Welcome to a world where blue velvet meets Oreo in a brownie form that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. These brownies are a visual and culinary delight, combining the rich, velvety texture of blue velvet with the crunchy, chocolaty goodness of Oreos.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of blue velvet and Oreo creates a unique flavor profile that’s both familiar and exciting.
- Using melted butter ensures a moist, dense brownie that’s packed with flavor.
- The addition of cream cheese swirls adds a tangy contrast to the sweet, chocolaty base.
- Oreo pieces provide a satisfying crunch in every bite.
- This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for bakers of all levels.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup Oreo pieces
- Blue food coloring, as needed
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg yolk
Equipment Needed
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan. In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and sugar until well mixed. Tip: Ensure your butter is just melted, not hot, to avoid cooking the eggs when added.
Mix the Wet Ingredients
Add the eggs one at a time to the butter and sugar mixture, whisking well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and blue food coloring until you achieve a vibrant blue hue. Tip: Start with a few drops of food coloring and add more until you reach the desired color.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the cocoa powder, flour, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in the Oreo pieces. Tip: Do not overmix to keep the brownies tender.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Swirl
In a small bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with 1/4 cup sugar and the egg yolk until smooth. Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture onto the brownie batter and swirl with a knife for a marbled effect.
Bake to Perfection
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Allow to cool before slicing. Tip: For cleaner slices, chill the brownies for an hour before cutting.
Tips and Tricks
For those looking to elevate their blue velvet Oreo brownies, consider these advanced tips. First, use high-quality cocoa powder for a richer chocolate flavor. Second, let the brownies cool completely before slicing to ensure neat, clean cuts. Third, experiment with the amount of blue food coloring to achieve your perfect shade of blue. Lastly, for an extra crunch, add more Oreo pieces on top before baking.
Recipe Variations
- Swap Oreos for other cookies like chocolate chip or peanut butter cups for a different twist.
- Add white chocolate chips to the batter for an extra layer of sweetness.
- For a nutty version, mix in chopped walnuts or pecans.
- Try using red food coloring for a red velvet Oreo brownie variation.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cookie?
Absolutely! While Oreos are the star in this recipe, feel free to experiment with your favorite cookies. Just keep in mind that the texture and flavor will vary based on your choice.
How do I store these brownies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Can I make these brownies without food coloring?
Yes, you can skip the food coloring if you prefer. The brownies will still taste delicious, just without the blue velvet appearance.
Summary
These blue velvet Oreo brownies are a fun, flavorful twist on the classic dessert, combining the best of both worlds for a treat that’s sure to impress.