Cookies and Cream Frosting Recipe
If you have a sweet tooth that loves the perfect blend of creamy sweetness and crunchy cookie bits, this Cookies and Cream Frosting Recipe is your new best friend. It’s a dreamy frosting that’s incredibly simple to make but packs a punch with its rich, velvety texture and the irresistible taste of chocolate sandwich cookies folded throughout. Whether you’re topping cupcakes, cakes, or even dipping fruit, this frosting brings a delightful twist that everyone will rave about. Let’s dive into crafting this crowd-pleasing treat that feels like a hug in frosting form.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting this Cookies and Cream Frosting just right comes down to a handful of simple, high-quality ingredients that each play a crucial role. From the creamy softness of butter to the crunch of cookies, every element contributes to that perfect balance of texture and flavor.
- Unsalted butter: Using softened butter creates a smooth and luscious base for the frosting without extra salt altering the sweet balance.
- Powdered sugar: Sifted for a silky, lump-free finish essential for that classic frosting texture.
- Heavy cream: Adds moisture and richness, helping to achieve a light, whipped consistency that’s easy to spread or pipe.
- Pure vanilla extract: Brings depth and warmth, enhancing both the cream and cookie flavors.
- Crushed chocolate sandwich cookies: The star of the show that gives the frosting its signature cookies and cream texture and flavor.
How to Make Cookies and Cream Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Cream the Butter
Start by beating the softened unsalted butter in a large mixing bowl on medium speed until it becomes light, fluffy, and pale in color. This usually takes about 3 to 5 minutes. Getting this step right is crucial because it sets the base for a smooth, airy frosting that won’t feel heavy or greasy.
Step 2: Slowly Incorporate Powdered Sugar
Next, gradually add the sifted powdered sugar. It’s important to mix on low speed at this stage so the sugar blends seamlessly with the butter, avoiding a messy cloud of sugar everywhere. Mixing slowly ensures the sugar dissolves well and results in that silky frosting texture we all crave.
Step 3: Add Heavy Cream and Vanilla
Pour in the heavy cream and vanilla extract, then increase your mixer speed slightly to combine everything into a smooth, luxurious frosting. These ingredients add flavor and the perfect soft texture, making the frosting light enough to spread effortlessly but rich enough to satisfy every sweet tooth.
Step 4: Fold in the Crushed Cookies
The final step is what makes this frosting stand out. Gently fold in the crushed chocolate sandwich cookies by hand until they’re evenly distributed throughout the frosting mixture. This careful folding keeps those cookie bits intact, adding delightful crunch and bursts of chocolate flavor in every bite.
How to Serve Cookies and Cream Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your presentation, sprinkle a few whole or halved chocolate sandwich cookies on top of your frosted cake or cupcakes. A light dusting of cocoa powder or mini chocolate chips also pairs beautifully, giving a visual hint of the delicious cookies and cream experience waiting inside.
Side Dishes
This frosting pairs wonderfully alongside simple vanilla or chocolate cupcakes, decadent brownies, or even as a dip for fresh strawberries and other berries. Putting this luscious frosting next to crisp fruit or complementary baked goods creates a fantastic balance between richness and freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider piping the Cookies and Cream Frosting Recipe with a star tip for a classic look or swirling it casually for a homemade charm. You can also sandwich the frosting between cookie halves for an irresistible treat that takes the cookie and cream concept to the next level.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cookies and Cream Frosting can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Before using again, simply bring it to room temperature and give it a quick whisk to restore its creamy consistency.
Freezing
You can freeze this frosting for up to three months by placing it in a freezer-safe container. When ready to use, thaw it overnight in the fridge and whip it briefly before spreading to regain its original fluffy texture.
Reheating
Since this frosting is best served cool or at room temperature, avoid reheating in the microwave. Instead, let it warm naturally at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes and then give it a gentle stir to bring back that perfect spreadability.
FAQs
Can I use regular sugar instead of powdered sugar?
Powdered sugar is key to achieving that smooth, creamy frosting texture, so regular granulated sugar won’t dissolve properly and will make the frosting gritty. Stick to powdered sugar for the best results.
What’s the best way to crush the chocolate sandwich cookies?
The easiest method is to place the cookies in a plastic bag and gently crush them with a rolling pin or the bottom of a heavy pan. Aim for small, uneven pieces—not finely ground crumbs—to keep that signature cookie crunch.
Can I make this frosting dairy-free?
You can swap the unsalted butter for a dairy-free butter alternative and use a plant-based cream substitute. Just keep in mind the texture and flavor might vary slightly, but it’ll still be delicious.
Is this frosting good for piping decorations?
Absolutely! The consistency after beating is perfect for piping swirls and rosettes. If it’s too soft, chilling it for a bit will help it hold shape better when decorating cakes or cupcakes.
How long does this frosting last once spread on a cake?
When refrigerated, cakes with this frosting can stay fresh for up to 3 to 4 days. Just make sure to cover the cake well to avoid drying out the frosting.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a frosting that marries creamy sweetness with the crunch and chocolatey goodness of cookies, and this Cookies and Cream Frosting Recipe does that effortlessly. It’s straightforward to make, amazingly versatile, and guaranteed to charm anyone lucky enough to try it. Go ahead, whip up a batch and add that extra scoop of happiness to your desserts—you’ll thank yourself later!
Print
Cookies and Cream Frosting Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
This delicious Cookies and Cream Frosting recipe is a creamy, sweet topping perfect for cakes, cupcakes, and desserts. Made with smooth butter, powdered sugar, heavy cream, and crushed chocolate sandwich cookies, it offers a delightful texture and classic flavor that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
Frosting Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 4 cups powdered sugar (sifted)
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup crushed chocolate sandwich cookies (like Oreos)
Instructions
- Beat the Butter: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter on medium speed until light and fluffy, which usually takes about 3 to 5 minutes. This step is crucial to achieving a smooth, creamy base for the frosting.
- Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar to the butter, mixing on low speed to avoid a sugar cloud. Continue mixing until the sugar is fully incorporated into the butter, creating a thick opaque frosting.
- Mix in Cream and Vanilla: Pour in the heavy cream and pure vanilla extract, then increase the mixer speed to medium and blend until the mixture is smooth and fluffy, enhancing the flavor and texture of the frosting.
- Fold in Crushed Cookies: Gently fold in the crushed chocolate sandwich cookies using a spatula, making sure the cookies are evenly distributed throughout the frosting without breaking them down too finely.
Notes
- For best results, use room temperature unsalted butter to ensure smooth mixing.
- Adjust the consistency by adding more heavy cream if the frosting is too thick or more powdered sugar if it’s too thin.
- Crushing the cookies by hand helps maintain texture; avoid pulverizing them into dust.
- This frosting can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; bring to room temperature and re-whip before using.
- Perfect for decorating cakes, cupcakes, or as a filling for sandwich cookies.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
