With a sprinkle of nostalgia and a dash of joy, I discovered a delightful way to blend two of my favorite treats: cookies and red velvet cake. Enter the Crushed Oreo Red Velvet Cookies—a thick and chewy masterpiece that transforms the beloved flavors of classic red velvet into a cookie obsession. These treats aren’t just visually stunning with their rich crimson hue; they also deliver an irresistible softness and a delightful crunch from crushed Oreos. Perfect for any occasion, they’re not only crowd-pleasers but also surprisingly easy to whip up in no time. Plus, you can keep the dough in your freezer for anytime cravings! Ready to embark on this cookie adventure? Let’s dive into the sweet details!
Why Are These Cookies So Irresistible?
Thick and Chewy Texture: Each bite offers a moist, cake-like consistency, unlike any regular cookie you’ve tasted.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these cookies are accessible for everyone, from novice bakers to seasoned chefs.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of velvety red cocoa and crunchy Oreo pieces creates a perfect medley of flavors, pleasing both chocolate and cookie lovers alike.
Versatile Treat: Feel free to substitute different Oreo flavors to switch things up or even add some nuts for added crunch. Get creative and personalize them!
Ideal for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive gathering, these cookies are sure to impress your guests and spark joy.
Make-Ahead Convenience: You can freeze the cookie dough for up to three months, ensuring you have delicious, homemade cookies ready to go when cravings strike! If you love chocolatey treats, check out these Chocolate Chip Cookies for another winning recipe!
Crushed Oreo Red Velvet Cookies Ingredients
Get ready to bake these delightful treats!
For the Cookie Base
- Flour – Provides structure to the cookie; can substitute with gluten-free flour blend if needed.
- Cocoa Powder – Adds a deep chocolate flavor essential for red velvet; use Dutch-processed cocoa for a slightly different taste.
- Salt – Enhances flavor and balances sweetness.
- Baking Soda – Essential for leavening, making cookies light and fluffy; do not replace.
- Salted Butter – Contributes to texture, keeping cookies chewy; unsalted butter can be used, but add a pinch of salt.
- Brown Sugar – For sweetness; primarily brown sugar achieves a thick cookie texture, although white sugar can be used if preferred.
- Eggs – Binds ingredients and contributes to structure; large eggs are recommended.
- Vanilla Extract – Adds depth of flavor; can use pure or imitation.
For the Sweet Additions
- White Chocolate Chips – Sweet and creamy contrast to the cocoa; can substitute with semi-sweet chocolate chips.
- Oreos – Adds flavor and texture; using different flavors of Oreos is a fun way to experiment.
- Liquid Red Food Coloring – Provides the characteristic red color; avoid gel food coloring as it is less concentrated.
Enjoy creating these Crushed Oreo Red Velvet Cookies that steal the show!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crushed Oreo Red Velvet Cookies
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a stand mixer, beat 1 cup of softened salted butter on medium speed until it becomes airy and light in color, around 2-3 minutes. Add in 1 cup of brown sugar and ½ cup of white sugar, mixing until thoroughly combined. Then, crack in 2 large eggs, pour 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, and add a tablespoon of liquid red food coloring, mixing until the blend is smooth and vibrant.
Step 2: Whisk the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, ¼ cup of cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt until well combined. This step helps in evenly distributing the dry ingredients, ensuring a perfect rise. Once mixed, gradually add this flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined; avoid overmixing for the best texture in your Crushed Oreo Red Velvet Cookies.
Step 3: Prepare the Oreo Crumbs and Chocolate Chips
Crush 6 Oreos in a food processor until they turn into fine crumbs, while breaking the remaining 16 Oreos into larger chunks by hand. Gently fold both the crushed and chunked Oreos into the cookie dough along with 1 cup of white chocolate chips. The combined textures and flavors will create an irresistibly scrumptious cookie dough.
Step 4: Shape the Cookie Dough
Using a tablespoon, scoop out portions of the dough and roll them into round balls, yielding about 20 cookies. Arrange the dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, giving them a bit of space since they will spread slightly while baking. To achieve the thick and chewy profile, slightly press each dough ball down with your palm.
Step 5: Chill the Dough
Cover the baking sheet with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This crucial step helps firm up the dough and ensures the Crushed Oreo Red Velvet Cookies hold their shape during baking. While the dough chills, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready when your dough is set.
Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Once the oven is preheated and the dough is chilled, remove the baking sheet from the fridge. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12 minutes; look for edges that are slightly firm while the centers remain soft and a bit underbaked. This is key to achieving that desirable chewy texture in your cookies.
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
After baking, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Once slightly firmed up, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. These Crushed Oreo Red Velvet Cookies are now ready to be devoured! Pair with a glass of milk for an extra delightful treat.
Expert Tips for Crushed Oreo Red Velvet Cookies
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Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough solidifies the fats, preventing the cookies from spreading too much during baking. Don’t skip this step for thick cookies!
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Proper Measurement: Be sure to measure your flour properly; too much can lead to dry cookies. Use a kitchen scale or spoon-and-level method for accuracy.
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Avoid Overmixing: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined for a tender cookie. Overmixing can result in tough cookies.
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Bake Time Caution: Ovens can vary significantly; start checking your cookies a couple of minutes early. Underbaking slightly will yield a softer, chewier texture.
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Oreo Variations: Feel free to explore different flavors of Oreos in the recipe to create unique twists on these Crushed Oreo Red Velvet Cookies!
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Storage Tips: Store the cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer preservation. Enjoy fresh-baked cookies whenever you crave them!
How to Store and Freeze Crushed Oreo Red Velvet Cookies
Room Temperature: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their softness and chewy texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze these cookies for up to 3 months. Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container, ensuring they’re well-sealed.
Cookie Dough Storage: If you’d like to prepare ahead, you can freeze the cookie dough. Scoop the dough into balls and freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a bag once frozen. Thaw in the fridge before baking.
Reheating: To enjoy your cookies warm, reheat them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes.
Crushed Oreo Red Velvet Cookies Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists and substitutions to make your Crushed Oreo Red Velvet Cookies truly your own!
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Different Oreos: Swap regular Oreos for any flavor, like mint, peanut butter, or even birthday cake for a fun flavor twist. Imagine a sunny picnic treat bursting with unexpected surprise!
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Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead of regular flour. This way, everyone can enjoy these delectable cookies without missing out!
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Nutty Crunch: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the dough for a delightful, nutty crunch that elevates the texture beautifully. It’s a great way to add protein and extra heartiness!
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Chocolate Drizzle: Melt some extra chocolate and drizzle it on top of the cooled cookies for an elegant presentation and a flavor boost. It transforms each cookie into a gourmet treat worthy of any dessert table!
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Extra Creamy: Substitute white chocolate chips for dark chocolate chips if you prefer a richer flavor. The slightly bitter notes of dark chocolate contrast beautifully with the sweet cookie base.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or ground cinnamon to the dough for a surprising heat that will tingle your taste buds. It makes for a truly memorable cookie experience!
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Cream Cheese Frosting: Top each cookie with a dollop of cream cheese frosting for a classic red velvet cake impression. It truly makes the cookie feel like a celebration on your palate!
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Cookie Sandwiches: Create cookie sandwiches by adding a layer of frosting or ice cream between two cookies. It’s a fun and indulgent way to enjoy these flavorful cookies any time!
For more delightful cookie recipes, don’t forget to check out my Chocolate Chip Cookies as another family favorite!
Make Ahead Options
These Crushed Oreo Red Velvet Cookies are perfect for busy weeknights and upcoming celebrations! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance—simply follow the instructions until the chilling step. After shaping the cookie dough balls and pressing them down slightly on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate. If you want to store it longer, the dough can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking. When you’re ready to enjoy these delightful cookies, bake them fresh for that deliciously chewy texture, ensuring a stunning treat that’s just as wonderful as when you first made the dough!
What to Serve with Crushed Oreo Red Velvet Cookies
With a delightful crunch and a soft, decadent heart, these cookies deserve a picturesque meal to accompany their vibrancy.
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Cold Glass of Milk: Complement the rich chocolatey flavors while enhancing the nostalgic vibes of enjoying cookies and milk together.
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Hot Cocoa: A warm, chocolaty drink pairs splendidly with the gooey texture, perfect for cozy nights on the couch.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creaminess of vanilla contrasts beautifully with the chewy texture of the cookies, creating a satisfying dessert experience.
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Berries Medley: Fresh strawberries or raspberries add a burst of tartness, cutting through the sweetness and adding a refreshing note to your plate.
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Chocolate Dipped Fruit: Enhance the chocolate experience by serving with fruit, dipped in chocolate to mirror the cookie’s flavors and textures.
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Homemade Whipped Cream: Light, airy whipped cream on the side offers a fluffy texture that beautifully balances the cookies’ density.
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Coffee or Espresso: The bold flavor of coffee enriches the cookies’ profile, making for a delightful afternoon treat.
Serve these pairings to elevate your dessert experience and create a cozy celebration of flavor!
Crushed Oreo Red Velvet Cookies Recipe FAQs
What type of Oreos should I use for this recipe?
You can use any flavor of Oreos to switch things up! The classic version works beautifully, but feel free to experiment with flavors like Mint, Birthday Cake, or even Red Velvet Oreos for a fun twist.
How should I store leftover cookies?
To keep your Crushed Oreo Red Velvet Cookies soft and chewy, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’re not planning to eat them all within that time, consider freezing them for later enjoyment!
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely! To freeze the dough, scoop it into balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, making sure they don’t touch. Freeze for about 1-2 hours until solid, then transfer the balls into a freezer-safe bag. They can be kept that way for up to 3 months. Just thaw them in the fridge overnight before baking.
What if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If you find your cookies spreading more than you’d like, make sure you’re chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. It’s also essential to measure the flour accurately, as too little can lead to spreading. Stick to the recipe for the best results, and remember, even if they spread a bit, they’ll still taste delicious!
Are these cookies suitable for people with allergies?
These cookies contain gluten (from flour), dairy (butter and chocolate), and eggs, so they may not be suitable for those with gluten or dairy intolerance or egg allergies. For a gluten-free variation, use a certified gluten-free flour blend and ensure all other ingredients are free from any allergens based on your dietary needs.
How long can I keep cookies in the freezer?
You can keep your Crushed Oreo Red Velvet Cookies in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just make sure they’re in an airtight container or tightly wrapped to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy them, reheat them gently for a fresh-baked taste!
Crushed Oreo Red Velvet Cookies That Steal the Show
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cream the butter and sugars by beating 1 cup softened salted butter until airy. Add 1 cup brown sugar, 1/2 cup white sugar, 2 large eggs, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, and 1 tablespoon liquid red food coloring and mix.
- Whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon salt in a separate bowl. Gradually mix into the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Crush 6 Oreos into fine crumbs and break 16 Oreos into chunks. Fold both into the cookie dough with 1 cup white chocolate chips.
- Scoop dough into round balls, yielding about 20 cookies. Place on a lined baking sheet, pressing each ball slightly.
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes in the refrigerator while preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake cookies for 12 minutes, looking for slightly firm edges and soft centers.
- Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
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