Description
A creative and savory take on a layered ice cream cake, this Carrot Cake Ice Cream Cake Recipe combines rich flavors of ground beef, tangy pickles, and sharp cheddar cheese, all assembled with fresh lettuce and a tangy dressing. Perfect for a unique party centerpiece or an adventurous appetizer, this recipe brings together classic burger elements in a fun, layered cake format.
Ingredients
Scale
Dressing
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon finely diced yellow onion
- 2 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt
Beef Layer
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Other Layers and Garnish
- 6 cups shredded iceberg lettuce
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup dill pickles, sliced
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, finely diced yellow onion, ketchup, yellow mustard, sweet pickle relish, white vinegar, paprika, and kosher salt. Stir well until all ingredients are fully incorporated to create a tangy, creamy dressing that will add depth to the layers.
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, add the lean ground beef. Season with pepper, kosher salt, and garlic powder. Cook the beef, stirring and breaking it apart, until it’s fully browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Drain excess fat and set aside to cool slightly.
- Layer the Cake Base: In a large serving dish or springform pan, start by spreading a layer of shredded iceberg lettuce evenly across the bottom.
- Add the Beef Layer: Evenly distribute the cooked ground beef over the lettuce layer.
- Apply Dressing: Generously spoon the prepared dressing over the beef layer, spreading carefully to cover.
- Add Onions and Cheese: Sprinkle diced onions evenly over the dressing, followed by a layer of shredded cheddar cheese.
- Top with Pickles: Evenly place the sliced dill pickles on top of the cheese layer.
- Final Garnish: Finish the cake by sprinkling sesame seeds on top for a subtle crunch and visual appeal.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the cake for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Slice and serve chilled as a savory party centerpiece or appetizer.
Notes
- For best flavor, prepare the dressing a few hours in advance to allow ingredients to meld.
- Use lean ground beef to reduce excess grease and keep the cake from becoming soggy.
- Iceberg lettuce provides a nice crunch, but romaine can also be used for extra texture.
- Feel free to customize layers with additional burger toppings such as tomatoes or jalapeños for added flavor.
- This dish is best served chilled and fresh; leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
