Frozen Brownie Ice Cream Cake

Some desserts are just meant to steal the show—and this Frozen Brownie Ice Cream Cake is definitely one of them. Imagine a rich, fudgy brownie base topped with creamy vanilla ice cream, a silky chocolate ganache drizzle, and chunks of your favorite chocolate candy for good measure.

It’s cold, creamy, chocolatey, and absolutely over-the-top—in the best way. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a summer barbecue, or just craving something decadent, this frozen cake delivers the wow factor without complicated steps.

this Recipe

What Is Frozen Brownie Ice Cream Cake?

A Frozen Brownie Ice Cream Cake is the ultimate mashup dessert. It starts with a dense, fudgy brownie layer baked in a springform pan. Once cooled, it’s topped with softened vanilla ice cream, spread into a thick layer, then frozen until firm. The whole thing gets finished with glossy chocolate ganache and candy bar chunks for texture and fun.

It’s basically a brownie sundae—but in cake form!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Two desserts in one—brownie + ice cream cake
• Make-ahead friendly—perfect for parties
• Customizable toppings—add your favorite candy or nuts
• No need to frost—the ganache drizzle does all the work
• Guaranteed to impress—just look at it!

What Does Frozen Brownie Ice Cream Cake Taste Like?

It’s rich and fudgy on the bottom, cold and creamy in the middle, and silky-smooth on top thanks to the chocolate ganache. The candy pieces add crunch and sweetness, making every bite a mix of textures and flavors—cool, chocolatey, and totally satisfying.

Benefits of Making This at Home

• Save money compared to store-bought ice cream cakes
• Customize your flavors—use any ice cream you love
• Perfect for summer—no oven needed after the brownie base
• Kid-friendly and crowd-pleasing
• Freezer-friendly for make-ahead desserts

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for Frozen Brownie Ice Cream Cake:

For the Brownie Base:

• 1 box brownie mix (plus eggs, oil, and water as directed)
  OR use your favorite homemade brownie recipe

For the Ice Cream Layer:

• 1 ½ quarts vanilla ice cream (softened)

For the Ganache:

• ¾ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• ½ cup heavy cream

For Topping:

• 1 cup chocolate candy bars, chopped (Snickers, Twix, Milky Way, etc.)
• Optional: chopped nuts, sprinkles, or cookie crumbs

Tools You’ll Need

• 9-inch springform pan
• Mixing bowls
• Spatula
• Saucepan (for ganache)
• Knife & cutting board (for chopping candy)

Ingredient Swaps & Additions

• Ice cream flavors: Try chocolate, caramel, mint chip, or cookies & cream
• Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free brownie mix
• Dairy-free: Use dairy-free brownies and plant-based ice cream
• Candy alternatives: Use Oreos, peanut butter cups, or toffee bits
• Add sauces: Drizzle caramel or peanut butter sauce before freezing

How to Make Frozen Brownie Ice Cream Cake

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Bake the brownies: Prepare brownie batter according to package or recipe instructions. Bake in a greased 9-inch springform pan. Cool completely.
2. Add the ice cream layer: Let vanilla ice cream soften for about 10 minutes, then spread it evenly over the cooled brownie layer. Freeze for at least 4 hours, or until firm.
3. Make the ganache: Heat heavy cream until just simmering. Pour over chocolate chips in a bowl. Let sit for 2 minutes, then stir until smooth.
4. Top the cake: Remove the cake from the springform pan. Pour ganache over the ice cream layer, letting it drip down the sides.
5. Add candy: Sprinkle chopped candy bars over the top while ganache is still soft.
6. Freeze again: Freeze for at least 1 hour before serving.
7. Slice and enjoy: Use a warm knife for easier slicing.

What to Serve with This Cake

• Fresh berries or bananas
• A drizzle of caramel or extra hot fudge
• Whipped cream on the side
• Ice-cold milk or iced coffee
• Sparkling water with lime for balance

Tips for the Best Frozen Brownie Ice Cream Cake

• Use a springform pan for easy release
• Soften ice cream slightly for easy spreading
• Chill the ganache briefly so it’s pourable but not hot
• Use a warm knife for clean slices
• Store tightly wrapped to prevent freezer burn

Storage Instructions

• Freeze: Store in the freezer, covered, for up to 1 week
• Slice ahead of time: Cut into portions and store slices separately for easy serving
• Don’t thaw too long: Serve straight from the freezer for the best texture

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use homemade brownies?

Absolutely! Use your favorite brownie recipe or keep it simple with a boxed mix.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes! This cake is perfect for making 1–2 days ahead. Just keep it tightly wrapped in the freezer.

What’s the best way to cut it?

Run your knife under hot water, wipe dry, and slice for clean cuts.

Conclusion

This Frozen Brownie Ice Cream Cake is a no-fuss, all-flavor dessert that’s guaranteed to impress. With a fudgy brownie bottom, creamy ice cream center, and a candy-loaded chocolate ganache topping, it’s the kind of treat that disappears fast at parties.

Make it for birthdays, BBQs, or just because you’re in the mood for something chocolatey, cold, and unforgettable!

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Nutritional Information (Per Slice – Approximate, based on 12 slices)

• Calories: 420
• Fat: 26g
• Carbs: 42g
• Sugar: 32g
• Protein: 5g

📸 Did you make this cake? Tag me on Pinterest or leave a comment below—I’d love to see your version!

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July 13, 2025 by Melissa