Halloween Oreo Brownies are the perfect treat for spooky season! These brownies are rich and fudgy, packed with chunks of Oreo cookies that add a fun crunch. With a festive twist, they’re decorated with Halloween-themed sprinkles and candy eyes that make them look festive and fun.
I love making these brownies for Halloween parties or just to share with family and friends. They always get lots of smiles, especially from kids who enjoy the surprise bits of Oreos inside. A little tip from me: gently fold in the Oreos so they stay chunky and give each bite a nice texture.
These brownies are great on their own or served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream if you want to make them extra special. They’re easy to make ahead and perfect for sharing around a Halloween bonfire or passing out to trick-or-treaters. I always find making these brings that cheerful Halloween spirit into the kitchen and onto the dessert table!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butter: Unsalted butter adds richness and moisture to the brownies. You can swap it with coconut oil for a dairy-free option, though the flavor will be a bit different.
Oreos: They bring a fun, crunchy surprise to the soft brownies. If Oreos aren’t available, any chocolate sandwich cookies work great. You can even use gluten-free versions if needed.
Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa powder gives the deep chocolate flavor. Dutch-processed cocoa is a good alternative for a smoother, less bitter taste.
Sugar: Granulated sugar is classic for brownies. Brown sugar can be used instead for a slight caramel-like flavor and a moister texture.
How Do You Keep Oreos Chunky and Well-Distributed in Brownies?
Oreos can sometimes get too soft or evenly melted if mixed too aggressively. To keep their crunch and shape:
- Chop the Oreos into medium chunks, not crumbs.
- Fold the Oreos gently into the batter at the very end to avoid breaking them up.
- Reserve some whole or halved Oreos to press on top before baking for a decorative effect.
This way, you get nice Oreo bits inside each brownie and a fun look on top. It also creates a contrast in texture that makes the brownies extra enjoyable!
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×9-inch baking pan – I like using this size because it gives the brownies a good thickness and shape.
- Parchment paper or cooking spray – makes it easy to lift out the brownies and prevents sticking.
- Medium saucepan – for melting the butter smoothly.
- Mixing bowls – one for the wet ingredients and one for the dry, to keep things tidy.
- Whisk or spatula – helps mix everything evenly without overworking the batter.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient amounts.
- Decorating tools (optional) – piping bags or toothpicks for adding Halloween designs with frosting.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Peanut butter swirl – add dollops of peanut butter before baking and swirl with a toothpick for a tasty twist.
- Chocolate chips – fold in some mini chocolate chips for extra melty goodness.
- Marshmallow topping – sprinkle mini marshmallows on top before baking for a gooey finish.
- Spooky decorations – use orange, black, or green icing to create Halloween themed faces or stripes on the brownies for a fun look.
Halloween Oreo Brownies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 15-20 Oreo cookies, roughly chopped (reserve some whole or halved for topping)
- Orange food coloring gel or orange frosting for decoration
- Halloween-themed sprinkles or decorations (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and roughly 30 to 35 minutes for baking. Plus, allow the brownies to cool completely for 1 hour before cutting for the best texture and ease of serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Get Ready:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in the granulated sugar until well combined. Then whisk in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully mixed before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.
3. Mix Dry Ingredients and Combine:
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring gently until everything is just combined — be careful not to overmix, or the brownies may become tough.
4. Add the Oreos:
Fold in the roughly chopped Oreos carefully to keep the pieces chunky. Save a few whole or halved Oreos to press on top of the batter later.
5. Bake and Decorate:
Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pan and spread it out smoothly. Press the reserved Oreo cookies on top. Use orange food coloring gel or orange frosting to create fun Halloween lines or designs on the brownie surface. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with moist crumbs (not wet batter).
6. Cool and Serve:
Let the brownies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before cutting into squares. If you like, sprinkle with Halloween-themed decorations before serving. Enjoy your spooky, delicious 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 and folding into the batter. This helps them incorporate better without adding extra moisture.
How Should I Store Leftover Halloween Oreo Brownies?
Store leftovers 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 or freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw frozen brownies at room temperature before serving.
Can I Substitute Cocoa Powder with Melted Chocolate?
You can substitute some or all of the cocoa powder with melted chocolate for a richer flavor. If doing so, reduce the butter slightly to keep the texture right. Aim to use about 4 oz of melted chocolate for every cup of cocoa powder replaced.
Can I Make These Brownies Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour. Just make sure your baking powder is gluten-free as well, and the Oreos are safe or substituted with gluten-free sandwich cookies.
