There’s something truly magical about fresh, warm rolls coming out of the oven, filling your kitchen with the scent of freshly baked dough. Whether it’s for breakfast, a cozy brunch, or a sweet snack, sweet rolls are one of those baked goods that can turn an ordinary day into something extra special. And if you’re a fan of the beloved flavor of cookies and cream, you’re in for a treat. These Cookies and Cream Rolls take the concept of traditional rolls to a whole new level, bringing together the creamy, indulgent flavor of cookies with the soft, buttery texture of a perfectly baked roll.
If you’re looking for a tasty baking project that will impress your family or friends, look no further. In this article, we’ll not only teach you how to make this sweet roll recipe but also share tips and variations that will make your baking experience as fun as the result itself. Whether you are an experienced baker or just beginning to try your hand at baking sweets, this recipe is perfect for anyone who loves baked dessert recipes that combine comfort with a touch of creativity.
So let’s get started and explore how to make these irresistible cookies and cream rolls, a true sweet snack that will become your new go-to treat.
What Makes Cookies and Cream Rolls So Special?
The cookies and cream flavor profile is one that has stood the test of time, finding its way into everything from milkshakes to ice cream and, of course, cookies. By incorporating this familiar flavor into a sweet roll recipe, we’re creating something truly exciting and new. The combination of the soft, pillowy dough and the crunchy, chocolatey bits of crushed cookies creates an irresistible contrast of textures. Then, with a rich cream cheese filling, each bite brings together the best of both worlds — creamy, sweet, and just a little bit crunchy.
These sweet rolls are not only perfect for breakfast but also make an incredible dessert or fun baking recipes for special occasions. The frosting made with crushed cookies adds an extra indulgence that takes this treat to the next level, making it a crowd-pleaser for kids and adults alike.
Why You Should Try These Cookies and Cream Rolls
There are many reasons why these rolls are worth baking. Here are just a few of them:
- Easy to Make: Unlike some complex desserts, this dessert easy recipe is relatively simple to prepare, even if you’re new to baking. The steps are straightforward, and you don’t need any special equipment. Just your basic baking tools, like a rolling pin and a baking dish, will do.
- Perfect for All Occasions: These rolls can be enjoyed as a breakfast sweet, a sweet snack in the afternoon, or as a show-stopping dessert at a family gathering. Their versatility makes them perfect for any occasion — from holidays to casual brunches or even a cozy weekend treat.
- Fun to Make: One of the best things about baking sweet rolls is how much fun it is to get your hands in the dough. From rolling out the dough to spreading the cookies and cream filling, this recipe is a great opportunity to get creative in the kitchen. Plus, the result is both visually stunning and delicious!
- Great for Sharing: These sweet snacks recipes make a large batch, so you can share them with your family, friends, or colleagues. They’re perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or even as a thoughtful gift for someone special.
- A Twist on Tradition: While cinnamon rolls and sticky buns are classic breakfast treats, these cookies and cream rolls offer a fun and indulgent twist on the traditional sweet roll. If you’re someone who loves tasty baking and enjoys experimenting with flavor combinations, this is a recipe you’ll want to try.
Ingredients for Cookies and Cream Rolls
The ingredients for this sweet roll recipe are relatively simple and easy to find in most kitchens or grocery stores. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Dough:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup whole milk, warmed
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 cup butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Filling:
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup crushed chocolate sandwich cookies (about 12 cookies)
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Frosting:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 cup crushed chocolate sandwich cookies
These ingredients come together to create the perfect baked dessert recipes, with the dough being soft and fluffy, and the filling giving that familiar cookies and cream flavor we all love.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Cookies and Cream Rolls
Now that we’ve gone over the ingredients, it’s time to dive into the process of making these cookies and cream rolls. Don’t be intimidated by the number of steps; once you get started, you’ll realize that baking these rolls is easier than it sounds.
1. Prepare the Dough
Start by mixing the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt in a large mixing bowl. In a separate bowl or measuring cup, combine the warm milk, water, and softened butter, stirring until the butter is melted. Add this wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until a dough forms.
Next, add the egg and vanilla extract. Mix the dough until it comes together, then knead it for about 8-10 minutes, either by hand or using a stand mixer with a dough hook. The dough should be smooth and elastic. If it feels sticky, sprinkle in a little extra flour, but avoid adding too much as you want the dough to remain soft and airy.
Once the dough is kneaded, place it in a greased bowl and cover it with a clean towel. Let it rise in a warm area for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.
2. Make the Filling
While the dough is rising, prepare the cookies and cream filling. In a medium-sized bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and cream cheese together until smooth. Add the crushed chocolate sandwich cookies and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is well combined. The cookie crumbs will provide texture and flavor, giving the filling that signature cookies and cream taste.
3. Assemble the Rolls
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. On a floured surface, roll the dough into a rectangle about 12×18 inches in size. Spread the cookies and cream filling evenly across the dough, leaving about a 1-inch border on all sides.
Starting from one of the longer sides, tightly roll the dough into a log. Once it’s fully rolled up, slice it into 12 equal pieces. Arrange the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, leaving space between each roll for expansion.
4. Second Rise
Cover the pan with a towel and let the rolls rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until they’ve puffed up and are touching each other. This step is essential to create the soft, fluffy texture that makes sweet rolls so irresistible.
5. Bake the Rolls
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once the rolls have risen, place them in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown. Keep an eye on them towards the end to avoid over-baking.
6. Prepare the Frosting
While the rolls are baking, make the frosting by mixing the powdered sugar, softened butter, and milk in a bowl. Stir in the crushed chocolate sandwich cookies for extra flavor and texture. The frosting should be smooth and creamy, ready to drizzle over the warm rolls once they’re out of the oven.
7. Frost and Serve
Once the rolls are done, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. Drizzle the cookies and cream frosting generously over the warm rolls. The frosting will melt into the rolls, creating a gooey, delicious topping.
Tips and Variations for Perfect Cookies and Cream Rolls
These sweet snacks recipes are flexible and allow for plenty of customization. Here are a few tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time:
- Don’t Overwork the Dough: Be gentle when kneading the dough. Overworking it can result in tough rolls, which we want to avoid for that soft, pillowy texture.
- Refrigerate for Overnight Rolls: If you want to prep these rolls ahead of time, you can assemble them the night before. After placing the rolls in the baking dish, cover them tightly and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, simply let them rise for about 30 minutes before baking.
- Make It Your Own: While the cookies and cream flavor is delightful, feel free to get creative with the filling. You can experiment with other crushed cookies like Oreos, or even add chocolate chips or peanut butter for a unique twist.
- Serve Warm: These rolls are best enjoyed warm, so bake them just before you plan to serve them. The fresh, gooey frosting will melt perfectly into the rolls, making them extra indulgent.
Why These Rolls Are Perfect for Breakfast or Dessert
The versatility of these sweet rolls makes them ideal for any occasion. Whether you’re making them for a breakfast sweet to start your day or as a baked dessert recipe for a family gathering, these rolls are sure to please everyone. They strike the perfect balance between sweet and savory, with the rich cookies and cream filling offering just the right amount of indulgence.
These tasty baking treats can also be stored in an airtight container, where they’ll stay fresh for a few days. You can even freeze them for later enjoyment. Simply reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds before serving, and they’ll taste just as delicious as the first time you baked them.
Conclusion
These Cookies and Cream Rolls are the ultimate sweet snack for anyone who loves the combination of creamy, chocolatey goodness and soft, fluffy dough. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just want to treat yourself and your loved ones to something extra sweet, this sweet roll recipe is sure to satisfy. With a simple yet flavorful filling, a gooey frosting, and a fun twist on a classic roll, these cookies and cream rolls are a must-try.
So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, get your hands in the dough, and start baking. Your kitchen will soon be filled with the delicious aroma of freshly baked sweet rolls, and your taste buds will thank you for it. Enjoy!
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