There are few things quite as sweet and delicious as cookie cakes. Almost everyone loves a giant chocolate chip cookie. Super-size that sentiment, add a bit of frosting, and you have a delicious cake that is perfect for any occasion. The best part of this treat, though, is that it is super-easy to make.
Shape and Pans
The key to any good cookie cake is the pan itself. While most cookie cakes are about a 12 inch round, you can certainly go with any size or shape that works for you. You won’t need a special pan for this. Your cookie cake is going to come out in the size or shape of the pan you choose to bake it in. If you’re looking to go with the more traditional 12 inch round shape, just use a simple pizza pan.
The Recipe
Once you have your shape issues worked out, the next step is to find the single best chocolate chip cookie recipe on the planet. You’ll certainly want to choose one that is well suited for bar-style cookies, but beyond that, feel free to select one with delicious add-ins like chocolate candies, macadamia nuts, or even shredded coconut. Here’s a great one from Food.com if you don’t already have one in mind.
Take 1 cup of softened butter, ½ cup granulated sugar, and 2/3 cup brown sugar and beat them together. Add in 2 eggs and 1 teaspoon of vanilla. In a separate bowl, mix 2 cups flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of cream of tartar, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and 2 cups chocolate chips. Mix together. Add the dry ingredients to the batter. Mix until you’ve blended them well. Spread the dough in an ungreased pan. Bake for 20 minutes at 350 degrees.
It’s important to note that whether you use this recipe or another, your baking time will probably vary depending on the type of pan you use. It’s important, no matter what recipe you use, to leave about an inch of space between the edge of your pan and the giant cookie you’re creating. That gives it a little room to spread out. Once your giant cookie cake is done baking, you’ll want to pull the pan from the oven, then allow it to cool completely on a wire rack.
Icing the Cookie Cake
Your final step is icing and any other decorative touches you want to add. Almost any icing recipe will work for a cookie cake. A standard buttercream icing is typically a great choice. Many people also glaze the entire thing with a simple chocolate glaze recipe. You could also simply go with a can of store-bought icing and pipe on a cute design or slogan to fit the occasion. For an added touch, put some sprinkles or small candies on top of the icing to help decorate the cake a bit.
Cookie cakes are easily the perfect addition to any celebration whether you’re talking about a child’s birthday party or a retirement party at work. They’re easy to make, too, so grab your ingredients and start baking!
