Mint Oreo Cake Recipe from Scratch

Combining the cool freshness of mint with the deep crunch of Oreo cookies, this Mint Oreo Cake recipe is a showstopping dessert that always delivers.

This cake is made from scratch with tender chocolate layers, creamy mint buttercream flecked with real Oreo pieces, and a striking ganache drip.

The balance of flavors and textures makes it ideal for celebrations, potlucks, or any day you want to treat yourself and loved ones. Even if you’re not a baking pro, you’ll find this recipe clear, reliable, and absolutely delicious.

Ingredients Checklist

Selecting quality ingredients and measuring carefully are crucial for bakery-worthy results. This list ensures every component comes together for maximum flavor, texture, and appearance.

Chocolate Cake Layers:

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour, sifted

• 1 3/4 cups (350g) granulated sugar

• 3/4 cup (65g) unsweetened cocoa powder

• 2 teaspoons baking soda

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 2 large eggs, room temperature

• 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk, room temperature

• 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

• 1 teaspoon mint extract (not peppermint for best Oreo-mint match)

• 1 cup (240ml) hot water

• 1 cup (110g) chopped Oreo cookies

Mint Oreo Buttercream:

• 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened

• 4 cups (480g) powdered sugar, sifted

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 teaspoon mint extract

• 2–3 tablespoons heavy cream or milk

• Green gel food coloring (optional, for a classic minty look)

• 1/2 cup (55g) finely crushed Oreo cookies

Chocolate Ganache Drip:

• 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream

• 4 oz (115g) semi-sweet or dark chocolate, chopped

Garnish:

• Whole or halved Oreo cookies

• Fresh mint leaves

• Extra cookie crumbs for sides or top

Equipment:

• Two 9-inch round cake pans

• Parchment paper

• Electric mixer (hand or stand)

• Mixing bowls, whisks, spatulas

• Offset spatula for frosting

• Cake turntable (optional)

• Serrated knife for leveling

• Measuring cups and spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions

Following these steps ensures each component comes out perfectly—resulting in a professional-looking and delicious cake from scratch.

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch pans and line the bottoms with parchment for easy removal.

• In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt until well blended.

• In a separate bowl, whisk eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, vanilla, and mint extract until smooth.

• Pour wet mixture into dry ingredients. Mix gently until just combined; do not overmix.

• Gradually add hot water and mix until batter is smooth. The batter will be thin—this ensures a moist crumb.

• Fold in chopped Oreo cookies with a spatula.

• Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Tap pans on the counter to remove air bubbles.

• Bake 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few crumbs. Do not overbake.

• Cool cakes in the pans for 10 minutes, then run a knife around the edge and turn onto a rack. Remove parchment and cool completely.

• For the buttercream, beat softened butter on medium-high speed until creamy and light, about 2 minutes.

• Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition. Add vanilla and mint extract.

• Beat in heavy cream, one tablespoon at a time, until the frosting is smooth, fluffy, and spreadable. Add green food coloring if desired.

• Fold in finely crushed Oreo cookies until evenly distributed.

• Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a thick layer of mint Oreo buttercream over the top.

• Add the second layer and apply a thin “crumb coat” of frosting over the whole cake. Chill for 20 minutes to set the crumb coat.

• Apply the remaining frosting in a smooth, even layer. Use an offset spatula for sharp edges and a turntable for easy spinning.

• For the ganache, heat heavy cream until just simmering. Pour over chopped chocolate and let sit for 2 minutes, then stir until glossy and smooth.

• Allow ganache to cool until slightly thick but still pourable. Pour along the cake’s edge, letting it drip down naturally, and then fill the top center.

• Garnish the cake with whole or halved Oreos and fresh mint leaves.

Tips for Perfect Results

Small techniques and choices make a big difference. These tips help you achieve professional results every time.

• Use room-temperature ingredients for even mixing and a tender crumb.

• Sift dry ingredients to prevent lumps and ensure an even rise.

• For more pronounced mint, add a drop more extract, but avoid overpowering the chocolate and Oreo flavors.

• Chill cake layers before frosting for cleaner assembly and fewer crumbs.

• To avoid the buttercream splitting, add powdered sugar gradually and beat until fully combined.

• If your ganache is too runny, let it cool for a few extra minutes; if too thick, gently warm it until pourable.

• Level cake layers with a serrated knife for a dramatic, bakery-style appearance.

• When folding Oreos into batter or frosting, avoid over-mixing so the cookies retain texture.

Serving Suggestions

Presentation turns a delicious cake into a centerpiece. Here’s how to serve this Mint Oreo Cake for the best experience.

• Serve slightly chilled or at cool room temperature for the freshest flavor and firm, creamy frosting.

• Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between cuts for clean slices.

• Plate each slice with an extra dollop of buttercream, a sprinkle of cookie crumbs, and a sprig of fresh mint for color.

• Pair with a glass of cold milk, a scoop of vanilla or mint ice cream, or hot coffee for contrast.

• For parties, make mini cakes or cupcakes using the same batter and buttercream.

Final Thoughts

Making Mint Oreo Cake from scratch delivers a dessert that’s more than the sum of its parts: moist chocolate layers, a cool and creamy mint Oreo buttercream, and a dramatic ganache drip.

This recipe gives you step-by-step guidance and pro tips so you can confidently serve a cake that looks and tastes as impressive as any bakery creation.

With its combination of classic flavors and playful presentation, this cake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for birthdays, holidays, or whenever you crave a decadent treat.

Feel free to adjust the mint level, swap in gluten-free flour, or try a dairy-free buttercream if needed. Once you see how easy and impressive this cake is, you’ll want to bake it for every celebration!