Cookies & Cream Brownies Recipe

Cookies & Cream Brownies are the ultimate indulgence for anyone who loves rich, fudgy chocolate and the irresistible crunch of Oreo cookies. Combining the best parts of brownies and cookies, this decadent dessert is layered with creamy, chocolatey goodness and chunks of cookies-and-cream magic. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion, a weekend treat, or simply to satisfy a sweet tooth, these brownies will hit the spot. Ready to bake up a batch of pure deliciousness? Let’s dive into the recipe!

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What Are Cookies & Cream Brownies?

Cookies & Cream Brownies are a delightful twist on classic fudgy brownies, packed with crushed Oreo cookies in both the batter and on top. The brownies have a dense, chewy texture, with the perfect balance of rich chocolate and crunchy cookie bits. The creamy filling of the Oreos melts into the brownies, creating pockets of creamy sweetness that complement the chocolatey base. These brownies are easy to make, but they’re sure to impress with their rich flavor and visual appeal. Whether you’re a fan of brownies or a cookies-and-cream lover, this dessert combines the best of both worlds.

Ingredients List for Cookies & Cream Brownies

For the Brownies:

• 1 cup unsalted butter (melted)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ¾ cup light brown sugar (packed)
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• 15-20 Oreo cookies (roughly chopped)

For the Cookies & Cream Layer:

• 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 10 Oreo cookies (crushed into smaller pieces)

For the Topping:

• 5-6 Oreo cookies (roughly crushed)

This combination of rich chocolate brownie batter, sweet cream cheese filling, and crunchy Oreos makes for an ultra-decadent dessert that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Substitutions and Variations

If you’d like to switch things up or adapt the recipe to fit specific dietary needs, here are some substitutions and variations:

1. Gluten-Free Option: Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to also use gluten-free cookies (there are several brands of gluten-free Oreos available).
2. Vegan Option: Replace the butter with a vegan butter substitute, use flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water = 1 egg), and opt for vegan cream cheese and dairy-free Oreo-style cookies.
3. Sugar Alternatives: You can replace the granulated and brown sugar with coconut sugar or a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol for a lower-sugar version.
4. Add Chocolate Chips: For even more chocolate goodness, stir in ½ cup of semi-sweet or white chocolate chips into the brownie batter.
5. Double the Oreo Layer: Love the cookies-and-cream filling? Double the cream cheese layer and add even more Oreos for an ultra-rich, extra-thick cookies-and-cream experience.
6. Mint Variation: For a minty twist, use mint-flavored Oreos and add ¼ teaspoon of peppermint extract to the cream cheese layer.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a bit of overhang on the sides for easy removal later. Lightly grease the parchment paper to ensure the brownies don’t stick.

Step 2: Make the Brownie Batter

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and combined. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, whisking again until the mixture is light and creamy.

In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, folding gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter.

Gently fold in the chopped Oreo cookies into the brownie batter, making sure the cookie chunks are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Step 3: Spread the Brownie Batter

Pour about two-thirds of the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula to ensure the batter reaches all corners. Set aside the remaining batter for the top layer.

Step 4: Make the Cookies & Cream Layer

In a medium-sized bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Stir in the crushed Oreo cookies to create the cookies-and-cream filling.

Step 5: Add the Cream Layer

Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the brownie batter in the pan, creating a smooth layer that covers the entire surface.

Step 6: Add the Final Brownie Layer

Spoon the remaining brownie batter on top of the cream cheese layer. Use a spatula to gently spread it, ensuring the cream cheese layer is mostly covered. It’s okay if some of the cream layer peeks through, as it will create a nice marbled effect.

Step 7: Add the Topping

Sprinkle the crushed Oreo cookies over the top of the brownie batter for a crunchy, cookies-and-cream topping.

Step 8: Bake

Place the brownies in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs (it’s okay if the cream layer still looks soft). The edges should be set, and the top should be crackly.

Step 9: Cool and Slice

Once baked, remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan. For best results, chill the brownies in the fridge for at least 1-2 hours before slicing. This will help the layers set and make cutting them much easier.

Once the brownies are firm and cool, lift them out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang and slice them into squares or rectangles.

How to Cook Cookies & Cream Brownies: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here are a few additional tips to ensure your Cookies & Cream Brownies come out perfectly every time:

1. Don’t Overmix: When mixing the brownie batter, stir until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough brownies instead of the dense, fudgy texture you want.
2. Spread Evenly: Make sure the cream cheese layer is evenly spread to ensure every bite has the perfect balance of brownie and cookies-and-cream goodness.
3. Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on the brownies as they bake. You want the edges to be set and slightly crackly on top, but the center should still be soft and slightly gooey.
4. Chill for Clean Cuts: Chilling the brownies in the fridge before slicing will give you cleaner, neater squares and help the layers hold their shape.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with a simple recipe like this, there are a few common mistakes to avoid:

1. Undercooking the Brownies: While fudgy brownies are delicious, underbaking them too much will result in a gooey, underdone center that won’t set properly. Check with a toothpick to ensure they’re fully cooked but still moist.
2. Overcooking the Brownies: On the flip side, overbaking the brownies can dry them out, especially at the edges. Make sure to pull them out when they’re just set in the center.
3. Skipping the Chill Time: Don’t skip the step of chilling the brownies before slicing. This allows the layers to firm up, giving you nice, clean slices that showcase the cookies-and-cream filling.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How to Serve Cookies & Cream Brownies

These brownies are delicious served at room temperature or chilled. For an extra indulgent treat, serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of hot fudge. They also pair perfectly with a cold glass of milk or a cup of hot coffee.

Presentation Ideas for Cookies & Cream Brownies

If you’re looking to make these brownies extra special, here are a few presentation tips:

1. Drizzle with White Chocolate: Melt some white chocolate and drizzle it over the top of the brownies for a sophisticated touch.
2. Top with Whole Oreos: Before serving, place a whole Oreo cookie on top of each brownie square for a decorative and delicious finishing touch.
3. Serve on a Platter: Arrange the brownies on a large platter and sprinkle some extra crushed Oreos around them for a beautiful, cookies-and-cream themed presentation.

Cookies & Cream Brownie Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: These brownies can be made a day or two ahead and stored in an airtight container in the fridge. In fact, they taste even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
• Freezing: Cookies & Cream Brownies freeze well! Once fully cooled, cut them into squares, wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, and place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months in the freezer.
• Storing: Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to a week. If you want to retain their fudgy texture, they’re best enjoyed slightly chilled.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use Double Stuf Oreos for this recipe?

Absolutely! If you’re a fan of the extra cream filling, Double Stuf Oreos will work perfectly and add even more creaminess to the brownies.

How should I store leftover brownies?

Store any leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the fridge for up to a week. Chilling them will help the cream cheese layer stay firm.

Can I freeze these brownies?

Yes! These brownies freeze well. Wrap them individually and freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Let them thaw at room temperature or in the fridge before serving.

Can I make these brownies in a smaller pan for thicker bars?

Yes, you can make these brownies in an 8x8-inch pan for thicker bars. Just be sure to adjust the baking time, adding an additional 10-15 minutes, and check for doneness with a toothpick.

Conclusion

Cookies & Cream Brownies are the ultimate dessert for anyone who loves the combination of rich chocolate and creamy Oreos. The fudgy brownie base, paired with a smooth cookies-and-cream layer and topped with crunchy cookie pieces, makes for an indulgent treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a party, a weekend indulgence, or just because, these brownies are sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a batch of these irresistible brownies — happy baking!

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