Holiday Sugar Cookie Dough Layered Cake with Vanilla Buttercream
Introduction
As the holiday season approaches, I find myself filled with gratitude for the shared moments that baking with loved ones brings. Imagine the delight of savoring a slice of cake that embodies the very essence of holiday cheer! This Holiday Sugar Cookie Dough Layered Cake with Vanilla Buttercream is a festive twist, blending the beloved taste of sugar cookies with a creamy buttercream that is sure to make your celebrations even sweeter. Don’t miss out on this recipe. Consider subscribing to receive it directly in your inbox!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This cake is a holiday dream come true! It combines a nostalgic sugar cookie flavor with a rich vanilla buttercream, all wrapped up in a visually stunning layer cake. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make and perfect for any family gathering or festive occasion. The ease of preparation means even the busiest holiday hosts can relish this showstopper.
Ingredients
– Holiday Sugar Cookie Dough
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– Vanilla Buttercream
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 cups powdered sugar
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Frosting and Decoration
– Holiday sprinkles
– Edible glitter (optional)
Necessary Tools
– Mixing bowls
– Whisk
– Hand mixer or stand mixer
– 8-inch round cake pans
– Parchment paper
– Rolling pin
– Offset spatula
Ingredient Swaps and Additions
You can easily swap the vanilla for almond extract for a different flavor profile. Add a handful of white chocolate chips to the cookie dough for an extra surprise. Or, for a twist, sprinkle some cinnamon into the buttercream.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. **Make the Cookie Dough**: Whisk flour, baking powder, and salt. Beat butter and sugar until fluffy. Mix in egg and vanilla, then gradually add dry ingredients until combined. Divide dough into three, wrap, and chill for 1 hour.
2. **Preheat and Bake**: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll each dough portion to fit 8-inch pans lined with parchment. Bake for 12-15 mins until golden. Cool completely.
3. **Prepare Buttercream**: Beat butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing well. Add heavy cream, vanilla, and salt, mixing until smooth.
4. **Assemble the Cake**: Place a cookie round on a serving plate. Spread buttercream. Repeat with remaining rounds, finishing with buttercream on top.
5. **Decorate**: Generously add holiday sprinkles and edible glitter if desired.
6. **Chill and Serve**: Chill for at least 30 mins before slicing. Enjoy the perfect holiday treat!
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a cup of hot cocoa or a festive holiday punch. This cake also complements a scoop of vanilla ice cream beautifully.
Pro Tips for Success
Ensure the cookie layers are completely cooled before assembling to prevent melting the buttercream. For an even finish, use an offset spatula to spread the buttercream smoothly.
Storing and Reheating
Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow the cake to come to room temperature before enjoying again.
FAQ Section
1. **Can I make the dough ahead of time?**
Yes, the dough can be made and refrigerated for up to 2 days.
2. **Can I freeze this cake?**
Yes, assemble and freeze the cake without decorations, then thaw and decorate before serving.
3. **Is there a substitute for heavy cream in buttercream?**
You can use milk or half-and-half, but the texture will be less rich.
Conclusion
This Holiday Sugar Cookie Dough Layered Cake with Vanilla Buttercream combines simplicity with festivity, making it a must-try for your celebrations. I’d love to see how yours turns out, so please leave reviews, share photos, or tag this recipe on Instagram or Pinterest. Happy baking!
Nutritional Information
Calories per serving: approx. 480
Carbohydrates: 70g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 21g
Sodium: 120mg
Fiber: 1g
Holiday Sugar Cookie Dough Layered Cake with Vanilla Buttercream
Ingredients
Holiday Sugar Cookie Dough
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Vanilla Buttercream
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- a pinch of salt salt
Frosting and Decoration
- Holiday sprinkles
- Edible glitter (optional)
Instructions
Make the Cookie Dough
- Whisk flour, baking powder, and salt together.
- Beat butter and sugar until fluffy.
- Mix in egg and vanilla, then gradually add dry ingredients until combined.
- Divide dough into three, wrap each portion, and chill for 1 hour.
Preheat and Bake
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Roll each dough portion to fit 8-inch pans lined with parchment.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden.
- Cool completely.
Prepare Buttercream
- Beat butter until creamy.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing well.
- Add heavy cream, vanilla, and salt, mixing until smooth.
Assemble the Cake
- Place a cookie round on a serving plate.
- Spread buttercream over the layer.
- Repeat with remaining rounds, finishing with buttercream on top.
Decorate
- Generously add holiday sprinkles and edible glitter if desired.
Chill and Serve
- Chill for at least 30 minutes before slicing.
- Enjoy the perfect holiday treat!
