Cookies and Cream Cheesecake: The Ultimate Dessert Dream

Rich, creamy, and utterly indulgent, cookies and cream cheesecake is a dessert that’s as decadent as it is irresistible. This show-stopping dessert combines the luscious texture of a classic cheesecake with the familiar crunch and flavor of chocolate sandwich cookies (think Oreos). With every bite, you’ll experience the creamy cheesecake filling studded with cookie pieces, sitting atop a buttery chocolate cookie crust, and topped with even more cookies for a stunning finish.

This recipe is perfect for special occasions, dinner parties, or simply treating yourself to something truly delicious. It’s easy enough for beginner bakers yet impressive enough to wow any crowd. Whether you’re a cheesecake connoisseur or a die-hard cookies-and-cream fan, this dessert is destined to be a new favorite.

Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
Chocolate sandwich cookies (Oreos)	40 cookies (about 3 1/2 cups, divided)
Unsalted butter, melted	5 tablespoons
Cream cheese, softened	24 ounces (3 packages)
Granulated sugar	3/4 cup
Sour cream	1/2 cup
Heavy cream	1/2 cup
Vanilla extract	1 teaspoon
Eggs	3 large
Salt	1/4 teaspoon

Ingredient Notes

• Chocolate sandwich cookies: Any brand will work, but classic Oreos are the gold standard.
• Cream cheese: Full-fat cream cheese is ideal for a creamy, rich texture.
• Heavy cream and sour cream: These add a velvety consistency to the cheesecake while enhancing its tangy flavor.
• Vanilla extract: Use pure vanilla extract for the best results.

Equipment Needed

• Springform pan (9-inch): Essential for creating a cheesecake that can be easily removed from the pan.
• Food processor or blender: For crushing the cookies into fine crumbs.
• Hand or stand mixer: To blend the filling until smooth and lump-free.
• Mixing bowls: For the crust and filling preparation.
• Aluminum foil: For wrapping the pan during the water bath baking process.
• Large roasting pan: To hold the water bath and prevent cracking.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. Crush 24 cookies in a food processor until fine crumbs form.
3. Mix the crumbs with melted butter until evenly combined.
4. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan, forming an even layer. Bake for 10 minutes, then let it cool.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese with a hand or stand mixer until smooth.
2. Add sugar and beat until combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.
3. Mix in sour cream, heavy cream, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Beat in the eggs one at a time on low speed to avoid overmixing.
5. Gently fold in 10 chopped cookies.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

1. Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top.
2. Wrap the bottom and sides of the pan in aluminum foil to prevent water from seeping in.
3. Place the pan in a large roasting pan and fill the pan with hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the springform pan.
4. Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is slightly jiggly.

Step 4: Cool and Chill

1. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside for 1 hour with the door slightly ajar.
2. Remove the cheesecake from the water bath and let it cool to room temperature.
3. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight for best results.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Before serving, crush or chop the remaining 6 cookies and sprinkle them generously over the top.
2. For extra flair, add whipped cream rosettes around the edges or drizzle with melted chocolate.

Tips and Variations

• Preventing Cracks: Baking in a water bath ensures even cooking and prevents cracks on the surface.
• Cookie Alternatives: Try chocolate graham crackers or chocolate wafer cookies for the crust if you prefer a slightly different flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free chocolate sandwich cookies to make this cheesecake gluten-free.
• Mini Cheesecakes: Divide the crust and filling among muffin tins lined with paper cups for individual servings. Reduce baking time to 18-20 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

Serve slices of cookies and cream cheesecake chilled, with a dollop of whipped cream and an extra drizzle of chocolate syrup for indulgence. Pair it with a fresh berry compote for a tangy contrast. This cheesecake is also excellent with a side of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an added touch of luxury.

Pairings

The creamy sweetness of this cheesecake pairs beautifully with a cup of bold coffee or an espresso. For an adult twist, try serving it with a glass of Bailey’s Irish Cream on the rocks, or a creamy white Russian cocktail. If you prefer wine, a chilled glass of Moscato complements the sweet and rich flavors of the dessert.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store the cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• Reheating: Cheesecake is best enjoyed cold, but you can let it sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes before serving if you prefer a softer texture.

Nutritional Information

Per Serving (1 slice, based on 12 servings)
Calories	420
Fat	30g
Carbohydrates	34g
Protein	7g
Allergen warning: Contains dairy, eggs, and gluten (if using regular cookies).

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Conclusion

This cookies and cream cheesecake is the ultimate dessert for any occasion. Its creamy, velvety filling and crunchy cookie crust strike the perfect balance of texture and flavor, making every bite a little piece of heaven. The addition of cookie chunks throughout the cheesecake and as a garnish elevates it into a treat that’s not just indulgent but also visually stunning. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply craving something sweet, this cheesecake is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

Why not give this recipe a try and see how quickly it becomes a household favorite? It’s easier than it looks, and the results are absolutely worth it. Be sure to share your creations with friends and family, and don’t forget to snap a photo before diving in! We’d love to hear about your experience—drop a comment, share your variations, or tag us on social media with your cheesecake masterpiece.