Easter Cookie Cake

Easter Cookie Cake is the perfect treat for your holiday celebrations! This giant, candy-laden cookie baked in a pie plate is not only visually appealing but also deliciously satisfying. Whether you’re hosting an Easter brunch or looking for a festive dessert, this cookie cake combines simplicity with fun flavors. Its versatility makes it suitable for various occasions, and the vibrant colors from the candies make it stand out on any dessert table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delightful cookie cake ready in no time.
• Perfect for Sharing: This recipe serves eight, making it ideal for gatherings with family and friends.
• Customizable Toppings: Feel free to swap out candies or add your favorites for a personalized touch.
• Festive Appearance: The colorful candies on top make this treat a showstopper at any holiday celebration.
• Deliciously Chewy Texture: The blend of sugars and butter creates a soft and chewy cookie that’s hard to resist.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Easter Cookie Cake, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9-inch pie plate
• Large mixing bowl
• Medium mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Offset spatula
• Microwave-safe bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• 9-inch pie plate: This is essential for baking your cookie cake evenly while allowing it to maintain its shape.
• Offset spatula: Perfect for smoothing the dough in the pie plate, ensuring an even surface that bakes nicely.

Ingredients

A giant candy-laden cookie baked up in a pie plate.

For the Cookie Cake

• ½ cup butter (1 stick or 4 ounces)
• ¾ cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup sugar
• 1 egg
• 2 teaspoons vanilla

Dry Ingredients

• 1 ⅓ cups flour
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Mix-ins

• ½ cup chocolate chips
• ¾ cup chocolate candies (I used Easter M&M’s and mini Cadbury eggs), divided

How to Make Easter Cookie Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350ºF. Spray a 9-inch pie plate with non-stick cooking spray and set it aside.

Step 2: Melt the Butter

In a large, microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter. Once melted, mix in both sugars until well combined. Add in the vanilla extract followed by stirring in one egg until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually mix this dry mixture into the butter mixture until just combined.

Step 4: Add Chocolate Chips and Candies

Fold in the chocolate chips and ½ cup of your chosen candies. Reserve the remaining candies for garnishing later.

Step 5: Prepare for Baking

Scrape the dough into your prepared pie plate. Smooth out the top using an offset spatula to ensure an even bake.

Step 6: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for about 25 minutes or until you see a golden brown top. When finished baking, gently press the remaining candies into the warm surface of the cookie cake.

Step 7: Cool and Slice

Allow the cookie cake to cool down before slicing into wedges. Enjoy this delightful Easter Cookie Cake with family and friends!

How to Serve Easter Cookie Cake

Easter Cookie Cake is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday gathering or as a special dessert for the family, these serving suggestions will enhance your experience.

With Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream – A classic pairing that complements the sweetness of the cookie cake.
• Chocolate Ice Cream – For chocolate lovers, this rich flavor adds an extra layer of indulgence.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Light and Fluffy – A dollop of whipped cream can elevate your Easter Cookie Cake, making it feel more festive and airy.

Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce

• Decadent Touch – A warm chocolate sauce drizzled on top creates a gooey, chocolatey experience that’s hard to resist.

Served Warm

• Fresh Out of the Oven – Enjoying the cookie cake while it’s still warm enhances its chewy texture and makes the chocolate chips melty and delicious.

Garnished with Fresh Fruits

• Colorful Addition – Fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries add a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cake.

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How to Perfect Easter Cookie Cake

To make your Easter Cookie Cake truly unforgettable, consider these tips for perfecting your baking technique.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients – Bringing butter and eggs to room temperature helps them combine better for a smoother batter.
• Don’t Overmix – Mixing just until combined prevents a tough cookie cake. Stir gently after adding flour.
• Check Doneness Early – Start checking your cake a few minutes before the suggested time to prevent overbaking.
• Cool Before Slicing – Letting it cool allows for easier slicing and helps maintain its shape.

Best Side Dishes for Easter Cookie Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Easter Cookie Cake can make for an even more delightful meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Spring Salad – A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a citrus vinaigrette balances out the sweetness.
2. Fruit Platter – Seasonal fruits like strawberries, grapes, and kiwi offer freshness that pairs well with dessert.
3. Cheese Board – A selection of cheeses can provide savory bites that contrast nicely with the sweet cookie cake.
4. Roasted Veggies – Seasoned roasted vegetables add a hearty side that complements any holiday meal.
5. Deviled Eggs – A classic Easter favorite that adds protein and flavor without overpowering dessert.
6. Pasta Salad – A cold pasta salad with olives, feta, and herbs can be refreshing alongside sweet treats.
7. Carrot Sticks & Dip – Crunchy veggies with ranch dip keep things light between bites of cookie cake.
8. Mini Quiches – These bite-sized delights are great for balancing out flavors on your Easter table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Creating the perfect Easter Cookie Cake can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the Preheat: Not preheating your oven can lead to uneven baking. Always preheat for consistent results.
• Measuring Incorrectly: Using too much or too little flour affects texture. Use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups.
• Overmixing the Dough: Overmixing leads to tough cookies. Mix just until combined for a soft and chewy cake.
• Ignoring Cooling Time: Cutting into the cake too soon can cause it to fall apart. Let it cool before slicing for clean pieces.
• Not Using Enough Candy: Skimping on candy toppings may reduce flavor. Use plenty of candies for that festive touch.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store in the fridge for 3-4 days.
• Container: Place in an airtight container to keep it fresh.

Freezing Easter Cookie Cake

• Duration: Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Container: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag.

Reheating Easter Cookie Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350ºF, cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes to warm through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 20-30 seconds.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat; cover and warm for several minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making an Easter Cookie Cake.

How do I customize my Easter Cookie Cake?

You can add different candies like jelly beans or white chocolate chips. Experiment with flavors by adding nuts or sprinkles!

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a delicious gluten-free Easter Cookie Cake.

What if I don’t have a pie plate?

You can use any oven-safe dish, such as a round cake pan or an oven-safe skillet, but adjust cooking time as needed.

How do I store leftover Easter Cookie Cake?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days or freeze it for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

This Easter Cookie Cake is an impressive dessert that’s both fun and easy to make. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various candies, making it perfect for any celebration. Try it out and enjoy the delightful flavors of this festive treat!