Name: Cookies & Cream Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 13 min
Total time: 2 h 28 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 and 1/4 cups (281g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled); 1 and 1/2 teaspoons cornstarch; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 4 ounces (113g) full-fat brick cream cheese, softened to room temperature; 3/4 cup (12 Tbsp; 170g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature; 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar; 1/2 cup (100g) packed light or dark brown sugar; 1 large egg, at room temperature; 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract; 1 cup (180g) white chocolate chips; 1 and 1/4 cups (about 110g) roughly chopped Oreos (10 whole Oreos)

Jump to Recipe

If you adore the classic flavor combination of chocolate cookies and creamy sweetness, you’re going to fall head over heels for these Cookies & Cream Cookies. They bring together the perfect balance of soft, chewy white chocolate-studded dough and the iconic crunch of chopped Oreos in every single bite. This treat is rich, comforting, and downright addictive, making it a fantastic centerpiece for any dessert spread or simply a cozy snack to enjoy anytime. Trust me, once you make these Cookies & Cream Cookies, they’ll become your go-to for sharing joy through baking.

Cookies & Cream Cookies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients might look simple, but each one plays a critical role in creating the perfect texture and flavor that Cookies & Cream Cookies are known for. From the tangy cream cheese that keeps the cookies soft, to the crunch of the Oreos that adds that signature twist, every component is essential.

All-purpose flour (2 and 1/4 cups / 281g): Provides the sturdy but tender structure that holds your cookie together just right.
Cornstarch (1 and 1/2 teaspoons): Lightens the texture, making the cookies wonderfully soft.
Baking soda (1 teaspoon): Helps the cookies rise and achieve a lovely bounce.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
Full-fat brick cream cheese (4 ounces / 113g): Adds moisture and a subtle tang that makes the cookies decadently soft.
Unsalted butter (3/4 cup / 170g): Brings richness and smooth mouthfeel to every bite.
Granulated sugar (1/2 cup / 100g): Ensures the cookies have just the right level of sweet crunch.
Light or dark brown sugar (1/2 cup / 100g): Adds depth and a hint of caramel flavor.
Large egg (1, room temperature): Binds all the ingredients together and adds tenderness.
Pure vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Infuses aromatic sweetness that brightens the cookie dough.
White chocolate chips (1 cup / 180g): Melt into creamy pockets of bliss throughout the cookie.
Roughly chopped Oreos (1 and 1/4 cups / about 110g): The star ingredient that delivers the iconic cookies & cream crunch.

How to Make Cookies & Cream Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt. This ensures that every bite of your Cookies & Cream Cookies has an even distribution of leavening and seasoning, which is key to their perfect rise and taste.

Step 2: Cream the Cheese and Butter

Using a mixer, beat the softened cream cheese on medium-high speed until it’s velvety smooth. Add the softened butter and continue beating until the mixture is fully combined and fluffy. This creamy base is what sets these cookies apart by keeping them irresistibly tender and rich.

Step 3: Add Sugars and Flavorings

Mix in the granulated sugar and brown sugar on medium-high speed until the mixture turns smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes. Then, add the egg and vanilla extract, beating on high speed until well combined. This step ensures your cookies have that balanced sweetness and inviting aroma.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Reduce your mixer speed to low and gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Once just combined, beat in the white chocolate chips. Finally, gently fold in the chopped Oreos with a spatula or spoon. This careful mix keeps the cookie dough light and chunk-filled with that dreamy cookies & cream texture.

Step 5: Chill the Dough

Cover the dough and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours to let the flavors meld and the dough firm up. If chilling longer, up to 4 days is fine, but bring the dough back to room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking so it’s easier to scoop and shapes perfectly.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies & Cream Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. Scoop heaping 1.5 tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the sheets, spaced about 3 inches apart. Bake for 12 to 13 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden while the centers remain soft. Let cool briefly on the sheets before transferring to a rack.

How to Serve Cookies & Cream Cookies

Garnishes

To up the visual and flavor appeal, press a few extra white chocolate chips or small Oreo pieces into the tops of the warm cookies just after baking. It’s a charming touch that makes these Cookies & Cream Cookies irresistibly eye-catching and hints at all the deliciousness inside.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair beautifully with a cold glass of milk, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or even a warm cup of coffee or hot chocolate. They can be the perfect sweet ending to a meal or a cozy treat on a rainy afternoon.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your Cookies & Cream Cookies stacked in a pretty jar, tied with a ribbon for gifting, or broken into chunks sprinkled over a sundae or mousse. They also make a great addition crumbled into parfaits or layered desserts for an extra cookies & cream punch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Cookies & Cream Cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay soft and chewy for up to one week, perfect for enjoying over time without losing that homemade magic.

Freezing

These cookies freeze beautifully! Place cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. When sealed properly, they maintain their taste and texture for up to three months.

Reheating

To revive your frozen or day-old cookies, pop one in the microwave for about 15 seconds or warm them briefly in a low oven. The white chocolate chips will soften and the cookies regain their fresh-baked charm, making every bite feel new again.

FAQs

Can I substitute cream cheese with something else?

The cream cheese is key to the soft texture and subtle tang of Cookies & Cream Cookies, but if you need a substitute, try using mascarpone or a softened unsalted butter. Note that the flavor and texture will be a bit different.

Is it necessary to chill the dough?

Chilling the dough is important as it helps the flavors develop and ensures that the cookies hold their shape while baking. Skipping this step can result in thinner, less chewy cookies.

Can I use milk chocolate or dark chocolate chips instead of white?

Absolutely! While white chocolate chips create a classic contrast in flavor and color, swapping them for milk or dark chocolate chips makes for a slightly different but still delicious twist on the Cookies & Cream Cookies.

Do I have to use Oreos, or can I use another cookie?

Oreos are the traditional choice for that iconic cookies & cream flavor. However, feel free to experiment with other sandwich cookies or chocolate wafers for a unique spin on this beloved treat.

How do I keep cookies soft for longer?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature, adding a slice of bread or a piece of apple can help retain moisture, keeping your Cookies & Cream Cookies fresh and soft even after a few days.

Final Thoughts

These Cookies & Cream Cookies are more than just a dessert; they’re a delightful experience that captures the nostalgic flavor combo we all love, baked into soft, chewy cookie perfection. Give this recipe a try and watch how it brings smiles and maybe even a few “wow” moments at your next gathering or quiet afternoon treat. Happy baking, friend!

Cookies & Cream Cookies Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 8 reviews

Author: Isabella
Total Time: 2 hours 28 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Deliciously soft and chewy Cookies & Cream Cookies made with a rich cream cheese and butter dough, studded with crunchy Oreo pieces and white chocolate chips. These cookies offer the perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and crunchy textures, ideal for cookie lovers looking for a decadent treat.

Instructions

Mix Dry Ingredients: Whisk the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt together in a medium bowl. Set aside.
Cream Cheese and Butter: In a large bowl, using a hand mixer or stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the softened cream cheese on medium-high speed until completely smooth and creamy. Add the softened butter and beat until combined, scraping down the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed.
Add Sugars and Eggs: Add granulated sugar and brown sugar and beat on medium-high speed until smooth and creamy (about 2 minutes). Then add the egg and vanilla extract, beating on high speed until fully combined, about 1 minute. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl and beat again if necessary to ensure even mixing.
Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: Add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture and mix on low speed until just combined.
Add White Chocolate Chips and Oreos: With the mixer running on low, beat in the white chocolate chips. Then gently fold in the chopped Oreos by hand or beat on low speed carefully until combined, as the dough is heavy.
Chill the Dough: Cover the dough and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours and up to 4 days. If chilling more than a few hours, let sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking to soften.
Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets: Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats and set aside.
Shape the Cookies: Using a medium-size cookie scoop or tablespoon, scoop a heaping 1.5 tablespoons of dough per cookie, placing them 3 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
Bake: Bake for 12 to 13 minutes or until edges are lightly browned. Centers may look soft but will set as the cookies cool.
Cool and Finish: Remove from oven and cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Optionally, press additional white chocolate chips or Oreo pieces onto warm cookies for decoration.
Storage: Store cooled cookies covered at room temperature for up to 1 week.

Notes

For best texture, do not skip the chilling step; it helps prevent spreading and enhances flavor.
You can substitute light brown sugar with dark brown sugar for a richer molasses flavor.
If the dough is too hard after chilling, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before scooping.
Use full-fat brick cream cheese for optimal creaminess and texture.
Ensure all refrigerated ingredients are at room temperature before mixing for even incorporation.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 13 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American