How to Make the Best Chocolate Chip Cookie Cake Recipe (Soft, Chewy & Crowd-Pleasing)
A chocolate chip cookie cake is essentially a giant chocolate chip cookie baked in a round pan and served like a cake—perfect for birthdays, gatherings, or anytime you want something nostalgic, indulgent, and effortlessly sliceable. This treat blends the simplicity of cookie dough with the celebration-readiness of a cake. The concept dates back to the founders of Great American Cookies, inspired by a grandmother’s recipe, and has since become a beloved dessert option.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Soft and chewy center with slightly crisp edges—a delightful contrast.
- No dough chilling required—you simply spread the dough into a pan.
- Easily customizable frosting and toppings make it great for celebrations.
Ingredients & Tips
| Ingredient | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Butter + Brown Sugar | Adds mellow sweetness and chewiness; brown sugar for moisture and flavor |
| Egg + Egg Yolk | Creates structure and richness—egg yolk yields a tender crumb |
| All-Purpose Flour + Cornstarch | Cornstarch softens texture for that melt-in-your-mouth feel |
| Baking Soda | Helps the cake spread just right |
| Vanilla & Salt | Enhances and balances flavors |
| Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips | The star ingredient—melty chocolate in every bite |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat & Prep
Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease and optionally line a 9-inch round cake pan or pie dish. - Make the Dough
- Cream softened butter and brown sugar until light.
- Beat in 1 egg + 1 egg yolk (for chewy richness) and vanilla.
- Whisk dry ingredients (flour, cornstarch, baking soda, salt), then combine with wet.
- Fold in chocolate chips evenly.
- Bake
Spread dough into the prepared pan evenly. Bake for approximately 22–26 minutes, or until edges are golden and center appears just set. A toothpick should come out with moist crumbs. - Cool & Frost
Let cool completely before frosting with chocolate buttercream, vanilla frosting, or enjoy plain. Decorations like sprinkles or piped borders amp up the celebration vibe.
Variations to Try
- Sheet-Pan Cookie Cake: Use melted butter and extra brown sugar for a fudgier, gooey texture in a 13×18″ pan—perfect for parties.
- Dense & Buttery: Dark brown sugar, extra egg yolk, and a dash of baking powder yield a richer, slightly denser version.
- Skillet Cookie Cake: For a warm, skillet-baked cookie experience, try a peanut-chocolate chip skillet version—serve straight from the pan with ice cream.
Conclusion
This chocolate chip cookie cake is an irresistible fusion of crowd-favorite flavors and joyful presentation. It’s simple to make, endlessly customizable, and always a hit. Whether you’re baking for a party or just indulging at home, this recipe brings warmth, nostalgia, and sweetness in every slice.
