Oreo Brownies

If you’re a fan of brownies and Oreos, why not combine these two indulgent treats into one irresistible dessert? Oreo Brownies are a decadent combination of rich, fudgy brownie layers and crunchy Oreo cookies that melt into creamy bites of chocolatey goodness. Whether you’re baking for a party, a holiday gathering, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, these brownies are a guaranteed hit. The crushed Oreo cookies throughout the batter and a crunchy layer on top make these brownies as visually stunning as they are delicious. Simple to make and bursting with flavor, this recipe is a chocolate lover’s dream come true.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Double Chocolate Goodness: The fudgy brownie base is packed with rich chocolate flavor and chunks of Oreos for extra indulgence.
• Crunchy and Gooey Combo: The contrast between the soft brownies and crunchy Oreos makes every bite exciting.
• Easy to Customize: Use different flavors of Oreos or add mix-ins like chocolate chips to personalize the recipe.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: These brownies are great for birthdays, holidays, potlucks, or a casual weekend treat.
• Kid-Friendly: Children and adults alike love the playful twist of incorporating Oreos into classic brownies.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Cooling Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: 16 brownies
• Serving Size: 1 brownie

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 320
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 29g

Ingredients

For the Brownie Base:

• 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks), melted
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ¾ cup light brown sugar, packed
• 3 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 12 Oreo cookies, roughly chopped

For the Oreo Topping:

• 12 Oreo cookies, halved or crushed
• ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Set aside a handful of halved or crushed Oreos for topping.

Step 2: Make the Brownie Batter

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
3. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
4. Gently fold in the chopped Oreos, being careful not to overmix.

Step 3: Assemble the Brownies

1. Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly with a spatula.
2. Arrange a layer of halved Oreos over the batter for a fun, hidden crunch.
3. Pour the remaining brownie batter over the Oreos and smooth the surface.
4. Scatter the reserved halved or crushed Oreos on top, pressing them slightly into the batter. If desired, sprinkle chocolate chips over the top for extra decadence.

Step 4: Bake

1. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
2. Avoid overbaking, as this can dry out the brownies.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

1. Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for 20 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
2. Once cooled, cut into 16 squares. Serve and enjoy!

Ingredient Background

Oreos

Oreos are the star ingredient of this recipe, adding a playful twist to classic brownies. The cookies soften slightly during baking, creating a creamy, chocolatey texture that pairs perfectly with the fudgy brownie base. Feel free to experiment with different Oreo flavors, such as Mint, Peanut Butter, or Birthday Cake, for unique variations.

Cocoa Powder

Using high-quality cocoa powder ensures a deep, rich chocolate flavor. Dutch-processed cocoa will provide a smoother, less acidic taste, while natural cocoa adds a hint of tanginess.

Butter

The use of melted butter gives these brownies their signature fudgy texture. For a richer flavor, consider browning the butter before adding it to the batter.

Technique Tips

1. Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can result in dense, cakey brownies. Fold the ingredients gently until just combined.
2. Use Room Temperature Eggs: Room temperature eggs mix more evenly into the batter, contributing to a smoother texture.
3. Line the Pan: Lining the pan with parchment paper makes it easy to lift the brownies out for cutting, ensuring clean edges.
4. Check for Doneness: Start checking the brownies at the 30-minute mark to prevent overbaking. They should be set around the edges but slightly gooey in the center.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

1. Oreo Brownie Sundae: Serve warm brownies topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a drizzle of chocolate sauce, and crushed Oreos.
2. Brownie Pops: Cut the brownies into small squares, insert lollipop sticks, and dip them in melted chocolate for a fun party treat.
3. Layered Dessert: Crumble the brownies into a glass and layer them with whipped cream and crushed Oreos for a parfait-style dessert.

Additional Tips for Success

• Choose the Right Pan: A metal baking pan conducts heat more evenly than glass, ensuring your brownies bake perfectly.
• Chill for Clean Slices: Refrigerate the brownies for 30 minutes before slicing for cleaner, sharper edges.
• Store Properly: Store brownies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness and prevent them from drying out.

Recipe Variations

1. Mint Oreo Brownies: Replace regular Oreos with Mint Oreos and add a teaspoon of peppermint extract to the batter.
2. Peanut Butter Oreo Brownies: Swirl a few tablespoons of peanut butter into the batter before baking for a nutty twist.
3. Triple Chocolate Brownies: Add white and milk chocolate chips along with the Oreos for an extra chocolaty treat.
4. Vegan Oreo Brownies: Use a vegan brownie recipe base and Oreos (which are naturally vegan) for a plant-based version.

Freezing and Storage

Freezing Instructions

To freeze, wrap individual brownie squares tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Storage Tips

Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week.

Healthier Twist Ideas

1. Reduce Sugar: Use coconut sugar or a sugar substitute to lower the overall sugar content.
2. Add Whole Grains: Substitute half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
3. Dairy-Free Option: Replace the butter with a dairy-free alternative, such as coconut oil or vegan butter.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Birthday Party Treat: Decorate the brownies with colorful sprinkles for a festive touch.
• Holiday Dessert: Add a drizzle of white chocolate and crushed peppermint candies for a holiday-themed treat.
• Potluck Favorite: Cut the brownies into bite-sized pieces for easy sharing.

Special Equipment

1. 9×9-Inch Baking Pan: Ensures evenly baked brownies with the perfect thickness.
2. Parchment Paper: Makes lifting the brownies out of the pan simple and mess-free.
3. Offset Spatula: Useful for spreading the batter evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I double this recipe?

Yes, double the ingredients and use a 9×13-inch pan. Increase the baking time by 5-10 minutes, checking for doneness as you go.

2. Can I use store-bought brownie mix?

Absolutely! Prepare the brownie mix according to the package instructions, then fold in chopped Oreos and follow the layering instructions.

3. How do I prevent the brownies from sticking to the pan?

Line the pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy lifting. Grease the paper lightly to ensure no sticking.

4. What type of cocoa powder works best?

Both Dutch-processed and natural cocoa powder work, but Dutch-processed cocoa provides a richer, smoother chocolate flavor.

5. Can I use flavored Oreos?

Yes! Experiment with flavors like Peanut Butter, Mint, or Golden Oreos for a fun twist.

6. How do I keep the brownies moist?

Store the brownies in an airtight container and avoid overbaking to retain their fudgy texture.

7. Are these brownies freezer-friendly?

Yes, they freeze exceptionally well. Wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn, and thaw them at room temperature when ready to enjoy.

8. Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?

Definitely! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chunks make excellent additions to the batter.

Conclusion

Oreo Brownies are the ultimate dessert for cookie and chocolate lovers alike. With their fudgy base, crunchy Oreo layers, and gooey chocolate finish, they’re perfect for any occasion. Easy to customize, store, and prepare, this recipe is a surefire way to impress friends and family. Whip up a batch today and experience the joy of combining two iconic treats into one unforgettable dessert!

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