Cookies and Cream Cupcakes

If you love the combination of chocolate and creamy vanilla, then these Cookies and Cream Cupcakes are just for you! They are soft, moist, and packed with crushed Oreo cookies in both the batter and the frosting. These cupcakes are perfect for any occasion, from birthday parties to casual weekend baking.

Why You’ll Love These Cookies and Cream Cupcakes

• Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and steps make this recipe beginner-friendly.

• Rich and Creamy Flavor – A perfect blend of chocolate and vanilla with a crunchy Oreo texture.

• Crowd-Pleaser – Great for parties, potlucks, or even as a fun baking project.

• Customizable – You can easily modify the recipe for different flavors and dietary needs.

Ingredients List

For the Cupcakes:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder

• 1/2 tsp baking soda

• 1/4 tsp salt

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 2 large eggs

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 3/4 cup buttermilk

• 1/2 cup crushed Oreo cookies (about 6 Oreos)

For the Frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 3 cups powdered sugar

• 1/4 cup heavy cream

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1/2 cup finely crushed Oreo cookies

• Extra Oreo cookies for garnish

Equipment

• Mixing bowls

• Hand or stand mixer

• Muffin tin

• Cupcake liners

• Piping bag (optional)

• Spatula

Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 18–22 minutes

• Total Time: 35–40 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla extract.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with buttermilk. Stir in crushed Oreo cookies.

Step 5: Bake the Cupcakes

Fill cupcake liners 2/3 full with batter. Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool completely.

Step 6: Make the Frosting

Beat butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, followed by heavy cream and vanilla extract. Stir in crushed Oreos.

Step 7: Frost and Garnish

Pipe or spread the frosting onto the cooled cupcakes. Garnish with Oreo pieces for extra crunch.

Variations and Customizations

Chocolate Lover’s Version

Use extra cocoa powder in the batter and add melted chocolate to the frosting for an intense chocolate flavor.

Vanilla-Based Cookies and Cream Cupcakes

Swap cocoa powder for additional flour and use a vanilla cupcake base instead.

Gluten-Free Version

Replace all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free Oreos.

Healthier Option

Use Greek yogurt instead of butter and replace half the sugar with honey or maple syrup.

Tips for the Best Cookies and Cream Cupcakes

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients – This ensures even mixing and a fluffy texture.

• Don’t Overmix the Batter – Overmixing can lead to dense cupcakes.

• Cool Completely Before Frosting – Otherwise, the frosting may melt.

• Sift the Oreo Crumbs for Smooth Frosting – This prevents clogging in the piping bag.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a glass of cold milk for a classic cookies-and-cream pairing.

• Add a drizzle of chocolate ganache for extra indulgence.

• Sprinkle with crushed Oreos or mini chocolate chips for decoration.

Nutritional Information (Per Cupcake)

• Calories: 280–320 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 42g

• Protein: 4g

• Fat: 14g

• Sugar: 28g

• Fiber: 2g

• Sodium: 150mg

(Note: Values vary based on ingredients and portion size.)

FAQs

Can I Make These Cupcakes Ahead of Time?

Yes! Store unfrosted cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for 5 days.

Can I Freeze Cookies and Cream Cupcakes?

Absolutely! Freeze unfrosted cupcakes for up to 3 months. Thaw and frost before serving.

How Can I Make These Cupcakes More Moist?

Use buttermilk instead of regular milk and ensure you don’t overbake them.

What’s the Best Way to Crush Oreos?

Use a food processor for fine crumbs or place Oreos in a ziplock bag and crush them with a rolling pin for chunkier pieces.

Conclusion

Cookies and Cream Cupcakes are the perfect blend of chocolatey goodness and creamy sweetness. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just treating yourself, these cupcakes are sure to impress. Try different variations, get creative with decorations, and most importantly, enjoy every bite.