Name: Halloween Oreo Brownies Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 2 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2/3 cup butter; 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/3 cup brown sugar; 2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 2 eggs, cold; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 15 Oreo cookies (10-12 chopped for batter, 3-5 whole for topping); 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups sifted powdered sugar; 1/2 tsp vanilla extract; 1/4 cup heavy cream; Pinch of salt; Gel food coloring (orange, black, green); Candy eyes; Sprinkles; Candy corn or other festive Halloween decorations

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy lifting.

Step 2: In a large bowl, melt the butter. Stir in vegetable oil, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until well combined. Whisk in the cold eggs one at a time until fully incorporated. Add vanilla extract and stir to combine.

Step 3: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, flour, and salt.

Step 4: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix until just combined, taking care not to overmix. Gently fold in 10-12 chopped Oreo cookies, distributing them evenly in the batter.

Step 5: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs but no wet batter.

Step 6: Remove from oven and let cool completely in the pan on a wire rack for at least 1.5 hours. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the brownies out of the pan once cooled.

Step 7 (Optional): For frosting, beat softened unsalted butter until light and fluffy. Gradually add sifted powdered sugar, vanilla extract, heavy cream, and a pinch of salt, beating until smooth and spreadable. Divide and color portions with gel food coloring for a Halloween theme.

Step 8 (Optional): Decorate the remaining whole Oreos with the colored frosting, candy eyes, and sprinkles to create mummy, spiderweb, or monster designs. Set aside to firm slightly.

Step 9 (Optional): Spread a base layer of colored frosting evenly over the cooled brownies. Arrange decorated Oreos on top and add extra sprinkles or candy corn as desired.

Step 10: Cut the brownies into squares using a sharp knife, wiping the knife with a warm, damp cloth between cuts for clean slices. Serve and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

Use chilled eggs to help create a fudgier brownie texture.

For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.

Try adding chopped nuts or mini chocolate chips for extra crunch.

If you prefer a chewier brownie, reduce baking time by a few minutes but keep a close eye to avoid underbaking.

Storage

Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. For best texture, bring refrigerated brownies to room temperature before serving. Frosted and decorated brownies keep well in the fridge but may need to sit out for 10-15 minutes before enjoying.

FAQs

Can I use different cookies instead of Oreos?

Yes, you can substitute Oreos with other sandwich cookies or chocolate cookies to vary the flavor and texture while keeping the festive feel.

Do I have to make the frosting and decorations?

No, the frosting and decorated Oreos are optional. The brownies are delicious on their own, but the frosting adds a fun Halloween touch if you want to dress them up.