Cookies and Cream Cookies Recipe

Cookies and Cream Cookies Recipe

Introduction:

Cookies and Cream cookies are a delightful treat that brings together the creamy goodness of vanilla and the irresistible crunch of chocolate cookies. Inspired by the beloved Cookies and Cream ice cream flavor, these cookies are a mash-up of crispy, chewy, and creamy textures in each bite. They are perfect for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a party, baking with your kids, or just satisfying a sweet craving. The combination of crushed Oreos and creamy white chocolate chips makes for an unforgettable cookie experience. These cookies can be enjoyed fresh out of the oven with a glass of milk or stored for a few days as a grab-and-go snack.

Not only are these cookies delicious, but they are incredibly easy to make! You’ll impress friends, family, and fellow cookie lovers with these indulgent bites that feature both crunchy and creamy elements. The best part? You don’t have to be an experienced baker to make these Cookies and Cream cookies—they’re as simple as they are scrumptious.

Ingredients:

To bake a batch of approximately 24 cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Cookie Dough:

• 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened to room temperature)
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ¾ cup packed light brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup white chocolate chips
• 1 ½ cups Oreo cookies (about 10-12 large Oreos), crushed into bite-sized pieces

Optional Ingredients for Topping:

• ¼ cup crushed Oreos for rolling or sprinkling on top (for extra crunch and decoration)
• A pinch of sea salt (for an interesting sweet-salty balance)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Set this aside for later.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar using an electric hand mixer or stand mixer. Beat on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This process helps to incorporate air into the dough, resulting in soft and chewy cookies.
4. Add Wet Ingredients: Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure all ingredients are fully incorporated.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients (flour, baking soda, salt) into the wet mixture. Mix on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix at this stage to ensure the cookies stay tender and soft.
6. Fold in the Fun Stuff: Gently fold in the white chocolate chips and crushed Oreos using a spatula or spoon. You want the Oreos to be evenly distributed but not crushed into a fine powder. The chunks of Oreo cookies will create that signature “cookies and cream” texture in your dough.
7. Scoop the Dough: Using a cookie scoop or two spoons, scoop out dough into 1 ½-inch balls and place them onto your prepared baking sheets, spaced about 2 inches apart. If you want extra Oreo crunch on top, lightly roll the cookie dough balls in the reserved crushed Oreos or sprinkle them on top.
8. Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are still soft. The cookies will continue to cook slightly once out of the oven, so don’t worry if they look a bit underdone when you take them out.
9. Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This will help them set and prevent them from falling apart.

Methods:

1. Creaming Method: The creaming method, where the butter and sugars are mixed together first, is key to achieving a soft, chewy texture. This technique traps air in the dough, helping the cookies to spread evenly and bake into a tender consistency.
2. Folding Method: When incorporating the crushed Oreos and white chocolate chips into the dough, it’s important to fold them in gently to avoid crushing the cookies into dust. This ensures you get generous chunks of Oreo in every bite.
3. Baking Method: Baking the cookies at a moderate temperature (350°F or 175°C) ensures that the outside becomes golden and slightly crispy while keeping the interior chewy and moist. You can adjust the baking time slightly depending on your oven and personal preference for soft or slightly crispy cookies.
4. Chilling Method (Optional): For thicker cookies with a chewy texture, you can refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. Chilling the dough helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much and results in a thicker, more substantial cookie.

History of Cookies and Cream:

The “Cookies and Cream” flavor is most famously associated with ice cream, a treat that became popular in the mid-20th century in America. The flavor is a combination of vanilla ice cream and crushed chocolate sandwich cookies, usually Oreos. Its origins are debated, but it’s believed to have been created in the 1970s, possibly by a few ice cream makers experimenting with cookies mixed into vanilla base.

As time went on, the delicious combination of cookies and cream was adapted into various dessert formats, including cakes, milkshakes, and, of course, cookies. The Oreo cookie itself, introduced by Nabisco in 1912, has been a classic part of American culture and is now one of the most recognized cookies in the world. With its rich history and its place in popular culture, it’s no surprise that the flavor found its way into cookies and other baked goods.

Benefits of Cookies and Cream Cookies:

1. Rich in Flavor: The combination of crunchy chocolate sandwich cookies and sweet, creamy white chocolate chips provides a delightful contrast of textures. The result is a deliciously indulgent treat that satisfies sweet cravings in a way few other cookies can.
2. Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, these cookies are perfect for beginner bakers. You don’t need to be an expert to whip up a batch of these scrumptious treats—just follow the recipe, and you’ll be enjoying freshly baked cookies in no time.
3. Customizable: You can easily tweak this recipe to suit your taste. Swap out the white chocolate chips for milk or dark chocolate chips if preferred, or experiment with adding other mix-ins like mini marshmallows or peanut butter cups.
4. Great for All Ages: Cookies and Cream cookies are a great treat for both kids and adults. The familiar Oreo taste appeals to children, while the addition of white chocolate chips adds an extra layer of luxury that adults will enjoy as well.
5. Perfect for Gifting: If you’re looking for a gift for a cookie lover, these cookies make for a fantastic homemade present. Packaged in a cute tin or jar, they’re a great option for birthdays, holidays, or just because.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per Cookie):

• Calories: 180
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 15g
• Sodium: 120mg

(Note: Nutritional values are estimates based on average ingredients and may vary based on brands and exact measurements used.)

Conclusion:

Cookies and Cream cookies are a nostalgic, delightful treat that brings the best of two worlds together: the crunchy, chocolatey goodness of Oreos and the creamy, sweet comfort of white chocolate. Perfect for any occasion, from cozy family gatherings to festive parties, these cookies offer a delicious bite of indulgence. Their irresistible flavor and texture make them a favorite among all ages.

For Lovers of Sweet and Creamy Desserts: If you’re a fan of cookies and cream ice cream, these cookies will make your heart sing! They combine the perfect amount of crunch and creaminess, creating a snack that’s as comforting as it is satisfying. They’re the ultimate treat to share with friends, family, or anyone who loves a good cookie.

So, gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and bake up a batch of these Cookies and Cream cookies. You’re sure to have everyone coming back for more!

Enjoy your cookies and spread the love!