Who doesn’t love a good ice cream cake? If you’ve ever tried a Walmart Ice Cream Cake, you know how delightfully indulgent these desserts can be! But what if I told you that you could recreate this frozen masterpiece right in your own kitchen?
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How to make a Walmart Ice Cream Cake
Walmart Ice Cream Cake is a frozen dessert sold at Walmart stores that combines layers of cake and ice cream—similar to those made by brands like Dairy Queen or Carvel.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients:
- Ice Cream: 1½ quarts of your favorite flavors (e.g., vanilla and chocolate or cake batter for that classic Walmart vibe). Let them soften slightly for easier spreading.
- Cake Layer: 1 store-bought cake mix (chocolate, vanilla, or funfetti) or pre-made slices of sponge cake.
- Whipped Topping: 1 tub of whipped topping (like Cool Whip) or homemade whipped cream.
- Frosting (optional): Buttercream, if you prefer a thicker frosting layer.
Crunchy Filling (Inspired by Walmart’s Mid-Layer Crunch):
- Chocolate Cookies or Graham Crackers: Crushed into crumbs (about 1½ cups).
- Hot Fudge Sauce: ½ cup, for mixing with the crumbs.
Decorations:
- Colored sprinkles, chocolate shavings, or candy pieces for the top.
- Syrups: Caramel or chocolate drizzle for added flair.
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake Layer: Bake your favorite cake (using a box mix or from scratch) and let it cool completely. Once cooled, slice the cake into a thin layer (about 1 inch thick). Alternatively, you can use pre-made sponge cake slices if you’re short on time. Place the cake layer in the bottom of a springform pan, which will make assembly and removal easier.
- Add the First Ice Cream Layer: Scoop softened ice cream (flavor of your choice) onto the cake layer and spread it out evenly. Use a spatula to smooth it for a neat layer. Place the assembled cake in the freezer for about 30-40 minutes to firm up.
- Create the Crunchy Layer: While the first layer freezes, mix the crushed cookies or graham crackers with the hot fudge sauce until it forms a crumbly, sticky mixture. Once the ice cream layer has set, spread this crunchy mixture over it evenly. Return the cake to the freezer for another 20 minutes.
- Add the Second Ice Cream Layer: Spread your second flavor of softened ice cream over the crunchy layer. Smooth it out with a spatula again and freeze for at least 2-4 hours to let the whole cake firm up properly.
- Frost the Cake: Once the cake is completely firm, remove it from the springform pan. Frost the outside with whipped topping (or buttercream, if you prefer). Smooth it out using a cake scraper or spatula for a clean, professional look.
- Decorate: Add sprinkles, chocolate shavings, or candies on top for that classic Walmart-style celebration touch. You can also drizzle syrup (like caramel or chocolate) over the cake for added decadence.
- Freeze until Ready to Serve: Leave the finished cake in the freezer for at least 1-2 hours to ensure everything is set before serving.
- Serve and Enjoy: Slice the cake with a knife dipped in hot water for clean cuts. Serve to friends, family, or just yourself, and enjoy this homemade version of a Walmart ice cream cake!
Tips for Success
- Customizing Flavors: Feel free to mix and match ice cream flavors to suit your taste. For a fun twist, try strawberry and vanilla or add a peanut butter swirl flavor.
- Speeding up Assembly: Use store-bought pound cake or sponge cake as the base to save time.
- Freezer-Friendly Prep: Be sure to freeze each layer thoroughly before moving to the next step to prevent the layers from mixing.
- Springform Pan for Consistency: A springform pan makes it easy to remove the cake once it’s fully assembled and frozen, ensuring clean edges and a neat presentation.
- Experiment with Toppings: Get creative with your decorations—add crushed Oreos, mini marshmallows, or edible glitter for a themed touch.
What to serve with
Walmart Ice Cream Cake is an irresistible dessert on its own, but pairing it with the right sides and beverages can elevate the entire experience.
1. Fresh Fruits
Fruits add a healthy, colorful, and refreshing element alongside the rich Walmart Ice Cream Cake.
- Berries: Fresh strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries pair wonderfully with sweet and creamy desserts. Serve them fresh or drizzle them with a bit of honey or chocolate syrup for an added touch.
- Citrus Slices: Offering orange wedges or grapefruit slices can balance the sweetness of the cake with a zesty touch.
- Melon and Tropical Fruits: Cubes of watermelon, cantaloupe, mango, or pineapple can bring a lighter flavor to the dessert table.
2. Warm or Hot Beverages
Pairing cold desserts with warm drinks is always a hit. It adds contrast and balances the chilliness of an ice cream cake.
- Coffee/Tea: Brew a pot of coffee or prepare some tea to serve alongside the dessert. For flavor harmony, offer flavored coffee, like vanilla or mocha, or a caffeine-free herbal tea.
- Hot Chocolate: Whipped cream-topped hot chocolate is an indulgent pairing with any ice cream cake. Add marshmallows or a pinch of cinnamon for a cozy touch.
- Espresso: For adults who enjoy a sophisticated touch, serve freshly brewed espresso to complement the creamy notes of the cake.
Ingredients Substitutes
Creating a Walmart ice cream cake at home is a fun and versatile project, and one of its best perks is the ability to tailor the ingredients to fit dietary needs, flavor preferences, or what’s available in your pantry.
Substitute for Cake Layer
If you don’t have a cake mix or want an alternative base, consider the following substitutes:
1. Store-Bought Pound Cake or Sponge Cake:
Description: Pre-baked and readily available in most grocery stores, these cakes can save time and effort.
How to Use: Slice the pound or sponge cake into 1-inch layers to form the base of your ice cream cake.
2. Cookies or Brownies:
Description: Use crushed cookies (like Oreos or graham crackers) or pre-made brownies.
How to Use: Crush the cookies and mix with a small amount of melted butter, then press into the springform pan to create a crust. For brownies, cut them into thin layers to fit as the cake layer.
3. Gluten-Free Cake Mix:
Description: Perfect for those with gluten sensitivities.
How to Use: Prepare and bake according to package instructions, then cool and slice to use as the base layer.
Substitute for Ice Cream
Whether you’re accommodating dietary restrictions or seeking to try new flavors, there are numerous options:
1. Dairy-Free Ice Cream:
Description: Brands like Ben & Jerry’s, So Delicious, and Halo Top offer dairy-free versions made from almond milk, coconut milk, or cashew milk.
How to Use: Scoop and spread just as you would traditional ice cream. Let it soften slightly before spreading for easy layering.
2. Frozen Yogurt:
Description: Lower in fat and often available in various flavors.
How to Use: Follow the same process as with regular ice cream for a lighter, tangy twist on your cake.
3. Sorbet or Sherbet:
Description: These options are dairy-free (though sherbet may contain some milk) and offer a fruity freshness.
How to Use: Spread in a layer like ice cream to add a refreshing component to the cake.
Substitute for Whipped Topping
If you’re out of whipped topping or want healthier alternatives, consider these options:
1. Homemade Whipped Cream:
Ingredients: 1 cup heavy whipping cream, 2-3 tablespoons sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
How to Use: Beat the cream, sugar, and vanilla in a chilled bowl until stiff peaks form. Use immediately or store in the refrigerator until needed.
2. Coconut Whipped Cream:
Ingredients: 1 can of full-fat coconut milk, chilled overnight.
How to Use: Scoop the solidified coconut cream from the chilled can, whip with a bit of sweetener and vanilla extract until it forms stiff peaks. This is a great dairy-free option.
3. Greek Yogurt:
Description: Thick and creamy with added protein.
How to Use: Sweeten plain Greek yogurt with a bit of powdered sugar and vanilla, then spread or dollop on top of the ice cream cake.
Substitute for Crunchy Filling Layer
Add texture and crunch with these alternatives to chocolate cookie crumbs:
1. Crushed Nuts:
Description: Almonds, pecans, or walnuts add a nutty crunch.
How to Use: Mix with honey or chocolate sauce for binding, then layer as the crunchy middle of your cake.
2. Granola:
Description: Surprisingly versatile and adds a whole-grain element.
How to Use: Mix with a bit of melted butter or syrup to help it clump together and layer within the cake.
3. Rice Krispies:
Description: Light and crispy, easy to find in most kitchens.
How to Use: Combine with melted chocolate or marshmallow mixture to form a crunchy layer.
Final Thoughts
Walmart ice cream cakes are undeniably delightful, but with thoughtful additions, sides, and pairings, this fantastic dessert can truly steal the show for any event.
More Cake Recipes:
- Copycat Little Debbie Banana Pudding Cakes Recipe
- Homemade Quaker Rice Cakes Recipe
- Copycat Drizzilicious Rice Cakes Recipe
Ingredients
Base Ingredients:
- Ice Cream: 1½ quarts
- Cake Layer: 1 store-bought cake mix
- Whipped Topping: 1 tub of whipped topping
- Frosting (optional): Buttercream
Crunchy Filling
- Chocolate Cookies
- Hot Fudge Sauce: ½ cu
Decorations:
- Colored sprinkles
- Syrups: Caramel
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake Layer: Bake your favorite cake (using a box mix or from scratch) and let it cool completely. Once cooled, slice the cake into a thin layer (about 1 inch thick). Alternatively, you can use pre-made sponge cake slices if you’re short on time. Place the cake layer in the bottom of a springform pan, which will make assembly and removal easier.
- Add the First Ice Cream Layer: Scoop softened ice cream (flavor of your choice) onto the cake layer and spread it out evenly. Use a spatula to smooth it for a neat layer. Place the assembled cake in the freezer for about 30-40 minutes to firm up.
- Create the Crunchy Layer: While the first layer freezes, mix the crushed cookies or graham crackers with the hot fudge sauce until it forms a crumbly, sticky mixture. Once the ice cream layer has set, spread this crunchy mixture over it evenly. Return the cake to the freezer for another 20 minutes.
- Add the Second Ice Cream Layer: Spread your second flavor of softened ice cream over the crunchy layer. Smooth it out with a spatula again and freeze for at least 2-4 hours to let the whole cake firm up properly.
- Frost the Cake: Once the cake is completely firm, remove it from the springform pan. Frost the outside with whipped topping (or buttercream, if you prefer). Smooth it out using a cake scraper or spatula for a clean, professional look.
- Decorate: Add sprinkles, chocolate shavings, or candies on top for that classic Walmart-style celebration touch. You can also drizzle syrup (like caramel or chocolate) over the cake for added decadence.
- Freeze until Ready to Serve: Leave the finished cake in the freezer for at least 1-2 hours to ensure everything is set before serving.
- Serve and Enjoy: Slice the cake with a knife dipped in hot water for clean cuts. Serve to friends, family, or just yourself, and enjoy this homemade version of a Walmart ice cream cake!
