Cookies and Cream Brownies Recipe

Cookies and Cream Brownies Recipe

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Chocolate Oreo Brownies

Ingredients

  • 1 cups white sugar
  • cup all-purpose flour
  • cup high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder
  • teaspoon salt
  • teaspoon baking powder
  • cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 32 chocolate sandwich cookies (such as Oreo), divided
  • 1 (8 ounce) frozen whipped topping (such as Cool Whip), thawed

Directions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350F (175C). Grease a 9-inch square baking pan.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the white sugar, flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until fully incorporated.
  5. Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly.
  6. Arrange 16 Oreo cookies in a single layer over the batter (4 rows of 4 cookies each).
  7. Spread the remaining half of the batter over the Oreo layer, ensuring it covers the cookies completely.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the edges are brown and the center is set.
  9. Remove the pan from the oven and allow the brownies to cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes.
  10. While the brownies are cooling, crush 12 of the remaining Oreo cookies.
  11. In a mixing bowl, fold the crushed cookies into the thawed whipped topping until well combined.
  12. Once the brownies have cooled, spread the whipped topping mixture evenly over the top of the brownies.
  13. Crush the remaining 4 Oreo cookies and sprinkle them over the whipped topping layer.
  14. Refrigerate the brownies until ready to slice and serve. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrition Facts Amount % Daily Value
Calories 538
Total Fat 28g 36%
Saturated Fat 14g 68%
Cholesterol 58mg 19%
Sodium 282mg 12%
Total Carbohydrate 68g 25%
Dietary Fiber 2g 7%
Total Sugars 42g
Protein 6g 11%
Vitamin C 0mg 0%
Calcium 27mg 2%
Iron 5mg 27%
Potassium 129mg 3%
Cookies and Cream Brownies

History and Origin

The concept of adding cookies to brownies dates back several decades and is rooted in the American tradition of mixing favorite sweets to create new indulgent desserts. The combination of chocolate brownies and cookies, especially the famous Oreo, became a popular trend in the early 2000s. The Cookies and Cream Brownies recipe blends the chewy, fudgy texture of brownies with the creamy crunch of crushed cookies, offering a delightful fusion of flavors.

Regional Characteristics

While brownies are an iconic American dessert, the addition of cookies and cream is a more recent phenomenon that has spread globally. In the U.S., brownies are often seen in various formsranging from gooey to cakeyand can be found in coffee shops, bakeries, and homes alike. The Oreo, originally created by Nabisco in 1912, is the quintessential cookie used in this dessert, though variations with different cookies can be found. In some regions, homemade brownies with cream or custard are a beloved dessert at holiday gatherings and family picnics.

What Makes It Different

Cookies and Cream Brownies stand out from traditional brownies by incorporating both the texture of Oreo cookies and the creamy whipped topping, creating an indulgent, layered treat. Unlike classic brownies, which rely on cocoa powder and butter as the base flavor, this recipe adds a layer of crushed cookies and a cool, whipped topping that transforms the dessert into something more decadent. This combination of texturesrich chocolate, creamy filling, and crispy cookiemakes it a more complex and luxurious treat than typical brownies or cookies.

Where Are They Typically Served?

Cookies and Cream Brownies are a versatile dessert, often served at birthday parties, holiday gatherings, and casual get-togethers. They are particularly popular at bake sales, as their rich flavor and visually appealing layers make them a hit with both children and adults. These brownies are also perfect for a quick, indulgent dessert after dinner or as a treat alongside coffee or tea. In some bakeries and cafes, they are served as a specialty dessert, adding a creative twist to the traditional brownie menu.

Interesting Facts

  • The Oreo cookie, which is a key ingredient in this recipe, is the best-selling cookie in the world, with over 450 billion cookies sold since its invention in 1912.
  • The idea of combining cookies with cream dates back to the early 1900s when Oreos were first created. Since then, variations of cookies and cream desserts have become a popular trend in many cuisines.
  • Brownies are believed to have been created by mistake in the late 19th century when a chocolate cake recipe failed, resulting in a dense, fudgy dessert. Over time, brownies evolved to become one of Americas most beloved treats.

FAQ about Cookies and Cream Brownies Recipe

The brownies should be stored in the refrigerator to keep the whipped topping fresh. Place them in an airtight container to avoid them absorbing other odors from the fridge. They should be good for up to 4-5 days.

Yes, you can freeze these brownies. After they've cooled and been topped with the whipped cream and crushed cookies, place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Let them thaw in the fridge before serving.

If you prefer a homemade alternative, you can make your own whipped cream by beating heavy cream with sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form. Alternatively, mascarpone cheese or cream cheese can be used for a slightly different flavor and texture.

Yes, you can substitute Oreos with other chocolate sandwich cookies or even cookies with different flavors, like peanut butter or mint. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture of the brownies will change depending on the cookies you choose.

If the brownies are too thick or fudgy for your liking, you can try baking them a little longer to allow them to set more, or you can thin out the batter slightly by adding a little more melted butter. Alternatively, reduce the amount of flour or cocoa powder for a lighter texture.

Yes, you can make an egg-free version by using a flax egg or a store-bought egg replacer. To make a flax egg, mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water, and let it sit for 5 minutes to thicken.

The brownies are done when the edges are brown and the center is set but slightly soft. You can check by inserting a toothpick in the center – it should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter.

Comments

Patricia White

07/03/2024 08:28:33 PM

I’m adding this to my weekly menu.

Luke

06/06/2024 03:19:49 PM

Very very thick, more like fudge than brownies. But they tasted very good and I will make them again!