Easy No-Bake Coffee & Donuts Ice Cream Cake: Your Ultimate Two-Ingredient Frozen Treat
Imagine the delightful pairing of a freshly brewed coffee with a sweet, pillowy donut, now transformed into an irresistibly cool and creamy dessert. This easy, no-bake ice cream cake takes that beloved coffee shop combo and elevates it into a show-stopping treat that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum impact. My Coffee & Donuts Ice Cream Cake artfully layers rich coffee ice cream with tender, chocolate-frosted cake donuts, creating a symphony of flavors and textures in every bite. Crafted simply in a loaf pan and frozen overnight, it slices beautifully, revealing distinct, creamy layers studded with delicious donut pieces.
Whether you’re looking for a fuss-free dessert for a summer gathering, a unique birthday cake, or just a special treat to brighten your day, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Dress it up with a swirl of whipped cream and a decadent chocolate drizzle for an elegant presentation, or serve it straight from the freezer for a wonderfully simple indulgence. This cake isn’t just a dessert; it’s an experience that brings together two iconic favorites in an unexpectedly delightful way, proving that sometimes, the simplest recipes are the most spectacular.
The Perfect Pairing: Coffee & Donuts
What culinary duo could possibly surpass the classic combination of coffee and donuts? For many, the answer is undoubtedly “nothing.” There’s a reason this pairing has captivated taste buds for generations – the slightly bitter, aromatic notes of coffee perfectly complement the sweet, comforting texture of a donut. Everyone has their ultimate donut preference, don’t they? Mine, without a doubt, is the rich, decadent double chocolate donut. The deep cocoa flavor and moist cake-like texture are simply unbeatable, especially when enjoyed with a robust cup of coffee.
This dessert concept sprang from that very appreciation. It’s a tribute to those moments of simple pleasure, repackaged into a refreshing, frozen cake. The idea originated in 2016 as a creative partnership with Dunkin’ Donuts, a brand synonymous with this iconic duo. I vividly recall their charming old commercials – “Gotta Make the Donuts.” That catchy phrase still echoes in our home; my husband often says it as he heads out for his workday. It’s a nostalgic nod to the everyday joy that coffee and donuts bring, and this ice cream cake encapsulates that feeling perfectly.
Crafting Your Coffee & Donuts Ice Cream Cake
There’s a unique satisfaction in transforming everyday treats into something truly extraordinary, and this Coffee & Donuts Ice Cream Cake embodies that spirit perfectly. Built in the style of a classic icebox cake, it features alternating layers of soft, chocolate-frosted cake donut pieces and rich, velvety coffee ice cream. These layers are carefully stacked in a loaf pan, then allowed to freeze solid, resulting in a dessert that’s not only visually appealing but also incredibly easy to slice and serve.
This recipe offers a clever and efficient way to prepare a memorable dessert for any crowd without the need to turn on your oven. It’s a simple, nostalgic nod to comforting flavors, making it an ideal choice for busy hosts or anyone looking for a no-fuss yet elegant treat. The soft donuts absorb some of the ice cream’s creamy goodness, creating a delightful cake-like texture, while the coffee ice cream adds a bold, invigorating contrast to the sweet chocolate. It’s a dessert that feels both familiar and exciting.
For me, this combination shines brightest when featuring Dunkin’s Double Chocolate Donuts. These donuts are a fantastic shortcut, bringing their signature dense, fudgy texture and perfectly balanced sweetness to the cake. When paired with a quality coffee ice cream, the entire dessert tastes like a sophisticated, frozen rendition of your favorite morning coffee run. While the original flavors are a surefire hit, the beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. Feel free to experiment with your personal favorite donut and ice cream pairings to create your own signature frozen delight. No matter the combination, this ice cream cake is guaranteed to be a delightful conversation starter and a memorable addition to any dessert table.
The Two Magical Ingredients
You might be wondering how such a decadent and impressive dessert could be so simple. The secret lies in its incredibly minimalist ingredient list. This Coffee & Donuts Ice Cream Cake proudly features just two main components! Yes, you read that right – only two ingredients are needed to create this delightful frozen masterpiece. The stars of the show are frosted chocolate cake donuts and high-quality coffee ice cream. It truly doesn’t get much easier than this, proving that extraordinary desserts don’t always require a pantry full of items or hours in the kitchen.
Choosing Your Ingredients for the Best Flavor
While the ingredient list is short, selecting the right ones can make a significant difference in the final taste and texture of your ice cream cake. For the donuts, I highly recommend using sturdy, cake-style chocolate donuts with frosting. The frosting adds an extra layer of sweetness and moisture, while the dense cake structure holds up well when frozen and softens beautifully when married with the ice cream. Dunkin’ Donuts Double Chocolate Donuts are an excellent choice due to their consistent quality and rich flavor, but feel free to choose your favorite brand of similar chocolate cake donuts. If you’re feeling ambitious, homemade chocolate cake donuts would also be incredible!
As for the coffee ice cream, opt for a brand with a robust, authentic coffee flavor. The quality of your ice cream will shine through, so pick one you genuinely enjoy. A rich, creamy texture is also key, as it will form the foundation of your frozen layers. Make sure to allow your ice cream to soften slightly before assembly; this makes it much easier to spread evenly and ensures a smooth, uniform texture throughout the cake.
Simple Steps to Your Coffee & Donuts Ice Cream Cake
Creating this stunning ice cream cake is remarkably straightforward. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delightful frozen dessert chilling in your freezer, ready to impress. Here’s a detailed breakdown of how to assemble your Coffee & Donuts Ice Cream Cake:
What You’ll Need:
- Six regular-sized chocolate frosted chocolate cake donuts.
- 1.5 quarts of your favorite coffee ice cream, softened.
- A standard loaf pan (approximately 9×5 inches).
- Plastic wrap.
Assembly Instructions:
- Prepare the Donuts: Carefully slice each donut horizontally into three equal pieces. This creates thinner layers that distribute more evenly throughout the cake and provides a wonderful textural contrast.
- Line the Pan: Line your loaf pan with plastic wrap, ensuring there’s enough overhang on all sides to cover the top of the cake once assembled. This crucial step will allow you to easily lift the frozen cake out of the pan later.
- First Donut Layer: Arrange a layer of your sliced donut pieces on the bottom of the plastic-lined loaf pan. Don’t worry if they don’t fit perfectly; simply break them into smaller pieces as needed to fill any gaps and create a solid base. Press them down gently to form an even layer.
- First Ice Cream Layer: Spoon about one-third of the softened coffee ice cream evenly over the donut layer. Use the back of a spoon or an offset spatula to spread it smoothly from edge to edge.
- Repeat Layers: Continue layering, alternating between donuts and ice cream. You’ll aim for three distinct layers of donuts and three distinct layers of ice cream. Ensure each ice cream layer is evenly spread, and each donut layer is well-fitted into the pan.
- Final Freeze: Once all layers are in place, fold the overhanging plastic wrap neatly over the top of the cake. Place the loaf pan in the freezer for a minimum of 24 hours. This extended freezing time is essential to allow the layers to firm up completely and fuse together, ensuring clean, beautiful slices.
Serving and Storage:
When you’re ready to serve, simply unwrap the plastic from the top, then use the overhanging plastic wrap to lift the entire cake cleanly out of the loaf pan onto a serving plate. With a sharp knife, slice into individual portions. While this ice cream cake is absolutely delicious on its own, you can elevate the presentation by garnishing with a generous dollop of whipped cream and a luscious chocolate drizzle. A sprinkle of chocolate shavings or some coffee beans could also add a gourmet touch.
Any leftover ice cream cake can be stored in the freezer. For best results, ensure it’s tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed inside an airtight container. This will protect it from freezer burn and help maintain its quality for up to 3 months, allowing you to enjoy this delightful treat for weeks to come.
Love This Recipe? Pin It for Later!
If this incredibly easy and delicious two-ingredient ice cream cake recipe has captured your imagination, make sure you can easily find it again! Pin it to your favorite dessert or no-bake treats board on Pinterest before you go. Sharing is caring, and your followers will surely appreciate this clever frozen dessert idea!
Tips for Success & Exciting Variations
One of the best parts about this Coffee & Donuts Ice Cream Cake is its versatility and the endless possibilities for customization. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make this recipe truly your own! Here are some fantastic substitution ideas and practical tips to ensure your ice cream cake is perfect every time:
Other Delicious Flavor Combinations:
- Classic Vanilla & Glazed: For a timeless and universally loved dessert, pair creamy vanilla ice cream with soft, sweet glazed donuts. This combination is simple, elegant, and always a hit.
- Summer Berry & Powdered Sugar: Transport your taste buds to a summer picnic with vibrant strawberry ice cream layered with delicate powdered sugar donuts. This creates a delightful, shortcake-inspired treat that’s wonderfully refreshing.
- Cozy Fall Vibes: Embrace the autumn season by combining rich butter pecan or maple ice cream with warm, spiced apple cider donuts. This pairing offers a comforting and aromatic dessert perfect for cooler evenings.
- Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Dream: Indulge in a sophisticated dessert by pairing smooth chocolate malt ice cream with sweet and fruity strawberry donuts. It’s like a frozen chocolate-covered strawberry, guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Optional Toppings to Elevate Your Cake:
While delicious on its own, a few simple additions can take your ice cream cake to the next level. Consider a luscious drizzle of homemade chocolate sauce or a silky salted caramel sauce. A generous dollop of freshly whipped cream adds lightness and elegance, while a sprinkle of colorful jimmies or chopped nuts can provide extra texture and visual appeal. Don’t underestimate the power of a few strategically placed sprinkles to make any dessert feel festive!
Essential Tips and Tricks for Making Ice Cream Cakes:
- Donut Choice Matters: You can use any chocolate cake donut you prefer! If Dunkin’s Double Chocolate Donuts aren’t available, look for any sturdy, cake-style chocolate donut. Frosted or unfrosted varieties will work well, though frosted ones add a bit more moisture and sweetness.
- Soften the Ice Cream Properly: For easier layering and a smoother finish, allow your ice cream to sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before you begin assembling the cake. It should be soft enough to spread easily but not completely melted.
- Master the Plastic Wrap Lining: Thoroughly lining your loaf pan with plastic wrap is absolutely key. Make sure to leave plenty of overhang on all sides. This isn’t just for easy removal; it also helps to compress the layers and prevent freezer burn by sealing the cake tightly once it’s wrapped.
- Plan Ahead for Freezing: Patience is a virtue when it comes to ice cream cakes! Like any good icebox cake, this dessert needs at least 24 hours in the freezer. This allows the ice cream to firm up completely and the donut layers to meld perfectly, ensuring that your cake will slice beautifully without falling apart.
Explore More Sweet Delights
If the allure of a cool, refreshing ice cream dessert is what brought you to this incredible cake, then you’re in for a treat! Be sure to explore some of my other fantastic frozen dessert creations. You’ll love my unique “Fried” Ice Cream Pie, a surprisingly easy and flavorful twist on a classic. Don’t miss out on my delightful Ice Cream Cookie Cake, perfect for celebrations, and this elegant Ice Cream Cake Roll that always impresses. Discover all of my tempting ice cream and frozen treat recipes here.
And if donuts are your true calling, I have an abundance of wonderful homemade donut recipes waiting for you to try! You are sure to fall in love with these traditional Paczki (Polish Donuts), a rich and festive fried pastry. For a healthier baked option, try my delicious Baked Banana Donuts, which are packed with natural sweetness. And for the ultimate in quick and easy, these Easy Air Fryer Biscuit Donuts are an absolute game-changer! Find all of my diverse donut recipes here and embark on a delicious journey.
The Sweet Conclusion: A Dessert to Remember
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, looking for a unique potluck contribution, or simply craving a delightful frozen treat on a warm day, this Coffee & Donuts Ice Cream Cake is the perfect choice. It’s the kind of dessert that consistently surprises and delights everyone who tries it, thanks to its ingenious simplicity and incredibly satisfying flavor profile. Easy to make, fun to assemble, and a joy to slice, every forkful tastes like your favorite coffee break transformed into a sweet, creamy, and irresistible frozen confection. Give this two-ingredient marvel a try and watch it become a new family favorite!
I would absolutely love to hear from you if you decide to try this fantastic recipe! Please share your thoughts, experiences, and any creative variations you come up with in the comments section below. Your feedback helps inspire others and makes our culinary community even richer.
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Print Recipe
Coffee & Donuts Ice Cream Cake
Ingredients
- 6 Dunkin’ Donuts Double Chocolate Donuts cut into thirds horizontally
- 1.5 quarts Coffee Ice Cream softened to spreadable consistency
Instructions
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Carefully cut each donut horizontally into three even pieces.
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Line a standard loaf pan (approx. 9×5 inches) generously with plastic wrap, ensuring a significant overhang on all sides. This will make removing the cake much easier later. Cover the bottom of the lined pan with a layer of the sliced donut pieces, breaking them as needed to fill any gaps and create a solid base. Gently press down.
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Spread about one-third of the softened coffee ice cream evenly over the donut layer. Then, add another layer of donut pieces, followed by another layer of ice cream. Repeat this sequence one more time, so you end up with three layers of donuts and three layers of ice cream in total, finishing with an ice cream layer on top. Smooth the final ice cream layer.
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Fold the overhanging plastic wrap securely over the top of the assembled cake, sealing it tightly. Transfer the loaf pan to the freezer and allow it to freeze for at least 24 hours (preferably overnight or longer) to ensure all layers are firm and well-set.
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When ready to serve, unwrap the top plastic, then use the overhanging plastic to lift the entire frozen cake out of the pan. Place it on a cutting board or serving plate. Slice with a sharp knife and serve immediately. Optionally, garnish with whipped cream, chocolate drizzle, or sprinkles for a fancier presentation.
Notes
Nutrition
This recipe was originally posted on September 1, 2016, in partnership with Dunkin Donuts. It has been thoroughly updated to enhance the user experience, provide more detailed instructions and tips, and was reshared on July 30, 2025.