### Prep Time
10 minutes
### Cook Time
12-15 minutes
### Total Time
22-25 minutes
### Servings
24 cookies
There’s something undeniably delightful about cookies, especially when they are soft, thick, and frosted. If you’re an Oreo lover, then these Oreo Sugar Cookies will satisfy your cravings while taking you on a nostalgic journey back to your childhood. Imagine biting into a cookie that’s not just sugary sweet but is also infused with the iconic flavor of cookies and cream, featuring the beloved Oreo cookie. These cookies are perfect for bake sales, parties, or simply as a sweet treat for yourself after a long day.
In this article, you’ll learn how to create these soft and thick Oreo Sugar Cookies from scratch. I’ll walk you through the process step-by-step, detailing tips and variations to suit your taste. Let’s embark on this delicious journey!
What Are Oreo Sugar Cookies?
Oreo Sugar Cookies are a delightful twist on traditional sugar cookies that incorporate crushed Oreo cookies, providing an irresistible flavor and texture. These cookies are typically soft and chewy, with a rich, buttery taste balanced perfectly with the added chocolatey notes from the Oreos.
Originating from the classic sugar cookie dough, which itself has roots in various baking traditions, Oreo Sugar Cookies gained popularity in modern baking for their unique flavor profile that pays homage to everyone’s favorite sandwich cookie. The addition of creamy frosting on top makes them even more indulgent.
The texture is where these cookies shine. The softness comes from using a mix of baking powder and baking soda, along with butter, which results in a tender crumb. The crushed Oreos sprinkled throughout the dough gives each bite that cookies-and-cream experience, while a smooth, buttery frosting on top adds a sweet contrast. The visual appeal of a frosted cookie dotted with chunks of Oreo makes them irresistibly inviting.
Why You’ll Love These Oreo Sugar Cookies
There are so many reasons to fall in love with these Oreo Sugar Cookies. First and foremost, the combination of flavors is simply heavenly. The **sweet vanilla** of the sugar cookie pairs harmoniously with the ***chocolatey richness*** of the Oreos, creating a balanced and delicious sweet treat.
One of the fantastic benefits of this recipe is its **ease of preparation**. It’s straightforward and requires no fancy techniques or ingredients that are hard to find, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels. You could whip these cookies up in less than half an hour, and they bake quickly, making them a convenient option for busy weeknights or impromptu get-togethers.
These cookies are also **budget-friendly** since they use staple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen, including flour, sugar, and butter. Additionally, cookies can easily be made in large batches and frozen for later use, which is particularly useful for meal prep enthusiasts.
Lastly, these cookies are exceptionally versatile. You can enjoy them plain, frosted, or even drizzled with chocolate for an extra touch of decadence. They’re perfect for summer barbecues, holiday parties, or as a delightful treat any day of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make these delectable Oreo Sugar Cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:
– **2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour**: This is the base of your cookie dough. The flour’s protein content helps give the cookies structure.
– **1 tsp baking soda**: This leavening agent contributes to the cookies’ puffiness and soft texture.
– **½ tsp baking powder**: It also helps in achieving that soft, thick cookie by creating a lighter texture.
– **½ tsp salt**: Salt enhances the overall flavor of the cookies, balancing the sweetness perfectly.
– **1 cup unsalted butter, softened**: Butter provides moisture and a rich flavor. Make sure it’s softened to room temperature for easy incorporation.
– **1 ½ cups granulated sugar**: This adds sweetness and contributes to the cookies’ tender crumb.
– **1 large egg**: The egg binds the ingredients and helps in the overall structure of the cookies.
– **1 tbsp vanilla extract**: This adds a lovely aroma and depth of flavor.
– **1 ½ cups crushed Oreo cookies**: Oreos provide the signature cookies-and-cream flavor and texture.
– **Frosting (optional)**: You can use store-bought frosting or make your own buttercream for topping.
Make sure to **measure** your ingredients accurately for the best results. A digital kitchen scale can help with measuring flour and sugar precisely.
How to Make Oreo Sugar Cookies
Now, let’s get to the fun part – making these delicious cookies! Follow these step-by-step instructions for best results:
1. **Preheat Your Oven**: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial, as it ensures that your cookies bake evenly.
2. **Prepare Baking Sheets**: Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
3. **Mix Dry Ingredients**: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the **flour**, **baking soda**, **baking powder**, and **salt** until well blended. This helps to evenly distribute the leavening agents and salt throughout the flour.
4. **Cream Butter & Sugar**: In a large mixing bowl, combine the **softened butter** and **granulated sugar**. Using an electric mixer, cream the two together on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes until smooth and fluffy. This incorporates air into the butter, helping the cookies to rise.
5. **Add Egg & Vanilla**: Once the butter and sugar are creamed, add the **egg** and **vanilla extract**. Continue mixing until the mixture is well combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl as necessary.
6. **Combine Wet & Dry Ingredients**: Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet mixture, beating on low speed until just combined. Sometimes the dough can be tricky here; make sure to mix until no white flour is visible to ensure the ingredients are well integrated without overmixing.
7. **Fold in Crushed Oreos**: Using a spatula, gently fold in the **crushed Oreo cookies**. This adds texture and flavor, resulting in delightful cookie bites.
8. **Scoop the Dough**: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving adequate space (about 2 inches) between the cookies since they will spread during baking.
9. **Bake**: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly soft, but they will firm up as they cool.
10. **Cool the Cookies**: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. If you plan to frost them, make sure they are completely cool before applying frosting.
11. **Frosting (Optional)**: While the cookies are cooling, you can prepare your frosting. If using store-bought frosting, simply take it out to reach room temperature for easier spreading. If you’re making your own, beat together equal parts of **butter**, **powdered sugar**, and a splash of milk until smooth and creamy.
12. **Frost and Enjoy**: Once the cookies are fully cool, frost them generously with your prepared frosting and sprinkle additional crushed Oreos on top for a decorative touch. Enjoy your delicious homemade Oreo Sugar Cookies!
5 Variations & Substitutions
While the classic Oreo Sugar Cookies are a crowd-pleaser, here are five delicious variations and substitutions to try:
1. Chocolate Oreo Sugar Cookies
Transform your vanilla cookies into a rich chocolate treat by replacing ¼ to ½ cup of flour with unsweetened cocoa powder. This addition enhances the depth of flavor and gives each cookie a beautiful cocoa hue. Adjust the sugar slightly to compensate for the bitterness of cocoa for perfectly-balanced cookies.
2. Gluten-Free Option
You can easily adapt this recipe for those following a gluten-free diet. Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Ensure that the blend contains xanthan gum or add 1 tsp on its own if it doesn’t. This keeps your cookies chewy and soft while accommodating dietary restrictions.
3. Mini Oreo Cookies
Make mini versions of your cookies by using a smaller cookie scoop to portion the dough. Reduce the baking time to about 8-10 minutes for perfectly bite-sized treats. Mini cookies are perfect for party platters or for little hands to grab!
4. Stuffed Oreo Cookies
For a decadent twist, you can stuff your cookie dough with an additional Oreo half before baking. Simply mold the dough around the Oreo and then bake as usual. This results in a luscious, gooey center that will impress anyone who bites into it.
5. Vanilla Frosting with Oreo Crumble
Use a vanilla or cream cheese frosting for a different flavor experience. Top with crushed Oreos, but you can also incorporate Oreo crumbs into the frosting itself to create a cookies-and-cream flavored frosting that complements the cookies perfectly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While making these Oreo Sugar Cookies, there are a few common mistakes that can compromise their texture or flavor. Here are some to watch out for:
– **Overmixing the Dough**: Be sure to mix the dough just until the ingredients are combined. Overmixing can create a tough cookie, as it develops the gluten in the flour excessively. Mixing should be done until no dry flour is visible.
– **Not Using Room Temperature Ingredients**: Using cold butter or eggs can affect the final texture of the cookies. Ensure that your butter is softened and eggs are at room temperature to help with the creaming process, resulting in a fluffy, tender cookie.
– **Baking Time**: Every oven is different, so keep a close eye on your cookies in the last few minutes of baking. Removing them from the oven just as the edges start turning golden will ensure a soft center.
– **Crowding the Baking Sheet**: To achieve the perfect cookie shape, make sure you are leaving adequate space (about 2 inches) between each dough ball on the baking sheet. This allows the cookies to spread evenly and prevents them from merging together.
– **Cooling Time**: Don’t rush the cooling process. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for the right amount of time before transferring them to a wire rack. This prevents them from falling apart and ensures they retain the optimal texture.
Storage, Freezing & Reheating Tips
One of the great things about these cookies is that they can be stored and enjoyed well after they’ve been baked. Here are some storage tips:
– **Storing**: Keep baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For optimal freshness, place a piece of parchment paper between layers if you’re stacking them.
– **Freezing Baked Cookies**: For longer storage, you can freeze the baked cookies. Place them in a single layer in a zip-top freezer bag or airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper. They can last in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to eat, simply thaw them at room temperature.
– **Freezing Cookie Dough**: If you’d like to have fresh cookies on demand, you can freeze the cookie dough! Scoop the dough into balls and freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once solid, transfer them to a zip-top bag. Frozen dough will keep for about three months. When you’re ready to bake, just add a few minutes to the baking time without thawing.
– **Reheating**: If you have leftover cookies, you can revive them by placing them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 5-7 minutes. This refreshes their softness and warmth.
Frequently Asked Questions
**1. Can I use a different type of cookie instead of Oreos?**
Absolutely! While Oreos are the classic choice, you can substitute them with any chocolate sandwich cookie or your favorite cookies. Experimenting with flavors can lead to delightful surprises, creating unique twists on this base recipe.
**2. Why did my cookies turn out flat?**
Flat cookies are often a result of too much melted butter or not enough flour. Ensure your butter is softened but not melted, and consider measuring your flour by weight or using the spoon-and-level method to avoid packing it down into the measuring cup.
**3. Can I use margarine instead of butter?**
You can use margarine, but the cookies may have a slightly different taste and texture. Margarine often contains more water and fewer solids compared to butter, which can result in a flatter cookie. For the best results, stick to unsalted butter.
**4. Do I have to frost the cookies?**
No, frosting is optional! These cookies are delicious on their own. If you prefer, you could sprinkle powdered sugar on top or enjoy them plain for a less sweet treat.
**5. Can I make a vegan version of these cookies?**
You can create a vegan alternative by substituting the butter with a plant-based margarine, using a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) in place of the egg, and opting for dairy-free Oreos. Be sure to check the labels to ensure all ingredients fit your dietary needs.
In conclusion, these Oreo Sugar Cookies are a fantastic treat that combines the nostalgia of Oreos with the comforting nature of sugar cookies. They are perfect for any occasion or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth. Don’t hesitate to try out different variations and make this recipe your own! I encourage you to dive into your kitchen, whip up a batch, and savor the heavenly taste of these cookies that are truly indulgent. Happy baking!
