Name: Sugar Cookie Cake Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup butter, softened; ¾ cup vegetable oil; 1 cup white granulated sugar; 1 cup powdered sugar (confectioner’s sugar); 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 2 eggs; 4½ cups all-purpose flour; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon cream of tartar; 1 teaspoon baking soda; M&M’s candies; Icing (your choice of flavor)

If you have a sweet tooth and a love for all things nostalgic, this Sugar Cookie Cake Recipe is going to become your new best friend. Imagine a giant, soft, buttery sugar cookie baked to golden perfection — everything you adore about classic sugar cookies, but in a cake form that’s perfect for sharing. It’s tender, lightly chewy on the edges, and dense enough to satisfy your cravings without being overwhelming. Whether you want to dress it up with colorful M&M’s or keep it simple, this recipe brings joy in every bite and makes any occasion a little sweeter.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white marbled surface with a few white bowls and containers arranged on it. There is a large white bowl in the center, which contains a wooden spoon with a smooth texture. To the right, there are two smaller white bowls - one holding a single white egg and the other filled with small pink, white, and red candy-coated pieces. On the left, there is a transparent glass measuring cup with a light yellow liquid and two clear glass containers with wooden lids, one containing a white powdery substance with a copper spoon resting on top. Behind these containers, there is a small dark bottle. The background consists of a white marbled surface and a soft pink chair. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe relies on simple, yet carefully chosen ingredients, each playing a crucial role in achieving that perfect tender crumb and delightful flavor. From the rich butter adding lusciousness to the cream of tartar that gives the cookie cake a subtle tang and chewier texture, every component counts.

1 cup butter (softened): The base of richness and moisture that keeps your sugar cookie cake tender and flavorful.
¾ cup vegetable oil: Helps maintain softness and enhances the cake’s moist texture without making it greasy.
1 cup white granulated sugar: Provides that classic sweetness and helps to create a slight crunch on the edges.
1 cup powdered sugar (confectioner’s sugar): Adds a silky sweetness and subtle texture contrast to the granulated sugar.
1 tablespoon vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth with its fragrant notes that elevate every bite.
2 eggs: Bind the ingredients together and help achieve the right structure for this cookie cake.
4½ cups all-purpose flour: The essential dry ingredient that forms the dough’s sturdy yet tender base.
½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors, balancing sweetness perfectly.
1 teaspoon cream of tartar: Adds a slight tang and contributes to the chewy texture that separates this cake from ordinary cookies.
1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookie cake rise just enough for a soft, cakey texture without becoming fluffy.
M&M’s or icing (optional): Fun add-ons that bring color, texture, and extra sweetness if you want to get creative.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Sugar Cookie Cake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by heating your oven to 350°F. Grease your baking dish well to prevent sticking — you want every crumb to come out easily and in perfect slices.

Step 2: Blend the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, vegetable oil, white sugar, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. This step is crucial as it builds the cake’s tender foundation. Then, blend in the eggs one at a time, ensuring the mixture is silky and homogeneous.

Step 3: Mix in the Dry Ingredients

Now, combine the flour, salt, cream of tartar, and baking soda in a separate bowl. Gradually incorporate this dry mix into the wet ingredients until just blended. Avoid overmixing here to keep the texture soft and cakey.

Step 4: Shape and Add Fun Details

Press the dough evenly into your greased dish, smoothing the surface with a spatula or your fingers. For a festive twist, gently press M&M’s into the top or spread your favorite icing afterward. This is where your personality shines through in this Sugar Cookie Cake Recipe.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake the cookie cake for about 20 minutes, keeping a close eye to avoid overbaking. You’re aiming for lightly golden edges and a moist, tender center. Let cool before slicing so it sets beautifully.

How to Serve Sugar Cookie Cake Recipe

A woman's hand is holding a white bowl filled with small round candies in shades of pink, white, and red. The other woman's hand is placing a single white candy on the edge of a dough-covered tart that is in a pink heart-shaped tart pan with a fluted edge. The dough is light beige and smooth, covering the entire tart pan. The scene is set on a white marbled surface, and the background shows a light kitchen setting. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of powdered sugar, a drizzle of colorful icing, or a handful of festive M&M’s can transform this sugar cookie cake into a stunning centerpiece. Fresh berries or edible flowers also add a fresh, bright contrast to the sweetness.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, making it feel like an elevated dessert. Serve alongside a warm cup of coffee or milk for an utterly comforting combo.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut into fun shapes using cookie cutters post-bake for themed parties or layer it with frosting and fruit for a playful take on a layer cake. You could even turn slices into dessert sandwiches with a spread of chocolate or peanut butter between them!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any leftover Sugar Cookie Cake Recipe tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature. It stays fresh for up to 3 days, perfect for enjoying a sweet treat without baking again.

Freezing

This cake freezes beautifully! Slice it into portions, wrap each piece well, and freeze for up to 2 months. Defrost in the fridge overnight, and you’ll have a quick dessert ready whenever the craving hits.

Reheating

For that just-baked warmth, heat slices gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a low oven for a few minutes. It’s amazing how that little heat revives the soft, buttery texture.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of oil instead of vegetable oil?

Absolutely! Light olive oil or canola oil are great substitutes that won’t overpower the flavor but still keep the cake moist and tender. Just avoid strongly flavored oils to maintain the delicate sugar cookie taste.

What size baking dish should I use?

A 9×13-inch rectangular dish works perfectly, offering enough surface area to press the dough evenly and bake thoroughly for that classic sugar cookie cake texture.

Can I add other mix-ins besides M&M’s?

Definitely! Chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried fruit all work wonderfully to add variety and fun textures. Just fold them in gently or press them on top before baking.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking, you can enjoy this Sugar Cookie Cake Recipe without gluten. Just be sure to check that your blend contains xanthan gum for best results.

How do I know when the cookie cake is done?

You want the edges to be lightly golden, but the center should still be soft and slightly underbaked if checked with a toothpick. It will firm up as it cools, ensuring a tender, cakey texture.

Final Thoughts

There is something undeniably comforting and joyful about this Sugar Cookie Cake Recipe. It’s a crowd-pleaser, easy to whip up, and endlessly adaptable to your flavor whims and celebrations. Whether you bake it for a casual weekend treat or a festive party, it’s sure to bring smiles and happy memories to your table. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and start baking your new favorite sugar cookie cake today!

Sugar Cookie Cake Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need