This effortless, no-bake dessert redefines your favorite coffee shop indulgence by artfully layering rich coffee ice cream with luscious chocolate-frosted donuts. My Coffee & Donuts Ice Cream Cake isn’t just a dessert; it’s a delightful experience, crafted with simplicity in mind. Built conveniently in a standard loaf pan and frozen overnight, it promises perfectly formed, cool, and creamy slices, each bite offering a wonderful blend of smooth ice cream and tender donut pieces. Whether you choose to elevate its presentation with a swirl of whipped cream and a decadent chocolate drizzle or prefer to serve it in its beautifully simple form, this cake is an absolute showstopper, guaranteed to charm every guest at your table.
Few pairings achieve the iconic status of coffee and donuts. It’s a match made in culinary heaven, a comforting ritual for millions. Everyone, it seems, has that one donut that speaks to their soul, a sweet treat they could never resist. For me, that undeniable favorite is, without a doubt, the double chocolate donut – dense, fudgy, and utterly irresistible. This recipe takes that beloved combination and transforms it into an extraordinary frozen delight that’s both familiar and excitingly new.
This concept was originally brought to life in 2016 through a wonderful partnership with Dunkin’ Donuts. The memories of those classic Dunkin’ commercials, particularly the catchy phrase “Gotta Make the Donuts,” still bring a smile to many faces. Even today, my husband occasionally echoes that sentiment as he heads off to work, a testament to the enduring charm and cultural impact of the brand and its irresistible treats. It’s that same spirit of simple joy and deliciousness that inspired this unique ice cream cake.
Coffee & Donuts Ice Cream Cake: A Nostalgic, No-Bake Delight
There’s an undeniable magic in transforming everyday treats into something truly spectacular, and this Coffee & Donuts Ice Cream Cake embodies that perfectly. Imagine taking a simple box of your favorite donuts and a carton of creamy ice cream, then, with minimal effort, creating a dessert that looks like it came straight from a gourmet bakery. This recipe revives the charm of an old-fashioned icebox cake, relying on layers of soft, decadent chocolate-frosted cake donut pieces and rich, aromatic coffee ice cream. These delightful components are carefully stacked within a loaf pan and then frozen to perfection, resulting in a cake that slices beautifully, revealing its exquisite layers. It’s a dessert that speaks of simplicity, evokes a sense of nostalgia, and offers an incredibly clever, fuss-free solution for entertaining, all without the need to ever switch on your oven.
This particular flavor combination is especially ideal for those who, like me, hold a special fondness for Dunkin’ Donuts. Their Double Chocolate Donuts, with their dense, fudgy texture and perfectly balanced sweetness, serve as the ultimate shortcut to dessert heaven. When expertly paired with smooth, robust coffee ice cream, the entire creation tastes like a luxurious, frozen rendition of your beloved morning coffee run. While the original flavors offer a classic experience, this recipe is incredibly versatile, inviting you to experiment with your own favorite donut and ice cream pairings. Regardless of your chosen combination, this ice cream cake is destined to be a memorable showstopper, sparking conversation and delighting taste buds at any gathering.
Discover the Simple Ingredients for This Coffee & Donuts Ice Cream Cake
Prepare to be amazed! This extraordinary ice cream cake requires only two main ingredients, making it one of the simplest yet most impressive desserts you’ll ever create. All you need are delicious frosted chocolate cake donuts and rich, creamy coffee ice cream. That’s it! The beauty of this recipe lies in its elegant simplicity, proving that you don’t need a long list of complex components to achieve a truly indulgent and satisfying treat. While the recipe is designed for ease, opting for high-quality ingredients will undoubtedly elevate the final taste, turning a simple dessert into a gourmet experience.
Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting Your Coffee & Donuts Ice Cream Cake
Creating this stunning ice cream cake is surprisingly straightforward, requiring minimal effort for maximum impact. To begin, gather your two essential ingredients: six regular-sized chocolate frosted chocolate cake donuts and 1.5 quarts of your favorite coffee ice cream. Quality ingredients make all the difference here, so choose donuts that are fresh and ice cream that’s rich and flavorful.
First, take each donut and carefully cut it horizontally into three even pieces. This creates thinner, more manageable layers that will integrate beautifully with the ice cream. Next, prepare your loaf pan. Line it thoroughly with plastic wrap, ensuring there’s enough overhang on all sides to cover the top of the cake once assembled. This crucial step will make it incredibly easy to lift the frozen cake out of the pan later. Arrange the first layer of donut pieces on the bottom of the lined loaf pan. Don’t worry if they don’t fit perfectly; simply break them into smaller pieces as needed to create a complete and even base.
Once your donut base is established, it’s time for the ice cream. Spoon a generous layer of slightly softened coffee ice cream over the donut pieces, spreading it evenly to the edges of the pan. The ice cream should be soft enough to spread easily but not so melted that it’s liquid. Follow this with another layer of donut pieces, gently pressing them into the ice cream. Continue alternating layers: ice cream, then donuts, then a final layer of ice cream. You should end up with three distinct layers of both donuts and ice cream. After the final layer of ice cream, fold the overhanging plastic wrap neatly over the top of the cake, sealing it tightly to prevent freezer burn. Place the wrapped loaf pan into the freezer and allow it to freeze for at least 24 hours. This extended freezing time is essential for the cake to firm up completely, ensuring clean, beautiful slices.
When you’re ready to serve, simply unwrap the plastic from the top, then use the plastic wrap overhang to carefully lift the fully frozen cake out of the loaf pan. Place it on a serving platter. For the cleanest slices, use a sharp knife that has been warmed slightly under hot water and then wiped dry. Slice the cake into desired portions.
While the cake is absolutely delicious served as-is, you can easily enhance its presentation for a fancier touch. Consider garnishing each slice with a generous dollop of freshly whipped cream and a luscious drizzle of chocolate sauce or even a sprinkle of chocolate shavings. These additions aren’t necessary for flavor but certainly elevate the visual appeal. For storage, any leftover ice cream cake should be re-wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and placed inside an airtight container. This will protect it from freezer burn and help maintain its quality for up to three months in the freezer. Remember to take it out a few minutes before serving to allow it to soften just slightly for the best texture.
Love This Recipe? Pin It for Later!
If this incredibly easy, 2-ingredient ice cream cake recipe has captured your imagination, make sure you can find it whenever the craving strikes! Pin it to your favorite Pinterest board now, so you’ll always have this delightful dessert idea at your fingertips for your next gathering or spontaneous sweet treat. Don’t let this simple genius get lost in the shuffle of your favorite recipes!
Tips for Success & Delicious Flavor Substitutions
One of the joys of cooking and baking is the ability to personalize recipes, making them uniquely your own. This ice cream cake is incredibly forgiving and adaptable, offering endless possibilities for customization. Here are some fantastic substitution ideas and practical tips to ensure your ice cream cake is not only easy to make but also perfectly suited to your taste preferences.
Creative Flavor Combinations:
- Classic Vanilla & Glazed Donuts: For a timeless and universally loved treat, pair creamy vanilla ice cream with light and fluffy glazed donuts. This combination offers a comforting, familiar sweetness that’s always a hit.
- Summer Berry Delight: Experience a burst of summer by combining vibrant strawberry ice cream with delicate powdered sugar donuts. This pairing creates a dessert reminiscent of a fresh strawberry shortcake, but with a wonderfully frozen twist.
- Cozy Fall Vibes: Embrace the flavors of autumn with rich butter pecan or maple ice cream layered with fragrant apple cider donuts. This combination is perfect for cooler evenings and holiday gatherings, offering warmth and spice.
- Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Dream: Indulge in a sophisticated blend of flavors by pairing decadent chocolate malt ice cream with sweet strawberry donuts. This creates a dessert that echoes the beloved taste of chocolate-covered strawberries, a true crowd-pleaser.
- Optional Toppings for Extra Flair: While delicious on its own, a simple drizzle of chocolate or a rich caramel sauce, a dollop of freshly whipped cream, or even a scattering of colorful sprinkles can transform this cake into an even more festive presentation. However, don’t feel obligated – it’s just as delightful served straight from the freezer.
Essential Tips & Tricks for Perfect Ice Cream Cakes:
- Donut Choice is Key: While Dunkin’s Double Chocolate Donuts are fantastic for this recipe, feel free to use any sturdy, cake-style chocolate donut you prefer. The structure of a cake donut holds up better when frozen compared to lighter, yeast-raised varieties. Frosted or unfrosted will work, but frosting adds an extra layer of sweetness and texture.
- Soften Your Ice Cream Thoughtfully: For effortless layering, allow your coffee ice cream to soften on the counter for about 10–15 minutes before assembling the cake. It should be pliable enough to spread smoothly but not completely melted, which would make the layers too messy and watery.
- Master the Loaf Pan Lining: Properly lining your loaf pan is crucial for an easy release. Use plastic wrap and ensure you leave a generous overhang on all sides. This excess wrap will serve as “handles” to easily lift the finished cake out of the pan, guaranteeing a clean and intact presentation.
- Plan Ahead for Optimal Freezing: Like all good icebox cakes, this dessert requires ample time in the freezer to set properly. Aim for at least 24 hours to allow the layers to meld and firm up completely. This ensures that when you slice into it, you get beautifully defined, sturdy layers rather than a soft, collapsing mess.
- Achieve Clean Slices: For bakery-worthy slices, use a long, sharp knife. Dip the knife in hot water and wipe it dry between each cut. This slight warmth helps glide through the frozen cake without dragging, giving you perfect portions every time.
More Irresistible Frozen & Donut Recipes to Love
If the allure of a cool, creamy ice cream dessert is what drew you to this recipe, then you’re in for a treat with my other frozen delights! Be sure to explore my unique “Fried” Ice Cream Pie, a surprising twist on a classic, or dive into the fun of my Ice Cream Cookie Cake, perfect for celebrations. And don’t miss the elegance of this beautiful Ice Cream Cake Roll, which is sure to impress. You can find all of my delightful ice cream and frozen treat recipes organized conveniently here, ready to inspire your next chilled creation.
However, if the irresistible charm of donuts is more your style, I have an abundance of homemade donut recipes waiting to be discovered! You’ll absolutely adore these authentic Paczki (Polish Donuts), a rich and satisfying delicacy. For a healthier yet equally delicious option, try my Baked Banana Donuts, perfect for a breakfast treat. And for an incredibly quick and easy solution, these Easy Air Fryer Biscuit Donuts are a game-changer! Explore my complete collection of donut recipes here, and find your next favorite homemade indulgence.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, looking for a unique dessert to impress, or simply seeking a delightful treat on a warm day, this Coffee & Donuts Ice Cream Cake is an exceptional choice. It’s the kind of dessert that consistently surprises and delights, exceeding expectations in the most wonderful way. Its straightforward preparation, coupled with the sheer joy of slicing into its beautifully layered structure, makes it a true culinary gem. Every single bite delivers a harmonious blend of textures and flavors, evoking the comforting essence of your favorite coffee shop experience, magically frozen into a sweet, irresistible masterpiece. Give it a try and discover your new go-to no-bake dessert!
Please let me know in the comments below if you try this fantastic recipe! I love hearing about your experiences and any creative twists you might add.
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Print Recipe
Coffee & Donuts Ice Cream Cake
Ingredients
- 6 Dunkin’ Donuts Double Chocolate Donuts cut into thirds horizontally
- 1.5 quarts Coffee Ice Cream softened
Instructions
- Cut each donut horizontally into three even pieces.
- Line a loaf pan with plastic wrap, leaving plenty of overhang. Cover the bottom with donut pieces, breaking them as needed to create an even base.
- Top with a layer of softened coffee ice cream, spreading evenly. Follow with a layer of donut pieces, then ice cream, then donuts, and finally, a top layer of ice cream. You will have three layers of each when completed.
- Wrap the cake tightly in the overhanging plastic wrap and freeze for at least 24 hours to allow it to firm up completely.
- To serve, unwrap, use the plastic to lift the cake from the pan, place on a plate, and slice. You can serve it as-is or with whipped cream and chocolate drizzle for a fancier presentation.
Notes
Nutrition
This recipe was originally posted on September 1, 2016, in partnership with Dunkin Donuts. It has been updated to improve the user experience, enhance clarity, and expand upon its delightful features, and reshared on July 30, 2025.