If you’re ready to indulge in something that combines the rich, velvety goodness of classic red velvet with the irresistible crunch of cookies and cream, then this Cookies & Cream Red Velvet Brownies Recipe is exactly what you need. It brings together a moist, tender brownie base folded with a luscious cream cheese swirl and topped off with crunchy Oreo pieces that add texture and flavor in just the right way. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion, a cozy weekend treat, or just because you deserve a little sweetness, these brownies are guaranteed to become a fast favorite in your dessert rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering just a handful of simple ingredients, this Cookies & Cream Red Velvet Brownies Recipe proves how a handful of essentials can deliver extraordinary flavors and textures. Each component plays a key role in creating that signature balance of creamy, cakey, and crunchy perfection.
- Red velvet cake mix: The flavorful foundation that provides the distinctive color and subtle cocoa taste that makes these brownies special.
- Vegetable oil: Keeps the brownies moist and tender without overpowering any flavors.
- Large eggs: Bind all the ingredients together and help the batter rise beautifully.
- Milk: Adds an extra touch of moisture for softness in every bite.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor richness with its warm, aromatic notes.
- Cream cheese (softened): The star of the swirl, lending a tangy, creamy contrast to the sweetness of the brownies.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese mixture smoothly without any grittiness.
- Oreo cookies (crushed): Provides that delightful crunch and iconic cookies & cream flavor that takes these brownies to the next level.
How to Make Cookies & Cream Red Velvet Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Your Pan
Begin by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preparing the pan right away by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper ensures that your brownies will release effortlessly once baked. The 8×8-inch pan size is perfect for achieving those thick, fudgy brownies everyone loves.
Step 2: Mix the Red Velvet Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the red velvet cake mix with vegetable oil, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract. Whisk until everything is smooth and perfectly blended. This batter forms the rich, velvety base that gives the brownies their signature color and taste.
Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Swirl
In a separate bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until creamy and smooth. This luscious swirl adds a tangy sweetness that beautifully complements the red velvet base while keeping the texture light and moist.
Step 4: Create the Swirls
Using a spoon, drop dollops of the cream cheese mixture evenly across the brownie batter. Then, take a knife or skewer and gently swirl the cream cheese into the batter. This step creates that marbled effect that’s as pretty as it is delicious.
Step 5: Top with Crushed Oreos
Sprinkle the crushed Oreo cookies generously over the swirling brownie mixture. Press them down lightly so they stick but still maintain their delightful crunch. This topping adds a perfect cookies & cream texture and flavor contrast.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake the brownies in your preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs—this ensures the brownies stay moist without being underbaked.
Step 7: Cool Completely and Cut
After removing the pan from the oven, allow it to cool completely before slicing. Cooling helps the brownies set and makes cutting cleaner and easier, resulting in beautiful squares to serve and enjoy.
How to Serve Cookies & Cream Red Velvet Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
For a little extra pizzazz, consider garnishing your brownies with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of white chocolate. Fresh raspberries or a dollop of whipped cream can also add a touch of freshness that pairs magnificently with the richness of the brownies.
Side Dishes
These brownies shine on their own, but if you want to round out the dessert experience, try serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a simple side of fresh strawberries. The cold creaminess balances the warm, fudgy texture beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation sets the mood! Consider arranging the brownies on a rustic wooden board studded with Oreo halves or cream cheese dollops alongside. Or stack them in a pyramid shape for a fun party vibe. Wrapping individual squares in parchment paper tied with twine also makes for a charming gift idea.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cookies & Cream Red Velvet Brownies keep wonderfully when stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer freshness, refrigeration is also a great option without compromising texture.
Freezing
If you want to save these brownies for later, freeze them in airtight containers or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil. They’ll maintain their flavor and texture for up to three months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge when ready to enjoy.
Reheating
To reheat, pop a brownie square in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. This warms the brownies without drying them out, giving you that fresh-baked feel every time. Pair with a scoop of ice cream for an extra treat!
FAQs
Can I use another type of cake mix?
Absolutely! While red velvet gives this recipe its signature flavor and vibrant color, you can experiment with chocolate or even funfetti cake mixes for different flavor profiles. Just remember that the cream cheese swirl and Oreos are what really define the cookies & cream vibe.
Do I have to use Oreo cookies?
Oreos are the classic choice for the cookies & cream topping, but feel free to swap in any chocolate sandwich cookies you prefer. Just crush them coarsely to maintain that satisfying crunch on top of the brownies.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Use a gluten-free red velvet cake mix and ensure your Oreos or substitute cookies are gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this recipe adaptable for different dietary needs.
What’s the best way to achieve a swirl effect?
After dropping dollops of the cream cheese mixture over the brownie batter, use a butter knife or toothpick to gently swirl in a figure-eight or circular motion. The key is to swirl just enough to create marbled patterns without fully blending the flavors.
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?
Definitely! If you like added texture and a nutty crunch, toss in chopped walnuts or pecans. Mini chocolate chips also complement the red velvet flavor nicely. Just fold them into the batter before adding the cream cheese swirl.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re as excited as I am for you to try this Cookies & Cream Red Velvet Brownies Recipe! It’s a delightful twist on classic brownies that’s both simple to make and extraordinary to eat. Perfect for celebrations, casual get-togethers, or whenever you crave something sweet with a little extra flair. Trust me, once you bake these, they will quickly become one of your go-to desserts to share and savor.
Print
Cookies & Cream Red Velvet Brownies Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 brownies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Cookies & Cream Red Velvet Brownies combine the rich, velvety flavor of red velvet cake with a creamy cheesecake swirl and a crunchy Oreo topping. Easy to prepare with a boxed cake mix and simple ingredients, these brownies offer a decadent twist to a classic dessert that’s perfect for sharing.
Ingredients
Brownie Base:
- 1 box of red velvet cake mix
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Cream Cheese Swirl:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Topping:
- 10 Oreo cookies, crushed
Instructions
- Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal.
- Make Brownie Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the red velvet cake mix, vegetable oil, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until the batter is smooth and well combined. Pour and spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
- Cream Cheese Swirl: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until the mixture is smooth and creamy, free of lumps.
- Create Swirls: Drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese mixture evenly over the brownie batter in the pan. Using a knife or skewer, gently swirl the cream cheese into the brownie batter to create a marbled effect.
- Add Topping: Sprinkle the crushed Oreo cookies evenly over the top of the swirled batter, pressing them lightly to adhere them to the surface.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Test doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center — it should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter.
- Cool & Serve: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before cutting into 12 squares. This helps the cheesecake swirl set and makes slicing easier.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easier mixing and smoother swirls.
- You can substitute crushed Oreos with other sandwich cookies if preferred.
- For a richer flavor, use whole milk instead of 1/4 cup milk or add an extra teaspoon of vanilla if desired.
- Store brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- To keep the topping crunchy, add the crushed Oreos halfway through baking instead of before baking.
