Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 18 Oreo cookies, crushed
For those seeking a slightly different flavor, you can substitute the vanilla extract with almond extract for a nutty twist, or use chocolate sandwich cookies other than Oreos to mix up your flavor profile.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper. This will ensure easy removal of the bars once baked.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and 2 cups of sugar. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Add the 4 eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, followed by 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
- Sift in the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix, which can lead to dense brownies.
- Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- In a separate bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, 1/2 cup of sugar, 1 egg, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture gently over the brownie batter, ensuring an even layer.
- Sprinkle the crushed Oreo cookies over the top, pressing them lightly into the cream cheese layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before cutting them into squares.
These steps are a blend of precision and creativity, just like the way my abuela taught me to bake, with patience and love.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International