Cookies and Cream Cookies – The Ultimate Soft & Chewy Delight for Oreo Lovers

Cookies and Cream Cookies are the ultimate mashup of nostalgia and indulgence, combining the rich, chocolatey crunch of Oreos with soft, buttery cookie dough. Whether you’re a home baker or just someone with a sweet tooth, these cookies hit the spot every single time. In this complete guide, we’ll explore everything from their delicious origins and ingredient breakdowns to step-by-step baking instructions and fun variations like milkshakes and ice cream. Want to elevate your cookie game or surprise someone with a decadent treat? This guide has you covered—from chewy centers to crispy edges and everything in between.

What Are Cookies and Cream Cookies?

The Origin and Evolution of Cookies and Cream Flavor

Cookies and cream started as a game-changer in the ice cream world back in the late ’70s. Whether it was Blue Bell Creameries, Dreyer’s, or South Dakota State University who actually invented it, one thing is certain—the flavor went viral before viral was even a thing. It didn’t stop with ice cream either. That irresistible combo of chocolate sandwich cookies and vanilla cream made its way into cakes, milkshakes, and now, Cookies and Cream Cookies.

What makes this flavor so timeless? It combines classic textures and flavors—crunchy, creamy, and chocolaty—into an experience that’s both nostalgic and refreshingly new. No wonder it took off!

Cookies and Cream Cookies

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• Author: Mary
• Total Time: 27 minutes
• Yield: 24 cookies 1x

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Description

Soft, chewy, and packed with crushed Oreos, these Cookies and Cream Cookies are a dream come true for any cookie lover.

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Ingredients

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• 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 cups (roughly 20) crushed Oreo cookies
• 1 cup white chocolate chips (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until combined.
6. Fold in crushed Oreos and white chocolate chips, if using.
7. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are golden and centers are set.
9. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Notes

For extra flavor, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking. Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cookie
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 14g
• Sodium: 95mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 0.5g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 25mg

Defining Cookies and Cream Cookies: Ingredients and Texture

Cookies and Cream Cookies are typically made from a soft, buttery cookie dough packed with crushed Oreos or similar chocolate sandwich cookies. Some recipes throw in extras like white chocolate chips, cream cheese, or even a swirl of vanilla frosting.

Here’s what you can expect in every bite:

• Soft, chewy centers with crisp edges
• Bits of cookie crunch throughout
• Creamy, chocolatey, melt-in-your-mouth satisfaction

These cookies aren’t just tasty—they’re visual treats. The striking black-and-white contrast of Oreo chunks nestled in golden dough adds to its irresistible charm.

Why Cookies and Cream Cookies Are So Popular Today

They’re fun. They’re comforting. And best of all—they’re incredibly easy to make. Cookies and Cream Cookies check every box for modern dessert lovers:

• Flavor fusion that hits multiple cravings at once
• Customization-friendly for different dietary needs
• Photogenic appeal for social sharing
• Perfect pairings with ice cream, milk, or coffee

Bakers love how easily they come together, while eaters can’t resist the flavor. These cookies are truly a people-pleaser, perfect for lunchboxes, bake sales, and holiday trays.

Ingredients That Make the Perfect Cookies and Cream Cookies

Choosing the Right Type of Oreos (Classic vs Flavored)

When crafting the ultimate Cookies and Cream Cookies, the Oreos you choose make a big difference. Classic Oreos are the go-to option—they deliver that iconic chocolate crunch and cream-filled center we all love. However, if you want to mix things up, there are plenty of flavored varieties worth experimenting with.

Here’s a quick comparison table to help you decide:

Most bakers choose classic Oreos for their signature flavor and seamless pairing with traditional cookie dough. When chopping Oreos, keep some chunks larger for texture and crush others more finely for flavor throughout the dough.

Butter, Sugar, and Other Key Baking Components

While Oreos are the star, the rest of the cookie dough needs to be rich, tender, and balanced. The foundation of any great Cookies and Cream Cookies recipe is a well-mixed dough. Let’s break down the essentials:

Butter

Use unsalted, room-temperature butter. This gives you control over the salt levels and makes creaming easier. For extra flavor, consider browning the butter first—it adds a nutty depth.

Sugar

Using a combination of granulated sugar and brown sugar yields the best results. Brown sugar adds moisture and chewiness, while granulated sugar ensures crisp edges.

Flour

All-purpose flour does the trick. If you want an even softer cookie, you can replace a small portion with cake flour.

Leavening

Use a combo of baking soda and a small amount of baking powder to give the cookies a subtle rise without making them cakey.

Eggs and Vanilla

One or two large eggs plus a generous splash of real vanilla extract will help bind the dough and add aroma.

Salt

Even sweet cookies need salt. It enhances the flavor while balancing the sweetness.

Optional Add-ins

• White chocolate chips: Add a creamy, sweet contrast to the dark Oreo bits.
• Crushed freeze-dried strawberries: For a fruity cookies-and-cream variation.

Don’t miss our Chocolate Marshmallow Ice Cream to pair with your freshly baked cookies for the ultimate indulgence.

Step-by-Step Recipe for Cookies and Cream Cookies

Prepping the Dough: Tips for the Perfect Texture

The secret to baking bakery-style Cookies and Cream Cookies lies in how you prepare the dough. It’s more than just mixing ingredients—it’s about technique, timing, and a few tricks to achieve the perfect chewy-soft middle with golden crisp edges.

Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Cream the Butter and Sugars
   Start with room-temperature unsalted butter. Beat it with brown sugar and white sugar until it’s light and fluffy—about 2-3 minutes. This step incorporates air, resulting in a soft and tender texture.
2. Add Eggs and Vanilla
   Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the addition of pure vanilla extract. This builds flavor and structure.
3. Mix Dry Ingredients Separately In another bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt by whisking them together. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mix.
4. Fold in the Oreos
   Break Oreos by hand or chop them roughly. Fold in chunks carefully—don’t overmix or the cream filling will dissolve into the dough. Keep a few large chunks for that crunchy bite.
5. Optional: Chill the Dough
   Chilling for at least 30 minutes (or overnight) makes cookies thicker and more flavorful. It allows the flour to hydrate and prevents spreading in the oven.

Baking Instructions for Soft and Chewy Results

Once the dough is ready, here’s how to bake your cookies to perfection:

• Preheat the Oven: Set it to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
• Scoop the Dough: Use a medium cookie scoop or spoon to form even-sized balls, spacing them 2 inches apart on the tray.
• Bake Time: Bake for 10–12 minutes. Cookies should look slightly underbaked in the center—that’s how they stay soft as they cool.
• Cooling Tip: Allow them to cool on the tray for 5 minutes before moving them to a wire rack to finish cooling. This prevents overbaking from residual heat.
• Serving Suggestion: Enjoy warm or pair with a scoop of Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream for a cookies-and-cream overload.
  Learn more about Strawberry Cheesecake Ice Cream and get inspired for serving combos.

Variations of Cookies and Cream Cookies

Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free Options

You don’t have to miss out on Cookies and Cream Cookies if you follow a special diet. With a few smart substitutions, these cookies can easily be made gluten-free, dairy-free, or even eggless—without losing their crave-worthy taste.

Here’s how to make them inclusive for more eaters:

For Gluten-Free Cookies:

• Use gluten-free all-purpose flour: Make sure it contains xanthan gum to mimic the elasticity of regular flour.
• Double-check your Oreos: Classic Oreos now offer a gluten-free version, but always read the label.

For Dairy-Free Cookies:

• Swap butter for plant-based margarine or refined coconut oil (unscented).
• Use dairy-free chocolate chips if adding extras.
• Pick Oreo’s dairy-free variants (most are vegan, but check ingredients just in case).

For Egg-Free Baking:

• Replace each egg with 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons of water, let it sit 5 minutes to thicken.

These versions still bake up soft and chewy, with the same rich flavor and iconic cookie crunch. Great for school-safe treats or allergy-friendly gifting.

Stuffed and Frosted Versions for Special Occasions

Cookies and Cream Cookies aren’t just delicious—they’re also a fun canvas for creativity. You can take the base dough and dress it up for holidays, birthdays, or just to wow guests.

Stuffed Cookies

• Oreo-Stuffed Cookies: Wrap dough around a whole Oreo and bake. You’ll get a gooey surprise in the center.
• Marshmallow-Stuffed Cookies: Use half a large marshmallow or mini mallows to add a melty, s’mores-like bite.

Frosted Cookies

• Add a swirl of cookies-and-cream buttercream or vanilla frosting once the cookies are cool.
• Top with crushed Oreos and a drizzle of chocolate or white chocolate sauce.

Holiday Versions

• Red Oreos for Valentine’s Day
• Peppermint Oreo bits with crushed candy cane for Christmas
• Pastel-colored Oreos for Easter treats

Cookies and Cream Cookies are perfect for experimenting. The key is maintaining balance—don’t overload the dough with too many add-ins, or the cookie may spread too thin.

Check out Condensed Milk Cookies for another fun twist on chewy and creamy cookie combos.

Pairing Ideas: What Goes Best With Cookies and Cream Cookies

Milk, Coffee, and Ice Cream Combinations

Pairing Cookies and Cream Cookies with the right drink or dessert can elevate their flavor and turn a simple snack into a standout experience. Whether you’re looking for a cozy treat or a show-stopping dessert plate, these combos never disappoint:

Classic Cold Milk

• There’s nothing quite like dipping a warm cookie into a cold glass of milk. The milk softens the cookie and amplifies the creaminess of the Oreo bits.
• For a more indulgent twist, pair your cookie with chocolate milk or vanilla almond milk.

Hot Coffee or Espresso

• Cookies and Cream Cookies pair beautifully with strong coffee or espresso. The sweetness of the cookie balances bitter notes from the brew.
• Try a cookies-and-cream affogato: place a cookie in a small bowl, top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, then pour hot espresso over it.

Milkshake Magic

• Blend a few of these cookies with vanilla or chocolate ice cream and a splash of milk for the ultimate Cookies and Cream Cookie Milkshake.
• Add whipped cream and a crumbled cookie on top for an Instagram-worthy finish.

With Ice Cream on the Side

• Pair warm cookies with a scoop of vanilla bean, chocolate fudge, or strawberry cheesecake ice cream.
• Crumble a cookie over the top for texture and extra Oreo flavor.
• Turn it into a full-on cookie sundae with syrup, nuts, and sprinkles.

Turning Them Into a Dessert Sandwich or Sundae

Cookies and Cream Cookies are a perfect base for more creative desserts. Try these simple ideas:

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Scoop your favorite ice cream between two cookies.
• Roll the edges in mini chocolate chips, crushed Oreos, or sprinkles for flair.
• Wrap them in parchment paper and freeze for 30 minutes to firm up before serving.

Cookie Sundae Bowl

• Crumble a few cookies into a bowl.
• Add scoops of ice cream, drizzle with chocolate or caramel syrup, and crown it all with a swirl of whipped cream.

Oreo Cheesecake Dip Combo

• Bake mini-sized Cookies and Cream Cookies and serve with a bowl of Oreo cheesecake dip made from cream cheese, powdered sugar, whipped topping, and crushed Oreos.

Cookies and Cream Cookies pair well with so many flavors because their base is both familiar and flexible. Whether served warm and gooey or chilled and layered, these cookies adapt to every occasion.

Discover great ideas like Cranberry Pistachio Shortbread Cookies if you’re ready to expand your dessert spread with unique cookie options.

Storage and Shelf Life of Cookies and Cream Cookies

How to Store for Long-Lasting Freshness

Proper storage is essential to keep your Cookies and Cream Cookies soft, chewy, and full of flavor. Whether you’re baking a batch for a party or prepping ahead for the week, here’s how to do it right.

Room Temperature Storage

• Storage Method: Place cooled cookies in an airtight container. Add a slice of bread to help them retain moisture.
• Shelf Life: Up to 5–6 days at room temperature.
• Tip: Stack cookies between parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.

Refrigerator Storage (Optional)

• While it’s not usually necessary, you can refrigerate them if your kitchen is very warm.
• Duration: Keeps for up to 7 days, though they may lose a little softness.
• Hack: Microwave for 5–8 seconds to revive their freshly baked texture.

Freezing Instructions and Reheating Tips

Want to enjoy Cookies and Cream Cookies anytime? Freezing is your best friend—whether you freeze the baked cookies or raw dough balls.

To Freeze Baked Cookies:

• Cool first: Let cookies cool completely.
• Wrap and Store: Wrap individually in plastic wrap or parchment, then place in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container.
• Shelf Life: Up to 3 months.
• To Serve: Let them thaw at room temperature for 30–60 minutes or warm in a 300°F oven for 5–6 minutes.

To Freeze Cookie Dough:

• Scoop first: Portion dough into balls.
• Flash freeze: Place on a baking sheet and freeze until solid (about 1 hour), then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.
• Shelf Life: Up to 3 months
• Bake straight from frozen—no thawing needed; simply add 1–2 minutes to the baking time.

Here’s a quick table for reference:

Maintaining the cookie’s signature texture—crisp edges with a soft middle—comes down to keeping them airtight and moisture-balanced.

Don’t miss our Chocolate Marshmallow Ice Cream again here, because it pairs perfectly with frozen or reheated cookies!

Nutritional Value and Allergen Info

Caloric Breakdown of a Single Cookie

While Cookies and Cream Cookies are a dessert first and foremost, it helps to know what you’re consuming—especially if you’re watching your intake or planning treats for kids or events.

A typical homemade cookie (about 2.5 to 3 inches wide) contains:

Note: Numbers will vary based on ingredients and portion size. Adding white chocolate chips or stuffing the cookies will increase fat and sugar content.

If you’re baking a smaller version or swapping in lighter ingredients (like coconut sugar or reduced-fat Oreos), you can bring the calorie count closer to 150 per cookie.

Common Allergens to Watch Out For

Cookies and Cream Cookies, like most baked goods, often include several major allergens. If you’re baking for others or adapting the recipe for dietary needs, here’s what to know:

Dairy

• Source: Butter, possibly milk-based white chocolate chips, and Oreo crème.
• Dairy-Free Swap: Use vegan butter and dairy-free Oreos (most varieties are already dairy-free).

Eggs

• Source: Standard in cookie dough to bind ingredients.
• Egg-Free Swap: Flax eggs, chia eggs, or commercial egg replacers.

Gluten

• Source: All-purpose flour and traditional Oreo cookies.
• Gluten-Free Swap: Use certified gluten-free flour and gluten-free Oreos.

Soy

• Source: Many store-bought Oreos and chocolate chips contain soy lecithin.
• Soy-Free Option: Look for organic or specialty cookies/chocolate without soy ingredients.

Nuts (Optional)

• While the standard recipe doesn’t include nuts, cross-contamination can occur if baking in a shared kitchen.

Always check labels if you or your guests have food allergies. Most major brands like Oreo now list allergens clearly on packaging.

If you’re seeking allergen-friendly alternatives, check out White Chocolate Chip Cookies for an adaptable cookie base that’s easy to modify for most diets.

Cookies and Cream-Inspired Desserts

How to Make Cookies and Cream Ice Cream at Home

If you love Cookies and Cream Cookies, chances are you’ll go wild for homemade Cookies and Cream Ice Cream. Creamy, dreamy, and loaded with Oreo bits—it’s the ultimate summer (or year-round) treat. The best part? No ice cream maker needed.

Here’s a quick no-churn recipe you can whip up at home:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups heavy whipping cream (cold)
• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 15 crushed Oreo cookies (or your favorite variation)

Instructions:

1. Whip the cream in a large bowl until stiff peaks form.
2. In a separate bowl, mix condensed milk and vanilla.
3. Fold whipped cream into the milk mixture.
4. Gently fold in crushed Oreos.
5. Pour into a loaf pan, cover, and freeze for 6–8 hours or overnight.

Bonus Tip: Add chunks of Cookies and Cream Cookies into the mix for the ultimate cookie-in-cookie experience.

How to Make a Cookies and Cream Milkshake

Nothing beats a thick, creamy Cookies and Cream Milkshake—especially when you make it at home. Here’s a basic version that pairs beautifully with your Cookies and Cream Cookies on the side.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups vanilla ice cream
• 1/2 cup whole milk (or dairy-free alternative)
• 5 Oreo cookies (or similar sandwich cookie)
• Whipped cream (optional)
• Chocolate syrup (optional)

Instructions:

1. Place the ice cream, milk, and cookies into a blender and blend until smooth.
2. Blend until smooth (add more milk for a thinner shake).
3. Pour into a tall glass.
4. Top with whipped cream and chocolate syrup, and garnish with a cookie on the rim.

Don’t miss our Condensed Milk Cookies to pair with this shake for a next-level dessert duo.

Creative Ways to Use Cookies and Cream Cookies in Desserts

Cookies and Cream Cookies aren’t just a snack—they can be ingredients too. Try these unique dessert twists:

• Cookie Crumble Parfaits: Layer crushed cookies with whipped cream and chocolate pudding in a glass.
• Cookies and Cream Brownie Bars: Mix cookie chunks into brownie batter or use as a topping.
• Cookies and Cream Cheesecake Bites: Use cookie pieces in the crust or folded into the cream cheese mix.

Cookies and Cream Cookies are a fun and flexible base for turning any dessert into something unforgettable.

The History and Popularity of Cookies and Cream

Who Invented Cookies and Cream Ice Cream?

Cookies and Cream isn’t just a flavor—it’s a cultural icon in the dessert world. But who exactly came up with the idea to blend chocolate sandwich cookies with vanilla ice cream?

The invention of Cookies and Cream ice cream is hotly debated. Several claims have emerged over the years:

• South Dakota State University (SDSU) often takes credit, stating that student dairy plant workers developed the flavor in 1979.
• Blue Bell Creameries also claims to have created and mass-produced the flavor around 1980.
• John Harrison, former official taster at Dreyer’s/Edy’s, said he helped popularize it in commercial markets during the early ’80s.

While the true “first” remains unclear, what’s certain is this: once Cookies and Cream hit grocery store freezers, it spread like wildfire. Today, it’s a top-five most popular ice cream flavor in the U.S., competing with vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry.

The blend of crunchy Oreo-style cookies with rich vanilla base makes it both nostalgic and innovative—a perfect combo of texture, sweetness, and creaminess.

How the Flavor Took Over the Dessert World

What started with ice cream didn’t stay there. The Cookies and Cream trend quickly crossed into:

• Cookies: like the ones we’ve been obsessing over.
• Milkshakes: with cookie crumbles blended into thick scoops of ice cream.
• Candy bars and snack cakes: Oreo or Cookies and Cream editions pop up in brands like Hershey’s and Hostess.
• Baking mixes: boxed brownie, cake, and muffin kits often offer a cookies-and-cream variant.

The popularity comes down to versatility and recognition. Cookies and Cream appeals to kids and adults, it works hot or cold, and it offers familiar flavors in new formats.

As bakers and foodies look for new ways to remix the flavor, we’re seeing more inventive desserts—like Cookies and Cream cookie dough ice cream sandwiches, cookie truffles, and even Cookies and Cream donuts.

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