Halloween Oreo Brownies are the perfect sweet treat to get you in the spooky spirit! These fudgy brownies have bits of crunchy Oreo cookies mixed in, and they’re decorated with fun Halloween-themed toppings—think candy eyes, orange frosting, and black sprinkles. They’re a delicious mix of chocolatey goodness and festive fun all in one bite.
I love making these brownies because they’re super easy and always a big hit with both kids and adults. I like to let the brownies cool just a little before adding the decorations, so everything stays nice and neat. And the crunchy Oreos inside give them a fun texture that makes me keep going back for more. Plus, they’re great for Halloween parties or just a festive after-school snack.
One of my favorite ways to serve these is on a bright orange plate with some milk on the side. It feels like a little Halloween party every time I take a bite. I always smile thinking about how these brownies bring everyone together, sharing silly stories and candy vibes. If you want an easy, fun recipe that brings out the Halloween mood, these brownies are definitely the way to go!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butter: Using unsalted butter gives you control over the salt level. If you prefer, you can swap for melted coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
Oreo Cookies: Chopped Oreos add crunch and flavor. You can use similar chocolate sandwich cookies if Oreos aren’t available.
Orange Cream Cheese Frosting: This adds a smooth, tangy layer and festive color. You can make your own by mixing cream cheese, powdered sugar, and orange food coloring, or use ready-made frosting.
Halloween Decorations: Feel free to get creative! Candy eyes, orange pretzels, or black sprinkles all bring a fun mood. Any festive toppings you like will work.
How Do You Get the Perfect Layered Look with Frosting Inside Brownies?
To create the tasty frosting layer inside without it mixing too much, follow these steps:
- Spread half of your brownie batter evenly in the pan.
- Gently spoon or dollop the frosting over this first layer. Avoid spreading too roughly, or it might blend with batter below.
- Use a spatula to carefully spread frosting into an even layer.
- Pour the rest of your brownie batter slowly over the frosting, spreading it without disturbing the layer beneath.
When baked, the frosting forms a creamy middle layer between fudgy brownie layers. Make sure your oven temperature is right to avoid over-baking and drying the frosting layer.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking pan – I use this size for baking brownies that are not too thick and easy to cut.
- Parchment paper or cooking spray – makes removal and clean-up easier.
- Medium saucepan – for melting butter smoothly.
- Mixing bowls – for mixing the batter and frosting.
- Whisk or spatula – to combine ingredients and spread layers evenly.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredients.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use peanut butter Oreos or chocolate sandwich cookies for a different flavor twist.
- Mix in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
- Add mini chocolate chips to the batter for more chocolate goodness.
- Swerve in cream cheese frosting with a hint of cinnamon or vanilla for a unique flavor.
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 1/4 cups unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 20 Oreo cookies, roughly chopped (plus extra whole Oreos for topping)
For the Frosting and Decorating:
- 1 cup orange cream cheese frosting (store-bought or homemade)
- Halloween-themed decorations (e.g., orange pretzels, candy eyes, black sprinkles)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 35-40 minutes to bake. You’ll also want to allow about 30 minutes for the brownies to cool fully before cutting and decorating.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Baking Pan:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or grease it well to keep the brownies from sticking.
2. Make the Brownie Batter:
In a medium saucepan on medium heat, melt the butter completely. Remove from heat and whisk in the sugar until everything is smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each one. Stir in the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, sift together the cocoa powder, salt, baking powder, and flour. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet butter mixture, careful not to overmix. Then, fold in the roughly chopped Oreos to the batter.
3. Layer the Brownies and Frosting:
Spread half of the brownie batter evenly in your prepared pan. Next, dollop the orange cream cheese frosting gently over the batter layer and spread it evenly, trying not to mix it too much.
Pour the remaining brownie batter on top of the frosting layer and spread it out smoothly.
4. Bake and Decorate:
Bake for 35-40 minutes. To check if they’re done, insert a toothpick in the center. It should come out with a few moist crumbs but no raw batter.
Right after removing from the oven, press whole Oreo cookies on top and sprinkle with fun Halloween decorations like orange pretzels, candy eyes, or black sprinkles.
5. Cool and Serve:
Let the brownies cool completely in the pan to set the layers nicely. Once cooled, cut into squares and enjoy your festive Halloween Oreo Brownies!
Can I Use Frozen Oreos for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen Oreos, but make sure to thaw them completely before chopping. This helps the cookies mix smoothly into the batter without adding extra moisture.
Can I Make These Brownies Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Bake the brownies and let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them in the fridge for up to a week.
How Should I Store Leftover Halloween Oreo Brownies?
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature if you plan to eat them within a few days. Otherwise, keep them refrigerated to maintain freshness, and bring them back to room temperature before serving.
Can I Substitute the Orange Cream Cheese Frosting?
Definitely! You can use any cream cheese frosting and add orange food coloring, or try a simple vanilla or chocolate frosting if you prefer. Just pick colors or flavors that fit your Halloween theme!