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Copycat Dairy Queen Ice Cream Cake

Copycat Dairy Queen ice cream cake with an iconic chocolate base, legendary fudge-soaked Oreo crunch middle, and a smooth vanilla ice cream top topped with whipped topping. Built in layers in a 9x13 pan or springform, then frozen for clean slices.
Prep Time 30 minutes
freezing/resting 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 560

Ingredients
  

Chocolate ice cream
  • 0.5 gallon chocolate ice cream softened
Vanilla ice cream
  • 0.5 gallon vanilla ice cream softened
Oreo crunch layer
  • 20 Oreo cookies crushed
  • 0.5 cup hot fudge sauce
Whipped topping
  • 2 cup whipped topping Cool Whip
Chocolate decoration
  • 0.5 cup chocolate shell or ganache for decoration
  • 0.25 cup colorful sprinkles for decoration

Equipment

  • 1 sheet pan

Method
 

Build the cake layers
  1. Spread the softened chocolate ice cream into the bottom of a 9x13 pan or a 10-inch springform, smoothing into an even layer. Place it in the freezer for 1 hour until firm, looking for no soft spots when pressed lightly.
  2. Mix the crushed Oreo cookies with the hot fudge sauce until the crumbs are evenly coated and resemble a thick crunch filling. Spread the Oreo crunch layer evenly over the frozen chocolate ice cream.
  3. Freeze the layered cake for 30 minutes. Chill until the Oreo crunch layer feels set to the touch, not tacky.
  4. Spread the softened vanilla ice cream over the Oreo crunch layer and smooth completely to seal the edges. Freeze for at least 4 hours until the top is solid and sliceable.
  5. Top with whipped topping and smooth or lightly mound it for a classic finish. Drizzle the chocolate shell (or ganache) over the top and add colorful sprinkles.
  6. Freeze at least 2 more hours before serving. Keep it fully firm so slices hold together and the fudge-soaked Oreo layer stays clearly defined.

Notes

For the cleanest slices, run a sharp knife under hot water, wipe dry, and cut straight down between freezes. Store covered in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. Freezing is best (freezer yes; fridge storage is not recommended). For a lighter option, use reduced-fat ice cream and a lower-sugar whipped topping substitute while keeping the same layer method.