If you have a sweet tooth and a love for all things creamy and cookie-filled, you are in for an absolute treat with this Cookies and Cream Rolls Recipe. Imagine soft, fluffy rolls enveloping a luscious filling made from crushed chocolate sandwich cookies, then crowned with a dreamy cream cheese glaze that ties everything together in perfect harmony. This recipe brings a playful twist to classic cinnamon rolls, transforming your kitchen into a haven of irresistible aromas and indulgent flavors. Whether for a cozy weekend brunch or a special dessert, these rolls will quickly become one of your favorite comfort treats.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Cookies and Cream Rolls Recipe lies in its simple, straightforward ingredients that each play a key role in building the rich texture and divine flavor. From the soft yeast dough to the creamy, cookie-studded filling and smooth glaze, every component is essential and worth having on hand.
- 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: The foundational ingredient for a tender and elastic dough.
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast: Activates the dough to rise and become delightfully airy.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds subtle sweetness and feeds the yeast for a perfect rise.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Balances the flavors and enhances the dough’s texture.
- 1/2 cup warm milk: Provides moisture and richness to the dough.
- 1/4 cup warm water: Helps activate the yeast and softens the dough.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds buttery flavor and moisture.
- 1 egg: Binds the dough and contributes to a tender crumb.
- 15 chocolate sandwich cookies, crushed (e.g., Oreos): The star of the filling, adding crunch and chocolatey goodness.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened: Combines with cookies and sugar to create a creamy and rich filling.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cookie filling perfectly.
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened: Essential for the luscious glaze that complements the rolls.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the glaze for the perfect drizzling consistency.
- 1–2 tbsp milk: Adjusts the glaze texture, making it smooth and pourable.
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the glaze’s flavor.
How to Make Cookies and Cream Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Make the Dough
Start by combining your dry ingredients—flour, yeast, sugar, and salt—in a large mixing bowl. Then, add your warm milk, warm water, melted butter, and egg. Stir everything together until a soft dough forms. This soft dough is the canvas for those irresistible rolls, so be sure to achieve a consistency that’s sticky but manageable.
Step 2: Knead the Dough
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8 to 10 minutes. This step is crucial because kneading develops the gluten, which gives the rolls their soft, elastic texture. Your hands will start to understand the dough, and it’ll become smooth and pliable—perfect for rolling out later.
Step 3: Let the Dough Rise
Place your dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rest in a warm spot. The yeasty magic needs about 1 to 1.5 hours here, or until the dough has doubled in size. This waiting time is where the dough gains all its fluffy, airy qualities, so patience pays off!
Step 4: Prepare the Filling
While your dough rises, mix together the crushed chocolate sandwich cookies, softened butter, and sugar. You’ll create a delicious paste that melds crunchy cookie bits with buttery sweetness. This filling is where the Cookies and Cream Rolls Recipe truly shines, promising every bite will be delightfully rich.
Step 5: Assemble the Rolls
Roll your risen dough into a large 12 by 18-inch rectangle on a floured surface. Spread the cookie filling evenly across the dough, making sure every inch is covered. Then, carefully roll the dough from the long edge into a tight log. Slice this log into 12 even pieces to create your rolls.
Step 6: Second Rise and Bake
Arrange the individual rolls into a greased 9 by 13-inch baking dish. Cover them and allow a second rise for 30 to 45 minutes, letting the rolls puff up beautifully. Then, pop them in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until their tops turn a golden brown and your kitchen starts to fill with heavenly aromas.
Step 7: Make and Glaze
While the rolls bake, whip up the glaze by whisking together softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the milk as needed to get the perfect drizzle consistency. When the rolls come out warm, generously drizzle the glaze over the top, allowing it to melt enticingly into every crevice.
How to Serve Cookies and Cream Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Cookies and Cream Rolls Recipe even further, consider adding a few extra crushed chocolate sandwich cookies on top of the glaze. This adds texture and looks visually appealing. A light dusting of powdered sugar can also give a snowy, elegant finish that tempts everyone’s sweet tooth.
Side Dishes
These rolls are fairly rich, so pairing them with lighter sides works wonderfully. Fresh fruit like sliced strawberries or a simple fruit salad can balance the sweetness. A cup of black coffee or a glass of cold milk also pairs beautifully, cutting through the richness with satisfying contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond the traditional baking dish by serving your Cookies and Cream Rolls on a beautiful wooden board or a tiered dessert tray for a brunch gathering. Wrapping each roll in parchment paper tied with a ribbon makes for an adorable grab-and-go treat. These presentation touches make the recipe feel extra special and inviting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover Cookies and Cream Rolls Recipe (which honestly is rare), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps them soft and ready for quick snacking without sacrificing that freshly baked goodness.
Freezing
For longer storage, you can freeze the rolls once they’ve completely cooled. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to three months, making them fantastic to have on hand for unexpected cravings or special occasions.
Reheating
To enjoy your rolls warm after storage or freezing, simply reheat them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 to 15 minutes. This helps the rolls regain their soft texture and fresh-baked aroma. You can also microwave individual rolls for about 20 seconds if you are in a hurry!
FAQs
Can I use another type of cookie for the filling?
Absolutely! While chocolate sandwich cookies like Oreos work best for classic flavor and texture, you can experiment with other cookies such as chocolate chip or even peanut butter cookies to create your own unique twist on the Cookies and Cream Rolls Recipe.
Is it necessary to let the dough rise twice?
Yes, the two rises are crucial for light and fluffy rolls. The first rise allows the dough to develop flavor and volume, while the second rise after shaping gives the rolls their tender, airy layers once baked.
Can I make the dough in a stand mixer?
Yes! Using a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook can save you time and effort kneading by hand. Mix on medium speed for about 8 to 10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic, replicating the hand-kneading process perfectly.
What if I don’t have cream cheese for the glaze?
While cream cheese adds that signature tang and creaminess to the glaze, you can substitute it with a simple vanilla icing made from powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract for a different but still delicious topping.
Can I prepare these rolls the night before baking?
Definitely! After shaping the rolls, cover and refrigerate them overnight. Let them come to room temperature and finish their second rise before baking the next day for fresh, warm rolls with minimal morning prep.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly magical about homemade rolls with a creative twist, and this Cookies and Cream Rolls Recipe captures that magic in every bite. Soft dough, rich cookie filling, and velvety glaze combine to create an unforgettable treat that’s perfect for sharing or savoring all on your own. I can’t wait for you to make these and fall in love with their warm, comforting flavor. Enjoy every sweet moment baking and eating these delightful rolls!
Print
Cookies and Cream Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Cookies and Cream Rolls are delightfully soft, fluffy rolls filled with a rich chocolate cookie filling and topped with a smooth cream cheese glaze. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet treat anytime, these homemade rolls combine the classic flavors of chocolate sandwich cookies with a tender, yeasted dough for an irresistible dessert-like pastry.
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup milk (warm)
- 1/4 cup water (warm)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
Filling Ingredients
- 15 chocolate sandwich cookies, crushed (e.g., Oreos)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Glaze Ingredients
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1–2 tbsp milk
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Make the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, active dry yeast, granulated sugar, and salt. Stir to blend the dry ingredients evenly.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in the warm milk and water, melted unsalted butter, and crack in the egg. Stir until a soft dough starts to form.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until it becomes smooth, elastic, and no longer sticky.
- First Rise: Place the dough into a greased bowl, cover with a clean cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, mix the crushed chocolate sandwich cookies with softened butter and granulated sugar until it forms a spreadable paste.
- Assemble the Rolls: Punch down the risen dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a 12×18-inch rectangle.
- Spread the Filling: Evenly spread the prepared cookie filling over the dough rectangle, ensuring coverage to the edges.
- Roll and Cut: Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Using a sharp knife, cut the log into 12 even rolls.
- Second Rise: Place the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, cover again, and let them rise for 30 to 45 minutes until puffy.
- Preheat Oven: While the rolls are rising, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake: Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes until the tops turn golden brown and cooked through.
- Prepare Glaze: In a mixing bowl, whisk together softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust milk quantity to reach the desired glaze consistency.
- Glaze and Serve: Drizzle the cream cheese glaze over the warm rolls and serve immediately for the best flavor and texture experience.
Notes
- Ensure milk and water are warm but not hot to avoid killing the yeast.
- Use fresh, active dry yeast for optimal rising.
- To crush the cookies, you can place them in a sealed bag and use a rolling pin or pulse in a food processor.
- Letting the rolls cool slightly before glazing can prevent the glaze from melting too much.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Reheat rolls gently in the microwave before serving if desired.
