Why You’ll Love This Cake Batter Ice Cream Recipe
If you’ve ever dreamed of indulging in the sweet, nostalgic flavors of cake batter, this ice cream recipe is a must-try. You’ll love how it captures the essence of childhood birthday parties and celebrations, all while being surprisingly simple to make.
The creamy texture combined with that unmistakable cake batter flavor makes each scoop a delightful treat. Plus, it’s perfect for sharing or enjoying on your own after a long day.
Trust me, once you make this ice cream, you’ll find yourself craving it all summer long. It’s a delicious way to relive those joyful moments in every bite!
Ingredients of Cake Batter Ice Cream
Making Cake Batter Ice Cream is a delightful adventure that brings a little slice of nostalgia into your kitchen. Just think about it: creamy ice cream that tastes like the fun and excitement of licking the bowl after baking a cake. You might find yourself dreaming of birthday parties and all the joyful moments that come with them.
Plus, the best part? You don’t have to be a master chef to whip this up. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a treat that will have you and your friends asking for seconds. So, let’s plunge into what you’ll need to get started on this delicious journey.
Ingredients for Cake Batter Ice Cream:
- 1/2 cup dry white cake mix
- 3 (14 ounce) cans sweetened condensed milk
- 1 quart half-and-half cream
- 2 tablespoons vanilla extract
- Milk (to fill to max fill line in the ice cream maker)
Now, let’s talk about these ingredients a bit. The dry cake mix is the star of the show, lending that unmistakable cake flavor to the ice cream. You don’t need fancy or gourmet cake mixes here; the regular stuff works like a charm.
Sweetened condensed milk is what gives the ice cream its creamy, dreamy texture, so don’t skip it. Half-and-half cream adds richness, but if you prefer a lighter version, you could experiment with whole milk instead, though I can’t promise it’ll taste quite as decadent.
And, of course, the vanilla extract is like the cherry on top, bringing everything together with its warm, inviting aroma. So gather your ingredients, and let’s get ready to make some magic in your ice cream maker!
How to Make Cake Batter Ice Cream

Making Cake Batter Ice Cream is easier than you might think, and trust me, it’s worth every scoop. First things first, grab your electric ice cream maker and its canister (if you’re like me, you might’ve to sift through a few kitchen cabinets to find it).
Now, let’s get down to business. In that canister, pour in 1/2 cup of dry white cake mix. Yes, that’s right—the dry stuff, not the baked cake. This is where the magic starts. Next, you’ll want to add 1 quart of half-and-half cream. Stir it gently until everything is well blended and there are no lumps. This step is extremely important because nobody wants to bite into a rogue lump of cake mix later on.
Once your mixture is nice and smooth, it’s time to bring in the heavy hitters: three cans (14 ounces each) of sweetened condensed milk. This creamy goodness is what transforms your mixture from just another ice cream base to an ultra-rich and decadent treat. Stir it all together until it’s beautifully combined.
At this point, you’ll also want to add 2 tablespoons of vanilla extract—because who doesn’t love a hint of vanilla? Finally, fill up the canister with milk until it hits the max fill line. Give everything another good stir to make sure it’s all mixed together.
Now, it’s time to pop that canister into your ice cream maker and let it do its thing, following the manufacturer’s instructions. After your ice cream maker has done its job, and the ice cream is churning away, you’ll want to let it set for about 15 minutes once it stops.
This little waiting period is essential for that perfect creamy texture. It’s like letting a cake cool before frosting it—totally necessary for the best results. As you wait, you might find yourself dreaming of all the delightful moments that come with enjoying this sweet treat.
Will you scoop it into a cone? Top it with sprinkles? Or maybe just eat it straight from the bowl? No judgment here; we’ve all been there. Now, go ahead and enjoy your delightful creation—you’ve earned it!
Cake Batter Ice Cream Substitutions & Variations
While you might be tempted to stick to the classic cake batter ice cream recipe, experimenting with substitutions and variations can elevate your dessert to new heights.
Try using chocolate cake mix for a richer flavor or a funfetti mix for a festive touch. Instead of sweetened condensed milk, I often swap in coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
You can also add mix-ins like sprinkles, crushed cookies, or even chocolate chips to create unique textures. For a fruity twist, consider blending in a bit of fruit puree.
The possibilities are endless, so let your creativity run wild!
What to Serve with Cake Batter Ice Cream
What pairs well with the sweet, creamy goodness of cake batter ice cream? I love to serve it with warm brownies or gooey chocolate chip cookies for a delightful contrast.
You can also top it with sprinkles, whipped cream, or even a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce for extra flair. Fresh fruit, like strawberries or bananas, adds a revitalizing touch, too.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try it in a milkshake or as a topping for pancakes. Each option enhances the flavors and makes for a fun, indulgent treat that everyone will enjoy. Trust me, it’s a winning combination!
Additional Tips & Notes
To elevate your cake batter ice cream experience, a few tips can make all the difference.
First, chill your ice cream maker’s canister overnight for a creamier texture. When mixing, guarantee there are no lumps in the cake mix; this helps achieve a smooth consistency.
Feel free to customize with mix-ins like sprinkles or chocolate chips for added fun! If you want a stronger cake flavor, consider adding an extra tablespoon of vanilla extract.
Finally, let the ice cream sit in the freezer for at least an hour after churning to firm up; trust me, it’s worth the wait!