Cookies & Cream Red Velvet Brownies

Introduction

From the moment I first baked these Cookies & Cream Red Velvet Brownies, I knew they were destined to become a family favorite. As soon as they came out of the oven, the aroma filled the kitchen, enticing everyone to come and see what was baking. My kids couldn’t wait to sink their teeth into these luscious treats. The combination of rich red velvet, creamy white chocolate chips, and the crunch of crushed Oreo cookies was simply irresistible. After the first bite, my family was sold—these brownies are decadent, delicious, and an absolute must for any occasion!

Ingredients

• 1 box red velvet cake mix (15.25 ounces)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup white chocolate chips
• 1 cup crushed Oreo cookies (about 10-12 cookies)

Instructions

Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper to make removal easier.

Mix Batter

2. In a large bowl, combine the red velvet cake mix, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and well combined.

Add Mix-Ins

3. Fold in the white chocolate chips and crushed Oreo cookies until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Bake

4. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Cool and Serve

6. Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before cutting them into squares.
7. Serve and enjoy these decadent Cookies & Cream Red Velvet Brownies!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 16
• Calories per serving: 210

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

How to Serve

• Warm: Serve warm for a gooey, melt-in-your-mouth experience.
• With Ice Cream: Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for an extra indulgent treat.
• Drizzle with Sauce: Drizzle with chocolate or caramel sauce for added sweetness.
• Garnish: Top with additional crushed Oreo cookies or a dusting of powdered sugar for presentation.
• In a Parfait: Layer brownie pieces with whipped cream and berries in a glass for a stunning dessert.

Additional Tips

1. Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality white chocolate chips for the best flavor.
2. Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter just until combined to keep the brownies fudgy and moist.
3. Check for Doneness: Start checking for doneness a few minutes early, as ovens can vary in temperature.
4. Cool Completely: Allow the brownies to cool completely for clean cuts and a better texture.
5. Make It Ahead: These brownies can be made a day in advance, as they taste even better the next day!

Recipe Variations

• Chocolate Chips: Swap out white chocolate chips for dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips for a different flavor profile.
• Add Nuts: Incorporate chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans for an added crunch.
• Different Cake Mix: Use a chocolate cake mix instead of red velvet for a richer chocolate flavor.
• Mint Flavor: Add a few drops of peppermint extract for a minty twist.
• Cream Cheese Swirl: Create a cream cheese swirl by combining 4 oz. of cream cheese with 1/4 cup of sugar and an egg, then swirling it into the batter before baking.

Serving Suggestions

• Coffee Pairing: These brownies pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or espresso.
• Picnic Treat: Pack them for a picnic or potluck—they’re sure to be a hit!
• Birthday Dessert: Serve as a birthday dessert with colorful sprinkles on top.
• Holiday Treats: Make them for holidays, adding seasonal sprinkles or colors to match the occasion.
• Dessert Bars: Cut them into smaller squares for a perfect dessert bar option at gatherings.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: To freeze, cut brownies into squares, wrap each piece in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or microwave for a few seconds to enjoy them warm.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use homemade red velvet cake mix?

• Yes, you can substitute a homemade mix, but adjust the measurements accordingly.

1. What can I use instead of white chocolate chips?

• Dark chocolate chips or milk chocolate chips can be used as substitutes.

1. Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

• Yes, use a gluten-free cake mix to make these brownies gluten-free.

1. How do I know when the brownies are done?

• A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs.

1. Can I add more crushed Oreos?

• Absolutely! Feel free to add more for an extra cookie crunch.

1. What’s the best way to cut brownies?

• Use a sharp knife and clean it between cuts for neat squares.

1. How should I store leftover brownies?

• Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature.

1. Can I use other cookies besides Oreos?

• Yes, feel free to experiment with other sandwich cookies or even add in chocolate cookies.

1. Do these brownies need to be refrigerated?

• No, they can be stored at room temperature; refrigeration can make them dry.

1. Can I make these brownies vegan?

• You can use a vegan cake mix and substitute the eggs with flax eggs or applesauce.

Conclusion

These Cookies & Cream Red Velvet Brownies are a delightful and decadent treat that combines the best of both worlds—rich red velvet and crunchy Oreo cookies. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet craving, these brownies are sure to impress. Easy to make and incredibly satisfying, they’ll quickly become a go-to dessert in your home. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a batch of these heavenly brownies!

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