Cookies & Cream Oreo Doughnuts

If you’re craving a treat that perfectly balances the rich chocolate and creamy vanilla flavors of your favorite sandwich cookies in a soft, fluffy doughnut, you’re in for a real delight. These Cookies & Cream Oreo Doughnuts bring together the nostalgic taste of chocolate sandwich cookies with the comforting texture of homemade doughnuts. The best part? They’re baked, not fried, making them a slightly lighter indulgence without sacrificing any of the fun. Whether it’s for a weekend breakfast or an afternoon pick-me-up, these doughnuts are sure to become a beloved staple in your recipe collection.

Top Reasons to Make Cookies & Cream Oreo Doughnuts

• Irresistible Flavor Combination: The classic pairing of chocolate and cream in the form of Oreo cookies adds a familiar yet exciting twist to doughnuts.
• Simple Ingredients: You probably already have most of these in your pantry, making it easy to whip up whenever the craving hits.
• Baked, Not Fried: Enjoy a lighter version of doughnuts without the hassle and mess of frying.
• Perfect for Sharing: These doughnuts are a crowd-pleaser at brunches, parties, or just a cozy weekend at home.
• Customizable: Top them with extra crushed cookies or drizzle them with chocolate for an extra decadent touch.
• Great for Beginners: The recipe is straightforward and approachable even if you’re new to baking doughnuts.

What You’ll Gather

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup crushed chocolate sandwich cookies (like Oreos)
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk (for glaze)
• Additional crushed chocolate sandwich cookies for topping

What’s in the Gear List

• Doughnut pan – for shaping and baking the doughnuts perfectly
• Mixing bowls – one for dry ingredients, one for wet
• Whisk or electric mixer – to blend ingredients smoothly
• Measuring cups and spoons – to ensure accuracy
• Spatula – for folding in crushed cookies gently
• Cooling rack – to cool doughnuts before glazing
• Spoon or small whisk – for mixing the glaze

Cookies & Cream Oreo Doughnuts — Do This Next

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease your doughnut pan with vegetable oil or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures there are no lumps and everything is evenly distributed.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate large bowl, whisk together the whole milk, vegetable oil, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Bring It Together

Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix – a few lumps are okay.

Step 5: Fold in Crushed Cookies

Gently fold in the cup of crushed chocolate sandwich cookies, distributing them evenly throughout the batter. These bits will give the doughnuts that signature Cookies & Cream Oreo Doughnuts texture and flavor.

Step 6: Fill the Doughnut Pan

Using a spoon or piping bag, fill each doughnut cavity about 3/4 full with the batter. Avoid overfilling, as the doughnuts will rise while baking.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the doughnuts comes out clean. The tops should spring back when lightly touched.

Step 8: Cool Before Glazing

Allow the doughnuts to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes, then transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely before glazing.

Step 9: Prepare the Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons of milk until smooth and thick but pourable. Adjust the consistency by adding a bit more milk or powdered sugar if needed.

Step 10: Glaze and Garnish

Dip the top of each cooled doughnut into the glaze, then immediately sprinkle additional crushed chocolate sandwich cookies on top for extra crunch and cookie flavor. Let the glaze set for about 20 minutes before serving.

Seasonal Serving Ideas

• Add a dollop of peppermint whipped cream and crushed candy canes in the winter for a festive twist.
• Top with fresh raspberries and a dusting of cocoa powder in the summer for a bright, fruity contrast.
• Serve with a drizzle of salted caramel sauce during autumn for a cozy, sweet-savory combo.
• Pair with your favorite cup of coffee or hot chocolate any time of year for an indulgent treat.

Easy-to-Miss Gotchas

• Don’t overmix the batter; overdoing it can make the doughnuts dense instead of light and fluffy.
• Make sure the doughnuts are completely cool before glazing to avoid a runny glaze.
• Use fresh baking powder and baking soda to ensure your doughnuts rise nicely.
• Crush the cookies by hand or with a rolling pin for uneven pieces to maintain texture; finely ground crumbs will blend in and lose that signature crunch.

Meal Prep & Storage Notes

Cookies & Cream Oreo Doughnuts are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored for up to 2 days in an airtight container at room temperature. To keep them soft, place a slice of bread in the container alongside the doughnuts – it helps maintain moisture. For longer storage, freeze the doughnuts without glaze in a single layer wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature and add glaze before serving. Avoid glazing before freezing, as the texture can change upon thawing.

FAQ

Can I substitute the whole milk with a non-dairy alternative?

Absolutely! You can use almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk in the same quantity to keep these doughnuts dairy-free while maintaining their creamy texture.

What’s the best way to crush the chocolate sandwich cookies?

Place the cookies in a sealed plastic bag and gently crush them with a rolling pin or use your hands to break them into small pieces. Aim for a mix of fine crumbs and small chunks to add texture to the doughnuts.

Can I make these doughnuts without a doughnut pan?

Yes, you can use a muffin tin as an alternative, though the shape will be different. Fill each muffin cup about 3/4 full and bake for the same amount of time, checking doneness with a toothpick.

Are these doughnuts suitable for making ahead for a party?

Definitely! You can prepare the doughnuts a day in advance and store them in an airtight container. Add the glaze and cookie topping just before serving to keep them looking fresh and delicious.

Weekend Projects

• Try your hand at Triple Chocolate Midnight Chunk Cookies for an extra chocolaty baking adventure.
• Explore a winter-inspired recipe with White Chocolate Macadamia Snowdrift Cookies as a delightful complement to your doughnuts.

Final Thoughts

Cookies & Cream Oreo Doughnuts are a delightful way to bring a beloved cookie flavor into a new form. The combination of moist, chocolatey doughnut paired with the creamy crunch of Oreo cookie pieces makes every bite a celebration. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is accessible to bakers of all levels and perfect for any occasion that calls for a sweet treat. Whether you’re indulging yourself or sharing with friends and family, these doughnuts are sure to make your day a little sweeter.

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