Cookies & Cream Brownies Recipe

Melted unsalted butter: Provides the rich, buttery base for the brownies.

Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a tender texture.

Large eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add moisture.

Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the brownies.

All-purpose flour: Gives structure to the brownies.

Unsweetened cocoa powder: Provides the chocolate flavor.

Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.

Crushed chocolate sandwich cookies: Adds a delightful crunch and cookies & cream flavor.

White chocolate chips: Adds creamy sweetness and a contrasting texture.

When incorporating the melted butter and sugar in step 2, ensure the butter is not too hot, as it can cook the eggs prematurely. Allow the butter to cool slightly before mixing it with the sugar. This will help achieve a smoother and more cohesive batter, resulting in a better texture for your brownies.

• melted unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil provides a similar fat content and moisture level, making it a good alternative for butter in brownies.

• granulated sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index and adds a slight caramel flavor, which can enhance the taste of the brownies.

• large eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg. This is a common vegan substitute that helps bind the ingredients together.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract provides a different but complementary flavor profile that can add a unique twist to the brownies.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with almond flour: Almond flour is gluten-free and adds a slightly nutty flavor, which can be a great alternative for those avoiding gluten.

• unsweetened cocoa powder - Substitute with carob powder: Carob powder is naturally sweet and caffeine-free, making it a good substitute for cocoa powder.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can provide a more complex flavor and is often less processed than regular table salt.

• crushed chocolate sandwich cookies - Substitute with crushed graham crackers: Crushed graham crackers can provide a similar texture and a different but enjoyable flavor.

• white chocolate chips - Substitute with dark chocolate chips: Dark chocolate chips offer a richer, less sweet flavor and can be a healthier option due to higher cocoa content.

• Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before attempting to store them. This helps to set their structure and makes them easier to handle.

• Once cooled, cut the brownies into squares. This makes it easier to grab a piece whenever you have a craving for something sweet.

• For short-term storage, place the brownies in an airtight container. Layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be kept at room temperature for up to 3 days.

• If you prefer to refrigerate them, the brownies will stay fresh for up to a week. Again, use an airtight container and layer with parchment paper.

• To freeze, wrap each brownie individually in plastic wrap. This prevents freezer burn and keeps them tasting fresh.

• Place the wrapped brownies in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date to keep track of their freshness.

• When you're ready to enjoy a frozen brownie, simply remove it from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for about an hour. For a quicker option, microwave on low power for 20-30 seconds.

• If you want to serve the brownies warm, preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and heat them for about 10 minutes. This will give them that freshly-baked taste and texture.

• Remember, brownies with toppings like white chocolate chips and crushed cookies may have a slightly different texture after freezing, but they will still be delicious.

• Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the brownies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover the brownies with aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until they are warmed through.

• For a quicker method, use a microwave. Place a brownie on a microwave-safe plate. Cover it with a damp paper towel to keep it moist. Microwave on medium power for 20-30 seconds. Check and add more time if needed, but be careful not to overheat.

• If you prefer a slightly crispy edge, use a toaster oven. Preheat the toaster oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the brownies on the toaster oven tray and cover with aluminum foil. Heat for 10-12 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they are warming evenly.

• For a gourmet touch, reheat the brownies in a double boiler. Place the brownies in a heatproof dish and set it over a pot of simmering water. Cover the dish with foil and steam for about 10 minutes. This method keeps the brownies moist and enhances their chocolate flavor.

• If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 300°F (150°C). Place the brownies in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overlapping. Heat for 5-7 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they are warming evenly without drying out.

• Oven: Used to bake the brownies at a consistent temperature of 350°F (175°C).

• Baking pan: A 9x13 inch pan to hold the brownie batter while baking.

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl to combine and mix all the ingredients.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure out the ingredients like butter, sugar, flour, and cocoa powder.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure smaller quantities of ingredients like vanilla extract and salt.

• Whisk: Used to mix the melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.

• Spatula: Used to stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture and to spread the batter evenly in the baking pan.

• Toothpick: Used to check if the brownies are done by inserting it into the center to see if it comes out clean.

• Cooling rack: Used to let the brownies cool down after baking before cutting them into squares.

• Knife: Used to cut the cooled brownies into squares.

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out all ingredients before starting. This will streamline the baking process.

Use a stand mixer: A stand mixer can quickly combine butter, sugar, and other ingredients more efficiently than mixing by hand.

Crush cookies in a bag: Place chocolate sandwich cookies in a ziplock bag and crush them with a rolling pin. This saves time and reduces mess.

Line the pan with parchment: Line your baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal and less cleanup.

Check doneness early: Start checking the brownies a few minutes before the suggested baking time to avoid overbaking.