If you love the perfect balance of creamy sweetness and crunchy cookie bits, this Cookies and Cream Frosting Recipe is going to become your new obsession. It’s incredibly simple to make but delivers a decadently rich flavor that will elevate any cake, cupcake, or dessert into something truly special. The combination of silky butter, sweet powdered sugar, and irresistible crushed chocolate sandwich cookies creates a frosting that’s both luscious and textured, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this dreamy Cookies and Cream Frosting Recipe. Each component plays a crucial role, from the creamy butter that provides the rich base to the crushed cookies that add texture and that classic cookies and cream flair.
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened): This gives the frosting its smooth, creamy foundation and richness without any added salt altering the flavor balance.
- 4 cups powdered sugar (sifted): Sifted for a fluffier texture, it brings sweetness and helps the frosting hold its shape beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream: Adds moisture and helps in achieving a spreadable and light consistency.
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor, giving the frosting a warm and inviting aroma.
- 1 cup crushed chocolate sandwich cookies: These bring the iconic cookies and cream taste with just the right bit of crunchiness folded throughout.
How to Make Cookies and Cream Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Cream the Butter
Start by beating the softened unsalted butter on medium speed until it becomes light and fluffy, about 3 to 5 minutes. This step is essential because well-creamed butter creates the perfect airy texture that will carry the other ingredients smoothly, setting the foundation for that irresistibly silky frosting.
Step 2: Incorporate the Powdered Sugar
Next, gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, mixing on low speed until everything is fully combined. Going slow ensures the sugar is well incorporated without creating a floury cloud, giving the frosting a smooth, velvety finish without any graininess.
Step 3: Mix in the Cream and Vanilla
Pour in the heavy cream along with the pure vanilla extract, then mix until the frosting is unbelievably smooth. The cream lightens the texture and the vanilla extracts elevate the flavor, making every bite taste like a little piece of dessert heaven.
Step 4: Fold in the Crushed Cookies
Finally, gently fold in the crushed chocolate sandwich cookies until they are evenly spread throughout the frosting. This step is where the magic happens, as those crunchy cookie bits bring the iconic cookies and cream texture and make this frosting delightfully fun to eat.
How to Serve Cookies and Cream Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
To add an extra layer of charm and crunch, sprinkle a few whole or broken chocolate sandwich cookies on top of your frosted cakes or cupcakes. For a little sparkle, a light dusting of cocoa powder or edible silver pearls can complement the cookies and cream vibe beautifully.
Side Dishes
This fluffy frosting pairs perfectly with classic vanilla or chocolate cakes, but it’s also fantastic alongside brownies or sugar cookies. If you’re feeling adventurous, try it atop a rich red velvet cake for a striking contrast of flavors and colors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, use the Cookies and Cream Frosting Recipe as a dip for fresh fruit like strawberries or apple slices at your next party. Swirl it into your parfait layers or pipe it beautifully onto cupcakes, turning each bite into a gorgeous and delicious treat that everyone will rave about.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover Cookies and Cream Frosting Recipe, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Before using it again, bring it back to room temperature and give it a good stir to restore its creamy texture.
Freezing
This frosting also freezes wonderfully. Place it in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and whip it gently to regain its fluffy consistency.
Reheating
Reheating isn’t necessary for this frosting, but if it feels a bit firm after chilling or freezing, warming it slightly at room temperature and stirring well will make it soft and spreadable again without losing its delicious flavor.
FAQs
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
While you can use salted butter, it’s best to stick with unsalted to control the salt level in the frosting. Salted butter may alter the subtle sweetness and overall balance of flavors in the Cookies and Cream Frosting Recipe.
What type of cookies work best for this frosting?
Traditional chocolate sandwich cookies like Oreos are perfect because they provide that authentic cookies and cream taste and texture. You can experiment with other chocolate or vanilla sandwich cookies, but stick to varieties with a creamy filling for best results.
Can I make this frosting dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the butter with a dairy-free margarine or vegan butter and use a non-dairy cream alternative. Just keep in mind that flavors and texture might slightly differ from the original.
Is this frosting good for piping decorations?
Yes, the frosting has a thick but fluffy consistency that holds well for piping swirls and other decorations on cakes and cupcakes. Just make sure to keep it at room temperature for easier handling.
Can I add food coloring to this frosting?
You can, but since the crushed cookies create a dark speckled look, vibrant colors might not show as clearly. Soft pastel shades work best if you want to tint the frosting without overpowering its classic cookies and cream appearance.
Final Thoughts
This Cookies and Cream Frosting Recipe is one of those simple pleasures that makes any dessert instantly more delightful. It’s creamy yet textured, sweet but not overpowering — basically everything you want in a frosting and more. I promise once you try it, you’ll be reaching for this luscious topping on cupcakes, cakes, and even as a fun dip to share with friends and family. Go ahead, whip up a batch and enjoy the magic!
Print
Cookies and Cream Frosting Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
This delicious Cookies and Cream Frosting combines a creamy, buttery base with sweet powdered sugar, rich vanilla, and crunchy crushed chocolate sandwich cookies. It’s the perfect frosting for cakes, cupcakes, or as a decadent dip to satisfy any sweet tooth craving. Quick and easy to make, this frosting adds a delightful cookies and cream twist to your desserts.
Ingredients
Frosting Base
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 4 cups powdered sugar (sifted)
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Add-ins
- 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, about 3-5 minutes. This step is crucial to create a smooth, creamy base for your frosting.
- Add powdered sugar: Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar while mixing on low speed to avoid a mess. Mix until the sugar is fully combined with the butter, forming a thick frosting mixture.
- Incorporate cream and vanilla: Pour in the heavy cream and vanilla extract, then mix on medium speed until the frosting is smooth and creamy. The cream adds moisture and the vanilla enhances flavor.
- Fold in crushed cookies: Gently fold in the crushed chocolate sandwich cookies using a spatula, distributing them evenly throughout the frosting without breaking them down too much, providing delightful cookie pieces in every bite.
Notes
- For a firmer frosting, chill for 15-30 minutes before using.
- You can adjust the thickness by adding more powdered sugar or cream as needed.
- Use fresh, softened butter for best results and smoother texture.
- Store leftover frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- Let refrigerated frosting come to room temperature before using for easy spreading.
- Crush cookies coarsely for more texture or finely for a smoother consistency based on preference.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert Frosting
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: American
