Cupcake Oreos The Ultimate Guide to Irresistible Oreo Cupcake Recipes

Cupcake Oreos are the ultimate dessert mashup—rich, moist cupcakes swirled with crunchy Oreo bits and topped with a creamy frosting that brings the beloved cookie to life in every bite. In this article, we’ll explore what makes cupcake Oreos so irresistible, how to bake them perfectly every time, tips for freezing and storing, and expert answers to the most common cupcake questions. Whether you’re an aspiring baker or a cookie fan looking for a new twist, this guide is packed with everything you need to create your next go-to treat.

Table of Contents

Cupcake Oreos

What Are Cupcake Oreos and Why Everyone’s Obsessed

Cupcake Oreos are a delicious hybrid dessert that blends the iconic Oreo cookie into a classic cupcake format. Typically, these cupcakes contain crushed Oreos baked right into the batter, with extra Oreos in the frosting or even at the bottom as a surprise cookie crust. Some recipes use an entire Oreo as a base, while others crumble them throughout for bursts of crunch and creaminess.

This flavor-packed dessert has become a sensation in both home kitchens and professional bakeries. Why? Because it combines familiarity with fun. Kids love them. Adults can’t resist them. And best of all—they’re surprisingly easy to make.

Whether for birthday parties, potlucks, or weekend baking therapy, Oreo cupcakes offer a visually appealing, mouth-watering dessert that stands out.

Cupcake Oreos

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Mary
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 12 cupcakes 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Rich and indulgent cupcakes infused with crushed Oreos, topped with cookies and cream frosting—an irresistible treat for Oreo lovers.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup milk
• 10 crushed Oreo cookies
• 12 whole Oreos (optional for bottom of cupcake liners)
• Cookies and cream frosting

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. Place a whole Oreo at the bottom of each liner if using.
3. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
4. In another bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
5. Add eggs one at a time, then vanilla extract.
6. Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk to the batter, mixing just until combined.
7. Fold in the crushed Oreos.
8. Divide batter among the liners, filling 3/4 full.
9. Bake for 18–22 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
10. Cool completely before frosting with cookies and cream frosting.

Notes

Top with mini Oreos or crushed cookie crumbs for extra flair. Keep refrigerated if using cream cheese-based frosting.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cupcake
• Calories: 260
• Sugar: 20g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 45mg

Origins: How Oreos Became a Cupcake Sensation

The Oreo cookie has been an American staple since 1912, and it’s seen countless variations over the decades—from ice cream to cheesecakes. But when bakers began folding crushed Oreos into cupcake batter and topping them with creamy Oreo-studded frosting, a new trend was born.

The evolution of cupcake Oreos began with home bakers who wanted to elevate the classic chocolate cupcake. Using Oreo cookies added flavor, crunch, and visual appeal. Soon, food bloggers and Instagram bakers helped the recipe go viral. Today, it’s one of the most searched cupcake variations online.

These treats tap into nostalgic cravings while still feeling modern and creative—perfect for those who love combining comfort with innovation.

Ingredients

Essential Ingredients for the Cupcake Batter

Creating rich, moist, and fluffy cupcake Oreos starts with quality ingredients. A strong, flavorful base is key to making your cupcakes truly shine. Here’s what you’ll need for the perfect Oreo cupcake batter:

For a chocolate base, you can optionally add unsweetened cocoa powder, which pairs beautifully with the crushed Oreos.

Want a solid foundation in cupcake bases?
Looking for inspiration? Use our vanilla cake recipe as a base to create your own Oreo-inspired twist.

The Best Oreos to Use: Classic, Double Stuf, or Flavored?

When it comes to baking, not all Oreos deliver the same results. Here’s how to choose:

• Classic Oreos: These work best. Their balanced filling and cookie-to-cream ratio integrate well into the batter without being too sweet.
• Double Stuf Oreos: Perfect if you want extra creaminess inside the batter or frosting. Just be mindful—they can make cupcakes sweeter.
• Flavored Oreos (like mint, birthday cake, or peanut butter): Use these for themed variations, but test the flavor balance. Some are stronger and may overpower your base.

Pro tip: Pulse Oreos in a food processor to achieve your desired crumble texture. Don’t over-process them into dust—you want chunks for crunch and flavor pockets!

Step-by-Step Recipe for Perfect Cupcake Oreos

Preparing the Batter with Crushed Oreos

Making cupcake Oreos from scratch is easier than it looks. Follow this simple guide to bake a dozen irresistible Oreo cupcakes.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place paper liners into each of the 12 cups in a standard muffin tin
2. Crush 10–12 Oreo cookies into medium-sized chunks using a rolling pin or food processor. Set aside.
3. Cream butter and sugar (½ cup butter, ¾ cup sugar) in a large bowl until light and fluffy.
4. Add eggs (2 large) one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in 1½ tsp of vanilla extract.
5. In a separate mixing bowl, combine 1¼ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and a small pinch of salt, then whisk until well blended.
6. Alternate adding the dry mixture and ½ cup of milk to the wet mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients.
7. Using a spatula, carefully fold in the crushed Oreos until just combined—be sure not to overmix, as this can make the cupcakes dense.
8. Optional: Add a whole Oreo to the bottom of each cupcake liner before spooning in the batter for a fun, crunchy surprise inside!
9. Fill liners ¾ full, Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and crumb-free.
10. Cool completely before frosting.

Want more inclusive baking options?
Check out our vegan and gluten-free cupcake options for easy ingredient substitutions and delicious alternatives!

How to Bake Them Moist, Fluffy, and Flavor-Packed

The secret to soft, rich cupcake Oreos lies in the technique:

• Don’t overmix: This is rule #1. Overmixing can lead to dense cupcakes.
• Use room temperature ingredients: Helps everything combine evenly, especially eggs and butter.
• Keep an eye on baking time: Overbaking dries out cupcakes. Start checking at 18 minutes.
• Let them rest: Once out of the oven, allow them to cool completely before adding frosting—this helps keep texture and structure perfect.

With these steps, you’ll achieve cupcakes that are soft, flavorful, and packed with Oreo pieces in every bite.

Oreo Buttercream Frosting – The Game-Changer

Ingredients for Rich Oreo Frosting

No cupcake Oreos recipe is complete without a swirl of rich, homemade Oreo buttercream frosting. It’s the creamy crown that transforms a good dessert into a great one. Made with real crushed Oreos, this frosting adds the perfect balance of sweetness and crunch to your cupcake Oreos.

Here’s everything you need for a winning Oreo buttercream:

Pro Tip: Blend the Oreo cookies into a fine powder when making frosting for cupcake Oreos. Large chunks can clog piping tips and make decorating difficult.

This frosting isn’t just a topping—it’s what gives cupcake Oreos their signature cookies-and-cream decadence.

Don’t miss our frosting ideas in romantic chocolate and strawberry cupcakes to take your cupcake Oreos to the next level visually.

Piping Techniques for a Bakery-Style Finish

When you serve cupcake Oreos, presentation matters just as much as taste. The good news? With a few simple tricks, your Oreo cupcakes can look as stunning as they taste.

Try these tried-and-true frosting methods:

• Use a piping bag with a star tip to give your cupcake Oreos that classic swirl.
• Chill the frosting slightly before piping—it helps maintain shape and texture.
• Start piping from the center, moving outward and upward in a circular motion.
• Finish each Oreo cupcake by topping with mini Oreos or a drizzle of rich ganache for an elegant, bakery-style touch.

Want bakery-level finishes? Practice makes perfect—especially when you’re decorating irresistible cupcake Oreos.

Whether you’re baking for a party, gifting friends, or satisfying your own sweet tooth, nailing the frosting makes all the difference in your cupcake Oreos game.

Flavor Variations of Cupcake Oreos

Mint Oreo Cupcakes, Golden Oreo Versions, and More

When it comes to reinventing cupcake Oreos, the possibilities are endless. With the vast variety of Oreo flavors available, you can give your classic cupcakes a delicious twist that suits any theme or craving.

Popular Flavor Variations for Cupcake Oreos:

Want to explore more dairy-free ideas?
Explore flavor alternatives like our cupcakes lactose free for a healthier dessert twist.

When selecting your Oreo flavor, make sure to tweak the base recipe accordingly to maintain a balanced sweetness and highlight contrasting flavors. For instance, Golden Oreo cupcakes might benefit from a tangy raspberry filling or lemon zest in the batter to cut through the sweetness.

Pro Flavor Tip: Add flavored extract (like mint, almond, or coffee) to complement the Oreo type without overpowering the cupcake.

Dairy-Free and Gluten-Free Oreo Cupcake Options

If you’re baking for dietary restrictions, cupcake Oreos can still be part of the menu. Thanks to plant-based and gluten-free alternatives, everyone can enjoy this decadent treat.

For a Dairy-Free Cupcake Oreo:

• Use vegan butter and plant-based milk (like almond or oat milk).
• Choose dairy-free Oreos (yes, original Oreos are naturally dairy-free!).
• Swap in coconut cream for rich, fluffy frosting.

For a Gluten-Free Oreo Cupcake:

• Use a gluten-free flour blend (preferably with xanthan gum).
• Choose certified gluten-free Oreos or similar sandwich cookies.

Need a base recipe to work from?
Check out our vegan and gluten-free cupcakes for easy swaps that taste just as delicious.

Baking should be inclusive—and with a few smart substitutions, you can make cupcake Oreos that everyone at the table will love.

Decorating Cupcake Oreos Like a Pro

Topping Ideas: Mini Oreos, Chocolate Drizzle, Whipped Cream

Once your cupcake Oreos are baked and frosted, it’s time for the fun part—decorating! Visual appeal plays a big role in making these treats irresistible, especially for parties, bake sales, or social media sharing.

Here are some tried-and-true decorating options to give your cupcake Oreos a show-stopping finish:

• Mini Oreos: Press one into the frosting swirl for instant charm and crunch.
• Chocolate drizzle: Melt semi-sweet chocolate chips and drizzle over the frosting with a spoon or squeeze bottle.
• Whipped cream: Add a dollop before topping with a mini Oreo for an ice-cream-parlor vibe.
• Crushed Oreo dust: Sprinkle finely ground Oreos on top for a cookies-and-cream flair.
• Chocolate curls or shavings: Adds elegance to gourmet-style cupcake Oreos.
• Colored sprinkles or edible glitter: Perfect for birthdays or holiday themes.

Decorating isn’t just about aesthetics—it also adds texture and flavor to every bite.

Looking for fun twists?
Browse strawberry cupcakes with filling for fresh fruit-filled inspiration that can pair well with Golden Oreo cupcakes.

Cupcake Liners, Sprinkles, and Serving Tricks

The wrapper matters—literally. Picking the right cupcake liner can elevate the whole presentation of your cupcake Oreos.

Best Practices for Presentation:

Pro Display Tip: Arrange your cupcake Oreos with alternating toppings for an eye-catching spread—think drizzle, Oreo, drizzle, Oreo.

When you put care into every detail, your cupcake Oreos won’t just be tasty—they’ll be unforgettable.

Storing and Freezing Oreo Cupcakes

How to Keep Cupcake Oreos Fresh for Days

Baked a big batch of cupcake Oreos and want to enjoy them beyond day one? Proper storage is key to preserving moisture, flavor, and texture—especially if you’ve gone the extra mile with frosting and decorations.

Here’s how to store your cupcake Oreos the right way:

• Room Temperature: Keep frosted cupcakes fresh by storing them in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Place them in a cool, dry area away from direct sunlight.
• Refrigerator: If your cupcake Oreos contain cream cheese frosting or dairy-based filling, refrigeration is essential. Store in a sealed, airtight container and enjoy within 4 days for the best freshness and flavor.
• Avoid direct airflow: Refrigerators tend to dry out cupcakes if not properly sealed. A tight-fitting lid or wrap is your best friend.

Pro tip: Let refrigerated cupcake Oreos come to room temperature for 30 minutes before serving to bring back their original softness.

Can You Freeze Oreo Cupcakes? The Right Way to Do It

Yes, you absolutely can freeze cupcake Oreos, and they’ll still taste amazing if done correctly. Freezing is a great option for making desserts ahead of time—ideal for holidays, birthdays, or just keeping a stash for late-night cravings.

How to Freeze Cupcake Oreos:

Frosted cupcake Oreos can be frozen too, but take care with toppings like whipped cream or mini Oreos—they can lose texture after thawing.

Need to serve quickly? Warm up unfrosted cupcakes in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds to bring back their soft, fresh-baked texture. Then pipe on fresh frosting just before serving.

With these smart storage strategies, your cupcake Oreos will taste bakery-fresh—whether you eat them now or later.

Nutrition & Calorie Breakdown of Oreo Cupcakes

Average Calorie Count Per Cupcake

While cupcake Oreos are undeniably indulgent, it’s helpful to know what you’re biting into—especially if you’re serving them at events or tracking your intake. The calorie content depends on the ingredients and portion size, but here’s a general estimate:

The largest contributors to calories in cupcake Oreos are sugar, butter, and the Oreos themselves. Frosting typically adds another 80–100 calories depending on thickness and ingredients.

Healthier Substitutes Without Losing Flavor

Craving cupcake Oreos without the guilt? Good news—there are plenty of swaps that reduce calories and sugar while keeping that same rich, creamy cookie flavor.

Smart Baking Substitutions:

Want more wholesome options that still taste delicious?
Don’t miss our vegan and gluten-free cupcakes for healthier dessert inspiration.

With just a few ingredient swaps, your cupcake Oreos can become a better-for-you treat—ideal for kids, fitness-focused bakers, or anyone watching their sugar intake.

Expert Baking Tips for the Best Cupcake Oreos

Choosing the Right Flour and Mix-Ins

Even the best intentions can fall flat without the right ingredients. For cupcake Oreos that rise perfectly and deliver on both taste and texture, start with smart ingredient choices—especially when it comes to flour and mix-ins.

Which Flour is Best?

• All-purpose flour: This is the most reliable choice. It gives structure while maintaining a light crumb—ideal for Oreo cupcakes.
• Cake flour: For a more tender texture, cake flour has less protein and produces a fluffier cupcake Oreo.
• Gluten-free blends: If you’re adapting for allergies or sensitivities, use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour that includes xanthan gum.

Pro Tip: Sift the flour before mixing. This helps with even distribution and prevents dense cupcakes.

Add-Ins That Elevate Flavor:

• Mini chocolate chips: Boost chocolate flavor in every bite.
• Crushed Oreos: A must-have in both the batter and frosting.
• Instant espresso powder: Intensifies chocolate notes (great for mocha Oreo cupcakes).
• Fruit zest or extracts: Lemon, orange, or mint extracts can create flavor profiles that complement Oreo varieties.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Baking Cupcake Oreos

Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, these common pitfalls can sabotage even the most promising batch of cupcake Oreos:

Mistake #1: Overmixing the Batter
Overmixing activates excess gluten, which can lead to dense, chewy cupcakes rather than a soft and fluffy texture. Mix just until ingredients are combined.

Mistake #2: Skipping the Cooling Process
Frosting a warm cupcake leads to melty messes. Always cool completely before decorating your cupcake Oreos.

Mistake #3: UnderestIf the toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter, your cupcake is perfectly baked and ready to cool. Overbaking leads to dry cupcakes.

Mistake #4: Using Chunky Oreo Crumbs in Frosting
If the Oreo chunks are too large, they can block your piping tip and mess up the frosting swirl, so be sure to crush them finelyl. Always blend them to a fine crumb for frosting.

Mistake #5: Frosting Too Soon After Mixing
Chill your buttercream for 10–15 minutes before piping. It holds shape better and gives cupcake Oreos that professional finish.

With these expert tips, your cupcake Oreos won’t just taste better—they’ll look and feel like they came straight from a bakery.

Conclusion

Cupcake Oreos bring together the best of both worlds—decadent cookies and moist cupcakes—in a single, crowd-pleasing dessert. Whether you’re baking for a birthday, holiday, or just for fun, these sweet treats are endlessly customizable and always a hit. From classic cookies-and-cream to dairy-free and flavored variations, this guide offers everything you need to perfect your Oreo cupcake game.

Want more cupcake ideas?
Don’t miss our romantic chocolate and strawberry cupcakes for other swoon-worthy bakes.

Fore more recipes follow me in Facebook, medium and Pinterest

FAQs