These Cookies and Cream Brownies are the perfect indulgence for chocolate and cookie lovers alike. The rich, fudgy brownie base is packed with chunks of chocolate sandwich cookies, adding a delightful crunch to every bite. Topped with a smooth layer of vanilla frosting and more crushed cookies, these brownies are a dessert dream come true.
Perfect for parties, potlucks, or a sweet treat at home, these brownies are as delicious as they are easy to make. The combination of rich chocolate and the iconic cookies and cream flavor will surely impress anyone with a sweet tooth. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking for a fun and simple dessert, this recipe has you covered!
Full Recipe:
- 1 package (14.3 oz) chocolate sandwich cookies (such as Oreo®), divided
- 1 box brownie mix (for a 9×13-inch pan)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 cup vanilla frosting
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare the brownie batter according to the package instructions, mixing the oil, eggs, and water with the brownie mix.
- Roughly chop half of the sandwich cookies and fold them into the brownie batter.
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan.
- Spread the vanilla frosting over the cooled brownies in an even layer.
- Crush the remaining cookies and sprinkle them over the frosting, pressing gently so they adhere.
- Slice the brownies into squares and serve.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 280 kcal | Servings: 24 brownies
Why You’ll Love These Cookies and Cream Brownies
These Cookies and Cream Brownies are a delightful fusion of two beloved treats: rich, fudgy brownies and the classic cookies and cream flavor that everyone loves. Whether you’re a fan of chocolate or a cookies and cream enthusiast, these brownies offer the best of both worlds. The chunks of chocolate sandwich cookies baked into the batter create a crunchy contrast to the moist and gooey brownie base, while the creamy vanilla frosting and crushed cookies on top add a decadent finish. Perfect for any occasion, they’re an easy-to-make treat that looks as good as it tastes.
Tips for Baking Perfect Cookies and Cream Brownies
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: When preparing the brownie batter, mix just until all the ingredients are combined. Overmixing can cause the brownies to become too dense and tough.
- Cool Completely Before Frosting: Make sure the brownies are fully cooled before spreading the vanilla frosting. Frosting warm brownies can cause the frosting to melt and lose its creamy texture.
- Choose Your Cookies Wisely: While this recipe uses classic chocolate sandwich cookies like Oreos®, feel free to experiment with other flavors. Mint or peanut butter sandwich cookies can add a unique twist!
- Storage Tips: To keep your brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy them later, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for up to 2 months.
How to Serve and Enjoy
These Cookies and Cream Brownies are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. You can enjoy them as a quick snack, a fun dessert for parties, or even as a sweet afternoon treat with a cup of coffee or milk. For a special twist, serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for an extra indulgent dessert experience.
Perfect for Sharing
These brownies are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, making them an ideal dessert for gatherings, potlucks, and family dinners. Their rich flavor and eye-catching appearance make them a hit at any event. Plus, since the recipe makes a large batch (24 brownies), there’s plenty to go around!
The Origins of Cookies and Cream Desserts
Cookies and cream has become an iconic flavor in the dessert world, largely popularized by cookies and cream ice cream. It is believed that the flavor first gained widespread recognition in the late 1970s, with Oreo® cookies being the most commonly used brand for this dessert combination. The flavor is loved for its contrast between sweet, creamy textures and crunchy, chocolatey bites. This brownie recipe is a perfect example of how the cookies and cream concept has been adapted into a range of different sweet treats.
Why These Brownies Are Perfect for Any Occasion
The Cookies and Cream Brownies strike the perfect balance between indulgence and nostalgia. Whether you’re preparing treats for a family get-together, looking to impress guests at a dinner party, or just craving a chocolatey pick-me-up after a long day, these brownies are your go-to option. Their irresistible combination of soft, fudgy texture with crunchy cookie bits appeals to kids and adults alike, making them a versatile dessert that suits any occasion.
Variations and Customization Ideas
- Add a Layer of Cheesecake: To make these brownies even more luxurious, consider adding a layer of cheesecake between the brownie and frosting. Just prepare a simple cheesecake batter using cream cheese, sugar, and an egg, then pour it over the brownie batter before baking. This will give your brownies a creamy, tangy element that pairs perfectly with the cookies and cream flavor.
- Switch Up the Cookies: While the recipe calls for classic chocolate sandwich cookies like Oreos®, you can get creative with different flavors. Try mint-flavored cookies for a refreshing twist, or use peanut butter sandwich cookies for an even richer dessert. You can also mix in white chocolate chips or caramel chunks for added texture and flavor.
- Make It Vegan: Want to make these brownies suitable for a vegan diet? Simply replace the eggs with a flaxseed or chia seed egg substitute, use dairy-free butter or coconut oil, and opt for a plant-based frosting. Be sure to check that the cookies you use are vegan-friendly, too.
- Extra Chocolate Drizzle: For those who can’t get enough chocolate, drizzle some melted dark or white chocolate over the top of the brownies for a finishing touch. This not only adds extra flavor but also makes the brownies look even more appetizing.
Nutritional Benefits (and Indulgence)
While these brownies are definitely on the indulgent side, they can still offer a few surprising benefits if you choose high-quality ingredients. For example, dark chocolate (if used instead of milk chocolate) contains antioxidants that can support heart health and improve mood. Also, you can use whole wheat flour or gluten-free alternatives to make these brownies a bit healthier without sacrificing flavor. Plus, making your own homemade brownies means you can control the amount of sugar and oil used, making them a slightly healthier option compared to store-bought treats.
How to Store and Freeze
If you have leftovers (which may be rare because they’re so delicious!), these brownies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend their shelf life, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week.
For long-term storage, you can freeze the brownies for up to 2 months. To freeze, place the individual brownies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours. Once they’re frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw the brownies at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or microwave them for 20-30 seconds for a warm treat.
Pairing Ideas for Cookies and Cream Brownies
- Coffee: These rich, chocolatey brownies pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee. The bitterness of the coffee cuts through the sweetness of the brownies, creating a balanced flavor experience.
- Milkshakes: Take your dessert game to the next level by pairing these brownies with a thick cookies and cream milkshake. The combination is a decadent dream, perfect for special occasions or just treating yourself.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve your warm brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic brownie sundae. The cold, creamy ice cream melts into the warm, gooey brownies, creating a blissful contrast of temperatures and textures.
Making It a Fun Baking Project with Kids
If you’re looking for a family-friendly baking project, these Cookies and Cream Brownies are a fantastic option. Kids can help with simple tasks like crushing the cookies, stirring the batter, or sprinkling the crushed cookies on top of the frosting. Baking together is not only a fun activity, but it also teaches children valuable skills like following instructions, measuring ingredients, and being patient while waiting for the brownies to bake.
Conclusion
Cookies and Cream Brownies are a delightful treat that combines the rich flavor of fudgy brownies with the crunchy sweetness of chocolate sandwich cookies. Easy to make and perfect for any occasion, they’re sure to impress family and friends. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or customize it with your own twists, these brownies are a fun and indulgent dessert that everyone will love. Enjoy them on their own, or pair them with a scoop of ice cream for an extra-special treat!