Cookies & Cream Cookies

Soft and chewy Cookies & Cream Cookies stuffed with Oreo pieces are the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a casual get-together, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, these cookies deliver delightful flavors with every bite. The unique combination of creamy goodness from the cream cheese and the crunchy bits of Oreos make this recipe stand out. Plus, it’s easy to whip up, ensuring that you can share these delicious cookies with friends and family in no time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make – With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, baking these cookies is a breeze.
• Delicious Flavor – The creamy and chocolatey blend creates an irresistible taste that will have everyone asking for more.
• Versatile Treat – Perfect for various occasions, these cookies are great for parties, picnics, or just a cozy night in.
• Fun Texture – The combination of soft cookie dough and crunchy Oreo pieces provides a delightful contrast in every bite.
• Family-Friendly – Kids love them! Get them involved in the mixing and smashing process for added fun.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Cookies & Cream Cookies, gather the necessary tools to streamline the process. Having everything on hand will make baking much easier.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or electric hand mixer
• Large mixing bowl
• Medium-sized bowl
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer – This tool makes creaming butter and cream cheese effortless, ensuring a smooth batter.
• Baking sheets – They provide a sturdy surface for baking your cookies evenly without sticking.
• Spatula – A must-have for scraping down the sides of bowls to ensure all ingredients are well combined.

Ingredients

To create these delightful Cookies & Cream Cookies, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Cookie Dough

• ¾ cup unsalted butter (softened to room temperature)
• 3 oz cream cheese (use brick-style and not spreadable cream cheese, softened to room temperature)
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ⅓ cup light brown sugar (firmly packed)
• 1 large egg (room temperature preferred)
• ¾ teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Dry Ingredients

• 2 ⅔ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• ¾ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt

For Mix-Ins

• 12 Oreos (broken into small pieces)
• ½ cup mini chocolate chips

How to Make Cookies & Cream Cookies

Step 1: Cream Together Ingredients

In the bowl of a stand mixer or using an electric hand mixer in a large bowl, cream together the butter, cream cheese, and both types of sugar. Beat until well combined.

Step 2: Add Egg and Vanilla

Add in the egg and vanilla extract, then beat again until everything is well-combined.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

With your mixer on low speed, gradually add the dry mixture to the butter mixture. Scrape down the sides with a spatula as needed to ensure thorough mixing.

Step 5: Add Oreos and Chocolate Chips

Fold in the broken Oreos and mini chocolate chips, stirring until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 6: Chill Dough

Cover your bowl with plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

Step 7: Preheat Oven

When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your cookie sheets with parchment paper.

Step 8: Scoop Dough

Remove chilled dough from the fridge. Drop heaping tablespoon-sized scoops onto your prepared baking sheet, spacing them at least 2 inches apart.

Step 9: Bake Cookies

Transfer your baking sheet into the preheated oven. Bake for about 10-12 minutes or until the edges are just starting to turn golden brown. Allow cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet before enjoying!

How to Serve Cookies & Cream Cookies

Serving Cookies & Cream Cookies can be a delightful experience, enhancing their rich flavor and texture. There are many fun ways to present these cookies that will impress your guests or treat yourself!

With Milk

• Enjoy the classic pairing of cookies and milk for a nostalgic treat. The creamy milk complements the rich cookie flavors perfectly.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Sandwich a scoop of vanilla or cookies and cream ice cream between two cookies. This makes for a deliciously indulgent dessert that’s perfect for warm days.

Warm with Whipped Topping

• Serve the cookies warm, topped with a dollop of whipped topping. This adds a light, airy texture that balances the richness of the cookie.

Cookie Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a decorative platter, alongside fruits like strawberries or raspberries. This presentation is visually appealing and offers freshness alongside the sweet treats.

Dipped in Chocolate

• Melt some chocolate and dip half of each cookie in it for an extra layer of decadence. Allow them to set before serving for a crunchy contrast.

How to Perfect Cookies & Cream Cookies

To achieve the best Cookies & Cream Cookies, follow these helpful tips to ensure they turn out soft, chewy, and full of flavor.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Using butter, cream cheese, and eggs at room temperature helps create a smoother batter and better texture in your cookies.

• Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld and results in thicker cookies that won’t spread too much during baking.

• Don’t Overmix: When adding flour to the wet ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense cookies instead of light and fluffy ones.

• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. Removing them from the oven when they are just golden around the edges ensures they remain soft inside.

Best Side Dishes for Cookies & Cream Cookies

Pairing side dishes with your Cookies & Cream Cookies can elevate your dessert experience! Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing balance to the sweetness of the cookies.

2. Vanilla Yogurt Parfait
   Layer yogurt with granola and fresh berries for a creamy and crunchy side that complements the cookies well.

3. Chocolate Milkshake
   A thick chocolate milkshake enhances the dessert experience while echoing cookie flavors.

4. Coffee or Espresso
   A cup of coffee or espresso pairs beautifully with sweet desserts, cutting through their richness with its bold flavors.

5. Nut Butter Dip
   Serve peanut butter or almond butter for dipping; it adds protein and brings a delicious nutty flavor that contrasts nicely with sweet cookies.

6. Gourmet Cheese Platter
   Offer a selection of mild cheeses such as brie or gouda alongside crackers; this savory option provides an interesting contrast to desserts.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cookies & Cream Cookies, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are some common pitfalls to steer clear of.

• Using cold ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, especially butter and cream cheese, are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Skipping the chilling step: Chilling the dough is crucial for achieving the right cookie texture. Don’t skip this step; it helps prevent spreading during baking.
• Overmixing the dough: Mix until just combined to keep your cookies soft and chewy. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
• Incorrect oven temperature: Always preheat your oven properly before baking. An oven that’s too hot or too cold can ruin your cookies.
• Not spacing cookies correctly: Place cookies at least 2 inches apart on the baking sheet. This allows them to spread without merging into each other.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Layer cookies between sheets of parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing Cookies & Cream Cookies

• Freeze baked cookies in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
• For unbaked dough, scoop into balls, freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a bag for easier storage.

Reheating Cookies & Cream Cookies

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds; be careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat for a couple of minutes until slightly warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Cookies & Cream Cookies.

How do I achieve soft Cookies & Cream Cookies?

To achieve soft cookies, ensure you do not overbake them. Remove them from the oven when they are just golden around the edges.

Can I customize my Cookies & Cream Cookies?

Absolutely! You can add different types of chocolate chips or even nuts for added flavor and texture.

What can I use instead of Oreos in my Cookies & Cream Cookies?

You can try using any chocolate sandwich cookies as a substitute for Oreos, or even crushed chocolate wafers.

How long do these Cookies & Cream Cookies last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, they will last up to one week in the refrigerator or three months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

These delicious Cookies & Cream Cookies combine softness with crunchy Oreo pieces, making them irresistible. They are versatile too; feel free to customize with different mix-ins or toppings. Try this easy recipe and enjoy a delightful treat!