Easter is a time for celebration, family gatherings, and, of course, delicious treats. Whether you’re planning an Easter brunch, a festive dinner, or just a cozy get-together, desserts always play a crucial role in making the occasion special. If you love soft, chewy cookies and colorful Easter treats, this Easter Cookie Cake is the perfect recipe to bring joy to your table.
This delightful dessert combines the best of both worlds—a giant, soft, and chewy cookie baked to perfection and decorated with festive candies, pastel-colored frosting, and sprinkles. It is an excellent choice for those who enjoy baking but want something fun and simple without the hassle of rolling out individual cookies. Plus, it’s a great way to get kids involved in the kitchen, allowing them to decorate with creativity and excitement.
Unlike traditional cakes that require multiple layers, frosting techniques, and meticulous decoration, this cookie cake is incredibly easy to make. It bakes in one pan, requires minimal effort, and delivers maximum flavor. You can customize it with your favorite mix-ins, whether chocolate chips, candy-coated chocolates, or nuts. The decoration possibilities are endless, making it the ideal dessert for any Easter celebration.
In this guide, you will find everything you need to know, from the step-by-step cooking process to pro tips, storage solutions, and pairing ideas. This way, whether you are a baking novice or a seasoned pro, you’ll be able to create a stunning and delicious Easter Cookie Cake with confidence.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are many reasons to fall in love with this Easter Cookie Cake, and once you try it, you’ll see why it’s a crowd favorite. Here’s why this recipe is a must-have for your Easter celebrations:
- Quick and Easy – No need for multiple baking steps or complicated techniques. This cookie cake comes together in just one bowl and bakes in under 25 minutes.
- Festive and Fun – The pastel-colored candies and frosting make this dessert an eye-catching centerpiece for any Easter table. Kids and adults alike will love the cheerful look.
- Perfect Texture – Soft and chewy on the inside with slightly crisp edges, this cookie cake delivers the best of a classic chocolate chip cookie in an oversized form.
- Customizable – You can easily swap out the mix-ins to include your favorite flavors, such as white chocolate chips, peanut butter candies, or even chopped nuts for extra crunch.
- Great for Gatherings – This large cookie cake serves multiple people, making it an excellent choice for family events, potlucks, and parties.
- Make-Ahead Friendly – You can prepare the dough in advance, bake it when ready, and even store leftovers for later enjoyment.
If you love baking and enjoy effortless desserts that look as good as they taste, this Easter Cookie Cake will be a new favorite in your recipe collection.
Health Benefits
While desserts are typically an indulgence, this cookie cake includes some ingredients that offer nutritional benefits:
- Dark Chocolate Chips – If using dark chocolate, you’ll get antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation and promote heart health.
- Eggs – A great source of protein and essential vitamins like B12 and D, eggs contribute to the cake’s rich texture and structure.
- Butter (in moderation) – Butter contains healthy fats and fat-soluble vitamins that are essential for overall health.
- Almond or Coconut Flour Option – If you opt for almond or coconut flour instead of all-purpose flour, you add healthy fats, fiber, and essential nutrients.
- Less Sugar Than Traditional Cakes – Since this is a cookie-style cake, it generally contains less sugar than a frosted layer cake, making it a slightly better choice for those watching their sugar intake.
While this dessert is still a treat, it can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 18-22 minutes
- Total Time: About 35 minutes
- Servings: 8-10 slices
Estimated Nutritional Information (Per Slice)
- Calories: 320-350 kcal
- Protein: 4-5g
- Carbohydrates: 40-45g
- Fats: 15-18g
- Sugar: 22-25g
These values are approximate and may vary based on the ingredients used.
Ingredients List
For the Cookie Cake
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg + 1 egg yolk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips (dark or milk)
- ¾ cup candy-coated chocolate eggs (such as Cadbury Mini Eggs or M&Ms)
For Decorating
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1-2 tablespoons milk
- Food coloring (pastel shades for Easter)
- Additional candy eggs & sprinkles for topping
Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan or a pizza pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This takes about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract, and mix until well combined.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
Step 3: Add Chocolate and Candies
- Fold in the chocolate chips and candy eggs, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
Step 4: Shape and Bake
- Press the dough evenly into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the center is slightly soft.
- Allow the cookie cake to cool completely before decorating.
Step 5: Make the Frosting
- In a bowl, beat the butter, powdered sugar, and milk until smooth and fluffy.
- Divide the frosting into separate bowls and tint each with a different pastel food coloring.
Step 6: Decorate
- Using a piping bag, pipe the frosting around the edges of the cake.
- Add more candy eggs and sprinkles for an extra festive touch.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
- Slice and serve at room temperature.
How to Serve
This Easter Cookie Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a festive centerpiece that brings joy and excitement to any Easter gathering. Since it’s a giant, soft, and chewy cookie packed with chocolate chips and colorful candies, there are several ways to present and enjoy it.
One of the best ways to serve this cookie cake is at room temperature, allowing its soft texture to shine. If you prefer a warm and gooey bite, you can microwave individual slices for 10-15 seconds before serving. This enhances the melted chocolate effect, making every bite even more indulgent.
For a decorative touch, you can serve each slice with an extra drizzle of chocolate or a dollop of whipped cream. A scoop of vanilla ice cream also pairs beautifully with the chewy cookie base, creating a wonderful contrast of warm and cold textures.
If you’re hosting a large gathering, consider pre-cutting the cookie cake into slices before your guests arrive. Arrange the slices on a serving platter, and sprinkle additional Easter-themed decorations, such as mini chocolate eggs or pastel sprinkles, around them for a festive look.
For a more interactive experience, place small bowls of toppings like chocolate sauce, caramel, or crushed candy so guests can customize their slices. This makes it even more fun for kids and adults alike, turning dessert time into an engaging activity.
Whether you’re serving this at an Easter brunch, a family dinner, or a potluck, this cookie cake is sure to be a hit. Its eye-catching decorations and irresistible flavor make it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Pairing Suggestions
Pairing this Easter Cookie Cake with the right drinks and accompaniments can elevate the experience, making every bite even more enjoyable. Since it’s a sweet and rich dessert, it pairs best with beverages and sides that complement or balance its flavors.
Beverage Pairings
- Milk – The classic choice! A cold glass of milk enhances the richness of the chocolate and soft cookie texture.
- Coffee or Espresso – A strong cup of black coffee or a shot of espresso balances the sweetness of the cookie cake with a slight bitterness.
- Hot Chocolate – If you want an extra indulgent experience, serve this cake with a creamy cup of hot chocolate topped with whipped cream.
- Iced Tea or Lemonade – If you prefer a refreshing contrast, a tall glass of iced tea or homemade lemonade provides a light, citrusy balance to the cookie’s sweetness.
Side Pairings
- Fresh Berries – A side of fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries adds a tart contrast that cuts through the richness of the cookie cake.
- Yogurt Parfait – A light yogurt parfait with granola and fruit adds a fresh, tangy element to balance out the dessert.
- Nuts – Chopped almonds, pecans, or walnuts served on the side add a delightful crunch and a nutty contrast to the cookie’s softness.
If you’re serving this at a holiday brunch, you can pair it with a mix of sweet and savory dishes, such as scrambled eggs, bacon, and fresh fruit. This ensures that your guests get a well-rounded variety of flavors on their plate.
Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions
To ensure that your Easter Cookie Cake stays fresh and delicious, proper storage is key. Whether you’re saving leftovers or making it ahead of time, these storage tips will help maintain its texture and flavor.
Room Temperature Storage
If you plan to enjoy the cookie cake within 2-3 days, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. Keeping it covered helps prevent it from drying out. If your home is warm, store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Refrigeration
For longer storage, place the cookie cake in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. When you’re ready to eat, let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes, or warm individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.
Freezing Instructions
If you’d like to keep your cookie cake for an extended period, freezing is an excellent option. Here’s how to do it:
- Allow the cake to cool completely before freezing.
- Wrap the entire cookie cake (or individual slices) tightly in plastic wrap, then wrap it again in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
- Place the wrapped cake in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months.
To thaw, transfer the cake to the refrigerator overnight or let it sit at room temperature for about 1 hour before serving.
Reheating Instructions
For a warm, fresh-baked taste, heat individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. If reheating the entire cake, place it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5 minutes to restore its softness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even though this recipe is straightforward, there are a few common mistakes that can impact the final result. Avoid these pitfalls to ensure your Easter Cookie Cake turns out perfectly every time.
- Overbaking the Cookie Cake – One of the biggest mistakes is baking the cake for too long. The edges should be golden, but the center should still be slightly soft. It will continue to firm up as it cools.
- Using Too Much Flour – If you pack the flour into the measuring cup instead of spooning and leveling it, the dough may become too dry and dense.
- Skipping the Cooling Process – If you decorate the cake while it’s still warm, the frosting will melt and become runny. Let it cool completely before decorating.
- Not Greasing the Pan Properly – Since this is a soft and chewy cookie cake, it’s important to grease the pan well or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Adding Frosting Too Soon – Always wait until the cake is completely cool before adding frosting. Otherwise, it will slide off instead of holding its shape.
Pro Tips
To take your Easter Cookie Cake to the next level, consider these expert tips:
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients – This helps the dough mix evenly and creates a smoother texture.
- Chill the Dough (Optional) – For an even chewier cookie cake, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This prevents it from spreading too much in the oven.
- Try Different Mix-Ins – Experiment with white chocolate chips, peanut butter chips, or chopped nuts to add variety.
- Use a Piping Bag for Decorations – A piping bag with different tips allows you to create beautiful designs with the frosting.
- Add a Touch of Sea Salt – A pinch of flaky sea salt on top before baking enhances the chocolate flavor and balances the sweetness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this cookie cake gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free 1:1 baking flour.
Can I make this cookie cake dairy-free?
Yes! Use vegan butter or coconut oil, and swap the chocolate chips for dairy-free alternatives.
Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! The dough can be made up to 48 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes.
What other candies can I use?
Aside from Cadbury Mini Eggs, you can use M&Ms, Reese’s Pieces, or chopped chocolate bars for different flavors.
Conclusion & Call to Action
This Easter Cookie Cake is a fun, festive, and incredibly delicious dessert that’s perfect for celebrating the holiday with family and friends. Its soft and chewy texture, paired with colorful candies and creamy frosting, makes it an absolute showstopper at any Easter gathering.
Now that you have all the details, it’s time to get baking! Gather your ingredients, follow the step-by-step guide, and let your creativity shine as you decorate this festive treat.
If you try this recipe, share your Easter Cookie Cake photos and tag your friends and family! Have fun baking, and Happy Easter!
PrintEaster Cookie Cake – Soft, Chewy, and Festive Treat for Spring
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8-10 slices 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A giant, chewy, and soft cookie cake packed with chocolate chips and festive Easter candies. Easy to make, perfect for celebrations, and deliciously fun to decorate!
Ingredients
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg + 1 egg yolk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- ¾ cup candy-coated chocolate eggs (e.g., Cadbury Mini Eggs or M&Ms)
For Decoration:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1–2 tablespoons milk
- Food coloring (pastel shades)
- Extra candy eggs & sprinkles
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
- In a bowl, cream together butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until fluffy.
- Mix in egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract until combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add to the wet mixture, mixing until a dough forms.
- Fold in chocolate chips and candy eggs. Press dough evenly into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 18-22 minutes, until edges are golden and the center is slightly soft.
- Cool completely before decorating.
- To make the frosting, beat butter, powdered sugar, and milk until smooth. Tint with pastel food coloring.
- Pipe frosting around the edges and top with candy eggs and sprinkles.
- Slice and serve!
Notes
- For a gooey texture, remove from the oven when slightly underbaked.
- Make it peanut butter flavored by swapping ¼ cup of butter for peanut butter.
- Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18-22 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American