Now, pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly across the bottom. Once that’s done, take the Oreo cookies and layer them side by side over the brownie batter. To ensure I’m getting the full experience in each piece, I love to press them down slightly. Then, take your cookie dough and flatten it out before placing it over the Oreos, covering them completely. Once you have that beautiful layer of cookie dough, carefully spread the remaining brownie mix on top of it.
When it’s all assembled, pop the pan in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs. Be careful not to overbake! The gooey middle is part of the charm, and you definitely don’t want it drying out. While the brownies are baking, my kitchen fills with a sweet, chocolatey aroma that is simply divine. As soon as they’re ready, let them cool for a bit before cutting into them. But trust me when I say, you’ll have a hard time waiting!
Pro Tips for Best Results
One of the best tips I can give is to let the brownies cool completely before cutting into them. I once made the mistake of slicing into them too soon, and they fell apart! Giving them time to set allows those layers to adhere nicely, resulting in perfectly cut brownie squares.
I also highly recommend using high-quality chocolate chips if you decide to add them. I’ve tested this three ways—using semi-sweet, dark, and milk chocolate. Each one brings a different flavor profile, but my personal favorite has to be semi-sweet for that perfect balance of sweetness without being overpowering.
Lastly, remember to use room temperature ingredients for your cookie dough if you go homemade. This ensures everything mixes well, giving you that lovely soft texture when baked. Using chilled dough can sometimes lead to a tougher, less enjoyable bite when combined with brownie batter.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake to avoid is forgetting to check the expiration date on your brownie mix and cookie dough. I once had a baking day go sideways when I used outdated ingredients, resulting in flat, unappetizing brownies. Always double-check before you start baking!
Also, be mindful of the baking time; everyone’s oven is different. If you notice the edges of the brownies pulling away from the sides of the pan but the center looks too gooey, it’s time to take them out. Don’t be tempted to leave them in for “just a little longer.” The brownies continue to set as they cool, and you want that gooey center! (See the next page below to continue…)