Cookies and Cream Brownies
If you have a soft spot for brownies and a passion for cookies and cream, then this recipe for Cookies and Cream Brownies is destined to become your new favorite treat. These delightful brownies combine the fudgy richness of chocolate with the playful crunch of Oreo cookies, creating a dessert that is not only delicious but also visually appealing. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or simply indulging yourself at home, these brownies are sure to impress. So, let’s dive into the world of Cookies and Cream Brownies and get ready to bake!
Why It Works Every Time
The magic of these Cookies and Cream Brownies lies in their balance of flavors and textures. The spelt flour provides a nutty undertone, while the unsweetened cocoa powder delivers that rich chocolate flavor we all crave. The combination of natural sweeteners and brown sugar creates a perfectly sweet brownie base that pairs beautifully with the creamy, tangy cream cheese frosting. Plus, the addition of crushed Oreos adds an irresistible crunch, ensuring that every bite is a delightful experience. The secret to success? Following the steps closely and using quality ingredients!
What Goes Into Cookies and Cream Brownies
- 1 cup spelt flour or substitute for plain or all-purpose flour – This whole grain flour adds a nutty flavor and a wholesome touch.
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder – For that rich chocolate taste.
- 1/2 cup natural sweetener or sugar of choice – Choose your favorite sweetening option.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (firmly packed) – Adds depth and moisture.
- 1 teaspoon aluminium-free baking powder – For leavening and a light texture.
- 1/3 cup light butter or cold-pressed coconut oil (melted) – For a luscious, moist brownie.
- 1/2 cup low-fat vanilla yogurt – Adds creaminess and a slight tang.
- 1 large egg – Binds the ingredients together.
- 2 tablespoons honey – Natural sweetness and moisture.
- 1 tablespoon alcohol-free vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor.
- 3/4 cup unsweetened almond milk – Keeps the batter moist and rich.
- 6 Oreo cookies or a healthy Oreo cookie substitute – The star of the show!
- 8 oz container low-fat cream cheese – For the frosting that takes these brownies over the top.
- 1/4 cup natural sweetener or sugar of choice – Sweetens the cream cheese layer.
- 1/2 tablespoon alcohol-free vanilla extract – Adds flavor to the frosting.
- 4 Oreo cookies (crushed finely) – For the frosting and decoration.
- (Optional) Extra cookies for decorating – Because who doesn’t love more cookies?
Cook’s Kit
- Mixing bowls – For combining the ingredients.
- Whisk – To mix the dry ingredients and blend the wet ingredients.
- Spatula – For folding ingredients and spreading the batter.
- Baking pan (9×9 inch) – Where the magic happens.
- Parchment paper – To line the baking pan for easy removal.
- Measuring cups and spoons – For accurate ingredient measurements.
- Cooling rack – To cool the brownies properly.
Stepwise Method: Cookies and Cream Brownies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your baking pan by lining it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the spelt flour, cocoa powder, natural sweetener, brown sugar, and baking powder until well combined. Set this mixture aside.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mix the melted butter (or coconut oil), low-fat yogurt, egg, honey, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Mix the Batter
Slowly add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the brownies fudgy.
Step 5: Fold in the Oreos
Chop the 6 Oreo cookies into chunks and fold them into the brownie batter, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
Step 6: Bake the Brownies
Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean, with a few moist crumbs attached.
Step 7: Cool the Brownies
Once baked, remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool in the pan on a wire rack for at least 10 minutes. Then, lift them out using the parchment paper and allow them to cool completely.
Step 8: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
In a mixing bowl, beat the low-fat cream cheese, natural sweetener, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Fold in the finely crushed Oreo cookies until well combined.
Step 9: Frost the Brownies
Once the brownies are completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. For a decorative touch, add extra crushed Oreo cookies on top.
Step 10: Slice and Serve
Slice the brownies into squares and serve. Enjoy the delightful combination of rich chocolate brownie and creamy Oreo frosting!
Quick Replacement Ideas
- Substitute spelt flour with plain flour or your favorite gluten-free flour blend.
- Replace low-fat yogurt with applesauce for a dairy-free option.
- Use maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan alternative.
- Opt for dairy-free cream cheese to make the frosting completely dairy-free.
Troubles You Can Avoid
- Overmixing the batter can lead to dense brownies. Mix until just combined!
- Not letting the brownies cool before frosting can cause the frosting to melt.
- Using expired baking powder can result in flat brownies, so check the date!
- Cutting the brownies too soon can lead to crumbly edges, so be patient.
Storing, Freezing & Reheating
To store your Cookies and Cream Brownies, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. To freeze, wrap individual brownies in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or microwave for a few seconds to warm them up.
Your Questions, Answered
Can I use different types of flour?
Yes! If you don’t have spelt flour, feel free to use all-purpose flour or a gluten-free flour blend. Just keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly.
What can I use instead of Oreo cookies?
You can use any chocolate sandwich cookie or a healthier alternative, such as homemade chocolate cookies, to achieve a similar flavor and texture.
Can I make these brownies vegan?
Absolutely! You can replace the egg with flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) and use plant-based yogurt and cream cheese.
How can I make these brownies richer?
For a richer flavor, consider adding chocolate chips to the brownie batter or using dark cocoa powder instead of regular cocoa powder.
What to Make After This
- Chocolate Chip Cookies – A classic favorite!
- Fudgy Brownie Bites – Perfect for a bite-sized treat.
- Oreo Cheesecake Bars – Another delicious way to enjoy Oreos.
- Vanilla Cupcakes with Chocolate Frosting – A match made in dessert heaven!
Next Steps
Now that you’ve mastered the art of Cookies and Cream Brownies, it’s time to share your creations with friends and family. Snap some pictures, post them on social media, and let everyone know about your delicious baking adventure. Don’t forget to experiment with flavors and toppings to make these brownies uniquely yours. Happy baking!
Cookies and Cream Brownies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your baking pan by lining it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
- Step 2: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the spelt flour, cocoa powder, natural sweetener, brown sugar, and baking powder until well combined. Set this mixture aside.
- Step 3: In another bowl, mix the melted butter (or coconut oil), low-fat yogurt, egg, honey, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
- Step 4: Slowly add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the brownies fudgy.
- Step 5: Chop the 6 Oreo cookies into chunks and fold them into the brownie batter, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
- Step 6: Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean, with a few moist crumbs attached.
- Step 7: Once baked, remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool in the pan on a wire rack for at least 10 minutes. Then, lift them out using the parchment paper and allow them to cool completely.
- Step 8: In a mixing bowl, beat the low-fat cream cheese, natural sweetener, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Fold in the finely crushed Oreo cookies until well combined.
- Step 9: Once the brownies are completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. For a decorative touch, add extra crushed Oreo cookies on top.
- Step 10: Slice the brownies into squares and serve. Enjoy the delightful combination of rich chocolate brownie and creamy Oreo frosting!
Notes
- Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Freeze brownies for up to 3 months; wrap individually in plastic wrap.
- Let brownies cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.
