Vegan Oreo Brownies

These are the richest, most delicious brownies out there. Quote me. These Vegan Oreo Brownies are exactly what you'd imagine and exactly what they should be - fudgy brownies filled and topped with Oreo cookie pieces. Cookies n' Cream is one of the most popular classic flavors for a reason and these brownies will forever remind you of why this is a fact.

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Ingredients in Vegan Oreo Brownies

Wet Ingredients

• Black Beans (15 oz can): Black beans serve as a substitute for eggs in this vegan recipe. They add moisture and contribute to the fudgy texture of the brownies. You won't taste them at all!
• Water (¼ cup): Water is used to help blend the black beans into a smooth puree, aiding in the overall consistency of the batter. It also contributes moisture to the brownies.
• Instant Espresso Powder (1 tsp): Espresso powder enhances the chocolate flavor in the brownies. It doesn't make the brownies taste like coffee; rather, it intensifies the richness of the chocolate.
• Vegan Butter (½ cup): Vegan butter provides fat to the brownies, enhancing their texture and flavor. It also helps to create a moist and tender crumb.
• Dark Chocolate (4 oz, 50-70%): Dark chocolate adds depth and richness to the brownies. The cocoa solids in dark chocolate contribute to the overall chocolate flavor, and allow for a balance between sweetness and bitterness.
• Sugar (1 cup): Sugar sweetens the brownies and also contributes to their structure. It caramelizes during baking, adding a desirable chewiness to the edges while keeping the center fudgy.
• Light Brown Sugar (1 cup): Light brown sugar provides moisture, a subtle molasses flavor, and a soft texture to the brownies. It complements the other sugars and contributes to the overall sweetness.
• Vanilla Extract (2 tsp): Vanilla extract enhances the chocolate flavor and adds a warm, aromatic note to the brownies. It's a common flavor enhancer in baked goods.

Dry Ingredients

• Salt (¾ tsp): Salt enhances the overall flavor profile of the brownies. It helps to balance the sweetness, intensify the chocolate, and bring out the other flavors in the recipe.
• Cocoa Powder (1 cup): Cocoa powder is a key ingredient for the chocolatey goodness of the brownies. It provides intense chocolate flavor without adding extra fat. Dutch-process cocoa may be used for a smoother taste.
• All-Purpose Flour (1 cup): Flour gives structure to the brownies. It helps create a tender crumb and holds the other ingredients together. All-purpose flour is versatile and works well in this recipe.
• Oreos (16): Oreos are added for crunch and an extra layer of flavor. They bring a contrasting texture to the fudgy brownies and introduce a familiar cookie taste, making these brownies reminiscent of cookies n' cream.

Steps for Making Vegan Oreo Brownies (with pictures!)

1. Prep: Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 C) and line a 9 x 9 inch square baking pan with parchment paper. Set aside.
2. Blend: Drain and rinse the black beans and place into a high speed blender or food processor along with the water and espresso powder. Blend until completely smooth. You can add a little more water to get things moving if needed.
3. Make the Batter: Add vegan butter and dark chocolate to a large, microwave safe bowl. Heat in the microwave in 30 second increments until completely melted, stirring after each. Add the sugar, brown sugar, vanilla and salt to the bowl and whisk vigorously for 1 full minute. Mixture will be very thick. Pour in the blended black bean mixture and whisk for another minute. Sift in the cocoa powder and all purpose flour and mix until just combined. 
4. Add Oreos: Chop, crumble or mash your Oreos until they are broken into chunks. Fold ¾ of the cookies into the prepared brownie batter, reserving ¼ to top the brownies. 
5. Bake: Spread the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan evenly using a rubber spatula. Sprinkle the reserved cookies over the top of the batter. Press the cookies in lightly using your hands. Place brownies on center rack of preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes. Allow brownies to cool in the pan for at least 1 hour before slicing.

Tips for Making Vegan Oreo Brownies

1. Use High-Quality Vegan Ingredients: Choose high-quality vegan butter, plant-based milk, and cocoa powder to ensure a rich and flavorful outcome.
2. Check Oreo Ingredients: Verify that the Oreos you use are vegan-friendly. While classic Oreos are typically vegan, variations or regional formulations may vary.
3. Black Bean Puree Consistency: Ensure the black bean puree is smooth and well-blended. This helps in achieving a fudgy texture without the taste of beans.
4. Choose Quality Dark Chocolate: Use good-quality dark chocolate (50-70%) for a rich and intense chocolate flavor. Check the ingredients to ensure it's dairy-free.
5. Incorporate Instant Espresso Powder: Even if you're not a coffee fan, adding instant espresso powder enhances the chocolate flavor without making the brownies taste like coffee. It's a small amount, but it makes a noticeable difference.
6. Sift Cocoa Powder and Flour: Sift the cocoa powder and all-purpose flour to remove any lumps. This results in a smoother batter and avoids dry pockets in the brownies.
7. Avoid Over-mixing: Once the dry ingredients are incorporated into the wet ingredients, mix only until just combined. Over-mixing can lead to dense brownies.
8. Crush Oreos Gently: When incorporating crushed Oreos into the batter, crush them into bite-sized pieces. You want some texture in the brownies, so avoid crushing them too finely.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I replace black beans with another ingredient in vegan Oreo brownies?

While black beans provide moisture and a fudgy texture, you can experiment with other substitutes like applesauce, mashed bananas, or silken tofu. However, keep in mind that the texture and flavor in the final product may not be up to par.

Is there a substitute for vegan butter in the recipe?

Yes, you can use coconut oil or another plant-based oil as a substitute for vegan butter. Flavor may vary.

Can I use regular chocolate instead of dark chocolate in the brownies?

Yes, you can use regular vegan chocolate, but dark chocolate is recommended for its intense flavor. Adjust the quantity based on your sweetness preference.

Is it essential to use instant espresso powder?

Instant espresso powder enhances the chocolate flavor, but it's optional. You can omit it if you prefer or substitute with instant coffee powder.

FAQ's Continued

Can I use gluten-free flour for the recipe?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend as a substitute for regular flour. Ensure it includes a binder like xanthan gum. Texture may vary.

Are Oreos always vegan?

Oreos are considered vegan-friendly, but formulations can change. Always check the ingredient list for any updates or changes.

How do I know when vegan Oreo brownies are done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out with a few moist crumbs (or just a little wet batter), the brownies are done. Over-baking can result in a drier texture and crispy edges.

How to Serve Vegan Oreo Brownies

Serving vegan Oreo brownies is THE BEST, and there are various ways to enhance their presentation and enjoyment. Here are some suggestions:

1. As-is: Serve the brownies as they are, either in the baking dish or cut into squares. They are delicious on their own, and the Oreos add a tasty crunch.
2. With a dusting of cocoa or powdered sugar: Dust the top of the brownies with a light coating of cocoa powder or powdered sugar for an elegant touch and also for added sweetness.
3. A la mode: Serve warm brownies with a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream. To illustrate, the warm and fudgy brownies paired with cold ice cream create a delightful temperature and texture contrast.
4. Drizzled with chocolate sauce: Drizzle a vegan chocolate sauce over the brownies for extra richness and a visually appealing presentation.
5. Topped with vegan whipped cream: Add a dollop of vegan whipped cream on top of each brownie. This adds a light and airy element to the dense and fudgy texture of the brownies.
6. Fresh berries or fruit compote: Serve the brownies with a side of fresh berries or a fruit compote. To explain, the natural sweetness and acidity of the fruit can complement the richness of the brownies.
7. Garnished with crushed Oreos: Sprinkle crushed Oreos on top of the brownies just before serving for an extra Oreo flavor and a decorative touch.
8. Served with coffee or non-dairy milk: Pair the brownies with a cup of hot coffee or a glass of your favorite non-dairy milk for a cozy and comforting treat.

Remember, the key is to have fun and get creative with your presentation. Whether served at a special occasion or enjoyed casually, vegan Oreo brownies can be a crowd-pleasing treat for everyone.

How to Store Vegan Oreo Brownies

Proper storage is essential to maintain the freshness and also the quality of vegan Oreo brownies. Here's how you can store them:

1. Room Temperature: If you plan to consume the brownies within a day or two, you can store them at room temperature in an airtight container. Also ensure you seal the container well to prevent the brownies from drying out.
2. Refrigeration: For longer storage (up to a week), place the brownies in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. The cold environment helps to preserve their freshness. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving if you prefer them not chilled.
3. Freezing: To store brownies for an extended period, you can freeze them. Make sure to fully cool the brownies before freezing. Cut them into individual squares, wrap each piece in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date for reference. Frozen brownies can last for up to a month.
4. Layering with Parchment Paper: If stacking brownies for storage, place a piece of parchment paper between each layer to prevent them from sticking together.
5. Avoid Moisture: Regardless of the storage method, it's crucial to keep the brownies away from excess moisture. Moisture can lead to mold growth and affect the texture of the brownies.
6. Avoid Odor Absorption: When storing the brownies in the refrigerator or freezer, make sure to cover them well to prevent them from absorbing any odors from other items in the fridge or freezer.

If you make this recipe be sure to tag @censoredbaker on Instagram!

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