Chocolate Chip Cookie Rolls

If you’re looking for a fun twist on two beloved treats, these Chocolate Chip Cookie Rolls are just the answer! Imagine the soft, gooey goodness of cinnamon rolls wrapped around rich chocolate chip cookie dough. It’s the perfect combination of flavors that will make your taste buds dance with joy. This recipe is a favorite in my home because it’s not only delicious but also brings everyone together, whether it’s a cozy weekend brunch or a special family gathering.

These rolls are an exciting surprise for any occasion. From busy weeknights to festive celebrations, they are sure to be a hit. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll want to make it over and over again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy preparation: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip these up.
• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone loves chocolate and cinnamon; these rolls are sure to please both kids and adults alike!
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare the dough in advance and bake them when you’re ready for that warm, fresh treat.
• Decadent flavor: The combination of cookie dough and cinnamon roll makes for an irresistible dessert that feels like a special treat.
• Gooey goodness: The melted chocolate inside is pure bliss with every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to bring these Chocolate Chip Cookie Rolls to life! You might already have some of these in your pantry, and they come together beautifully to create something truly special.

For the Dough

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup water
• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (See notes below for measuring)
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons instant yeast
• 3/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 1/3 cup heavy cream (room temperature)
• 1/3 cup whole milk (room temperature)
• 1 egg (room temperature)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla paste or extract
• Tangzhong from above
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
• 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips

For the Filling

• 8 tablespoons unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar (packed)
• 1/8 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg (room temperature)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips

For the Glaze

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 1 ounce cream cheese (cold)
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 3 tablespoons heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla paste or extract

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun twists you can try to customize your Chocolate Chip Cookie Rolls:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch.
• Mix in spices: A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg can elevate the flavor profile even more.
• Try different chocolates: Swap out semi-sweet chocolate chips for dark or white chocolate chips based on your preference.
• Fruit-infused filling: Add some dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for an extra burst of flavor.

How to Make Chocolate Chip Cookie Rolls

Step 1: Make the Tangzhong

Start by making tangzhong, which is a cooked mixture of flour and water. This step is key as it helps keep your rolls moist and fluffy! Combine 1/4 cup of flour with 3/4 cup of water in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until it thickens into a paste. Remove from heat and let it cool while you gather other ingredients.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine your yeast, granulated sugar, and warm milk. Let this sit until frothy—this ensures your yeast is active! Then mix in the cooled tangzhong along with eggs, vanilla, salt, and softened butter. Gradually add in your flour until you form a soft dough. Knead it gently until smooth; this helps develop gluten for those delightful rolls!

Step 3: Let It Rise

Place your kneaded dough into a greased bowl and cover it with a clean cloth. Allow it to rise in a warm spot until doubled in size—about 60-90 minutes. This step is crucial as it gives your rolls that lightness we all love!

Step 4: Make the Filling

While waiting for the dough to rise, combine room-temperature butter with brown sugar and granulated sugar until creamy. Then add in an egg and vanilla extract before mixing in flour, salt, and baking powder. Finally, fold in those mini chocolate chips—yum!

Step 5: Assemble Your Rolls

Once risen, roll out the dough on a floured surface into a rectangle. Spread your filling evenly over it and roll tightly from one end to the other. Cut into slices about 2 inches wide; place them cut-side up in a greased baking dish.

Step 6: Second Rise

Cover your rolls again and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes until puffy. Preheat your oven during this time so they can bake immediately after rising.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes until golden brown on top. The aroma while baking will have everyone rushing to the kitchen!

Step 8: Drizzle with Glaze

While they’re cooling slightly, whip up your glaze by beating together softened butter, cold cream cheese, powdered sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla until creamy. Drizzle this deliciousness over warm rolls before serving.

Enjoy savoring these Chocolate Chip Cookie Rolls with friends or family—they truly make every occasion sweeter!

Pro Tips for Making Chocolate Chip Cookie Rolls

Baking these delightful Chocolate Chip Cookie Rolls can be a fun and rewarding experience! Here are some tips to help you create the perfect batch:

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensuring your eggs, milk, and cream are at room temperature helps them blend more smoothly into the dough, resulting in a softer texture.

• Don’t Rush the Rise: Allowing the dough to rise fully is crucial for achieving those fluffy rolls. If your kitchen is cool, consider turning on your oven for a minute to create a warm environment for rising.

• Avoid Overmixing the Dough: Mixing just until combined will lead to tender rolls. Overworking can make the dough tough, so be gentle!

• Experiment with Fillings: While mini chocolate chips are a must, feel free to add nuts or dried fruit to customize your rolls and make them uniquely yours!

• Make Ahead and Freeze: You can prepare these rolls in advance and freeze them before baking. Just let them thaw in the fridge overnight before baking for an easy morning treat.

How to Serve Chocolate Chip Cookie Rolls

These Chocolate Chip Cookie Rolls are perfect for brunch gatherings or cozy family breakfasts! Present them warm from the oven, drizzled with glaze, and accompanied by delightful sides.

Garnishes

• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle some chopped walnuts or pecans on top of the rolls after glazing for added crunch and flavor.
• Fresh Berries: Adding fresh raspberries or strawberries not only adds a pop of color but also a refreshing contrast to the sweet rolls.

Side Dishes

• Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits complements the richness of the rolls while adding a refreshing touch.
• Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with granola and fruit for a creamy, crunchy side that offers great texture alongside your sweet rolls.
• Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein and balance out the sweetness of the rolls, making for a well-rounded breakfast.
• Coffee or Herbal Tea: Pair these rolls with a warm cup of coffee or soothing herbal tea to enhance the overall experience!

Enjoy serving up these scrumptious Chocolate Chip Cookie Rolls, and watch as they become a favorite at your breakfast table!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Chocolate Chip Cookie Rolls are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare them in advance and enjoy delicious rolls for breakfast or dessert throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the rolls to cool completely at room temperature.
• Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate them, where they’ll keep fresh for about a week.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the rolls cool completely.
• Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to label the bag with the date!

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, microwave individual rolls on medium power for about 20-30 seconds, until warm.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about these delightful Chocolate Chip Cookie Rolls.

Can I make Chocolate Chip Cookie Rolls without eggs?

Absolutely! You can substitute eggs with unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed meal mixture. This will help maintain moisture and binding in your rolls.

How do I prevent my Chocolate Chip Cookie Rolls from getting dry?

To keep your rolls moist, ensure you don’t overbake them. Adding a little extra cream or milk to the dough can also help maintain that gooey texture!

Can I use other types of chocolate chips?

Yes! Feel free to use dark chocolate, white chocolate, or even butterscotch chips if you want to switch things up. The flavor combinations are endless!

What’s the best way to serve Chocolate Chip Cookie Rolls?

These rolls are fantastic on their own or drizzled with the creamy vanilla bean glaze. Pair them with coffee or a glass of plant-based milk for a delightful treat!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Chocolate Chip Cookie Rolls as much as I do! They are not only fun to bake but also incredibly satisfying to eat. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with family and friends, these rolls are sure to bring smiles all around. Enjoy every sweet moment!