Cookies & Cream Brownies Recipe

If you're a fan of rich chocolate brownies and love the classic flavor of cookies and cream, you're in for a treat! These Cookies & Cream Brownies combine the fudgy goodness of brownies with the crunchy, creamy texture of Oreo cookies, creating a dessert that’s impossible to resist. Whether you're hosting a party, treating your family, or just satisfying your own sweet tooth, these brownies are sure to be a hit. Read on for the complete recipe, tips, and everything you need to know to make the perfect batch of Cookies & Cream Brownies.

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What Are Cookies & Cream Brownies?

Cookies & Cream Brownies are a delightful mash-up of two beloved treats—classic chocolate brownies and cookies & cream. This dessert features a rich, chocolatey brownie base that's studded with chunks of Oreo cookies and often has a layer of creamy white chocolate or cookies & cream frosting on top. The combination of fudgy brownie texture with crunchy cookie bits and a smooth cream layer creates a multi-layered dessert experience that satisfies all your cravings in one bite.

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Ingredients List for Cookies & Cream Brownies

Before you begin, gather these simple yet essential ingredients to create these indulgent brownies.

For the Brownie Base:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• 15-20 Oreo cookies, roughly chopped

For the Cookies & Cream Topping:

• 4 oz white chocolate, melted
• ½ cup heavy cream (optional, for a creamier topping)
• 8 Oreo cookies, crushed into fine crumbs
• Optional: Additional whole Oreos for garnish

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Substitutions and Variations for Cookies & Cream Brownies

You can customize these Cookies & Cream Brownies to suit different tastes, dietary needs, or ingredient availability. Here are some substitutions and variations to try:

1. Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make these brownies gluten-free. Make sure to use gluten-free chocolate cookies like gluten-free Oreos.
2. Dairy-Free: Use plant-based butter or margarine instead of regular butter. You can also substitute the white chocolate with a dairy-free alternative and use non-dairy cream.
3. Extra Chocolatey: Add ½ cup of chocolate chips to the brownie batter for an extra boost of chocolate flavor.
4. Mint Oreo Brownies: Swap out regular Oreos for mint-flavored Oreos to give the brownies a cool minty twist.
5. Peanut Butter Version: Drizzle melted peanut butter over the top of the brownies before baking or swirl it into the batter for a delicious combination of peanut butter and chocolate.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s break down the process of making Cookies & Cream Brownies step by step to ensure you create a rich, gooey, and delicious batch every time.

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.

Step 2: Make the Brownie Batter

1. Melt the butter: In a medium-sized saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly.
2. In a large bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and melted butter. Stir well to combine until the sugars dissolve.
3. Add the eggs and vanilla extract: Whisk in the eggs one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can affect the texture of the brownies.
5. Fold in chopped Oreo cookies: Gently fold in the roughly chopped Oreo cookies, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the brownie batter.

Step 3: Bake the Brownies

1. Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread it out evenly with a spatula.
2. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs attached (avoid overbaking to maintain a fudgy texture).
3. Remove from the oven and let the brownies cool completely in the pan before adding the topping.

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

1. Melt the butter to ensure the base of your brownies is rich and moist. Using melted butter instead of softened butter gives the brownies a fudgier texture.
2. When mixing the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, stir until just combined to avoid overmixing, which can lead to tough brownies.
3. Bake until just done: Slightly underbaking the brownies helps keep them fudgy. Remember, they will continue to cook as they cool.
4. Let the brownies cool completely before adding any toppings or slicing. This allows the brownies to set properly and makes them easier to cut.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with a simple recipe like Cookies & Cream Brownies, there are a few common pitfalls to be aware of:

1. Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can cause the brownies to become dense and cakey rather than fudgy. Mix until just combined for the best texture.
2. Overbaking the brownies: Fudgy brownies are the goal here! Overbaking will result in dry, crumbly brownies. Check them a few minutes before the baking time is up and remove them once the center is set but still soft.
3. Not allowing the brownies to cool: Cutting into the brownies too soon can make them fall apart. Let them cool completely for cleaner cuts and a better texture.
4. Skipping the parchment paper: Using parchment paper makes removing the brownies from the pan much easier, especially when you add a topping. It also helps prevent sticking.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

How you serve and present your Cookies & Cream Brownies can make a big difference, especially if you're entertaining or want to make them look extra special.

How to Serve Cookies & Cream Brownies

• Serve at room temperature: These brownies taste best when they’re fully cooled and set. You can also serve them slightly chilled for a firmer texture.
• Pair with ice cream: Serve warm brownies with a scoop of vanilla or cookies & cream ice cream for a truly indulgent treat.
• Drizzle with chocolate sauce: For an extra chocolatey experience, drizzle melted chocolate or chocolate syrup over the top before serving.

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Presentation Ideas for Cookies & Cream Brownies

• Top with whole Oreos: Before serving, garnish each brownie square with a whole Oreo cookie or half an Oreo for a visually appealing presentation.
• Crushed Oreo topping: For an added crunch, sprinkle crushed Oreos over the top of the brownies after they’ve cooled.
• Serve on a dessert platter: Arrange the brownies on a decorative dessert platter and garnish with extra Oreo crumbs, white chocolate shavings, or a dusting of powdered sugar for a polished look.

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Cookies & Cream Brownies Recipe Tips

• Double the recipe: If you're making these for a crowd, you can easily double the recipe and bake it in a larger pan.
• Storage: Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate them to keep them fresh for a week.
• Freeze for later: You can freeze these brownies for up to 3 months. Simply wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature before serving.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use a boxed brownie mix?

Yes, you can use a boxed brownie mix as a shortcut! Just prepare the mix as directed, fold in the Oreo cookies, and follow the same instructions for baking and topping.

2. How do I know when the brownies are done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the brownies. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter, they’re done. Be careful not to overbake.

3. Can I make these brownies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the brownies a day ahead and store them in an airtight container. Add the topping just before serving for the freshest taste.

4. Can I substitute white chocolate with dark chocolate in the topping?

Yes! If you prefer, you can use dark or semi-sweet chocolate for a richer topping instead of white chocolate.

5. Can I make these brownies vegan?

To make these brownies vegan, use a vegan butter substitute, flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg), and dairy-free chocolate and cookies.

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Conclusion

These Cookies & Cream Brownies are the perfect dessert for anyone who loves the combination of rich, fudgy chocolate and the creamy crunch of Oreo cookies. With an easy-to-follow recipe and a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a batch of decadent brownies that are sure to impress. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just to treat yourself, these brownies are bound to become a new favorite! Happy baking!

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