Cookies and Cream Cinnamon Rolls

Introduction

Cookies and Cream Cinnamon Rolls take the classic cinnamon roll to the next level with a twist inspired by everyone’s favorite cookie! These soft, fluffy rolls are swirled with a creamy cookies-and-cream filling and topped with a luscious cream cheese glaze loaded with crushed chocolate sandwich cookies.

I remember the first time I baked these for a cozy weekend brunch, and the whole house smelled like a dream. The cinnamon and sugar swirls, combined with the richness of the cookies and cream filling, make each bite a true indulgence. The cream cheese glaze, with its chocolatey crunch, is the perfect finishing touch that brings the whole thing together.

What’s great about these rolls is how they blend two beloved flavors—cinnamon rolls and cookies and cream—into one irresistible treat. Whether you’re serving them for a special occasion or simply treating yourself, these rolls will definitely make a statement. Prepare to impress everyone with this sweet, decadent, and oh-so-delicious twist on a classic favorite!

Perfect for:

• Weekend brunch
• Holiday breakfasts
• Family gatherings
• Sweet tooth cravings
• Oreo enthusiasts

Why You’ll Love This Cookies and Cream Cinnamon Rolls

Here’s why Cookies and Cream Cinnamon Rolls will become a household favorite:

• Soft and Fluffy Dough: The yeast dough is pillowy soft and melts in your mouth.
• Rich Cookies-and-Cream Filling: A delicious combination of crushed chocolate sandwich cookies, cinnamon, and a hint of creaminess.
• Irresistible Glaze: The cream cheese glaze with crushed cookies takes these rolls to the next level of decadence.
• Unique Twist on a Classic: Combines the best of cookies-and-cream flavor with the comforting classic of cinnamon rolls.
• Perfect for Sharing: These rolls are a show-stopping treat for any gathering or celebration.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Rising Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
• Servings: 12 rolls
• Calories per serving: Approximately 300-350 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 6g, Carbs: 45g, Fat: 12g

Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to make Cookies and Cream Cinnamon Rolls:

Dough:

• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) instant yeast
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ cup warm milk (110°F/43°C)
• ¼ cup warm water (110°F/43°C)
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

Filling:

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1 cup crushed chocolate sandwich cookies (about 10 cookies)

Glaze:

• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup crushed chocolate sandwich cookies

Ingredient Highlights:

• Chocolate Sandwich Cookies: Add the signature cookies-and-cream flavor.
• Cream Cheese: Makes the glaze rich, tangy, and creamy.
• Warm Milk and Butter: Essential for a soft and rich yeast dough.
• Cinnamon: Adds a hint of warmth to balance the sweetness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Cookies and Cream Cinnamon Rolls:

Prepare the Dough:

1. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast.
2. Add the Wet Ingredients: Add the warm milk, warm water, egg, and softened butter to the dry ingredients. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5-7 minutes.
4. Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Prepare the Filling:

5. Make the Filling Mixture: In a small bowl, combine softened butter, sugar, cinnamon, and crushed chocolate sandwich cookies to form a paste.

Assemble the Rolls:

6. Roll Out the Dough: After the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle (about 16×12 inches).
7. Spread the Filling: Spread the cookies-and-cream filling evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border along one long edge.
8. Roll and Cut: Starting from the long edge with filling, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal. Use a sharp knife or dental floss to cut the log into 12 equal rolls.
9. Second Rise: Arrange the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover and let them rise for another 30 minutes, or until puffy.

Bake the Rolls:

10. Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
11. Cool Slightly: Let the rolls cool for 10 minutes before glazing.

Make the Glaze:

12. Prepare the Glaze: In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract, and mix until creamy. Stir in crushed chocolate sandwich cookies.
13. Glaze the Rolls: Spread the glaze generously over the warm rolls.

How to Serve Cookies and Cream Cinnamon Rolls

Cookies and Cream Cinnamon Rolls are best enjoyed warm and freshly glazed. Here are a few serving ideas:

• With a Hot Beverage: Pair them with coffee, tea, or hot cocoa.
• As a Dessert: Serve them as an indulgent dessert after dinner.
• For Breakfast or Brunch: Add them to a brunch spread alongside fresh fruit and eggs.
• Party-Ready: Make them the centerpiece of a dessert table for any celebration.

Additional Tips for Cookies and Cream Cinnamon Rolls

• Use Room-Temperature Ingredients: This ensures a smooth dough and even mixing.
• Don’t Overfill: Too much filling can cause the rolls to unroll or leak while baking.
• Check the Dough Temperature: Use a thermometer to ensure your milk and water are warm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.
• Freeze for Later: You can freeze the unbaked rolls after shaping. Thaw, let rise, and bake when ready.
• Extra Cookie Garnish: Sprinkle additional crushed cookies on top of the glaze for extra crunch and visual appeal.

Recipe Variations for Cookies and Cream Cinnamon Rolls

Here are 10 fun ways to customize Cookies and Cream Cinnamon Rolls:

1. Double Chocolate Rolls: Add cocoa powder to the dough for extra chocolate flavor.
2. Mint Cookies and Cream Rolls: Add a few drops of mint extract to the filling for a minty twist.
3. Peanut Butter Cookies and Cream Rolls: Swirl peanut butter into the filling for a nutty addition.
4. Red Velvet Rolls: Add red food coloring and cocoa powder to the dough for a red velvet variation.
5. White Chocolate Glaze: Replace cream cheese with melted white chocolate in the glaze.
6. Cookie Butter Rolls: Replace the butter in the filling with cookie butter for extra decadence.
7. Nutella Rolls: Add a layer of Nutella to the filling for a hazelnut-chocolate combination.
8. Gluten-Free Rolls: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make these rolls suitable for gluten-free diets.
9. Vegan Rolls: Substitute vegan butter, non-dairy milk, and a flax egg for a vegan-friendly version.
10. Caramel Drizzle Rolls: Add a drizzle of caramel sauce over the glaze for a gooey finish.

Freezing and Storage for Cookies and Cream Cinnamon Rolls

• Freezing: Freeze unbaked rolls after shaping. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge, let rise, and bake as directed.
• Storage: Store baked rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. Warm them up in the microwave before serving.

Special Equipment for Cookies and Cream Cinnamon Rolls

• Rolling Pin: Essential for rolling out the dough evenly.
• Stand Mixer: Makes kneading the dough quick and effortless.
• 9×13-inch Baking Dish: Perfect for baking the rolls evenly.
• Spatula: For spreading the filling and glaze evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions for Cookies and Cream Cinnamon Rolls

1. Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
   Yes! Assemble the rolls and refrigerate them overnight. Let them come to room temperature and rise slightly before baking.
2. Can I use store-bought dough?
   Absolutely! Store-bought crescent roll or cinnamon roll dough can be a quick shortcut.
3. Can I skip the cream cheese glaze?
   While the glaze adds extra flavor, you can use a simple powdered sugar glaze instead.
4. What’s the best way to crush the cookies?
   Place them in a resealable bag and crush them with a rolling pin, or pulse in a food processor.
5. Can I make these rolls smaller?
   Yes, cut the log into 16 smaller rolls and adjust the baking time accordingly.

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Conclusion

Cookies and Cream Cinnamon Rolls are the ultimate indulgence for anyone who loves the combination of chocolate, cream, and cinnamon. They’re soft, and fluffy, with a sweet, cinnamon-spiced dough that’s filled with crumbled cookies and drizzled with a rich, creamy frosting. The blend of warm cinnamon and crunchy cookies, paired with a smooth, decadent icing, creates a dessert that’s as comforting as it is irresistible.

These rolls are a sweet fusion of two favorite desserts—cinnamon rolls and cookies and cream—and are sure to impress your family, friends, or even yourself! Whether you’re serving them for a cozy weekend brunch or a special occasion, these cookies and cream cinnamon rolls are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

I’d love to see how your Cookies and Cream Cinnamon Rolls turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy baking!