Cookies and Cream Cinnamon Rolls

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines gooey sweetness with a hint of nostalgia, you’ve come to the right place! These Cookies and Cream Cinnamon Rolls are not just any ordinary rolls; they’re fluffy, packed with crushed Oreos, and drizzled with a luscious cream cheese frosting. Perfect for busy weeknights or special family gatherings, this recipe brings smiles to everyone’s faces. Plus, the best part? You can even prepare them overnight, making your mornings a breeze!

Imagine waking up to the warm scent of cinnamon wafting through your home, and the excitement of pulling these dreamy rolls out of the oven. Trust me; this is a treat you’ll want to share with friends and family!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With no kneading required, these rolls come together effortlessly.
• Family Favorite: The combination of cookies and cream will have everyone asking for seconds!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare them the night before for an easy morning bake.
• Delicious Flavor: The rich filling and decadent frosting create an irresistible treat.
• Versatile: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert—these rolls fit any occasion!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Get ready to gather some simple and wholesome ingredients! Each one plays a role in creating these beautiful cookies and cream cinnamon rolls that are sure to impress.

For the Dough

• ½ cup water (warm)
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
• 1 packet activated dry yeast (7g)
• 4 ⅔ cups all-purpose flour (560g)
• ½ cup crushed Oreos (about 4 Oreos)
• ¼ teaspoon sea salt
• ¾ cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 2 large eggs (room temperature)
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• ¾ cup milk (warm)

For the Filling

• ½ cup heavy cream (whipping cream)
• ⅓ cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
• 1 cup crushed Oreos (about 7 Oreos)

For the Frosting

• ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• ⅛ teaspoon sea salt
• 4 oz cream cheese (softened – 113g)
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 3 tablespoons heavy cream (or milk for a runnier frosting)
• 4 Oreos (crushed)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with different flavors and textures.

• Swap the Cookies: Try using your favorite chocolate sandwich cookie instead of Oreos for a unique twist.
• Add Nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts can add a lovely crunch to your filling.
• Experiment with Spices: A pinch of nutmeg or ginger in the filling can elevate the flavor profile.
• Change Up the Frosting: Consider adding cocoa powder to your cream cheese frosting for a chocolaty variation.

How to Make Cookies and Cream Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Start by warming your water until it feels cozy but not hot. Stir in the granulated sugar and sprinkle in the yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step is crucial because it wakes up the yeast, ensuring your rolls rise beautifully.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine flour, crushed Oreos, and sea salt. Add softened butter, eggs, vanilla extract, warm milk, and your activated yeast mixture. Mix until everything is well combined into a soft dough. Don’t worry about kneading; just ensure all ingredients are incorporated!

Step 3: Let It Rise

Cover your dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour. This helps develop that fluffy texture we love in cinnamon rolls!

Step 4: Make the Filling

While your dough rises, mix together softened butter, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and crushed Oreos in a bowl until smooth. This filling adds that sweet surprise inside each roll.

Step 5: Roll It Out

Once your dough has doubled in size, turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll it into a rectangle about half an inch thick. Spread the Oreo filling evenly over the dough—this is where all that deliciousness comes from!

Step 6: Slice & Shape

Carefully roll up your dough into a tight log starting from one long edge. Use a sharp knife or dental floss to slice it into 12 even pieces. Place them in a greased baking dish for their second rise.

Step 7: Bake Them Up

Preheat your oven while waiting for your rolls to puff up again—around another 30 minutes should do it! Then bake those beauties at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until golden brown.

Step 8: Frost & Serve

While they cool slightly, whip up your frosting by mixing together softened butter, powdered sugar, sea salt, cream cheese, vanilla extract, and heavy cream until smooth. Spread generously over warm rolls and sprinkle with extra crushed Oreos on top.

Now grab yourself a cozy seat and enjoy these scrumptious Cookies and Cream Cinnamon Rolls with loved ones—because sharing makes everything sweeter!

Pro Tips for Making Cookies and Cream Cinnamon Rolls

Making these cookies and cream cinnamon rolls is a delightful experience, and a few tips can help you achieve the best results!

• Use warm water for yeast activation: Activating your yeast in warm water (not hot!) encourages it to bloom properly, leading to fluffier rolls.
• Measure flour correctly: Spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife. This prevents packing and ensures you don’t end up with dry dough.
• Let the dough rise in a warm place: A cozy spot helps the dough rise beautifully. Try placing it near a preheated oven or in a sunny area of your kitchen.
• Don’t skip the chilling: If you plan to make these rolls overnight, refrigerating the rolled dough after shaping keeps it manageable and enhances flavor.
• Adjust frosting consistency: If your cream cheese frosting is too thick, add more heavy cream or milk until you reach your desired consistency for easy spreading.

How to Serve Cookies and Cream Cinnamon Rolls

These cookies and cream cinnamon rolls are not just delicious; they can also be presented beautifully to impress family and friends!

Garnishes

• Crushed Oreos: Sprinkle additional crushed Oreos on top of the frosting for an extra crunch and visual appeal.
• Chocolate drizzle: A light drizzle of melted chocolate adds a decadent touch that complements the cookies and cream flavor.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the sweetness of the rolls, making for a wholesome breakfast or brunch option.
• Yogurt parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy contrast that pairs well with the cinnamon rolls while providing added nutrients.
• Coffee or tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea complements these sweet rolls perfectly, balancing flavors and enhancing your breakfast experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Cookies and Cream Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious breakfast or brunch with minimal morning effort. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just to indulge yourself, you can easily prepare them ahead of time and store them for later enjoyment.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the rolls to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate the rolls for up to 5 days.

Freezing

• Wrap individual cinnamon rolls tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped rolls in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, remove the desired number of rolls and let them thaw in the fridge overnight.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, microwave each roll on medium power for about 20-30 seconds.

FAQs

If you have questions about this delightful recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries that may help you out.

How can I make Cookies and Cream Cinnamon Rolls without eggs?

You can substitute eggs with unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water per egg). This will keep your rolls moist and fluffy!

Can I use different cookies in my Cookies and Cream Cinnamon Rolls?

Absolutely! While Oreos are fantastic, feel free to use any chocolate sandwich cookie that you love. Just make sure they are crushed well so they mix into the dough seamlessly.

How do I know when my Cookies and Cream Cinnamon Rolls are done baking?

The rolls should be golden brown on top and puffed up. You can insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter), they’re ready!

Can I prepare Cookies and Cream Cinnamon Rolls overnight?

Yes! After preparing the dough, you can place it in the fridge overnight. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before baking for best results.

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe brings joy to your kitchen as much as it has in mine! These Cookies and Cream Cinnamon Rolls are not just a treat but a warm hug on a plate. They’re perfect for family gatherings or simply pampering yourself on a lazy Sunday morning. Enjoy making this delightful recipe, and don’t hesitate to share your experiences or variations with me. Happy baking!