Cookie and cream cookies are one of those delightful treats that never go out of style. This article walks you through making ultra-soft, rich cookies loaded with crushed Oreo bits and white chocolate chips. We’ll start with a heartfelt memory, then dive into how to make these crowd-pleasers, along with variations, baking tips, and popular questions like “Did Oreo invent cookies and cream?” You’ll also discover how popular this flavor has become—and why it’s here to stay. If you’re craving something nostalgic and easy to whip up, this cookie and cream cookies guide is just the thing.
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Table of Contents
Table of Contents
The Story Behind Cookie and Cream Cookies
Baking from the Heart with Cookie and Cream Cookies
There’s something magical about the first bite of a warm cookies and cream cookie. For me, that moment transports me back to my grandma’s kitchen. She always had Oreos in the cupboard, and we’d crush them into everything—pancakes, ice cream, and yes, cookie dough. That’s where I first fell in love with the idea of cookie and cream cookies.
The rich crunch of chocolate cookies paired with sweet, creamy vanilla makes this flavor combination irresistible. Over the years, I’ve tried plenty of twists, but the classic soft-baked cookie version still hits closest to home. These cookies are easy to make, fun to bake with kids, and perfect for every season.
My husband calls them “snackable nostalgia,” and he’s not wrong. Whether I’m baking a fresh batch after dinner or adding them to a cookies and cream ice cream cake, there’s always joy in every crumb. And if you’re into creamy blends, you’d probably love this smooth cookies and cream protein shake too.
The Charm and Crave-Worthiness of Cookies and Cream
What makes cookie and cream cookies stand out among a sea of cookie recipes? It’s all about the contrast: crisp Oreo pieces nestled in a chewy vanilla cookie base. The chunks provide texture, while the sweet dough creates a soft backdrop that balances the crunch.
Cookie and cream cookies are also highly adaptable. You can make them as bars, like the cookies and cream bar, or even fold the batter into cookie monster ice cream for an extra treat.
And let’s not forget the convenience. No complicated ingredients, no chilling necessary—just a quick mix and bake. That’s why they’ve become one of the go-to desserts on Easy Dishes To Do. The flavor is familiar, the method is simple, and the results are always rewarding.
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Cookie and Cream Cookies Recipe: Easy, Soft & Addictive Treats
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Description
Soft, chewy cookies packed with Oreo chunks and classic vanilla flavor—these cookie and cream cookies are a sweet, nostalgic favorite perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup white sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
2 large eggs
2 tsp vanilla extract
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
18 Oreo cookies, roughly crushed
1 cup white chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Cream butter, white sugar, and brown sugar in a large bowl until fluffy.
3. Add eggs and vanilla extract, and beat until smooth.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until combined.
6. Fold in the crushed Oreo cookies and white chocolate chips if using.
7. Scoop dough onto baking sheets and bake for 9–11 minutes until edges are golden.
8. Let cool on the tray for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Notes
Don’t overmix the dough after adding flour to keep cookies tender.
Use different Oreo flavors (golden, mint) for fun variations.
Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 17g
- Sodium: 110mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: cookies and cream cookies, Oreo cookies, soft cookies, dessert, baking
The Rise of Cookies and Cream Flavor
Did Oreo invent cookies and cream?
When people think of cookies and cream, the Oreo brand often pops up first—and for good reason. While Oreo didn’t technically invent the flavor itself, they’ve become synonymous with it. The actual creation of cookies and cream as an ice cream flavor is credited to dairy scientists at South Dakota State University in the late 1970s. But Oreo’s iconic chocolate wafers and sweet vanilla cream became the default cookie of choice for everything from milkshakes to cookie bars.
Once Oreo recognized the potential, they leaned in hard. From their cookies and cream protein bars to seasonal specials, the brand helped boost the flavor into a household name. In fact, Oreo-inspired desserts—like this no-bake cookies and cream bar—have become staples at birthdays, holidays, and bake sales.
So no, Oreo didn’t invent cookies and cream, but they definitely helped make it what it is today: a crave-worthy combination that’s hard to resist.
How popular is cookies and cream today?
Cookies and cream isn’t just popular—it’s one of the top 5 most loved ice cream flavors in the U.S., especially among kids and teens. But its appeal goes far beyond the freezer aisle. Today, it’s showing up in protein shakes, cupcakes, cheesecakes, and even cold brews. It’s sweet without being too rich, and the mix of creamy vanilla with bits of cookie hits all the right texture notes.
On the blog, you’ll find more delicious takes on the trend, like my cookie monster ice cream or even my post-workout cookies and cream protein shake. The versatility of the flavor is what keeps it so loved—there’s truly something magical about getting both smooth and crunchy in every bite.
Cookie and cream cookies are an easy way to bring that flavor into your oven. And unlike some store-bought desserts, you get full control over the ingredients—perfect if you’re trying to balance indulgence and simplicity. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or sneaking a few warm bites straight from the tray, they deliver the flavor you love with a homemade twist.
The Name Behind the Crumble – What Makes a Cookie a Cookie?
Why is a cookie called a cookie?
It’s a question you might not think to ask—until you realize how oddly specific the word sounds. The word “cookie” actually comes from the Dutch word koekje, which means “little cake.” Dutch settlers brought the term to America in the 1600s, and it stuck. Before that, in England, these sweet treats were known as “biscuits.” But in the U.S., a biscuit refers to something savory and fluffy—think buttermilk biscuits—so “cookie” became the standard word for our sweet, round bites of joy.
So the next time you’re enjoying a warm batch of small batch chocolate chip cookies, remember that you’re part of a centuries-old naming tradition. Isn’t that wild?
In a way, cookie and cream cookies are the modern twist on this “little cake” legacy. They’re soft and sweet, just like the original meaning intended, but loaded with fun texture from crushed Oreos. The name may have changed across continents, but the idea stayed the same: a handheld bite of something comforting.
Cookie and cream cookies: tradition with a twist
While the name “cookie” might be rooted in old-world baking, cookie and cream cookies are anything but old-fashioned. They combine the classic vanilla base of a traditional cookie with the chocolatey crunch of modern snack culture. They’re perfect for bake sales, holiday trays, or even sneaky weeknight cravings when you want something fun without making a full dessert.
And the best part? You can easily adapt them. Want something chewy with fewer ingredients? Check out the 4-ingredient peanut butter cookies. Prefer something rich and dark? The double chunk chocolate cookie will be right up your alley. Cookie and cream cookies fit right in with your cookie rotation while standing out just enough to make people ask for the recipe.
Baking the Best Cookie and Cream Cookies at Home
Tips for perfect cookie and cream cookies every time
When baking cookie and cream cookies, the beauty is in the balance. You want soft, chewy centers, crisp edges, and enough cookie chunks to make every bite count. Here are a few tips that make a big difference:
- Use room temperature butter. It helps cream better with sugar, giving your cookies a light, tender texture.
- Chill the dough. Just 30 minutes in the fridge helps prevent spreading and creates a thicker cookie.
- Crush the cookies by hand. You want chunks, not crumbs. This gives you those rich bites of cookie throughout.
- Don’t overbake. Take them out when the edges are golden but the centers are still soft—they’ll continue baking on the tray.
Pair these cookies with a glass of cold milk, or better yet, sandwich some cookie monster ice cream between two of them for a homemade ice cream sandwich.
These cookies also freeze beautifully. Just pop the dough balls in a zip-top bag, freeze, and bake whenever you need a sweet fix—like you might with these vegan chocolate chip cookies.
Quick ideas for flavor variations
Love this base recipe? Here are some easy ways to mix it up:
- Swap regular Oreos with golden Oreos for a vanilla-forward twist.
- Add white chocolate chips for extra sweetness, like in these white chocolate chip cookies.
- Use mint-flavored sandwich cookies during the holidays for a festive feel.
Which cookie do people like the most?
Chocolate chip cookies remain America’s favorite by a landslide. But cookie and cream cookies are growing fast thanks to their nostalgia, texture, and iconic flavor combo.
Did Oreo invent cookies and cream?
Not exactly. The cookies and cream flavor is credited to college dairy researchers in the 1970s, but Oreo made it wildly popular with their branding and product spinoffs.
How popular is cookies and cream?
It’s one of the top five ice cream flavors in the U.S. and has exploded into everything from drinks to snacks. Its versatility makes it a modern dessert classic.
Why is cookie called a cookie?
The word comes from the Dutch koekje, meaning “little cake.” Dutch settlers brought the term to America, where it stuck and evolved into what we know and love today.
Conclusion
Cookie and cream cookies are the kind of recipe that brings everyone to the kitchen. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving something comforting, they never disappoint. They’re soft, sweet, and just the right amount of indulgent. Like my other quick favorites—peanut butter oatmeal cookies or keto peanut butter cookies—they’re easy to make, easy to love, and hard to keep around for long.