Cookies and Cream Frosting
If you’re on the hunt for a frosting that effortlessly combines nostalgia and indulgence, look no further than this Cookies and Cream Frosting. It’s rich, creamy, and has that delightful crunch from crumbled OREO cookies. Whether you’re topping a decadent chocolate cake, filling cupcakes, or simply enjoying it straight from the bowl, this frosting is sure to elevate your desserts to the next level. With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to create this delicious treat that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Top Reasons to Make Cookies and Cream Frosting
- Versatile: Perfect for cakes, cupcakes, and even as a dip for fruits or cookies.
- Easy to Make: With minimal ingredients and effort, you can whip this frosting up in no time.
- Flavorful: The combination of buttery frosting and crunchy cookies creates a delightful texture and flavor.
- Impressive: This frosting looks and tastes gourmet, making it perfect for special occasions or everyday treats.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the sweetness or creaminess to suit your preferences.
The Essentials
To create the perfect Cookies and Cream Frosting, you will need the following ingredients:
- 3 cups powdered sugar: This is the base of your frosting, giving it that sweet and fluffy texture.
- 1 cup (2 sticks) salted butter, at room temperature: Salted butter adds richness and balances the sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A must-have for any frosting, enhancing the overall flavor.
- 1 to 2 tablespoons whipping cream: This adds a creamy consistency to the frosting, making it easy to spread.
- 12 OREO cookies: Crumbled finely to provide that iconic cookies and cream flavor.
- 12 to 15 additional OREO cookies, for garnish (optional): These can be used to decorate your dessert and add extra crunch.
Essential Tools for Success
- Mixing Bowls: A large bowl for mixing the frosting and a smaller bowl for crumbling the OREOs.
- Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer: For achieving that light and fluffy texture.
- Spatula: To scrape down the sides of the bowl and incorporate all ingredients thoroughly.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate measurements of your ingredients.
- Piping Bags (optional): If you want to pipe the frosting on cupcakes or cakes for a professional look.
Method: Cookies and Cream Frosting
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easy mixing. Crumble the 12 OREO cookies finely and set them aside.
Step 2: Beat the Butter
In a large mixing bowl, add the softened salted butter. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the butter on medium speed until it’s creamy and smooth, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 3: Add Vanilla and Sugar
Add in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract followed by the 3 cups of powdered sugar. Mix on low speed to prevent a sugar cloud, then gradually increase to medium speed until fully combined. The mixture will be thick.
Step 4: Incorporate Whipping Cream
Add 1 to 2 tablespoons of whipping cream to the frosting. Mix until the frosting reaches your desired consistency. If it’s too thick, add a little more cream; if it’s too thin, you can add more powdered sugar.
Step 5: Fold in OREO Crumbs
Gently fold in the crumbled OREO cookies until evenly distributed throughout the frosting. This will give it that signature cookies and cream flavor and texture.
Step 6: Taste and Adjust
Taste the frosting and adjust any ingredients as needed. If you prefer a sweeter frosting, add a little more powdered sugar.
Step 7: Garnish (Optional)
If you’re feeling extra fancy, use the additional OREO cookies to garnish your desserts. Crumble them and sprinkle on top or place them whole for a beautiful presentation.
Easy Ingredient Swaps
- Butter: You can substitute with a dairy-free butter alternative if you prefer.
- Whipping Cream: Heavy cream or a non-dairy cream can also work well.
- OREO Cookies: Any chocolate or vanilla sandwich cookie can be used for a similar flavor profile.
- Powdered Sugar: For a healthier option, try using coconut sugar powdered sugar.
Mistakes That Ruin Cookies and Cream Frosting
Even the best bakers can make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:
- Not softening the butter: Cold butter will make it difficult to achieve a creamy texture.
- Overmixing the frosting: This can lead to a grainy texture. Mix just until combined.
- Using too much cream: Adding too much whipping cream can make the frosting too runny.
- Skipping the crumbling step: If your OREO cookies aren’t crumbled finely, you may end up with large chunks rather than a smooth frosting.
Store, Freeze & Reheat
To store your Cookies and Cream Frosting, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will last for up to one week. If you want to make it ahead of time, you can freeze the frosting for up to three months. To freeze, transfer it to a freezer-friendly container and label it with the date. When you’re ready to use it, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. If it appears a bit stiff, give it a quick mix with a hand mixer to bring back its creamy consistency.
Cookies and Cream Frosting FAQs
Can I use unsalted butter instead of salted butter?
Yes, you can use unsalted butter. Just add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
How can I make my frosting less sweet?
To reduce the sweetness, you can decrease the amount of powdered sugar and add more cream to maintain the desired consistency.
Can I make this frosting ahead of time?
Absolutely! This frosting can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or frozen for later use.
What desserts pair well with Cookies and Cream Frosting?
This frosting is perfect for chocolate cakes, vanilla cupcakes, and even as a dip for fresh fruits and cookies. The possibilities are endless!
Ready to Cook?
With its rich flavor and creamy texture, this Cookies and Cream Frosting is sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just indulging in a sweet treat, this frosting will impress everyone. Gather your ingredients and tools, and let your creativity flow in the kitchen! Enjoy the process, and most importantly, enjoy every delicious bite of your creation. Happy baking!
Cookies and Cream Frosting
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by gathering all your ingredients. Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easy mixing. Crumble the 12 OREO cookies finely and set them aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, add the softened salted butter. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the butter on medium speed until it’s creamy and smooth, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract followed by the 3 cups of powdered sugar. Mix on low speed to prevent a sugar cloud, then gradually increase to medium speed until fully combined. The mixture will be thick.
- Add 1 to 2 tablespoons of whipping cream to the frosting. Mix until the frosting reaches your desired consistency. If it’s too thick, add a little more cream; if it’s too thin, you can add more powdered sugar.
- Gently fold in the crumbled OREO cookies until evenly distributed throughout the frosting. This will give it that signature cookies and cream flavor and texture.
- Taste the frosting and adjust any ingredients as needed. If you prefer a sweeter frosting, add a little more powdered sugar.
- If you’re feeling extra fancy, use the additional OREO cookies to garnish your desserts. Crumble them and sprinkle on top or place them whole for a beautiful presentation.
Notes
- Store frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- Freeze for up to three months in a freezer-friendly container; thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
- Mix with a hand mixer after thawing if frosting appears stiff.
