As the holiday season approaches, the air fills with the sweet scent of baking and festive cheer. One evening, while wrapping gifts and sipping hot cocoa, I felt a wave of nostalgia tide over me, reminding me of those cozy childhood moments spent in the kitchen with loved ones. That’s when the genius idea of crafting Christmas Oreo Cupcakes struck me—a delightful fusion of rich chocolate and beloved sandwich cookies that perfectly captures the essence of the season.
Imagine this: fluffy cupcake layers featuring crushed Oreos, topped generously with creamy frosting and a sprinkle of more Oreo bits. These treats not only look adorable perched on any holiday dessert table, but they also satisfy the cravings of both young and old alike. Whether for a festive gathering or a personal indulgence after a long day, these cupcakes promise to bring joy and smiles with every bite. Ready to elevate your holiday baking game? Let’s dive into making these Christmas Oreo Cupcakes together!
Why You'll Love This Christmas Oreo Cupcakes
- These Christmas Oreo Cupcakes are incredibly easy to make, allowing you to whip up a festive treat in just 35 minutes.
- With the irresistible combination of rich chocolate and crunchy Oreos, every bite bursts with delightful flavor that will leave your taste buds wanting more.
- Their playful visual appeal, complete with creamy frosting and festive toppings, makes them an eye-catching addition to any holiday dessert table.
- Perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a cozy indulgence, these cupcakes are a sure crowd-pleaser that will spread joy to all.
Christmas Oreo Cupcake Ingredients
• Get ready to gather your favorites!
For the Cupcake Batter
- All-purpose flour – creates the perfect base for a fluffy texture.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder – adds rich chocolate flavor to your cupcakes.
- Baking powder – ensures your cupcakes rise beautifully while baking.
- Granulated sugar – sweetens the batter for a deliciously indulgent treat.
- Large eggs (room temperature) – help bind the ingredients and produce a light, airy cupcake.
- Whole milk – keeps the cupcakes moist and adds a creamy richness.
- Vegetable oil – contributes to the moistness and tenderness of the cupcakes.
- Vanilla extract – enhances the overall flavor, bringing warmth to each bite.
- Oreo cookies (crushed) – adds delightful crunch and iconic cookie flavor to your batter.
For the Frosting
- Cream cheese – provides a rich, tangy base for the frosting that complements the sweetness.
- Powdered sugar – sweetens the frosting and helps achieve a smooth texture.
- Butter (softened) – adds creaminess and a rich flavor profile to your frosting.
- Vanilla extract – gives the frosting an added aromatic flare.
For Topping
- Oreo cookies (crushed) – the finishing touch that adds an extra crunchy and chocolatey bite!
How to Make Christmas Oreo Cupcakes
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a muffin tin by lining it with cupcake liners. This will ensure the cupcakes bake evenly and come out easily once cooled.
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Whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and granulated sugar in a bowl until well combined. This step brings out the dry ingredients’ flavors, ensuring a rich chocolate base for your cupcakes.
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Mix the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract in another bowl until smooth. Once blended, combine with the dry ingredients and stir gently until just mixed; be careful not to overmix to keep those cupcakes fluffy!
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Fold in the crushed Oreo cookies until evenly distributed throughout the batter. The Oreos will add delightful flavor and texture, making every bite a treat.
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Fill the cupcake liners two-thirds full with batter and bake for 18-20 minutes. The cupcakes should spring back when lightly touched and a toothpick should come out clean.
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Cool the cupcakes on a wire rack before frosting them with your cream cheese frosting. Top with crushed Oreos for an extra festive touch!
Optional: Sprinkle some festive red and green sugar on top for a holiday sparkle!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Christmas Oreo Cupcake Variations
Feel free to add your personal touch to these delicious cupcakes!
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Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend for a scrumptious alternative everyone can enjoy. You won’t sacrifice taste with this delightful change!
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Dairy-Free: Use almond milk and a dairy-free cream cheese for the frosting to make it vegan friendly without compromising rich flavor. It’s perfect for those with lactose sensitivities.
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Mint Chocolate: Add a teaspoon of peppermint extract to the batter for a refreshing minty twist. This combination brings out the festive spirit and elevates the classic flavor profile!
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Chocolate Ganache: Instead of cream cheese frosting, drizzle a silky chocolate ganache on top for an extra indulgent treat that will impress your guests. Who can resist that chocolate richness?
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Additional Mix-Ins: Toss in some chopped nuts or holiday sprinkles to the batter for added texture and fun! Each bite will be a delightful surprise and visually stunning.
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Spicy Kick: Add a touch of cayenne pepper to the batter for a surprising heat that complements the rich chocolate perfectly. It’s an unexpected twist that will intrigue adventurous eaters!
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Caramel Drizzle: After frosting the cupcakes, finish with a drizzle of caramel sauce for a decadent touch of sweetness. It creates a perfect harmony with the Oreo flavors!
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Red Velvet Oreo Cupcakes: Swap cocoa powder for red velvet cake mix for a beautifully colored masterpiece. These festive cupcakes will surely dazzle any gathering!
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Oreo Cupcakes
Room Temperature: Store cooled cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and soft for a delightful treat.
Fridge: If you need to keep them longer, frosted cupcakes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Make sure to cover them well to prevent drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze un-frosted cupcakes in a single layer, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer bag, for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy, thaw cupcakes in the fridge overnight and bring them to room temperature before serving. Frosted cupcakes can be warmed slightly in the microwave for a few seconds for that fresh-baked taste!
What to Serve with Christmas Oreo Cupcakes?
The holidays are all about gathering and sharing delightful flavors that bring joy to our tables. Pair these decadent cupcakes with complementary sides to create a complete festive experience.
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Hot Cocoa Bar: A warm cup of cocoa adds a cozy touch, balancing the rich sweetness of the cupcakes. Top with marshmallows and whipped cream for an indulgent treat!
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy ice cream provides a smooth contrast to the rich chocolate, making each bite feel extra indulgent. Drizzle some chocolate sauce on top for added flair!
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Peppermint Bark: This crunchy festive treat brings a refreshing minty flavor that cuts through the sweetness while adding a textural contrast. It’s perfect for sharing with family and friends!
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Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: These juicy berries create a beautiful burst of freshness alongside the cupcakes. Their slightly tart taste pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the Oreo cupcakes.
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Fruit Salad: A light and colorful fruit salad filled with seasonal fruits brightens your dessert table and complements the cupcakes’ rich flavors. The natural sweetness of fruits adds a refreshing element.
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Holiday Punch: A festive fruit punch adds a zingy sparkle to your celebrations. Offer both alcoholic and non-alcoholic versions to please all guests during your joyous gatherings.
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Cream Cheese Frosting Dip: Use leftover frosting as a dip for graham crackers or pretzels. It’s a fun and playful way to enjoy that sweet creaminess in a different form!
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Eggnog: Serve chilled eggnog as a classic holiday drink that pairs beautifully with the chocolatey cupcakes. Its rich, spiced flavor brings a festive warmth to your dessert table.
These delicious accompaniments will elevate your holiday gatherings and create lasting memories around the dessert table!
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Oreo Cupcakes are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can prepare the cupcake batter up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it, ensuring it remains fresh and delicious. Just store the batter in an airtight container to prevent drying out. When ready to bake, simply fill your cupcake liners and follow the usual baking instructions. Additionally, consider frosting the cupcakes up to 3 days ahead of time; just keep them in the fridge in a sealed container to maintain that creamy texture. These make-ahead tips allow you to enjoy flawless festive treats with minimal day-of effort, ensuring your holiday gatherings are filled with joy and sweet indulgence!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Christmas Oreo Cupcakes, ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature for the best mixing results.
- Avoid overmixing the batter to maintain a light and fluffy texture; gentle folding is key when incorporating the crushed Oreos.
- Consider using a cookie scoop to fill the cupcake liners evenly, which will help them bake uniformly.
- For proper baking, be sure to check for doneness a minute or two early by using a toothpick, as ovens may vary in temperature.
Christmas Oreo Cupcakes Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best Oreos for my cupcakes?
Absolutely! Look for Oreos that have no visible damage or broken bits. Ideally, choose a fresh package without a lot of dark spots, which may indicate staleness. The more the merrier when it comes to crushed Oreos—using regular or double-stuffed gives you flexibility for flavor and texture!
How should I store leftover Christmas Oreo Cupcakes?
For the best taste, store your cooled cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you love that fresh, creamy frosting, cover them properly and keep them in the fridge for up to a week. Just make sure they’re not exposed to air to avoid drying out!
Can I freeze Christmas Oreo Cupcakes?
Yes! To freeze your Christmas Oreo Cupcakes, start by wrapping each un-frosted cupcake tightly in plastic wrap. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge, thaw them in the fridge overnight, then bring to room temperature before frosting and serving.
What if my cupcake batter is too thick?
If your batter seems heavier than expected, try adding a splash of whole milk—just a tablespoon at a time—until it reaches the desired consistency. A smooth and pourable batter helps achieve fluffy cupcakes. Remember, mixing should be gentle for fluffy results!
Are these cupcakes safe for people with nut allergies?
Great question! The ingredients listed for Christmas Oreo Cupcakes do not include nuts, making them suitable for nut allergies. However, always check the packaging of your ingredients to confirm they are produced in a nut-free facility. For extra safety, you can opt for nut-free Oreo alternatives if desired.
How long can I keep my cupcakes in the fridge?
Frosted cupcakes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week! Just ensure they are well-covered or inside an airtight container to keep them moist and delicious. If you’re planning to enjoy them after a few days, I recommend indulging them closer to the later end of that week for maximum freshness!
Equipment
- oven
- muffin tin
- Mixing Bowls
- Whisk
- Rubber spatula
- Cupcake liners
Ingredients
For the Cupcake Batter
- 1 cup All-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup Unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon Baking powder
- 1 cup Granulated sugar
- 2 Large eggs (room temperature)
- 1/2 cup Whole milk
- 1/4 cup Vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
- 1 cup Oreo cookies (crushed)
For the Frosting
- 8 oz Cream cheese
- 2 cup Powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup Butter (softened)
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
For Topping
- 1 cup Oreo cookies (crushed) the finishing touch
Instructions
How to Make Christmas Oreo Cupcakes
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a muffin tin by lining it with cupcake liners.
- Whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and granulated sugar in a bowl until well combined.
- Mix the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract in another bowl until smooth.
- Combine with the dry ingredients and stir gently until just mixed; be careful not to overmix.
- Fold in the crushed Oreo cookies until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Fill the cupcake liners two-thirds full with batter and bake for 18-20 minutes.
- Cool the cupcakes on a wire rack before frosting them with your cream cheese frosting.
- Top with crushed Oreos for an extra festive touch!
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