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Homemade Ice Cream Cake (Like Dairy Queen) Recipe


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3.8 from 11 reviews

  • Author: Sara
  • Total Time: 14 hours 45 minutes (including freezing time)
  • Yield: 10 servings

Description

This Homemade Ice Cream Cake recipe delivers a delightful layered dessert combining crunchy Oreo crust, rich chocolate and strawberry ice cream, and luscious homemade hot fudge, topped with fluffy whipped cream. Perfect for celebrations or sweet cravings, this no-bake ice cream cake is simple to assemble, customizable with your favorite ice cream flavors, and yields a creamy, crowd-pleasing treat.


Ingredients

Crust:

  • 10 Oreo cookies (110g)
  • 2 Tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter, melted

Ice Cream Layers:

  • 1.5 quarts (1.42L) chocolate ice cream, softened (or other flavor)
  • 1.5 quarts (1.42L) strawberry ice cream, softened (or other flavor)

Hot Fudge:

  • 1 cup (8 ounces/227g) homemade hot fudge (or store-bought), divided

Whipped Cream Topping:

  • 2 cups (480ml) heavy cream, cold
  • 1/3 cup (40g) confectioners’ sugar
  • 1 and 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

Optional Garnish:

  • Sprinkles


Instructions

  1. Prepare Oreo Crust: In a food processor or blender, pulse the 10 Oreos (including the cream filling) until coarsely crumbled, leaving some larger chunks for texture. Combine the crumbs with melted butter, mix well, and set aside for later layering.
  2. Soften Bottom Ice Cream Layer: Remove chocolate ice cream from the freezer and let soften for about 10 minutes. Meanwhile, line a 9×3-inch or 10×3-inch springform pan with plastic wrap, using two pieces for extra coverage on sides.
  3. Form Bottom Ice Cream Layer: Quickly scoop softened chocolate ice cream into the lined pan. Use the back of a large spoon to spread evenly. Freeze this layer for 30 minutes to firm.
  4. Apply Hot Fudge and Oreo Layers: Warm homemade or store-bought hot fudge until spreadable. Pour and spread 1/2 cup over the frozen chocolate ice cream layer. Immediately sprinkle the Oreo crumb mixture on top. Freeze for another 30 minutes.
  5. Soften Top Ice Cream Layer: After 20 minutes of freezing, remove strawberry ice cream from the freezer to soften for 10 minutes in preparation.
  6. Add Top Hot Fudge and Ice Cream Layer: Drizzle the remaining 1/2 cup of hot fudge over the Oreo layer. Quickly spread the softened strawberry ice cream evenly on top. Cover with plastic wrap or foil and freeze the entire cake for at least 12 hours, up to 2 days.
  7. Freeze Cake Plate (Optional): To prevent melting when serving on a plate, place your cake plate, stand, or cutting board in the freezer for at least 30 minutes prior to serving.
  8. Make Whipped Cream Topping: Using a handheld or stand mixer with whisk attachment, beat cold heavy cream, confectioners’ sugar, and vanilla on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form, about 4 minutes.
  9. Remove Cake from Pan and Apply Whipped Cream: Take the frozen cake from the freezer, remove springform pan rim, and lift cake out using the plastic wrap. Peel off plastic wrap carefully and transfer cake to the bottom of the springform pan or chilled cake plate. Spread whipped cream all over top and sides quickly. Optionally, pipe decorative borders and garnish with sprinkles.
  10. Slice and Serve: Serve immediately or freeze up to 1 hour. Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water between slices for clean cuts. Store leftovers covered in the freezer.

Notes

  • Using a springform pan makes removing the cake easier, but a 9×13-inch or 8-inch square pan can also be used.
  • Softening ice cream before spreading is key to getting smooth even layers.
  • Homemade or store-bought hot fudge can be used; warming it to a spreadable consistency is important for layering.
  • Freezing the cake plate helps prevent the ice cream from melting too quickly when serving.
  • Whipped cream topping adds a light, creamy finish and can be piped or spread as desired.
  • Slicing with a knife dipped in hot water ensures neat slices without ice cream sticking.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes (mainly for homemade hot fudge if making from scratch)
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American