Cookies and Cream Frosting
If you’re a fan of those delicious chocolatey cookies with a creamy filling, then you’re in for a treat! This Cookies and Cream Frosting is a delightful blend of rich, buttery goodness and crunchy cookie pieces that will elevate any cake or cupcake to new heights. It’s perfect for birthday parties, potlucks, or just a sweet indulgence at home. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up this luscious frosting that will impress friends and family alike. Let’s dive into the details of this easy recipe that’s sure to become a favorite!
Why This Recipe Is Reliable
This Cookies and Cream Frosting recipe stands out for its simplicity and delicious results. With only a handful of ingredients, you can achieve a stable, spreadable frosting that holds its shape beautifully on cakes and cupcakes. The balance of sweetness from the powdered sugar and the rich flavor from the butter creates a smooth frosting that is both decadent and delightful. Plus, the addition of finely crumbled OREO cookies offers a delightful crunch and that classic cookies and cream flavor that everyone loves. This frosting is not only easy to make but is also versatile enough to pair with chocolate, vanilla, or even funfetti cakes!
Ingredient List
- 3 cups powdered sugar – This is the sweet base of your frosting, providing the perfect texture.
- 1 cup (2 sticks) salted butter, at room temperature – The key fat for a creamy, rich frosting.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds a warm, sweet flavor that enhances the overall taste.
- 1 to 2 tablespoons whipping cream – Helps adjust the consistency to your liking.
- 12 OREO cookies (or other chocolate or vanilla cookies with cream filling), crumbled finely – Brings that classic cookies and cream flavor into the frosting.
- 12 to 15 additional OREO cookies, for garnish (optional) – Perfect for topping your frosted treats.
Tools of the Trade
- Mixing bowl – A medium bowl will suffice for mixing your frosting.
- Hand mixer or stand mixer – For easy and quick mixing to achieve a fluffy frosting.
- Spatula – Essential for scraping down the sides of your bowl and transferring frosting.
- Measuring cups and spoons – Accurate measurements ensure the right texture and flavor.
- Storage container – If you have any leftover frosting, store it in an airtight container.
Directions: Cookies and Cream Frosting
Step 1: Cream the Butter
In a mixing bowl, add the room-temperature salted butter. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the butter on medium speed until it becomes light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 2: Add Powdered Sugar
Gradually add in the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed to avoid a sugar cloud. Once all the sugar is added, increase the speed to medium and mix until the sugar is fully incorporated.
Step 3: Flavor It Up
Pour in the vanilla extract and 1 tablespoon of whipping cream. Mix on medium speed until everything is well combined. If the frosting is too thick, add an additional tablespoon of whipping cream to reach your desired consistency.
Step 4: Incorporate the Cookies
Gently fold in the finely crumbled OREO cookies using a spatula, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the frosting.
Step 5: Taste and Adjust
Give your frosting a taste! If you want a little more sweetness, feel free to add a touch more powdered sugar. If it’s too thick, add a little more whipping cream until you reach the perfect consistency.
Step 6: Frost Your Treats
Use the frosting immediately to frost your favorite cakes or cupcakes. If you want to add a decorative touch, pipe the frosting with a star tip or simply spread it on with a spatula.
Better-for-You Options
- Reduce Sugar – Substitute some of the powdered sugar with a sugar alternative like erythritol for a lower-sugar option.
- Use Unsalted Butter – If you prefer less sodium, you can use unsalted butter and adjust the salt in your recipe accordingly.
- Vegan Butter – For a dairy-free version, swap out the regular butter for your favorite plant-based butter.
- Alternative Creams – Use coconut cream or almond milk instead of whipping cream for a lighter frosting.
Flavor Logic
The combination of rich, creamy butter and sweet powdered sugar creates the ideal base for any frosting. When you add the vanilla extract, it enhances the overall flavor profile, making it more aromatic and inviting. The real magic happens when you fold in the crumbled OREO cookies, introducing a crunchy texture and a burst of chocolatey goodness. This Cookies and Cream Frosting isn’t just for cakes; it’s also delicious as a dip for fruits or cookies, making it a versatile treat.
Make-Ahead & Storage
This frosting can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to one week. Just be sure to keep it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out. When you’re ready to use it, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before using, and give it a quick stir to bring back its creamy texture. If you find the frosting has thickened too much, simply add a splash of whipping cream to loosen it up.
FAQ
Can I use other cookies besides OREO?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with any chocolate or vanilla cream-filled cookie that you enjoy. Just make sure they are finely crumbled for the best texture in your frosting.
How can I make this frosting less sweet?
If you find the frosting too sweet for your liking, you can reduce the amount of powdered sugar or add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
Can I freeze the frosting?
Yes, you can freeze the Cookies and Cream Frosting! Just store it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to three months. When you’re ready to use it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and give it a good mix before using.
What desserts pair well with Cookies and Cream Frosting?
This frosting is fantastic on chocolate cake, vanilla cupcakes, or even as a filling for cookies. It’s also delicious with brownies and as a topping for ice cream or milkshakes!
Ready to Cook?
Now that you have all the information you need, it’s time to get baking! This Cookies and Cream Frosting is sure to bring smiles and satisfaction to your family and friends. Whether you’re decorating a cake for a special occasion or just whipping up a batch of cupcakes for a cozy night at home, this frosting will take your treats to the next level. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to create something delicious!
Cookies and Cream Frosting
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, add the room-temperature salted butter. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the butter on medium speed until it becomes light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Gradually add in the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed to avoid a sugar cloud. Once all the sugar is added, increase the speed to medium and mix until the sugar is fully incorporated.
- Pour in the vanilla extract and 1 tablespoon of whipping cream. Mix on medium speed until everything is well combined. If the frosting is too thick, add an additional tablespoon of whipping cream to reach your desired consistency.
- Gently fold in the finely crumbled OREO cookies using a spatula, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the frosting.
- Give your frosting a taste! If you want a little more sweetness, feel free to add a touch more powdered sugar. If it’s too thick, add a little more whipping cream until you reach the perfect consistency.
- Use the frosting immediately to frost your favorite cakes or cupcakes. If you want to add a decorative touch, pipe the frosting with a star tip or simply spread it on with a spatula.
Notes
- Store leftover frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- Let frosting sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before use.
- Add a splash of whipping cream if the frosting thickens too much.
