Layered Ice Cream Cake

Remember our guest Amy? Amy of the Mediterranean Layered Dip? This is another recipe that came to us through her. She made it for us last summer on vacation, and we think about it constantly, because as you know, we think about ice cream constantly. This year, I made it for Noah's birthday party, and true to form, it was a hit! It looks like it would be very involved, but it isn't! It goes together in a snap. Everyone will be very impressed, I promise.

So fun! So refreshing! So fat-free! Okay, we lied on that last one...you caught us. But it's worth it (boy, is it ever!), so go ahead and tell yourself that it's good for you. We won't ruin your little fantasy!


Layered Ice Cream Cake

15 Oreos
1 tbsp. milk
8-9 ice cream sandwiches
1 pint mint chocolate chip ice cream
1 pint strawberry ice cream or frozen yogurt
1 pint vanilla frozen yogurt
8 oz. whipped cream

Start by coating the bottom and sides of a 9-inch springform pan with nonstick cooking spray. Line the sides with waxed paper, using the spray to help adhere it to the pan. Trim the waxed paper to height of pan.

Finely crush 12 of the cookies in a food processor. Add milk, and pulse just until the mixture holds together. Set aside. Unwrap 4 ice cream sandwiches. Working quickly, cut each into quarters by cutting first lengthwise, and then across the width. Stack the strips of sandwiches on end, packing them snugly together, around the perimeter of the wax paper lined pan. (See above picture for a visual!) Repeat with remaining sandwiches to form a stand-up edge. Now, spoon the cookie crumbs into the center of the pan and press them firmly into the bottom to form a crust. Freeze for one hour.

Time to add the ice cream!! Now, it should be noted that although the recipe here calls for 3 specific flavors of ice cream, you should feel free to wing it...you know how we feel about that! For instance, I am not a fan of mint chocolate chip, so I might substitute chocolate. Do whatever tickles your fancy! Now take the three wonderful flavors you've chosen from the freezer and let them soften for 15 minutes at room temperature.

Transfer each flavor of ice cream to it's own small bowl and stir until it reaches a good, but firm stirring consistency. Remove the pan from the freezer, and spread your choice of ice cream on the bottom, followed by the next two flavors, spreading each layer level. Top with whipped cream, swirling decoratively. Crush the remaining three Oreos and sprinkle them over the cake. Return it to the freezer, and freeze overnight.

To serve, remove the sides of the springform pan, pulling off the waxed paper as you do so. Cut into wedges and enjoy this wonderfully refreshing treat!