Are you ready to indulge in a decadent dessert that combines the rich, fudgy goodness of brownies with the irresistible crunch of cookies and cream? If you love brownies and can’t get enough of cookies and cream, then this recipe is perfect for you. These Cookies & Cream Brownies are the ultimate treat for dessert lovers. Follow along, and you’ll have a crowd-pleasing dessert ready in no time. Read on to discover the secrets behind making the best Cookies & Cream Brownies, and don’t miss the tips and tricks at the end of the article to perfect your baking game!

What are Cookies & Cream Brownies?
Cookies & Cream Brownies are a delicious combination of two classic desserts—rich, chocolatey brownies and crunchy, sweet cookies and cream. This fusion dessert is perfect for those who want the best of both worlds: a fudgy, chewy brownie base layered or mixed with chunks of Oreo cookies (or any cookies of your choice). The balance between the gooey texture of the brownies and the crunchy, creamy bits from the cookies makes this dessert a hit for anyone with a sweet tooth. Not only is it easy to make, but it’s also sure to impress friends, family, or anyone lucky enough to get a bite.
Ingredients List for Cookies & Cream Brownies
To make the perfect batch of Cookies & Cream Brownies, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup crushed Oreo cookies (or any cookies and cream variety)
- ½ cup chocolate chips (optional)
- ½ cup white chocolate chips (optional)
- 1 cup cream cheese (optional, for a swirl effect)
These ingredients ensure that you get a rich, fudgy brownie with the perfect balance of sweetness and texture. The cream cheese swirl adds a tangy contrast to the sweetness of the brownies and the cookies, while the chocolate chips provide extra gooeyness.
Substitutions and Variations
Want to switch things up or adjust the recipe to suit your dietary preferences? No problem! Here are a few substitutions and variations that you can try for your Cookies & Cream Brownies:
- Butter Substitution: Use coconut oil or margarine instead of butter if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
- Sugar Substitute: Replace the granulated and brown sugar with coconut sugar or a sugar substitute like Stevia for a slightly healthier version.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour substitute to make these brownies gluten-free.
- Oreo Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of Oreos or can’t find them, you can use any other cream-filled cookie or even chocolate chip cookies for a different take.
- Add-ins: You can add nuts, like walnuts or pecans, to your brownie batter for added crunch. You can also experiment with different types of chips like dark chocolate, peanut butter, or caramel chips.
These substitutions and variations allow you to tailor the recipe to your dietary needs or personal taste preferences without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Let’s break down the process of making these heavenly Cookies & Cream Brownies step by step. Follow along, and you’ll have a batch of brownies ready to devour in just a few easy steps.

- Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Melt the butter: In a microwave-safe bowl or on the stovetop, melt the unsalted butter until smooth. Allow it to cool slightly.
- Mix the sugars and butter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and melted butter. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well-blended.
- Add the eggs and vanilla: Beat the eggs into the sugar-butter mixture one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Add the vanilla extract and whisk until the mixture is glossy.
- Combine the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can result in tough brownies.
- Fold in the cookies: Gently fold in the crushed Oreo cookies and chocolate chips (if using), ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Pour into the pan: Pour the brownie batter into your prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Add cream cheese swirl (optional): If you’re using cream cheese, dollop spoonfuls of it on top of the batter and swirl it through with a knife to create a marbled effect.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs attached. Be careful not to overbake!
- Cool: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares. This helps them set and makes for easier slicing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can cause your brownies to become dense and tough. Mix the batter until just combined for the best texture.
- Overbaking: Keep an eye on your brownies while they bake. You want them to be moist and fudgy, not dry and cakey. Remember that brownies continue to cook slightly after they’re removed from the oven, so it’s better to underbake than overbake.
- Not cooling completely: While it’s tempting to dig in right away, cutting into hot brownies can result in a crumbly mess. Letting them cool completely allows them to firm up and makes cutting them easier.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Now that you’ve baked the perfect batch of Cookies & Cream Brownies, it’s time to think about how to serve and present them. Here are some serving ideas and tips to make your dessert look even more appealing.
How to Serve Cookies & Cream Brownies
Cookies & Cream Brownies are a versatile dessert that can be served in various ways:
- Warm with Ice Cream: Serve a warm brownie with a scoop of vanilla or cookies & cream ice cream for a delightful contrast between hot and cold.
- Topped with Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of whipped cream and a drizzle of chocolate syrup for a more decadent presentation.
- Brownie Sundae: Crumble the brownies over ice cream, add hot fudge, whipped cream, and sprinkles for a luxurious brownie sundae.
- With a Glass of Milk: You can never go wrong with the classic pairing of brownies and a cold glass of milk!
Presentation Ideas for Cookies & Cream Brownies
When it comes to presentation, a little effort can make a big difference. Here are some ways to elevate the look of your Cookies & Cream Brownies:
- Dust with Powdered Sugar: Lightly dusting your brownies with powdered sugar gives them a professional, bakery-style finish.
- Add Extra Oreo Crumbs: Sprinkle extra crushed Oreo cookies on top of the brownies for added texture and a visual clue to what’s inside.
- Cut with a Sharp Knife: To get clean edges when cutting your brownies, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts. For extra precision, you can chill the brownies in the fridge for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
Cookies & Cream Brownies Recipe Tips
- Use Quality Cocoa: The quality of your cocoa powder makes a difference in the flavor of your brownies. Opt for a high-quality, unsweetened cocoa powder for a richer, more intense chocolate flavor.
- Line Your Pan: Using parchment paper to line your baking pan ensures that the brownies won’t stick and makes it easier to lift them out for slicing.
- Customize the Cookie-to-Brownie Ratio: If you prefer more cookies in your brownies, feel free to increase the amount of crushed Oreos in the batter. Similarly, reduce the amount if you want a more brownie-dominant dessert.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make these brownies ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make these brownies up to 2 days in advance. Just store them in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
Q: Can I freeze Cookies & Cream Brownies?
A: Absolutely! After cooling completely, wrap the brownies tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.
Q: Can I use different types of cookies in this recipe?
A: Definitely! Feel free to experiment with different cookies, like chocolate chip cookies, peanut butter cookies, or even graham crackers for a unique twist.
Q: How do I store leftover brownies?
A: Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
Cookies & Cream Brownies are the perfect combination of rich, fudgy chocolate and crunchy, creamy cookies. This recipe is not only easy to follow but also versatile, allowing you to experiment with different add-ins and variations. Whether you serve them warm with a scoop of ice cream or enjoy them on their own, these brownies are sure to be a hit. Give this recipe a try, and soon you’ll be whipping up a batch of these irresistible treats for every occasion! Happy baking!
PrintCookies & Cream Brownies Recipe
This Cookies & Cream Brownies recipe combines rich chocolate brownie batter with creamy, crunchy Oreo cookies, making for an irresistible dessert. It's a perfect treat for anyone who loves brownies with a twist. Make sure to try this easy recipe for an indulgent, crowd-pleasing dessert.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 16 brownies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- Brownie mix or homemade brownie batter
- Oreo cookies (crushed)
- Chocolate chips (optional)
- Eggs, water, and oil (as required by the brownie mix or recipe)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven and prepare the brownie batter according to the package or homemade recipe.
- Gently fold crushed Oreo cookies into the batter.
- Pour the mixture into a prepared baking pan.
- Bake according to the brownie recipe instructions, typically 25-30 minutes.
- Let the brownies cool before cutting into squares.
Notes
- For extra creaminess, add a layer of white chocolate chips on top.
- Try serving warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 150mg
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