These Oreo Cupcakes are the ultimate treat for cookie lovers! With fluffy vanilla cupcakes infused with crushed Oreos, creamy Oreo buttercream frosting, and a garnish of mini Oreos, they're as delightful to look at as they are to eat. Whether you're celebrating a birthday or just craving something sweet, these cupcakes are sure to impress.
Why You'll Love These Cupcakes
Oreo Cupcakes are the perfect combination of fluffy, sweet, and creamy. Despite their impressive appearance, they're incredibly easy to make with basic ingredients you likely already have. The frosting, loaded with Oreo crumbs, is so delicious you might find yourself eating it straight from the bowl. These cupcakes are not only a joy to make but also a guaranteed hit with anyone who tries them.
Ingredients for Oreo Cupcakes
- Butter: Softened for both the cupcake batter and frosting.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cupcake batter.
- Vanilla Extract: Adds depth of flavor to both cupcakes and frosting.
- Eggs: Provide structure and texture.
- Milk: Moistens the batter and ensures a smooth consistency.
- All-Purpose Flour: Forms the base of the cupcakes.
- Self-Rising Flour: Guarantees a perfect rise with evenly distributed baking powder and salt.
- Crushed Oreo Cookies: Mixed into the batter for Oreo flavor throughout.
- Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and smooths the frosting.
- Mini Oreo Cookies: Used as a garnish for an adorable finishing touch.
Making the Oreo Cupcake Batter
- Prep Your Muffin Tins
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line 24 muffin tins with paper liners and set aside.
- Mix Butter and Sugar
- Using a stand mixer, whip softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Mix in vanilla extract and eggs one at a time, scraping the bowl as needed.
- Add Flours and Milk
- Alternate adding self-rising flour, all-purpose flour, and milk to the batter, mixing until combined. Fold in crushed Oreo crumbs by hand for even distribution.
- Bake
- Scoop batter into the prepared muffin tins, filling each about 2/3 full. Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cupcakes cool completely before frosting.
Making the Oreo Buttercream Frosting
- Whip Butter
- In a mixing bowl, whip softened butter and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Slowly mix in powdered sugar until fully incorporated.
- Add Milk and Oreos
- Stir in milk to achieve the desired consistency, then fold in finely ground Oreo crumbs. Ensure the crumbs are well ground to prevent clogging if you're using a piping bag.
- Frost
- Pipe or spread the frosting onto the cooled cupcakes. Garnish with mini Oreos for a fun and decorative touch.
Variations for Oreo Cupcakes
- Chocolate Oreo Cupcakes: Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the dry ingredients for a rich chocolate twist.
- Oreo Cheesecake Cupcakes: Mix in ½ cup of cream cheese into the batter for a creamy texture.
- Oreo Red Velvet Cupcakes: Use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour and add red food coloring to create a vibrant red velvet version.
- Toppings: Experiment with different garnishes like crushed Oreos, sprinkles, or a drizzle of melted chocolate.
Storing and Serving Tips
Store Oreo Cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. For longer storage, freeze unfrosted cupcakes in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw before frosting. To make ahead, bake the cupcakes a day in advance and frost them on the day of serving for the best flavor and texture. These cupcakes are perfect for parties, celebrations, or any time you need a sweet treat!
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the cupcakes a day ahead and store them unfrosted in an airtight container. Make the frosting fresh when ready to serve for best results.
- → Why do you need both regular and self-rising flour?
The combination of flours gives these cupcakes the perfect texture and rise. Self-rising flour contains leavening agents while all-purpose flour provides structure.
- → How finely should I crush the Oreos?
For the cake batter, you want small chunks of Oreos. For the frosting, especially if piping, crush them very finely to prevent clogging the piping tip.
- → Can I freeze these cupcakes?
You can freeze unfrosted cupcakes for up to 2 months in an airtight container. Thaw completely before frosting. The frosting is best made fresh.
- → How do I know when the cupcakes are done?
A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few crumbs. Be careful not to overbake as this can make them dry.