Introduction to Cream Cheese Oreo Brownies
Hey there, fellow dessert lovers! If you’re anything like me, you know that life can get pretty hectic. Between juggling work, family, and everything in between, finding time to whip up something special can feel impossible. That’s where these Cream Cheese Oreo Brownies come in! They’re the perfect blend of rich chocolate and creamy goodness, making them a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether you need a quick solution for a busy day or want to impress your loved ones, these brownies are sure to bring smiles and satisfaction. Let’s dive into this delicious adventure together!
Why You’ll Love This Cream Cheese Oreo Brownies
These Cream Cheese Oreo Brownies are a game-changer for busy moms and professionals alike. They come together quickly, making them perfect for those last-minute dessert cravings. The combination of rich chocolate and creamy Oreo filling creates a taste sensation that’s hard to resist. Plus, they’re a hit with kids and adults, ensuring everyone at the table will be asking for seconds. Trust me, you’ll want to keep this recipe close at hand!
Ingredients for Cream Cheese Oreo Brownies
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Cream Cheese Oreo Brownies. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Unsalted butter: This adds richness and moisture to the brownies. You can substitute with margarine if needed.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the brownies and helps create that perfect chewy texture.
- Large eggs: They bind the ingredients together and provide structure. You can use flax eggs for a vegan option.
- Vanilla extract: A splash of this enhances the flavor, making everything taste even better.
- All-purpose flour: This is the base of the brownies, giving them that classic texture. Whole wheat flour can be a healthier alternative.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: It brings the chocolatey goodness that makes these brownies irresistible.
- Salt: Just a pinch balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips: These add extra chocolatey goodness and a delightful melt-in-your-mouth experience.
- Oreo cookies: The star of the show! They add crunch and a creamy filling that pairs perfectly with the brownies.
- Cream cheese: This creates a luscious, creamy layer that elevates the brownies to a whole new level.
- Additional granulated sugar: Used in the cream cheese mixture to sweeten it up.
- Another egg: This helps the cream cheese mixture set beautifully.
- More crushed Oreos: These are folded into the cream cheese for that extra Oreo flavor.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy baking!
How to Make Cream Cheese Oreo Brownies
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making these Cream Cheese Oreo Brownies! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a decadent dessert that will wow your family and friends.
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your brownies bake evenly. While the oven warms up, grab a 9×13-inch baking pan. You can line it with parchment paper for easy removal or lightly grease it with butter or cooking spray. Trust me, this little step makes a world of difference when it’s time to slice!
Step 2: Melt the Butter
Next, melt 1 cup of unsalted butter in a large saucepan or a microwave-safe bowl. If you’re using the microwave, do it in short bursts to avoid splattering. Once melted, stir in 2 cups of granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth. Let it cool slightly before moving on to the next step. This helps prevent scrambling the eggs!
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
Now, whisk in 4 large eggs and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract into the butter-sugar mixture. Make sure everything is well combined. The vanilla adds a lovely aroma that will make your kitchen smell divine. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl!
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt. This dry mixture is the backbone of your brownies, giving them that rich chocolate flavor. Gradually stir this into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want those brownies to be fudgy!
Step 5: Combine Mixtures
Now it’s time to fold in 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips and 10 roughly chopped Oreo cookies. This is where the magic happens! The chocolate chips add extra gooeyness, while the Oreos bring that delightful crunch. Spread the brownie batter evenly into your prepared pan, making sure it’s nice and smooth.
Step 6: Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture
In a medium bowl, beat 8 ounces of softened cream cheese, ⅓ cup of granulated sugar, 1 large egg, and ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. This mixture is what takes your brownies to the next level. Fold in 6 crushed Oreo cookies for that extra Oreo goodness. You’ll want to eat this straight from the bowl!
Step 7: Swirl the Mixtures
Now, spoon the cream cheese mixture over the brownie batter. Use a knife or toothpick to gently swirl it together. Don’t overdo it; we want those beautiful swirls to show! This step adds a lovely marbled effect that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the taste buds.
Step 8: Bake
Pop your pan into the preheated oven and bake for 35–40 minutes. Keep an eye on them! You’ll know they’re done when the edges are set, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs—not wet batter. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible!
Step 9: Cool and Slice
Once baked, let the brownies cool completely in the pan. For cleaner cuts, you can refrigerate them for a bit. When you’re ready to slice, use a sharp knife and cut them into squares. Enjoy the delightful layers of chocolate and cream cheese with every bite!
Tips for Success
- Make sure your butter is melted but not hot to avoid cooking the eggs.
- Use room temperature cream cheese for a smoother mixture.
- Don’t overmix the brownie batter; it should be just combined for that fudgy texture.
- For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of espresso powder to the brownie mix.
- Let the brownies cool completely before slicing for cleaner edges.
Equipment Needed
- Baking pan: A 9×13-inch pan is ideal, but an 8×8-inch pan works too for thicker brownies.
- Mixing bowls: Use medium and large bowls for mixing wet and dry ingredients.
- Whisk: A whisk helps combine ingredients smoothly; a fork can work in a pinch.
- Spatula: A rubber spatula is perfect for folding in ingredients and scraping the bowl.
- Knife: A sharp knife is essential for slicing the brownies cleanly.
Variations
- Nutty Delight: Add 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the brownie batter for a crunchy texture.
- Minty Fresh: Incorporate 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract into the cream cheese mixture for a refreshing twist.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a delicious gluten-free treat.
- Vegan Version: Use flax eggs and dairy-free cream cheese to make these brownies vegan-friendly.
- Chocolate Overload: Mix in an extra ½ cup of chocolate chips for an even richer chocolate experience.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair these Cream Cheese Oreo Brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.
- Serve with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or caramel for an extra indulgent touch.
- For a refreshing drink, enjoy with a glass of cold milk or a rich coffee.
- Garnish with whipped cream and a sprinkle of crushed Oreos for a beautiful presentation.
FAQs about Cream Cheese Oreo Brownies
Can I make these Cream Cheese Oreo Brownies ahead of time?
Absolutely! These brownies can be made a day in advance. Just store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This actually enhances the flavors, making them even more delicious!
How do I store leftover brownies?
To keep your Cream Cheese Oreo Brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay good for about a week, but I doubt they’ll last that long!
Can I freeze these brownies?
Yes, you can freeze them! Just wrap individual brownies in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll be good for up to three months. Perfect for those unexpected dessert cravings!
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
If you’re looking for a substitute, you can use mascarpone cheese or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. Both will give you a similar creamy texture without compromising flavor.
Can I add other mix-ins to the brownie batter?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative. You can add nuts, chocolate chunks, or even a swirl of peanut butter for a fun twist. The possibilities are endless!
Final Thoughts
Making these Cream Cheese Oreo Brownies is more than just baking; it’s about creating sweet memories in the kitchen. The joy of swirling that creamy mixture into the rich brownie batter is a delightful experience that brings a smile to my face every time. Whether you’re sharing them with family or enjoying a quiet moment with a cup of coffee, these brownies are sure to bring happiness. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the mess, and indulge in this decadent treat. Trust me, every bite is worth it, and you’ll be glad you did!
Print
Cream Cheese Oreo Brownies
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Hey there, fellow dessert lovers! If you’re anything like me, you know that life can get pretty hectic. Between juggling work, family, and everything in between, finding time to whip up something special can feel impossible. That’s where these Cream Cheese Oreo Brownies come in! They’re the perfect blend of rich chocolate and creamy goodness, making them a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether you need a quick solution for a busy day or want to impress your loved ones, these brownies are sure to bring smiles and satisfaction. Let’s dive into this delicious adventure together!
Ingredients
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 10 Oreo cookies, roughly chopped
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 6 Oreo cookies, crushed
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease.
- In a large saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, melt butter. Stir in sugar until smooth and let cool slightly.
- Whisk in eggs and vanilla.
- In a separate bowl, mix flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Stir into the wet mixture until just combined.
- Fold in chocolate chips and chopped Oreos. Spread brownie batter evenly into the prepared pan.
- In a medium bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla until smooth and creamy. Fold in crushed Oreos.
- Spoon cream cheese mixture over the brownie batter and gently swirl with a knife or toothpick.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the edges are set and a toothpick inserted comes out with moist crumbs (not wet batter).
- Cool completely before slicing. Chill for cleaner cuts if needed.
Notes
- For cleaner cuts, refrigerate the brownies before slicing.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
