Oreo Cake Bars are a delightful combination of rich chocolate cake and creamy Oreo flavors, creating a treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, celebrating a birthday, or simply indulging in a sweet craving, these bars are sure to impress. With their fudgy texture and a hint of crunch from the Oreo crust, they strike the perfect balance between decadent and delightful.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
- Servings: 12
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 250
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 150mg
Why Make This Oreo Cake Bars
What makes Oreo Cake Bars stand out is their simplicity and versatility. They bring together the beloved taste of Oreo cookies with a rich chocolate cake, all in one easy-to-make dessert. These bars are perfect for sharing at gatherings, potlucks, or even as a special treat for your family. Their inviting aroma will fill your kitchen as they bake, and they’re just as enjoyable at room temperature as they are right out of the oven. Plus, they’re a fantastic canvas for creativity—feel free to add your favorite toppings or serve them with a scoop of ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert!
How to Make Oreo Cake Bars
Ingredients:
- 1 package Oreo cookies
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 box chocolate cake mix
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions:
### Step 1: Preparation
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch pan. This step is crucial as it ensures your bars won’t stick to the pan, making for easier serving.
### Step 2: Mixing the Oreo Crust
Crush the Oreo cookies into fine crumbs and mix them with the melted butter. Once well-blended, press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form a solid crust. This crunchy base adds the perfect texture to your bars.
### Step 3: Preparing the Batter
In a separate mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, eggs, and chocolate chips. Stir until smooth. Then, carefully spread the batter over the Oreo crust, making sure it covers the entire surface evenly.
### Step 4: Baking
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This baking step will result in a fudgy, rich cake that complements the Oreo crust brilliantly.
### Step 5: Creating the Icing
In a separate bowl, mix the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to make a simple icing. Once the cake bars have cooled, drizzle this icing over the top for an added touch of sweetness.
How to Serve Oreo Cake Bars
Serve your Oreo Cake Bars either warm or at room temperature. Cut them into squares and consider pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or some fresh berries. For an extra special touch, sprinkle some crushed Oreos on top of the icing for decoration!
How to Store Oreo Cake Bars
These delicious bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the bars for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing.
Expert Tips for Perfect Oreo Cake Bars
- Use fresh ingredients for the best texture and flavor.
- To crush the Oreo cookies more easily, place them in a zip-top bag and use a rolling pin—this keeps the mess to a minimum.
- Adjust the baking time slightly depending on your oven and the pan material; glass pans often require a little longer than metal ones.
- Feel free to swap out chocolate chips for white chocolate or even peanut butter chips to experiment with flavors.
Delicious Variations
- Add chopped nuts to the chocolate batter for added texture.
- Substitute half of the butter with cream cheese for a creamier base.
- Use different flavors of Oreos, like the mint or birthday cake varieties, for a fun twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use homemade chocolate cake?
Yes, you can definitely use your favorite homemade chocolate cake recipe instead of a boxed mix, but make sure it has a similar consistency for optimal results. -
What if I don’t have chocolate chips?
You can omit the chocolate chips or use any other type of chips, like butterscotch or white chocolate, depending on your preference. -
How can I make these bars gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix and make sure your Oreo cookies are labeled gluten-free, as some cookies can contain gluten. -
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just remember to use a larger baking pan, as it will take longer to bake all the way through. -
Is there a way to make these bars less sweet?
You could reduce the sugar in the icing or use a darker chocolate cake mix, which typically has less sugar.
Conclusion
Oreo Cake Bars are not just a delightful dessert; they’re a celebration of flavors that everyone will adore. With their simple preparation, they are perfect for both experienced bakers and beginners alike. So gather your ingredients, invite some friends, and whip up this scrumptious treat. The rich textures and flavors are sure to make your taste buds dance, and you’ll find yourself craving these bars again and again! Happy baking!
