M&M Brownie Ice Cream Cake Recipe

If you are searching for the ultimate crowd-pleaser to brighten up any celebration or simply indulge your sweet tooth, the M&M Brownie Ice Cream Cake is the perfect answer. This dazzling dessert combines the fudgy richness of a classic brownie with the creamy delight of chocolate and vanilla ice cream, all interspersed with the playful crunch and vibrant colors of M&Ms and Oreos. It’s not just a cake; it’s a fun, festive experience in every bite that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this dessert lies in its straightforward ingredients that each play a crucial role in creating layers of texture and flavor. From rich chocolate chips boosting the brownie base to the cool, smooth ice creams layering every forkful, these simple essentials come together to craft something truly special.

• Brownie mix: This can be store-bought for convenience or homemade for a personal touch, forming the fudgy cake foundation.
• Chocolate chips: Added to the brownie batter for pockets of melty chocolate throughout.
• M&Ms: Incorporated within the brownie and layered ice cream for color, crunch, and that classic peanut butter-and-chocolate punch.
• Chocolate ice cream: Provides deep cocoa flavor and creamy texture in the first ice cream layer.
• Vanilla ice cream: Balances the chocolate with smooth sweetness in the second ice cream layer.
• Crushed Oreo cookies: Sprinkled between layers for crunch and added chocolatey texture.
• Whipped topping or homemade whipped cream: Adds lightness and a fluffy finish to the cake’s surface.
• Chocolate syrup: Drizzled on top for shine and extra decadence.
• Extra M&Ms and chocolate-covered candies: Fun toppings to decorate and add pop both visually and in flavor.

How to Make M&M Brownie Ice Cream Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Brownie Base

Begin by whisking together your brownie mix or homemade ingredients until smooth and silky. Fold in the chocolate chips and a quarter cup of M&Ms to infuse each bite with melty chocolate and colorful surprises. Pour this batter into a greased 9-inch springform pan and bake at 350°F for 20 to 25 minutes until the edges are set and the center is just firm. Let the brownie cool completely before moving on to the next layer; this ensures the ice cream won’t melt when spread on top.

Step 2: Add the Chocolate Ice Cream Layer

Once the brownie base is cool, spread softened chocolate ice cream evenly over it. This creates a rich, creamy layer that contrasts perfectly with the dense brownie. For extra texture and flavor bursts, sprinkle some crushed Oreos and additional M&Ms on top of the ice cream before freezing the cake for about 30 minutes so it solidifies nicely.

Step 3: Layer the Vanilla Ice Cream

Next, gently spread the softened vanilla ice cream over the firm chocolate layer. The vanilla layer introduces a mellow sweetness and smooth creaminess. Don’t forget to add more crushed Oreos and M&Ms to maintain consistent crunch and color throughout the cake. Return the cake to the freezer for another half hour to set.

Step 4: Finish with Whipped Topping and Decorations

Top your ice cream layers with a generous spread of whipped topping or freshly whipped cream sweetened with a touch of sugar. For a decadent flourish, drizzle chocolate syrup over the top and crown your cake with extra M&Ms and your favorite chocolate-covered candies like malt balls. Once decorated, freeze the entire cake for at least two hours until it’s completely firm and ready to slice.

How to Serve M&M Brownie Ice Cream Cake

Garnishes

Serving this cake is a celebration on its own! Add some colorful sprinkles or a light dusting of cocoa powder or powdered sugar for extra flair. Fresh berries on the side can add a touch of brightness and a contrasting burst of freshness that pairs beautifully with the richness of the cake.

Side Dishes

While the M&M Brownie Ice Cream Cake is a complete dessert, pairing it with a small bowl of hot fudge or caramel sauce can elevate the indulgence. A scoop of fruit sorbet also complements the cake nicely by cutting through the richness with acidity and freshness.

Creative Ways to Present

Why limit yourself to the classic slice? Serve individual portions in clear mini dessert cups with layered brownie chunks, ice cream, crushed Oreos, and M&Ms for a playful twist. Alternatively, plate slices alongside a drizzle of mint or raspberry sauce to add sophistication and color to your presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any leftover M&M Brownie Ice Cream Cake tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container in the freezer to prevent ice crystals and freezer burn. It will keep fresh pleasingly for up to two weeks, ready to delight you whenever the mood strikes.

Freezing

This dessert is perfect for making ahead since the freezing process helps the layers meld together into a wonderfully firm and sliceable cake. Just be sure to freeze it uncovered for the first two hours until set, then cover to keep it moist and fresh.

Reheating

Since it’s an ice cream cake, reheating isn’t part of the game here. Instead, simply let slices sit at room temperature for 5 to 10 minutes before serving to soften blissfully for the perfect spoonful of creamy, fudgy goodness.

FAQs

Can I use different types of ice cream for this cake?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with flavors like mint chocolate chip, peanut butter cup, or strawberry to customize your M&M Brownie Ice Cream Cake to your taste preferences. Just make sure to soften the ice cream before layering for easy spreading.

Is it necessary to use a springform pan?

A springform pan makes it much easier to remove the cake without damaging the layers, but you can also use a regular cake pan lined with parchment paper. Just be gentle when unmolding the cake to keep the layers intact.

Can I make the brownie from scratch?

Yes, making the brownie base from scratch adds a delicious homemade touch. The recipe provided includes simple pantry staples that come together quickly and deliver a rich, fudgy brownie perfect for this dessert.

How long should I let the ice cream soften?

About 10 to 15 minutes at room temperature usually softens the ice cream enough to spread easily without melting into a puddle, helping maintain those distinct layers.

Can I substitute M&Ms with other candies?

Definitely! You can swap M&Ms for Reese’s Pieces, chopped Skittles, or even nuts if you prefer. Just keep the mix-ins colorful and crunchy to preserve the cake’s signature fun texture and appearance.

Final Thoughts

The M&M Brownie Ice Cream Cake is a dazzling dessert that’s as joyful to make as it is to enjoy. With its layers of fudgy brownies, creamy ice cream, and bursts of colorful candy, it turns any occasion into a sweet celebration. I can’t encourage you enough to try this recipe and watch friends and family light up with every bite. You’re just a few steps away from creating your new favorite dessert!