Cookies and Cream Cupcakes

Cookies and Cream Cupcakes are more than just a dessert; they’re a joyful taste of childhood wrapped in swirls of frosting and chocolatey crumbs. The first time I made these was during a snowy winter break when my little niece visited. She was bundled up in a giant sweater, her cheeks pink from the cold, and her eyes sparkled as she peeked over the counter. We baked together, our laughter mingling with the sweet, buttery aroma floating through the kitchen.

The star of this recipe is undoubtedly the harmonious marriage between a rich, moist chocolate cupcake and the dreamiest Oreo buttercream frosting. The texture is indulgently soft, the flavor deep and satisfying, and that little drizzle of chocolate ganache on top is pure magic. Whether served at a birthday party, holiday gathering, or simply as a treat after a long day, these cupcakes deliver comfort in every bite.

Rooted in the beloved tradition of cookies and cream desserts, this cupcake version brings the charm of that classic flavor combination into individual, handheld treats. Oreos, a cookie that’s been a staple in pantries since 1912, transform beautifully into crumbs that add both flavor and fun to this timeless cupcake. These are cupcakes that both kids and adults can’t resist—a true celebration of sweet nostalgia.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent Yet Playful: These cupcakes have a rich chocolate base and are topped with light, whipped Oreo-speckled buttercream.
• Perfect for Celebrations: A favorite for birthdays, holidays, or school events. They add a little sparkle to any table.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can bake the cupcakes a day ahead and frost when you’re ready to serve.
• Family-Friendly Fun: This is a great recipe to make with kids—let them crush the Oreos and decorate with their own twist!

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INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:

Chocolate Cupcakes

• ¼ cup (45 g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
• ¼ cup (22 g) dark cocoa powder (or black cocoa)
• ¾ cup (177 ml) boiling water
• ¾ cup (94 g) all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• ⅓ cup (80 ml) vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 tsp pure vanilla extract

Cookies and Cream Buttercream Frosting

• 1 cup (227 g) unsalted butter, room temperature
• 2½ cups (300 g) powdered sugar
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• ¼ tsp salt
• 2 tbsp heavy cream
• ½ cup (50 g) finely crushed Oreo cookie crumbs

Chocolate Ganache

• ¼ cup (45 g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 2 tbsp heavy cream

Decoration

• 6 Oreo cookies, halved

How to Make Cookies and Cream Cupcakes

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line a standard 12-cup muffin pan with cupcake liners. This small act of preparation sets the stage for magic.

Step 2: Create the Chocolate Base
In a bowl, combine the chocolate chips and cocoa powder. Pour in the boiling water and whisk until the mixture is smooth and glossy. Let it cool—this step unlocks the deep, chocolate flavor.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt. These simple pantry ingredients are the humble base that lets the chocolate shine.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry
Pour the cooled chocolate mixture into the dry ingredients. Add vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until everything comes together in a smooth, dark batter. The aroma alone will make your mouth water.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Fill each cupcake liner about two-thirds full. Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cupcakes cool completely before frosting—this wait is the hardest part!

Step 6: Whip Up the Cookies and Cream Frosting
Beat the butter until creamy and pale. Slowly add the powdered sugar and continue whipping until light and fluffy. Add vanilla, salt, and cream, and beat again. Gently fold in the finely crushed Oreo crumbs—don’t overmix. You want specks, not sludge.

Step 7: Make the Ganache
Warm the heavy cream until it begins to steam, then pour it over chocolate chips in a small bowl. Stir gently until you have a silky ganache that glistens like melted gold.

Step 8: Frost and Finish
Using a piping bag fitted with a large tip, swirl the cookies and cream frosting onto each cooled cupcake. Drizzle with ganache and crown each with a halved Oreo. Now step back and admire your beautiful creations.

Helpful Tips

• Crush the Oreos finely for a smooth frosting that won’t clog your piping tip.
• For the best chocolate flavor, don’t skip the dark or black cocoa powder.
• Make sure your butter is truly at room temperature to avoid lumps in the frosting.
• Use a cookie scoop to ensure evenly sized cupcakes.

Details

• Prep Time: 1 hour
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Yield: 12 cupcakes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Notes

You can prepare the cupcakes a day ahead. Store unfrosted cupcakes at room temperature in an airtight container. Frost just before serving for the freshest flavor.

Nutritional Information (Per Cupcake)

• Calories: 320
• Total Fat: 18 g
• Carbohydrates: 38 g
• Protein: 4 g

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use regular cocoa instead of black cocoa?
Yes, but the black cocoa gives the cupcakes that deep, intense Oreo flavor.

Can I freeze the cupcakes?
Absolutely. Freeze the unfrosted cupcakes and ganache separately. Thaw, frost, and serve when ready.

What if I don’t have a piping bag?
No worries! Use a zip-top bag with the corner snipped off or spread frosting with a knife for a rustic look.

Storage Instructions

Store frosted cupcakes in an airtight container. Keep them at room temperature for 1–2 days or refrigerated for 3–4 days. Always bring to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Related Recipes

If you loved these Cookies and Cream Cupcakes, try these other chocolatey delights:

• Salted Caramel Cupcakes
• Lemon Blueberry Cupcakes
• White Chocolate Blueberry Cheesecake Cupcakes
• Berry Swirl Cheesecake Bites

Conclusion

These Cookies and Cream Cupcakes offer a heartwarming, flavorful journey filled with creamy sweetness, moist chocolate, and crunchy cookie delight. They’re a taste of childhood, a celebration of sweet simplicity, and a beautiful reminder that sometimes, the best moments in life come sprinkled with Oreo crumbs.