Are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure that's as simple as it is delicious? Then get ready to bake up a batch of these irresistible Oreo Cookies and Cream Cookies! This recipe is perfect for beginner bakers, requiring minimal ingredients and straightforward steps. It’s a fantastic option for a quick dessert, a delightful treat for a bake sale, or simply a satisfying homemade indulgence. Let's dive in!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¾ cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ cups Oreo cookie crumbs (about 12-15 Oreos)
- ½ cup white chocolate chips (optional, for extra indulgence!)
Instructions:
Get started: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze!
Cream together the butter and sugars: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for creating a tender cookie. You can use a hand mixer or a stand mixer for this.
Add the wet ingredients: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
Combine the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
Stir in the Oreo crumbs and chocolate chips (optional): Gently fold in the Oreo cookie crumbs and white chocolate chips (if using).
Scoop and bake: Drop rounded tablespoons of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving some space between each cookie.
Bake to perfection: Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Keep a close eye on them, as ovens can vary.
Cool and enjoy: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Perfect Cookies:
- Softened butter is key: Make sure your butter is truly softened, but not melted. This will ensure that it creams properly with the sugars.
- Don't overmix the dough: Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough cookies. Mix until just combined.
- Chill the dough (optional): For thicker, chewier cookies, chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before baking.
- Adjust baking time: Ovens vary, so keep an eye on your cookies and adjust the baking time as needed.
Variations:
- Chocolate overload: Add mini chocolate chips along with the white chocolate chips.
- Nutty delight: Stir in ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts.
- Double Stuffed: Press an extra Oreo half into the center of each cookie before baking.
Nutritional Information (per cookie, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on variations and cookie size)
These Oreo Cookies and Cream Cookies are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Their simple preparation and incredible flavor make them a perfect addition to any occasion. Enjoy baking and savoring these delightful treats!