Halloween Oreo Brownies are the perfect festive treat that combine the rich, fudgy goodness of classic brownies with the crunchy, creamy fun of Oreo cookies. With spooky sprinkles, and maybe a few candy eyes, these brownies bring some Halloween magic to your dessert table. They’re easy to make and absolutely delicious, with just the right mix of chocolatey and crunchy textures.
I love making these brownies because they’re a hit with both kids and adults. The Oreo cookies inside add a surprise twist that makes every bite exciting. Plus, decorating them with Halloween-themed toppings is a fun way to get creative, and you can make them as simple or as fancy as you like. I usually add a handful of crushed Oreos on top before baking for an extra cookie crunch that everyone asks for.
These brownies are perfect for parties, school events, or just a cozy night at home watching spooky movies. I find that letting them cool fully before slicing helps keep the cookies from crumbling, so I always try to be patient — which is easier said than done because they smell so good while baking! Sharing these treats always brings a little extra fun and smiles to Halloween celebrations.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butter: Using unsalted butter lets you control salt levels. If you want, swap it for coconut oil for a dairy-free option that adds a subtle flavor twist.
Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa is best for deep chocolate flavor here. Dutch-processed cocoa can be swapped in if you prefer a smoother, less bitter taste.
Oreo Cookies: Crushed Oreos inside add texture and creaminess. You can use gluten-free Oreos or sandwich cookies for dietary needs, or try flavored Oreos to mix it up.
Orange Cream Cheese Frosting: This adds color and tangy sweetness. Use store-bought for ease, or make your own with cream cheese, powdered sugar, and orange food coloring or zest.
How Do You Make Swirled Frosting Layers Without Messing Up the Batter?
Swirling frosting into brownie batter can be tricky, but it’s all about gentle layering and light swirling motion.
- Pour half the brownie batter into the pan and spread evenly but gently.
- Add spoonfuls of frosting spaced out over the batter—don’t spread it all at once.
- Use a knife or toothpick to lightly swirl the frosting into the batter; avoid over-mixing to keep distinct swirls.
- Carefully pour the remaining batter on top, spreading gently again.
- Repeat the dollop and swirl process with remaining frosting.
This technique keeps nice swirled layers without blending the frosting completely. It also helps keep the texture soft and moist with pretty orange waves throughout.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking pan – I use this size because it’s perfect for fitting all the layers and toppings evenly.
- Parchment paper – makes cleanup easier and helps lift out the brownies without breaking.
- Medium saucepan – essential for melting the butter smoothly.
- Mixing bowls – for combining ingredients and whisking dry and wet mixtures.
- Whisk or spatula – helps blend everything smoothly without lumps.
- Knife or toothpick – for swirling the frosting into the brownie batter neatly.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap orange frosting for cream cheese frosting with added food coloring or flavoring, like caramel or vanilla, to change the look and taste.
- Add chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, into the batter for extra crunch and flavor.
- Use different cookies, like pink or colored Oreos, to match other themes or holidays.
- Mix mini candies or candy eyes into the frosting or decorate on top for a more spooky or colorful vibe.
Halloween Oreo Brownies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Brownie Batter:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup crushed Oreo cookies (about 12 Oreos)
For the Topping and Swirls:
- 15-20 whole Oreo cookies for topping
- 1 cup orange cream cheese frosting (store-bought or homemade)
- Optional: orange and black Halloween-themed candy or sprinkles for decoration
Time You’ll Need
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and roughly 30-35 minutes to bake. Plan on an additional 30-45 minutes for the brownies to cool completely before slicing. So, expect around 1.5 hours total from start to enjoying these festive treats!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Pan and Oven:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang to help lift the brownies out later.
2. Make the Brownie Batter:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Remove from heat and stir in the sugar until smooth. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Slowly fold the dry ingredients into the wet butter mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Gently fold in the crushed Oreo cookies, so they’re mixed throughout the batter.
3. Layer and Swirl the Frosting:
Pour half of the brownie batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Drop spoonfuls of half the orange cream cheese frosting over the batter. Using a knife or toothpick, gently swirl the frosting into the batter to create a marbled effect.
Spread the remaining brownie batter over the top, then repeat with the rest of the frosting, swirling again lightly.
4. Add the Toppings and Bake:
Arrange whole Oreo cookies on top of the batter, pressing down gently so they stick but don’t sink. If you like, add Halloween-themed candy or sprinkles now or after baking.
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Avoid overbaking to keep the brownies fudgy!
5. Cool and Serve:
Let the brownies cool completely in the pan placed on a wire rack before cutting into squares. This step helps the brownies set and makes slicing cleaner.
Once cooled, cut into squares and enjoy your festive Halloween Oreo Brownies!
Can I Use Store-Bought Frosting Instead of Making My Own?
Absolutely! Store-bought orange cream cheese frosting works great and saves time. You can add a few drops of orange food coloring or a pinch of orange zest to boost the color and flavor if you want it extra festive.
How Should I Store Halloween Oreo Brownies?
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw frozen brownies at room temperature before serving.
Can I Substitute Different Cookies for Oreos?
Yes! You can try other sandwich cookies like chocolate cream-filled, peanut butter, or seasonal flavors. Just crush them for the batter and use whole cookies for the topping for a fun twist.
How Do I Prevent the Oreos on Top from Sinking?
Press the Oreo cookies gently onto the surface of the batter just before baking, but don’t push them down too far. The batter’s thickness helps keep them in place while baking.
