Cookies & Cream Brownies Recipe

If you're a fan of decadent desserts that combine the best of both worlds, you're in for a treat! This Cookies & Cream Brownies Recipe is everything you love about fudgy brownies and crunchy cookies blended into one irresistible dessert. Whether you're a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is simple to follow and will leave everyone asking for more. Stick around to discover how to make the ultimate version of this delicious dessert, including substitutions, variations, serving tips, and common mistakes to avoid. Let’s get started!

this Recipe

What Are Cookies & Cream Brownies?

Cookies & Cream Brownies are a rich, decadent dessert that combines the best features of two classic treats—chocolate brownies and cookies & cream. The base is typically a fudgy chocolate brownie, but it's made even better with the addition of cookies (usually Oreo cookies) for an added crunch and creaminess. The result? A layered, indulgent dessert that brings together contrasting textures in the most delicious way possible.

Ingredients List for Cookies & Cream Brownies

Brownie Base

• 1 cup unsalted butter – melted and cooled slightly
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar – for that perfect balance of sweetness
• 4 large eggs – room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – enhances the flavors
• ¾ cup all-purpose flour – gives structure to the brownies
• ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder – the rich chocolate base
• ½ teaspoon baking powder – helps the brownies rise slightly for a soft, chewy texture
• ¼ teaspoon salt – balances the sweetness and enhances flavors

Cookies & Cream Topping

• 15 Oreo cookies – roughly chopped or broken into small chunks
• ½ cup white chocolate chips – adds a creamy element
• ½ cup crushed Oreo cookies – for sprinkling on top
• 1 cup cream cheese frosting – optional but gives an extra creaminess when swirled into the brownies

Substitutions and Variations

While this Cookies & Cream Brownies Recipe is amazing as it is, here are some common substitutions and variations you can try to make it suit your preferences:

• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these brownies safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Dairy-Free Option: Replace the butter with coconut oil and use a plant-based cream cheese frosting to make this recipe dairy-free.
• Different Cookies: Don’t feel like you’re limited to just Oreos. Try using chocolate chip cookies, graham crackers, or any of your favorite cookies for a twist on the original.
• Double Chocolate Brownies: If you want an extra chocolaty version, add ½ cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips to the brownie batter for more gooey richness.
• Peanut Butter Swirl: For peanut butter lovers, swirl in ½ cup of peanut butter into the brownie batter for an added layer of flavor.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have your ingredients and substitutions ready, it’s time to start baking!

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a bit of overhang for easy removal later.

Step 2: Prepare the Brownie Batter

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and sugar until smooth. Add the eggs, one at a time, whisking well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding them in gently with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 4: Fold in Oreos

Gently fold in the roughly chopped Oreos and white chocolate chips into the brownie batter. Make sure the cookie chunks are evenly distributed throughout the batter for the best texture.

Step 5: Pour and Smooth

Pour the brownie batter into your prepared baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula to create an even layer.

Step 6: Add Cookies & Cream Topping

Spread a thin layer of cream cheese frosting over the brownie batter (if you're using it). Then sprinkle the remaining crushed Oreos over the top. This will give the brownies their signature cookies and cream topping.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs attached. The brownies should be fudgy but not undercooked.

Step 8: Cool and Cut

Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before removing them using the parchment paper overhang. Once cooled, cut into squares or rectangles.

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

To recap the cooking process for these mouthwatering brownies:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla for the wet ingredients.
3. Fold in dry ingredients like flour and cocoa powder.
4. Incorporate chopped Oreos and white chocolate chips.
5. Top with cream cheese frosting and crushed Oreos.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes until done.
7. Cool completely before cutting and serving.

By following these steps, you'll get perfect, fudgy Cookies & Cream Brownies every time!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overmixing the Batter: Stirring the batter too much can make your brownies tough and chewy instead of fudgy.
• Overbaking: Brownies continue to cook even after they're removed from the oven, so be sure to take them out when they’re slightly underbaked for that perfect fudgy texture.
• Not Letting Them Cool: It’s tempting to dig in right away, but letting the brownies cool completely allows them to set and makes them easier to cut.
• Using Too Many Cookies: Overloading the batter with cookies can make the brownies too crumbly. Stick to the recommended amount for the perfect balance.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation is key when serving desserts like Cookies & Cream Brownies. Here are some ideas to make them look just as good as they taste:

• Serve Warm: For an extra indulgent experience, serve the brownies slightly warm. This makes the brownies extra fudgy, and the white chocolate will melt beautifully.
• Add Ice Cream: Top each brownie square with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert option.
• Drizzle with Chocolate Sauce: Add a drizzle of warm chocolate or caramel sauce on top of the brownies for a show-stopping presentation.

How to Serve Cookies & Cream Brownies

Cookies & Cream Brownies can be served in several delicious ways. Here are a few serving ideas:

• With a Cold Glass of Milk: The classic pairing of brownies and milk works wonders here, cutting through the richness of the dessert.
• At Parties: Cut into bite-sized squares for easy snacking, and arrange them on a decorative platter.
• As a Sundae: Crumble the brownies over ice cream, add whipped cream, and drizzle with hot fudge for a brownie sundae.

Presentation Ideas for Cookies & Cream Brownies

• Stack Brownies: Stack smaller brownies on a dessert plate with some crushed cookies between each layer for a towering dessert that looks great at parties.
• Dust with Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds an elegant touch to these brownies and enhances the visual appeal.
• Use a Cookie Cutter: For special occasions, cut the brownies into fun shapes using a cookie cutter. Hearts or stars can make this dessert even more special for holidays or birthdays.

Cookies & Cream Brownies Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: These brownies store well, so you can make them a day in advance. Just keep them in an airtight container at room temperature.
• Cutting Tip: Use a sharp knife and clean it between cuts to get neat, even brownie squares.
• 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. You can also freeze them for longer storage.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use store-bought brownie mix for this recipe?
A: Yes! If you’re short on time, you can use a boxed brownie mix. Just follow the package instructions, and add the chopped Oreos and white chocolate chips as outlined in this recipe.

Q: Can I freeze Cookies & Cream Brownies?
A: Absolutely! Wrap individual brownie squares in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They will last up to 3 months. To enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds.

Q: Can I use homemade cookies instead of Oreos?
A: Yes, homemade cookies will work, but make sure they are sturdy enough not to disintegrate when mixed into the batter.

Q: Do I have to use white chocolate chips?
A: No, you can skip the white chocolate chips if you prefer or replace them with dark or milk chocolate chips for a less sweet option.

Conclusion

There you have it—the ultimate guide to making Cookies & Cream Brownies! This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves the rich, fudgy texture of brownies with the added crunch and creaminess of cookies. Whether you’re making them for a family gathering, a holiday party, or just to treat yourself, these brownies are sure to be a hit. Don’t forget to experiment with substitutions and variations to make them your own. Happy baking!

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