Oreo Cupcakes

This post may include affiliate links — learn more here .

Introduction

If you’re a fan of the iconic Oreo cookie, then you’re in for a treat with Oreo Cupcakes. These cupcakes are the perfect fusion of moist, chocolatey cake and the beloved, creamy filling of an Oreo cookie. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion, a holiday gathering, or simply as a delightful treat to satisfy your sweet tooth, Oreo Cupcakes are sure to impress everyone who tries them. With their soft, fluffy texture and a decadent Oreo surprise inside, these cupcakes are a must-try for anyone who loves the delicious combination of chocolate and cream.

In this article, we’ll explore why Oreo Cupcakes are an irresistible dessert, provide step-by-step instructions for making them, and offer tips and variations to help you make them your own. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, these Oreo Cupcakes are easy to make and incredibly satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect for Oreo Lovers: If you love Oreos, this dessert is a dream come true. The cupcakes are packed with Oreo flavor, featuring both crushed cookies in the batter and a whole Oreo cookie hidden inside each cupcake.
• Moist and Fluffy: The cupcakes themselves are soft, fluffy, and incredibly moist. The rich chocolate flavor pairs perfectly with the creamy sweetness of the Oreo.
• Two-Tone Delight: The Oreo cupcake has a gorgeous contrast of dark chocolate cake and the white, creamy filling of the Oreo, creating a beautiful, appetizing appearance.
• Easy to Make: While Oreo Cupcakes might look like they belong in a bakery, they are surprisingly simple to prepare. With just a few ingredients and steps, you can create a batch of homemade cupcakes that everyone will rave about.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust this recipe to suit your taste or dietary needs. From adding extra fillings to making it a more indulgent treat with frosting, there are many ways to personalize these cupcakes.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Total Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes (20 minutes for prep, 15 minutes for baking, 30 minutes for cooling, and optional frosting time)
• Servings: This recipe yields 12 cupcakes, though it can be doubled or halved depending on your needs.
• Nutrition Facts (per serving): Calories: 310, Protein: 4g, Carbs: 42g, Fat: 16g.

Ingredients

For the Cupcakes:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: The base of the cupcake batter, providing structure and texture.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: To help the cupcakes rise and become light and fluffy.
• ½ teaspoon baking soda: Works in combination with the baking powder to create the ideal texture.
• ¼ teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the cupcakes.
• ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds richness and the essential chocolate flavor to the cupcakes.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cupcake batter, making the chocolate flavor stand out.
• ½ cup vegetable oil: Creates a moist cupcake.
• 2 large eggs: Provide structure, binding the ingredients together and adding richness.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds depth of flavor to the batter.
• 1 cup whole milk: Ensures the cupcakes stay moist and tender.
• 12 Oreo cookies: One Oreo for each cupcake, placed in the center for a delicious surprise.

For the Oreo Frosting:

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened: The base of the frosting, adding richness and smoothness.
• 2 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting and provides the right consistency.
• 2 tablespoons milk: Helps create a smooth, spreadable frosting.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds flavor to the frosting.
• 6 Oreo cookies, crushed: These crushed cookies are added to the frosting for that signature Oreo flavor.

Optional Garnish:

• Mini Oreos: To decorate the top of the cupcakes for extra flair.
• Crushed Oreos: For sprinkling on top of the frosting to make them look even more decadent.

Step-by-Step Preparation

FIRST STEP: MAKE THE CUPCAKE BATTER

1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Cupcake Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners or grease it lightly to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder. Set this aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.
3. Combine the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar and vegetable oil, mixing well. Add the eggs one at a time, beating each in thoroughly before adding the next. Add the vanilla extract and stir.
4. Add the Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Start with the dry ingredients and end with the milk. Mix until just combined—be careful not to overmix.
5. Prepare the Cupcake Tin: Place an Oreo cookie at the bottom of each cupcake liner. This will be the hidden surprise inside each cupcake.
6. Fill the Cupcake Liners: Spoon the batter into the cupcake liners, filling each one about two-thirds full. You can use an ice cream scoop for even portions.
7. Bake the Cupcakes: Place the cupcake tin in the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cupcakes comes out clean.
8. Cool the Cupcakes: Let the cupcakes cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

SECOND STEP: MAKE THE OREO FROSTING

1. Prepare the Frosting Ingredients: While the cupcakes are cooling, prepare the frosting. In a medium-sized bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy.
2. Add Powdered Sugar and Milk: Gradually add the powdered sugar to the butter, alternating with the milk. Continue beating until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.
3. Incorporate the Vanilla Extract and Crushed Oreos: Add the vanilla extract and crushed Oreos to the frosting, beating until well combined. The crushed Oreos will add a delightful texture and flavor to the frosting.
4. Adjust the Consistency: If the frosting is too thick, add more milk, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency. If it’s too thin, add more powdered sugar until it firms up.

THIRD STEP: FROST THE CUPCAKES

1. Frost the Cupcakes: Once the cupcakes have cooled completely, it’s time to frost them. Use a butter knife, a spoon, or a piping bag to spread or pipe the Oreo frosting on top of each cupcake.
2. Decorate: For added flair, garnish each cupcake with a mini Oreo cookie on top or sprinkle with crushed Oreo crumbs.
3. Chill (Optional): If you prefer a firmer frosting, place the cupcakes in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to allow the frosting to set.

How to Serve Oreo Cupcakes

Oreo Cupcakes are perfect for all kinds of events and occasions. Whether you’re serving them at a party, bringing them to a bake sale, or simply enjoying them at home, these cupcakes are sure to be a hit. Here are some ideas for serving them:

1. As a Dessert for Special Occasions

Oreo Cupcakes are a fantastic dessert for birthdays, celebrations, or even casual get-togethers. Their rich flavor and unique twist on the classic Oreo cookie make them stand out at any event.

2. Serve with Ice Cream

Pairing these cupcakes with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream makes for an indulgent dessert experience that Oreo lovers will appreciate.

3. As a Treat for Movie Nights

Oreo Cupcakes are perfect for a cozy movie night at home. Grab your favorite film, some popcorn, and enjoy these cupcakes as your sweet treat.

4. Perfect for Holiday Celebrations

These cupcakes can be customized with different holiday decorations or sprinkles to suit the occasion. For Christmas, Easter, or Halloween, you can decorate them in festive colors or with themed Oreo cookies.

Recipe Variations

While Oreo Cupcakes are delicious as written, you can customize them to suit your tastes and preferences:

1. Vegan Oreo Cupcakes

To make these cupcakes vegan, replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water per egg) and use a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk. For the frosting, use dairy-free butter and powdered sugar.

2. Gluten-Free Oreo Cupcakes

For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check that your Oreos are gluten-free (most are, but it’s always good to double-check).

3. Add a Little Spice

If you enjoy spiced cakes, consider adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cupcake batter. This can complement the chocolate flavor and give the cupcakes a warm, comforting twist.

4. Double the Oreo Flavor

For an even more Oreo-packed cupcake, add more crushed Oreos to the cupcake batter itself, or sandwich additional Oreo filling between the layers of frosting.

Storage and Freezing

1. Storage

Oreo Cupcakes can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you live in a warmer climate, it’s best to refrigerate them to keep the frosting firm.

2. Freezing

If you want to make Oreo Cupcakes ahead of time, you can freeze them. Place the cooled cupcakes in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then, wrap each cupcake tightly in plastic wrap and foil. When you’re ready to enjoy them, let them thaw at room temperature and frost as desired.

Conclusion

Oreo Cupcakes are the ultimate dessert for anyone who loves the classic Oreo cookie. With their rich chocolate flavor, creamy Oreo frosting, and surprise cookie center, they combine the best of both worlds in a deliciously indulgent treat. Easy to make, customizable, and perfect for any occasion, these cupcakes are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re baking for a special event or just want to enjoy a sweet treat at home, Oreo Cupcakes are a great choice.