Hello, dessert lovers! If you’re like me and absolutely adore cheesecake and ice cream, then you’re in for a treat with this Cheesecake Ice Cream Cake Recipe.
love both cheesecake and ice cream, you’re in for a treat. The Cheesecake Ice Cream Cake recipe is the perfect blend of creamy cheesecake, smooth ice cream, and a crunchy graham cracker crust.
It’s a dessert that’s both indulgent and refreshing, making it ideal for hot summer days or special occasions. I’ve been making this cake for years, and it never fails to impress.
It’s simple to make, yet so impressive. Hosting a party or craving a sweet treat, this dessert is sure to satisfy.
Trust me, once you try this Cheesecake Ice Cream Cake Recipe, it’ll quickly become one of your favorites. Let me walk you through how to make it!
How To Prepare Cheesecake Ice Cream Cake Recipe
Prep Time: 20 minutes (not including freezing time)
Freeze Time: 3-5 hours (or overnight for best results)
Total Time: 2.5 to3.5 hours
Course: Dessert
This cheesecake ice cream cake is a dessert that is both rich and refreshing, making it the perfect way to end a meal or serve at a summer gathering.
Difficulty: Medium
Although this recipe is simple, there are multiple steps involved, especially when freezing the layers. But don’t worry! I’ll guide you through each stage.
Cuisine: American
The cheesecake ice cream cake is a classic American dessert that combines the best of two beloved treats: cheesecake and ice cream.
Yield: 8-10 servings
This recipe makes a generously sized cake that can easily serve a family or a small group of friends.
Equipment Needed:
- 9-inch springform pan
- Hand mixer or stand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Spatula
- Knife or offset spatula (for smoothing the layers)
- Plastic wrap
- Freezer-safe cake plate or dish
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ¼ cup melted butter
- 2 tablespoons sugar
For the cheesecake layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
For the ice cream layer:
- 1 quart vanilla ice cream (softened)
- 1 cup fruit preserves or any topping of your choice (like chocolate or caramel sauce)

Step-By-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust:
Start by combining the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar in a mixing bowl. Stir until the mixture is well combined and forms a slightly wet, sandy texture.
Press the crumb mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to create a solid crust. Use the back of a spoon to compact the crumbs. Place the pan in the freezer while you prepare the cheesecake and ice cream layers.
2. Make the Cheesecake Layer:
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy using an electric mixer.
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined.
Spread this cheesecake filling over the chilled crust in the springform pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Freeze for at least 2-3 hours to set.
3. Add the Ice Cream Layer:
Once the cheesecake layer is firm, take the vanilla ice cream out of the freezer and let it soften slightly. Spread a thick layer of softened ice cream over the cheesecake layer.
You can also add a few dollops of fruit preserves or chocolate sauce at this point if you’d like to add extra flavor. Smooth it out with a spatula.
4. Freeze the Cake:
Cover the pan with plastic wrap and freeze the cake for another 2-3 hours or until fully set. If you prefer to make the cake ahead of time, you can freeze it overnight.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the cheesecake ice cream cake is fully frozen, remove it from the springform pan and transfer it to a serving plate.
Slice it up and enjoy this creamy, dreamy dessert. You can top it with whipped cream, fresh berries, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
Notes
This Cheesecake Ice Cream Cake Recipe can be made a day in advance, which makes it perfect for parties and celebrations.
Simply store it in the freezer until you’re ready to serve. If you make it ahead, just give it a few minutes at room temperature before slicing for easier cutting.
Nutrition Facts Cheesecake Ice Cream Cake Recipe
Calories: 340
Fat: 22g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Sugar: 28g
Protein: 4g
Fiber: 1g
Cholesterol: 55mg
Sodium: 150mg
Please note that the nutrition facts are an approximation and can vary based on the specific brands and ingredients you use.
Serving Suggestions
Serving a Cheesecake Ice Cream Cake Recipe is all about adding that extra touch of flavor and flair. I love topping mine with fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a burst of color and natural sweetness.
A drizzle of warm chocolate or caramel sauce is another fantastic addition if you’re craving something extra indulgent.
For a crunchy contrast, sprinkle some crushed nuts, like almonds or pecans, on top. You can even add a dollop of whipped cream to make it even more decadent.
If you’re serving it at a party, consider adding a few decorative mint leaves or edible flowers for a beautiful presentation. Whatever way you choose to serve it, this dessert will always steal the show!
Tips And Variations
Here are five tips and variations to make your Cheesecake Ice Cream Cake Recipe even better:
1. Mix Up the Ice Cream Flavors: Feel free to experiment with different ice cream flavors! Try chocolate, strawberry, or even coffee ice cream for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
2. Add Layers of Toppings: Instead of just a single ice cream layer, consider adding layers of fruit preserves, chocolate chips, or crushed cookies between the cheesecake and ice cream layers for extra texture and flavor.
3. Make it Gluten-Free: Swap out the graham crackers in the crust for gluten-free alternatives like gluten-free cookies or almond flour for a gluten-free version.
4. Go Dairy-Free: For a dairy-free option, use non-dairy cream cheese, coconut milk-based ice cream, and plant-based whipped cream.
5. Freeze it Longer: If you want a firmer texture, let the cake freeze for a longer time, preferably overnight, for the perfect consistency when serving.
Health Benefits
While the Cheesecake Ice Cream Cake Recipe is definitely a treat, it does offer a few health benefits when enjoyed in moderation.
The cream cheese and heavy cream provide a good source of calcium, which is essential for strong bones and teeth.
If you add fresh berries on top, you get a dose of antioxidants, fiber, and vitamin C, all of which contribute to overall health and immune support.
The healthy fats from the cream and butter can provide long-lasting energy. While this dessert is not exactly a “health food,” by incorporating fruit and making mindful choices with ingredients,
You can enjoy a little indulgence while still getting some nutritional benefits. Just remember, balance is key, and this cake is best savored as an occasional treat!
Cheesecake Ice Cream Cake Recipe Storage
Storing your Cheesecake Ice Cream Cake Recipe is simple, and with the right care, it can stay fresh for days. After preparing the cake, make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
You can also transfer it to an airtight container for extra protection. Store it in the freezer, where it will keep well for up to 1-2 weeks.
Ready to serve, let the cake sit at room temperature for about 5-10 minutes to soften slightly for easier slicing. If you have leftovers, simply return the cake to the freezer.
Just be sure to cover it well each time to maintain its texture and prevent it from absorbing any unwanted freezer odors.
Is It Safe For Heart Patients?
While the Cheesecake Ice Cream Cake Recipe is delicious, it may not be the best choice for heart patients due to its high content of saturated fats and sugars from cream, butter, and ice cream.
For those managing heart health, it’s important to limit foods high in unhealthy fats and sugar.
If you want to make it a bit more heart-friendly, you could use low-fat cream cheese, swap the ice cream for a lower-sugar option, and replace the crust with a healthier alternative, like oats or almond flour.
Is It Safe For Diabetic Patients?
The Cheesecake Ice Cream Cake Recipe contains significant amounts of sugar, which may cause blood sugar spikes for diabetic patients. It’s important for diabetics to limit their intake of sugary foods.
However, you can modify the recipe to make it more diabetes-friendly by using sugar substitutes, low-sugar ice cream, and a crust made with a sugar alternative.
Always consult a healthcare provider before making changes to your diet, especially with desserts like this.
Can You Use Ice Cream In A Cheesecake?
Yes, you can absolutely use ice cream in a cheesecake! Ice cream can be layered into a cheesecake for a fun twist, as in the Cheesecake Ice Cream Cake recipe.
The ice cream adds a creamy, frozen layer that complements the smoothness of the cheesecake and provides a refreshing texture. This combination of ice cream and cheesecake makes for an indulgent and unique dessert.
How Can I Make An Ice Cream Cake?
Making an ice cream cake is simple! Start by layering softened ice cream in a cake pan, pressing it down evenly. You can also add a layer of cake or cookie crumbs for texture.
Freeze the cake to set, and then top it with whipped cream or frosting for decoration. You can even add extra layers of ice cream flavors or toppings like chocolate sauce, fruits, or crushed cookies. Freeze until firm, and your homemade ice cream cake is ready to serve!
What’s The Difference Between Cream Cheese Cake And Cheesecake?
The main difference between a cream cheese cake and a traditional cheesecake lies in the ingredients. A cheesecake uses a mixture of cream cheese, eggs, sugar, and cream, and is usually baked.
A cream cheese cake, however, may be a no-bake dessert and typically focuses on the flavor of the cream cheese itself, often mixed with other ingredients like yogurt or whipped cream.
While both cakes are creamy, a traditional cheesecake is typically denser and firmer, while a cream cheese cake may be lighter and softer.
Conclusion
The Cheesecake Ice Cream Cake Recipe is a delightful treat that combines the best of both worlds—creamy cheesecake and smooth, refreshing ice cream.
It’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday, summer gathering, or just a sweet indulgence.
The layers of flavor and texture create a dessert that’s both rich and refreshing. I hope this recipe inspires you to get creative in the kitchen and treat yourself (and your loved ones) to something special.
Remember, you can always customize it with your favorite ice cream flavors and toppings. Enjoy every bite, and don’t forget to share your creation with me! Happy baking!

Hi, I’m Delina, a housewife, mother of two living in the suburbs of Vancouver, Canada. I’m a professional recipe developer and food photographer behind thefoodscraft.com. Although I was trained in biological technology for lab work, my heart is in the kitchen. Growing up, family dinners were a nightly tradition, and as a single mom of two, I was determined to keep that alive. With limited ingredients, I discovered the magic of transforming basic items into cozy family meals, which inspires all my recipes. In 2017, I started thefoodscraft.com, sharing budget-friendly recipes and tips.