Cookies and Cream Cupcakes
If you’ve ever craved something that combines the rich indulgence of chocolate cake with the delightful crunch of Oreos, then these Cookies and Cream Cupcakes are going to be your new best friend! Imagine fluffy cupcakes infused with cocoa, lovingly filled with a creamy Oreo filling, and finished off with a heavenly Oreo buttercream frosting. Sounds like a sweet dream, right?
These cupcakes aren’t just a treat for your tastebuds; they also bring a smile to your face and nostalgic memories of childhood. Did you know that the Oreo cookie has been bringing joy to cookie lovers since 1912? This recipe is perfect for family gatherings, birthday parties, or just a cozy night in. Trust me, once you’ve baked these bad boys, you won’t want to share! If you love cookies and cupcakes as much as I do, you’ll find parallels in my classic Chocolate Cupcakes that are also a hit. But today, let’s focus on these delectable Cookies and Cream Cupcakes that will surely steal the spotlight!
What are Cookies and Cream Cupcakes?
So, what exactly are Cookies and Cream Cupcakes? Well, they are essentially a delightful concoction that takes the essence of the beloved Oreo cookie and transforms it into a moist, flavorful cupcake. But let’s face it: Is there anything better than biting into a cake that’s not only chocolatey but crisp with cookie chunks? It’s like a party for your taste buds! Some people might wonder who came up with this genius idea. If I were to guess, I’d say it was someone who really loved cookies—after all, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach!” So, why not whip up a batch of these delightful cupcakes and share the love?
Why You’ll Love These Cookies and Cream Cupcakes
There are three standout reasons you’ll fall head over heels for Cookies and Cream Cupcakes! First, they are so incredibly decadent. The combination of fluffy chocolate cake with a creamy, cookie-filled center is nothing short of divine. Second, making them at home is way more economical than buying fancy bakery treats. You’ll impress your friends and family without breaking the bank. And lastly, the toppings! Each cupcake is adorned with rich Oreo buttercream and finished with a cookie on top, making them visually stunning and utterly mouthwatering. If you enjoy these, be sure to check out my other treats, like Chocolate Chip Cookies, for more scrumptious baking ideas. Now, go ahead and feel inspired to bake these cupcakes today!
How to Make Cookies and Cream Cupcakes
Quick Overview
Making Cookies and Cream Cupcakes is not only easy but incredibly satisfying. With just a few essential ingredients and less than an hour of your time, you can impress everyone with your baking skills! The highlight? Their rich chocolate flavor paired with the creamy Oreo filling; it’s an experience you won’t forget!
Key Ingredients for Cookies and Cream Cupcakes
Here’s what you’ll need to make these delightful cupcakes:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup hot water or coffee
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 8 crushed Oreo cookies
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
- 3 cups powdered sugar (for frosting)
- 2 tbsp heavy cream (for frosting)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (for frosting)
- 1/2 cup crushed Oreos (for frosting)
- Whole Oreo cookies (for topping)
- Chocolate sauce (for drizzling)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Make the Cupcakes: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners. In one bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract next. Gradually alternate adding the dry ingredients mix with the buttermilk, blending until combined. Finally, stir in the hot water or coffee until the batter is smooth.
- Fill each cupcake liner about 2/3 full with the batter and bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes. Once done, allow them to cool completely.
- Make the Cookies & Cream Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream and powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Fold in the crushed Oreo cookies and set aside.
- Make the Frosting: In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter until fluffy. Gradually add in powdered sugar. Then, add the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and crushed Oreos. Mix until well combined.
- Assemble the Cupcakes: Cut out the center of each cooled cupcake and fill with the cookies & cream filling. Pipe the Oreo frosting on top, drizzle with chocolate sauce, and garnish with a whole Oreo cookie.
What to Serve with Cookies and Cream Cupcakes
These Cookies and Cream Cupcakes are delightful all on their own, but if you want to create an unforgettable dessert table, serve them alongside a rich chocolate ice cream or a creamy vanilla bean gelato. You could also pair them with a warm cup of coffee or a glass of milk for that classic pairing that brings out the cookie flavor!
Top Tips for Perfecting Cookies and Cream Cupcakes
To elevate your cupcake experience, here are a few tips:
- Ingredient Swaps: If you’re out of buttermilk, a combination of regular milk and a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice works perfectly as a substitute.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining your wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined to keep your cupcakes light and fluffy.
- Decorate with Flair: Get creative! Add extra crushed Oreos on top of the frosting for an extra crunch or use different toppings based on your preference.
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you have any leftovers (unlikely but possible!), you can store these cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, pop them in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to freeze them, wrap each cupcake individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to a month. To reheat, simply take them out and let them come to room temperature, or warm them briefly in the microwave—just be careful not to overdo it!
Now that you have everything you need, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to make some heavenly Cookies and Cream Cupcakes! Enjoy your baking adventure and the scrumptious treats that follow!
Cookies and Cream Cupcakes
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup hot water or coffee
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 8 crushed Oreo cookies
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened (for frosting)
- 3 cups powdered sugar for frosting
- 2 tbsp heavy cream for frosting
- 1 tsp vanilla extract for frosting
- 1/2 cup crushed Oreos for frosting
- Whole Oreo cookies for topping
- Chocolate sauce for drizzling
Instructions
- Make the Cupcakes: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners. In one bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract next. Gradually alternate adding the dry ingredients mix with the buttermilk, blending until combined. Finally, stir in the hot water or coffee until the batter is smooth.
- Fill each cupcake liner about 2/3 full with the batter and bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes. Once done, allow them to cool completely.
- Make the Cookies & Cream Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream and powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Fold in the crushed Oreo cookies and set aside.
- Make the Frosting: In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter until fluffy. Gradually add in powdered sugar. Then, add the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and crushed Oreos. Mix until well combined.
- Assemble the Cupcakes: Cut out the center of each cooled cupcake and fill with the cookies & cream filling. Pipe the Oreo frosting on top, drizzle with chocolate sauce, and garnish with a whole Oreo cookie.
