Cookies and Cream Cinnamon Rolls

This Cookies and Cream Cinnamon Rolls recipe is a decadent twist on the classic breakfast treat, combining the comforting flavors of cinnamon with the creamy, chocolatey goodness of Oreo cookies. These fluffy cinnamon rolls are perfect for brunch, dessert, or just because, and they’re surprisingly easy to make—even if you’re not a seasoned baker!

Okay, so here’s the deal. I was seriously craving cinnamon rolls, but I wanted something a little different. At first, I thought about making red velvet rolls, but I’d just made red velvet brownies and ice cream. That’s a lot of red, don’t you think? Lol.

Then it hit me—cookies and cream! I mean, who doesn’t love Oreos, right? I decided to take the same trusty cinnamon roll base I use for my ube cinnamon rolls, fall pumpkin rolls, and apple pie cinnamon rolls and give it a fun cookies-and-cream twist.

It was love at first bite. These rolls are indulgent, nostalgic, and just plain amazing. Let’s get baking!

Ingredients

Here’s what you will need:

Dough:

• Whole Milk: Provides richness and moisture to the dough. For a non-dairy option, substitute with almond or oat milk.
• Instant Dry Yeast: Helps the dough rise quickly. Active dry yeast can also be used, though it will need a longer rise time.
• Eggs: Adds structure and richness to the dough.
• Butter: Melted butter gives the dough a rich flavor.
• Sugar: Sweetens the dough.
• Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dough, making sure it’s not too sweet.
• All-Purpose Flour: The base of the dough. You can substitute with bread flour for a slightly chewier texture.

Filling:

• Butter: Makes the filling rich and spreadable.
• Cinnamon Powder: The signature spice that makes cinnamon rolls so irresistible. Adjust the amount depending on your preference for spice. I used Saigon cinnamon powder.
• Brown Sugar: Adds a caramel-like sweetness to the filling. Light or dark brown sugar works; dark brown sugar gives a deeper flavor.
• White Sugar: Balances the sweetness of the filling and helps form a slight crust on the rolls as they bake.
• Oreo Cookies: Crushed for that signature cookies and cream flavor.
• Half and Half: Subbed for heavy cream, it works perfectly in the filling.

Frosting:

• Confectioner's Sugar: The base of the frosting, adding sweetness and structure.
• Butter: Softened butter makes the frosting creamy and smooth. You can substitute with margarine for a dairy-free option.
• Cream Cheese: Adds a tangy flavor to balance out the sweetness of the frosting.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor of the frosting with a touch of warmth.
• Salt: A pinch of salt in the frosting enhances the other flavors.

See recipe card for quantities.

How to Make Cookies and Cream Cinnamon Rolls?

1. Activate the Yeast: Warm the milk, stir in sugar, and sprinkle yeast over. Let it foam for 5 minutes.

2. Make the Dough: Combine eggs, butter, sugar, salt, and yeast mixture in a stand mixer. Slowly add flour until dough forms. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth.

3. Let It Rise: Cover the bowl with a towel and let the dough rise for 1-1.5 hours or until doubled in size.

4. Prepare the Filling: Mix softened butter, sugars, cinnamon, and crushed Oreos into a paste.

5. Roll the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a rectangle.

6. Spread the Filling: Evenly spread the filling over the dough.

7. Roll: Roll the dough tightly into a log.

8. Cut: Using a dental floss, cut the log into 9 even rolls.

Can you Freeze The Dough?

Freeze the dough before starting the second proofing. When you're ready, thaw it and allow it to rise. Pour in room temperature heavy cream and let it sit for 5 minutes before baking.

Variations

• Red Velvet Oreo Cinnamon Rolls: Add red food coloring to the dough and extra cocoa powder for a velvety touch.
• Peanut Butter Oreo Rolls: Swap some filling butter with peanut butter.
• Chocolate Lovers’ Rolls: Add cocoa powder to the dough and filling.
• Mint Oreo Rolls: Use mint extract in the frosting for a refreshing twist.
• Caramel Oreo Rolls: Drizzle caramel sauce over the frosting.
• Double-Stuffed Oreo Rolls: Use double-stuffed Oreos for extra creaminess.

Other Frosting Options

• Classic Cream Cheese Frosting: The tangy cream cheese base balances the sweetness perfectly.
• Chocolate Frosting: Add cocoa powder or melted chocolate for a rich, indulgent topping.
• Vanilla Glaze: A simple mix of powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla for a light and glossy finish.
• Maple Frosting: Add a splash of maple syrup for a cozy, autumnal twist.
• Peanut Butter Frosting: Mix peanut butter with cream cheese for a nutty flavor boost.
• Whipped Cream Frosting: Light and airy, perfect for a less sweet option.

Topping Suggestions

• Crushed Oreos: Sprinkle over the frosting for extra cookies and cream vibes.
• Chocolate Shavings: Adds a touch of elegance and extra chocolate flavor.
• Sprinkles: A fun, colorful addition for parties or celebrations.
• Caramel Drizzle: For an extra gooey and sweet finish.
• Chopped Nuts: Add crunch and a savory balance to the sweetness.
• Mini Marshmallows: Perfect for a s’mores-inspired topping.
• Fresh Berries: Bright and slightly tart, a refreshing contrast to the richness.

What to Serve with This

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing contrast to the rich rolls.
• Coffee: Classic pairing to balance the sweetness.
• Hot Chocolate: Indulgent and cozy.
• Vanilla Latte: Complements the creaminess of the frosting.
• Iced Coffee: Perfect for warm mornings.
• Orange Juice: Adds a bright, citrusy note.
• Scrambled Eggs: Balances the sweetness with protein.
• Crispy Bacon: Salty and savory, an ideal pairing.
• Sausage Links: Another savory side to round out brunch.
• Greek Yogurt: Creamy and tangy to complement the rolls.
• Smoothies: Light and fruity option.
• Whipped Cream: A dollop on top takes it to the next level.
• Caramel Sauce: Drizzle over the frosting for extra sweetness.
• Nutella: Spread on the rolls for a hazelnut twist.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: Turn them into a decadent dessert.

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