- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- Prepare the Cookie Dough: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and sour cream, mixing until combined.
- Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Gently fold in the holiday M&M’s or sprinkles, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Transfer to the Pan: Spread the cookie dough evenly into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. The dough will be thick, but that’s what gives the cake its chewy texture.
- Bake the Cake: Bake the cookie cake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set. You can check the doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center—it should come out clean with just a few crumbs.
- Cool the Cake: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
- Make the Frosting: While the cake is cooling, prepare the frosting. In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing until smooth. Add the vanilla extract and 2 tablespoons of heavy cream, and beat until the frosting is light and fluffy. If the frosting is too thick, add more cream, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency.
- Frost the Cookie Cake: Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the frosting evenly on top using a spatula or a butter knife. Get creative with your frosting design, using a swirl or smooth finish depending on your preference!
- Decorate the Cake: Decorate the top of the cake with additional holiday sprinkles, edible glitter, or extra M&M’s for a festive touch. You can also pipe some extra frosting around the edges for a decorative border.
- Serve: Slice the cake into wedges and serve immediately, or refrigerate until ready to serve. Enjoy your delicious Christmas Cookie Cake!
Serving and Storage
Serving Suggestions
- Serve this **Christmas Cookie Cake** at holiday parties, family gatherings, or after-dinner desserts. It’s sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike!
- Pair with a glass of milk or hot cocoa for the ultimate cozy treat.
- For an extra indulgent treat, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side!
Storage Tips
- Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- If you want to make the cake ahead of time, you can bake and cool the cake, then store it in the fridge for up to 2 days before frosting. Decorate and serve when ready!
- You can also freeze the uniced cake for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze. Thaw at room temperature before frosting and serving.
Tips
- For extra flavor, you can add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cookie dough for a spiced twist.
- If you don’t have holiday M&M’s, you can use regular chocolate chips or even crushed candy canes for a festive peppermint flavor.
- If you prefer a thicker frosting, reduce the amount of heavy cream in the frosting recipe, or use less powdered sugar for a creamier consistency.
Conclusion
This **Christmas Cookie Cake** is the ultimate festive dessert that combines the best of both worlds: a soft, chewy cookie with a beautiful cake-like texture, topped with creamy frosting and colorful decorations. Whether you’re making it for a holiday gathering or as a treat for your family, this cookie cake will definitely spread holiday cheer. It’s easy to make, fun to decorate, and delicious to eat!
FAQ
Can I use a different frosting flavor?
Yes! Feel free to switch things up and use a flavored frosting, such as cream cheese frosting or chocolate buttercream, for a different twist on the cake.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend in place of the all-purpose flour to make this cake gluten-free. Be sure to use a reliable gluten-free blend designed for baking.
Can I add a filling to the cake?
Absolutely! You can add a layer of fruit jam, chocolate ganache, or even a layer of whipped cream between the cake layers for added flavor and texture.
