Cookies & Cream Brownies Recipe

Looking for a delicious treat that combines the rich, fudgy goodness of brownies with the creamy, crunchy sweetness of cookies and cream? You're in the right place! This Cookies & Cream Brownies Recipe will blow your mind. It's the perfect indulgence for any occasion, from casual gatherings to holiday parties. Keep reading to learn how to whip up these decadent brownies, discover substitution tips, and avoid common mistakes for baking perfection. Let’s dive in!

What Are Cookies & Cream Brownies?

Cookies & Cream Brownies are the best of both dessert worlds: a chewy, fudgy brownie base topped with crushed cookies, often Oreos, and a layer of creamy, sweet white chocolate or cream cheese. The combination of chocolate and cookies gives you the ultimate texture contrast—crisp cookie bits and gooey brownies together in every bite. This dessert is a crowd-pleaser for cookie and brownie lovers alike!

Ingredients List for Cookies & Cream Brownies

Before diving into the process, let’s gather the essentials. Here’s a complete list of ingredients for these mouth-watering treats:

For the Brownie Layer:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter (melted)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup packed light brown sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (preferably Dutch-process)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt

For the Cookies & Cream Layer:

• 20-25 Oreo cookies, crushed (you can leave a few chunks for texture)
• 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups white chocolate chips (optional, for extra creaminess)

Substitutions and Variations

Looking to tweak the recipe to fit specific dietary needs or preferences? No problem! Here are some substitutions and variations you can try:

• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the Oreos or cookie brand you're using is gluten-free as well.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use a plant-based butter and cream cheese alternative. There are plenty of dairy-free cookie brands like Newman-O’s that you can use instead of Oreos.
• Chocolate Swirl: Instead of just adding cookies, you can melt white chocolate chips and swirl them into the cream cheese mixture for an even richer flavor.
• Extra Crunch: Add chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds to the brownie batter for an extra crunchy texture.
• Minty Twist: Swap out regular Oreos for mint-flavored ones to give your brownies a fresh, minty kick!

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to create this heavenly dessert? Follow these step-by-step instructions for the best Cookies & Cream Brownies you’ve ever tasted:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Your Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides to easily lift the brownies out later. This will make cutting and serving easier!

Step 2: Make the Brownie Batter

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

In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Avoid over-mixing, as this can make your brownies dense instead of fudgy.

Step 3: Pour and Bake the Brownie Base

Pour the brownie batter into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs. You don’t want it to be completely dry, as the brownies will continue to set while cooling.

Step 4: Prepare the Cookies & Cream Layer

While the brownies are baking, crush your Oreos in a large plastic bag with a rolling pin or by pulsing them a few times in a food processor. In a medium-sized bowl, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Add the Cookies & Cream Layer

Once the brownies have cooled slightly (about 10-15 minutes), spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the brownie layer. Sprinkle the crushed cookies on top and gently press them into the cream cheese mixture. For an extra layer of indulgence, sprinkle some white chocolate chips over the top.

Step 6: Chill and Set

Place the pan in the fridge for at least 1 hour to allow the layers to set. Chilling will help the cream cheese layer firm up, making it easier to slice and serve.

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

Cooking Cookies & Cream Brownies is relatively straightforward, but let’s go over the main steps to ensure everything turns out just right.

1. Preheat the Oven: Always preheat your oven to 350°F before starting to ensure even baking.
2. Brownie Base: Mix wet and dry ingredients separately, then combine to make a smooth batter.
3. Baking: Bake the brownies until the edges are firm, but the center still has some moist crumbs.
4. Cream Cheese Layer: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly for the ultimate creamy topping.
5. Cookie Crumble: Don't forget the cookies! These add the iconic “cookies & cream” flavor.
6. Chill: Patience is key! Let the brownies chill to make slicing much easier.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even the best bakers can make mistakes! Here are some pitfalls to watch out for when making Cookies & Cream Brownies:

• Overmixing the batter: Stirring the brownie batter too much can lead to dense, tough brownies. Mix until just combined.
• Overbaking: Brownies should be moist in the center, so keep an eye on them. Check after 20 minutes of baking and use the toothpick test.
• Skipping the chill step: Don’t rush to cut the brownies. Chilling them ensures the layers stay intact.
• Too much cream cheese: If you overload the cream cheese layer, it can overwhelm the brownies. Stick to the recommended amount.

Serving and Presentation Tips

The way you present your brownies can take them from casual dessert to show-stopping treat. Here’s how to serve Cookies & Cream Brownies with style:

How to Serve Cookies & Cream Brownies

For a classic approach, cut the brownies into even squares or rectangles using a sharp knife. Wipe the knife between cuts for clean, neat slices. Serve them slightly chilled for the best texture.

If you’re hosting a gathering, consider serving these brownies alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. You could also drizzle some chocolate or caramel sauce over the top for an added layer of flavor.

Presentation Ideas for Cookies & Cream Brownies

• Layered Dessert Jars: Cut the brownies into small squares and layer them in mason jars with whipped cream and extra Oreo crumbs for a fun, portable dessert.
• Brownie Pops: Insert a popsicle stick into the center of each brownie square, dip them in melted white or dark chocolate, and roll in cookie crumbs for a bite-sized treat.
• Dusting of Powdered Sugar: A simple dusting of powdered sugar over the top of the brownies can make them look elegant with minimal effort.

Cookies & Cream Brownie Recipe Tips

Here are some pro tips to make sure your Cookies & Cream Brownies turn out perfectly every time:

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for smooth mixing.
• Use High-Quality Cocoa: Dutch-process cocoa will give your brownies a rich, deep chocolate flavor.
• Don’t Crush the Cookies Too Much: Leave some bigger chunks of Oreos for added texture in every bite.
• Freeze for Longer Shelf Life: You can freeze these brownies for up to 3 months. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Use Store-Bought Brownie Mix?

Absolutely! If you’re short on time, you can use a boxed brownie mix as the base and follow the recipe for the Cookies & Cream layer. Just be sure to slightly underbake the brownies to maintain their fudgy texture.

Can I Make These Brownies Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can make these brownies up to 2 days in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge to keep the cream cheese layer fresh.

How Long Will These Brownies Last?

Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, Cookies & Cream Brownies will last up to 5 days. If freezing, they will last up to 3 months.

Can I Use Different Cookies?

Definitely! While Oreos are the traditional choice, feel free to get creative with your favorite sandwich cookies. Chocolate chip cookies, peanut butter Oreos, or even mint-flavored cookies all work well.

Conclusion

These Cookies & Cream Brownies are the ultimate dessert for anyone who loves rich, fudgy brownies combined with the iconic cookies & cream flavor. With the right balance of chocolate, cream cheese, and crunchy cookie bits, this recipe is bound to be a hit whether you’re making it for a family dessert or a party treat. Try out the recipe today and impress everyone with this irresistible dessert!

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