How Oreo Became the World’s Best-Selling Cookie (Plus 20 Must-Try Recipes For Oreo Lovers!)
In the world of cookies, one brand stands out as the undeniable champion: Oreo. It is, in fact, the best-selling cookie in the world. However, what many don’t know is that Oreo is a copycat brand. The journey from imitation to global dominance is a fascinating story of marketing genius, fierce competition, and strategic branding. Let’s look at Oreo’s history – and get into some recipes that use Oreos as part of their ingredients.
The Origin Story: Oreo vs. Hydrox
The story begins in the early 20th century when the Hydrox cookie, created by the Sunshine Biscuit Company, was the original crème-filled chocolate sandwich cookie. Introduced in 1908, Hydrox was beloved for its crisp texture and creamy filling. However, in 1912, Nabisco launched Oreo, a similar cookie that would eventually eclipse Hydrox in popularity.
Here’s An Early Hydrox Ad
Hydrox Packaging
Strategic Branding and Marketing
Oreo’s rise to prominence can be attributed to Nabisco’s superior marketing strategies. The company positioned Oreo as a fun and versatile cookie, perfect for twisting, licking, and dunking in milk. Catchy slogans like “Milk’s Favorite Cookie” and innovative advertising campaigns helped Oreo capture the hearts of consumers worldwide.
The Legal Battle and Market Domination
Despite its success, Oreo’s journey wasn’t without challenges. Legal disputes over trademark infringement and market competition with Hydrox persisted for decades. However, Nabisco’s aggressive marketing and distribution strategies ultimately secured Oreo’s position as the market leader.
Global Expansion and Cultural Impact
Oreo’s popularity is not confined to the United States. The cookie has become a global phenomenon, available in over 100 countries with localized flavors and variations to cater to regional tastes. From Green Tea Oreos in Japan to Dulce de Leche Oreos in Latin America, the brand’s adaptability has contributed to its international success.
Millions Love Oreos
The story of Oreo is a testament to the power of strategic branding and marketing. What started as a copycat product has grown into an iconic global brand, beloved by millions. Oreo’s journey from imitation to innovation underscores the importance of creativity, adaptability, and relentless pursuit of excellence in achieving market dominance.
How Many Versions Are There?
At any given time, the number of Oreo variations available for purchase varies. According to Taquitos.net, which bills itself as The Worldwide Leader in Snacks, there are over 208 kinds of Oreos.
Some Unusual Oreos
Here are 10 you might not have heard of:
- Oreo Star Wars Dark Side or Light Side
- Churro Flavor Creme Oreo
- Apple Cider Donut Oreo
- Blueberry Pie Oreo
- Oreo Mocha Caramel Latte
- Cotton Candy Oreo
- Fruity Crisp Oreo
- Kettle Corn Oreo
- Chocolate Confetti Oreo
- Mystery Oreo 2019
And The Fight Continues
After a steady decline in sales, Hydrox cookies were discontinued in 2003. Twelve years later, Leaf Brands revived Hydrox, and in 2015, the original-recipe Hydrox cookies were back on grocery store shelves. By then, Oreo was the leading cookie in the world, generating $660 million in annual sales and known as “milk’s favorite cookie.” However, the rivalry soon resurfaced.
According to a CBC article, Leaf Brands filed a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission, alleging that Oreo, owned by snack food giant Mondelez, was sabotaging Hydrox cookies in grocery stores. Mondelez employs a direct-to-store distribution model where Oreo employees stock the shelves themselves. Leaf Brands claimed these employees were deliberately hiding Hydrox cookies by blocking them or placing them in less favorable shelf positions.
Mondelez has denied these allegations. Leaf Brands is seeking $800 million in damages.
Let’s Get To The recipes!
Here are our 20 favorite recipes using the world’s most popular cookie.
Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie
Many recipes for chocolate peanut butter pies are based upon cream cheese; this one differs as the filling is more of a peanut butter pudding. If you are a custard/pudding/creamy texture fan, you are going to love this pie. The crust is a crisp, dark chocolate cookie crust – that’s gluten-free! Get the recipe.
Gluten-Free Oreo Brownies
These brownies are out of this world! Thick, fudgy, easy-to-make and might end up being your very favorite! We have won over many. You have been warned. NO ONE will guess they are gluten-free! Get the recipe.
Oreo Pie Crust
With the perfect balance of buttery richness and cookie crunch, this decadent 3-ingredient Oreo pie crust is the ideal way to incorporate everyone’s favorite chocolate sandwich cookies into desserts! Whether you’re creating a luscious chocolate cream pie with a no-bake crust or preparing a velvety cheesecake with a baked crust, this easy and versatile crust is the ultimate chocolate lover’s fantasy! Get the recipe.
Oreos Covered in Chocolate
Crunchy, Creamy, and Chocolaty Oreos Covered in Chocolate. Are you a fan of Oreos and chocolate? If so, you’re in for a treat! These chocolate-covered Oreos are a delicious, no-bake snack perfect for holidays or celebrations. Get the recipe.
No Bake Chocolate Pie
This no bake chocolate pie recipe is the ultimate combination of convenience and elegance! Featuring a rich and velvety chocolate ganache filling nestled within a heavenly Oreo cookie crust and crowned with fluffy Chantilly whipped cream, this delightful dessert is a true masterpiece perfect for any occasion and sure to impress any crowd! Get the recipe.
No Bake Oreo Cheesecake
This easy No bake Oreo cheesecake recipe is a must for Oreo and cheesecake lovers! A crunchy, decorative tall 2 ingredients Oreo crust filled with extra smooth cream cheese mousse loaded with Oreo pieces! This No-bake Oreo cheesecake is super light and taste amazing with just the right amount of sweetness! Get the recipe.
No-Bake Chocolate Tart
This easy no-bake chocolate tart recipe features a crumbly Oreo cookie crust and a to-die-for creamy, no-bake ganache filling that’s as simple as boiling water. Get the recipe.
Moist Chocolate Cupcakes with Oreo Cream Cheese Frosting
The cupcakes are based on my Moist Chocolate Cake recipe. They are seriously the moistest cupcakes ever. And my hubby agrees that they get better the second day.
This cream cheese frosting on its own is amazing. It’s funny how something with so few ingredients can have so many variations. This recipe just nails it. I added crushed Oreos, whose sweetness is beautifully complemented by tangy cream cheese (think cheesecake with a chocolate cookie base) – and showered the cupcakes with more broken cookies. Yum! Get the recipe.
No Bake Peanut Butter Pie with Oreo Crust
No bake Peanut Butter Pie with Oreo Crust is smooth and creamy, crunchy and sweet all at once! I love everything about this no bake pie; it is a very easy recipe with an amazing creamy texture, deep peanut butter, and Oreo flavors. What’s more, it is so quick to make. Get the recipe.
Halloween Dessert Dirt
This quick and easy Dessert Dirt is perfect to make ahead for your Halloween celebration – or any time you need to sooth your chocolate cravings. With just four ingredientsand a dash of coffee to bring out all that chocolate flavor. Get the recipe.
Oreo Hot Chocolate Bombs
Oreo Hot Chocolate Bombs are a fun way to enjoy hot cocoa! Chocolate and white chocolate spheres are packed with delicious hot cocoa mix, sprinkles and Oreos and then sealed together. Pour steamed milk over and watch as the chocolate melts and creates a yummy cup of hot cocoa! Get the recipe.
Monster Oreo Balls
Monster Oreo Balls are a delicious Oreo and cream cheese ball, dipped in melted chocolate and decorated with candy eyes to look like spooky Halloween balls.
This Halloween Oreo truffle recipe is so easy to throw together, and there is no baking required. Just delicious Oreo truffles waiting for you and your party guests to bite into this sweet treat! Get the recipe.
Peppermint Grasshopper Pie
You only need 15 minutes to whip up this no bake pie. You are going to love the combination of creamy mint, crunchy Oreo cookies and chocolate cookie crust! Get the recipe.
Instant Pot Oreo Cheesecake
Yes, you can make an amazing cake using your Instant Pot! In fact, this Instant Pot Oreo Cheesecake, is the easiest cheesecake you’ll ever make. Get the recipe.
Oreo Chocolate Brownie Trifle
This Oreo Chocolate Brownie Trifle is the ULTIMATE dessert to satisfy that sweet tooth craving! With layers of brownies, Instant Chocolate Pudding, creamy whipped topping, and Oreo cookies…what’s not to love? This trifle recipe is perfect for parties, gatherings, picnics, and more! Get the recipe.
Caramel Iced Coffee Oreo Shake
This Caramel Iced Coffee OREO shake combines your favorite cookies with coffee and ice cream for the perfect summer treat! Get the recipe.
Oreo Cinnamon Rolls
Pillsbury Oreo cinnamon rolls – flavor stuffed and so easy! These soft Oreo cinnamon rolls are so easy! With just three Oreo cinnamon bun ingredients, plus a quick cream cheese icing, these cookies and cream cinnamon rolls will be your new favorite treat! Get the recipe.
3-Ingredient Oreo Mousse
Oreo Chocolate Mousse is a creamy, fluffy dessert that combines the rich flavours of chocolate with Oreo cookies. It’s a simple yet indulgent treat made with a few key ingredients, typically including heavy cream, chocolate (either in the form of chips or bars), and Oreo cookies. These cookies are often crushed and mixed into the mousse to add a unique texture and the Oreo flavour. Get the recipe.
No Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Oreo Dessert
This No Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Oreo Dessert is a flavor packed sweet treat that consists of crushed Oreo’s, a creamy peanut butter layer, decadent chocolate layer, and topped with whipped cream. The ultimate dessert for any sweet tooth craving! Get the recipe.
3 ingredient Oreo cake
This 3 ingredient Oreo cake is insanely delicious! No cream, no butter, no eggs, no added extra sugar, no baking! It can’t get any better than this! Get the recipe.
