store this cake? It keeps well in the freezer for up to a week.

Fun fact: The Peanut Butter Cup Ice Cream Cake stacks 2 cups peanut butter cup ice cream between layers of chocolate cake. That creamy bite plus chocolate crunch makes it an instant 10/10 ice cream cake ideas winner for any gathering.

8. Lemon Blueberry Ice Cream Cake

Light and refreshing, this Lemon Blueberry Ice Cream Cake is the perfect dessert for warm days! It balances the sweetness of blueberries with the zesty flavor of lemon, creating a delicious treat that everyone will love. This cake is ideal for summer gatherings, picnics, or any special occasion.

Get ready to brighten up your dessert table with this delightful cake!

Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients:
1 box lemon cake mix
2 cups blueberry ice cream, softened
1 cup fresh blueberries
1/2 cup whipped cream

Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare cake pans.
2. Bake the lemon cake according to package instructions. Let it cool completely.
3. Layer one cake, spread blueberry ice cream, top with fresh blueberries, and then add the second layer.
4. Frost the cake with whipped cream and garnish with more blueberries. Chill for 1-2 hours before serving.

FAQs:
Can I use frozen blueberries? Yes, but fresh ones provide a better texture.

9. S’mores Ice Cream Cake

Enjoy the classic campfire flavors in a new way with this S’mores Ice Cream Cake! It features layers of chocolate cake, graham cracker crumbs, and gooey marshmallow ice cream. This dessert is perfect for summer nights and will definitely wow your guests. Imagine the taste of s’mores in every bite!

It’s a fun and easy dessert that brings the flavors of camping to your kitchen.

Here’s how you can make it:

Ingredients:
1 box chocolate cake mix
2 cups s’mores ice cream, softened
1 cup crushed graham crackers
Marshmallows for topping

Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare cake pans.
2. Bake the chocolate cake as per instructions and cool completely.
3. Layer one cake, spread s’mores ice cream, sprinkle crushed graham crackers, and add the second cake layer.
4. Toast some marshmallows and place them on top for decoration. Chill before serving.

FAQs:
Can I use homemade ice cream? Yes, it adds a personal touch!

10. Raspberry Chocolate Ice Cream Cake

This Raspberry Chocolate Ice Cream Cake is a match made in dessert heaven! The tartness of fresh raspberries pairs beautifully with rich chocolate cake, creating an elegant treat perfect for summer gatherings. Each bite is a delightful balance of flavors, making it a sure hit with your guests.

It’s a stunning dessert that’s also simple to prepare, ensuring you can enjoy the celebration too!

Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients:
1 box chocolate cake mix
2 cups raspberry ice cream, softened
1 cup fresh raspberries
1/2 cup whipped cream

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare cake pans.
2. Bake the chocolate cake as per instructions. Cool completely.
3. Layer one cake, spread raspberry ice cream, top with fresh raspberries, and then place the second layer.
4. Frost the cake with whipped cream and garnish with more raspberries. Chill for an hour before serving.

FAQs:
How do I store leftovers? Keep them in an airtight container in the freezer.

11. Caramel Swirl Ice Cream Cake

Dive into the rich flavors of this Caramel Swirl Ice Cream Cake! It features a moist vanilla cake layered with creamy caramel ice cream and topped with a decadent caramel drizzle. This dessert is perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth and makes for an impressive dessert at any gathering.

Your guests will be delighted by the beautiful caramel swirls and soft cake layers!

Here’s how to whip up this sweet treat:

Ingredients:
1 box vanilla cake mix
2 cups caramel ice cream, softened
1/2 cup caramel sauce
Whipped cream for decoration

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare cake pans.
2. Bake the vanilla cake as instructed and allow to cool completely.
3. Layer one cake, spread the caramel ice cream, then top with the second layer.
4. Frost with whipped cream and drizzle caramel sauce on top. Chill for 1-2 hours before serving.

FAQs:
Can I change the flavor of ice cream? Yes, any flavor you love will work beautifully.

12. Pistachio Ice Cream Cake

If you’re looking for a unique dessert, this Pistachio Ice Cream Cake is a must-try! The nutty flavor of pistachio ice cream blends perfectly with layers of moist vanilla cake. This cake not only tastes fantastic but also stands out for its beautiful color and flavor.

It’s a great dessert for special occasions or just to enjoy at home.

Here’s how to create this delightful cake:

Ingredients:
1 box vanilla cake mix
2 cups pistachio ice cream, softened
1/2 cup chopped pistachios
Whipped cream for topping

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare cake pans.
2. Bake the vanilla cake as directed and allow to cool.
3. Layer one cake, spread pistachio ice cream, sprinkle chopped pistachios, and then top with the second layer.
4. Frost with whipped cream and garnish with more pistachios. Chill for a couple of hours before serving.

FAQs:
Is it possible to make this dairy-free? Yes, you can use dairy-free ice cream and cake mix.

13. Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Ice Cream Cake

If you love cookie dough, this Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Ice Cream Cake will be your new favorite! It features layers of rich chocolate cake, cookie dough ice cream, and real cookie dough pieces for an indulgent treat. This cake is perfect for anyone who can’t resist a sweet dessert.

It’s a fun way to enjoy the flavors of cookie dough while celebrating with friends and family!

Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients:
1 box chocolate cake mix
2 cups cookie dough ice cream, softened
1 cup cookie dough, small pieces
Whipped cream for decoration

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare cake pans.
2. Bake the chocolate cake as directed and then cool completely.
3. Layer one cake, spread cookie dough ice cream, sprinkle cookie dough pieces, and place the second layer on top.
4. Frost with whipped cream and add more cookie dough bits on top. Chill before serving.

FAQs:
Can I use homemade cookie dough? Yes, just ensure it’s safe to eat.

14. Tiramisu Ice Cream Cake

Enjoy the delightful flavors of Italy with this Tiramisu Ice Cream Cake! This unique dessert combines coffee-flavored ice cream with layers of chocolate cake and a hint of mascarpone. It’s a luxurious treat that will impress your guests and leave them wanting more.

This cake is perfect for special occasions or whenever you want to indulge in something truly delicious.

Here’s how to create this Italian-inspired dessert:

Ingredients:
1 box chocolate cake mix
2 cups coffee ice cream, softened
1/2 cup mascarpone cheese
Cocoa powder for dusting

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare cake pans.
2. Bake the chocolate cake according to package instructions. Let it cool.
3. Layer one cake, spread coffee ice cream, mix mascarpone cheese with a little sugar, and add the second layer.
4. Dust the top with cocoa powder and chill before serving.

FAQs:
Can I make this without coffee? You can substitute any flavor of ice cream you enjoy.

15. Funfetti Ice Cream Cake

Brighten up any celebration with this Funfetti Ice Cream Cake! Filled with colorful sprinkles, this cake is all about joy and happiness. It’s perfect for birthdays or any occasion that calls for a little fun. The layers of cake and ice cream make it a delightful treat everyone will enjoy.

This cake is not only delicious but also easy to make, making it a great choice for parties.

Here’s how you can whip it up:

Ingredients:
1 box funfetti cake mix
2 cups vanilla ice cream, softened
1/2 cup colorful sprinkles
Whipped cream for decoration

Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare cake pans.
2. Bake the funfetti cake as directed and cool completely.
3. Layer one cake, spread vanilla ice cream, sprinkle with colorful sprinkles, and add the second layer.
4. Frost with whipped cream and sprinkle more confetti on top. Chill before serving.

FAQs:
Can I use other flavors? Absolutely, any flavor combination works great!

16. Pumpkin Spice Ice Cream Cake

Celebrate the flavors of fall with this Pumpkin Spice Ice Cream Cake! This dessert blends the warm spices of pumpkin pie with creamy ice cream, making it perfect for autumn gatherings. The combination of spices and sweetness creates a cozy treat that everyone will love.

It’s a delightful way to enjoy the best flavors of the season!

Here’s how to create this scrumptious cake:

Ingredients:
1 box spice cake mix
2 cups pumpkin ice cream, softened
1 cup crushed graham crackers
Whipped cream for topping

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare cake pans.
2. Bake the spice cake as per instructions and allow to cool.
3. Layer one cake, spread pumpkin ice cream, sprinkle crushed graham crackers, and then place the second layer.
4. Frost with whipped cream and sprinkle with more graham cracker crumbs. Chill before serving.

FAQs:
Can I make this dairy-free? Yes, there are great dairy-free ice creams available now.

17. Raspberry Lemonade Ice Cream Cake

Cool off this summer with a refreshing Raspberry Lemonade Ice Cream Cake! This dessert is zesty and fruity, making it a delightful treat during hot days. The combination of raspberry and lemon flavors will brighten up any meal. It’s perfect for summer barbecues or family gatherings!

This cake is sure to impress your guests and keep you cool!

Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients:
1 box lemon cake mix
2 cups raspberry lemonade ice cream, softened
1 cup fresh raspberries
Whipped cream for topping

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare cake pans.
2. Bake the lemon cake according to package instructions. Cool completely.
3. Layer one cake, spread raspberry lemonade ice cream, add fresh raspberries, and place the second layer.
4. Frost with whipped cream and garnish with more raspberries. Chill for a couple of hours before serving.

FAQs:
Can I use frozen raspberries? Definitely, just thaw and drain before using.

18. Mocha Ice Cream Cake

For coffee lovers, this Mocha Ice Cream Cake is a delightful dessert! It perfectly balances creamy mocha ice cream with rich chocolate cake. This sophisticated treat is ideal for gatherings or coffee breaks, offering a little pick-me-up in every slice.

Your guests will be impressed by the flavors and presentation of this cake!

Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients:
1 box chocolate cake mix
2 cups mocha ice cream, softened
1/2 cup brewed espresso
Whipped cream for decoration

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare cake pans.
2. Bake the chocolate cake as per instructions and allow to cool.
3. Layer one cake, spread mocha ice cream, drizzle with espresso, and add the second layer.
4. Frost with whipped cream and chill before serving.

FAQs:
Can I substitute the ice cream? Yes, any flavor of your choice can be used.

19. Nutella Ice Cream Cake

Indulge in the rich flavors of this Nutella Ice Cream Cake! This dessert features layers of chocolate cake, Nutella ice cream, and creamy frosting. It’s a heavenly treat that will satisfy any chocolate lover, making it perfect for celebrations and special occasions.

Prepare for a dessert that’s as delicious as it is beautiful!

Here’s how to create this luscious cake:

Ingredients:
1 box chocolate cake mix
2 cups Nutella ice cream, softened
1/2 cup Nutella for drizzle
Whipped cream for decoration

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare cake pans.
2. Bake the chocolate cake as directed and then cool.
3. Layer one cake, spread Nutella ice cream, drizzle with Nutella, and place the second layer on top.
4. Frost with whipped cream and add more Nutella drizzle. Chill before serving.

FAQs:
How long does this cake last? It keeps well in the freezer for up to a week.

20. Chocolate Cherry Ice Cream Cake

Finish your summer gathering with a bang using this Chocolate Cherry Ice Cream Cake! The combination of rich chocolate cake, cherry ice cream, and fresh cherries creates a spectacular dessert that’s sure to impress everyone. Each bite is a perfect blend of flavors, making it a delightful end to any meal.

This cake is not just beautiful; it’s delicious too!

Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients:
1 box chocolate cake mix
2 cups cherry ice cream, softened
1 cup fresh cherries, pitted
Whipped cream for decoration

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare cake pans.
2. Bake the chocolate cake per instructions and cool completely.
3. Layer one cake, spread cherry ice cream, add fresh cherries, and place the second layer.
4. Frost with whipped cream and garnish with more cherries. Chill for 1-2 hours before serving.

FAQs:
Can I use frozen cherries? Yes, just thaw and drain beforehand.

Conclusion

No matter which ice cream cake you choose to create, you’re bound to impress your guests and bring joy to any gathering. These delightful recipes offer variety and excitement, making them perfect summer treats that everyone can enjoy.

Remember the joy of ice cream and cake combined, and get ready for compliments galore! With these easy recipes, you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying sweet moments with family and friends.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are Some Easy Ice Cream Cake Ideas for Summer Parties?

Summer parties call for refreshing treats, and ice cream cakes are a perfect choice! Think about layering your favorite ice cream flavors with cake or cookies for a delightful twist. You can also add fresh fruit or sprinkles for a fun touch. Don’t forget to check out the 20 easy ice cream cake recipes in our article for inspiration that will wow your guests!

How Long Does It Take to Make an Ice Cream Cake?

Making an ice cream cake is surprisingly quick! Most recipes require about 30 minutes of preparation, but you need to factor in freezing time, which can take anywhere from 4 to 6 hours. For best results, prepare your cake a day in advance so it’s perfectly frozen by the time your guests arrive!

What Ingredients Do I Need for Easy Ice Cream Cake Recipes?

The beauty of easy ice cream cake recipes is that you can customize them based on your preferences! Typically, you’ll need ice cream, a base layer like cake or cookies, and optional add-ins like syrups, fruits, or whipped cream. Check out our article for specific ingredient lists tailored to each of the 20 recipes!

Can I Use Store-Bought Ice Cream for These Cake Recipes?

Absolutely! Using store-bought ice cream is a fantastic way to save time and simplify your baking process. Choose your favorite flavors or mix and match for a more exciting taste. Just remember to let the ice cream soften for a few minutes before layering it in your cake for easier spreading!

What Makes Ice Cream Cake a Great Treat for Guests?

Ice cream cake is a showstopper that combines the best of both worlds – cake and ice cream! It’s not only visually appealing but also offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors that guests love. Plus, with our 20 easy ice cream cake recipes, you can cater to various tastes and dietary preferences, making it a surefire hit at any gathering!