Craving a sweet treat to start your day? Try this easy cookies and cream rolls recipe made with homemade dough and creamy filling for a quick family favorite breakfast or dessert, save for later

Easy Cookies and Cream Rolls Recipe for Breakfast or Dessert

Introduction

Imagine starting your day with a sweet, indulgent treat that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Our Easy Cookies and Cream Rolls Recipe is the perfect solution for a quick breakfast or a decadent dessert. Using everyday ingredients and requiring minimal effort, these rolls are a masterclass in flavor balance and creativity. With a soft, fluffy dough wrapped around a rich cookies and cream filling, these treats are sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a speedy breakfast solution or a dessert enthusiast seeking a new challenge, this recipe has something for everyone.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: Our recipe combines the simplicity of store-bought cookies and cream filling with the warmth of freshly baked dough, making it accessible to bakers of all skill levels.
• Ease of preparation: With a simplified dough recipe and a straightforward assembly process, these rolls can be ready in under an hour, perfect for busy mornings or last-minute dessert needs.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite the ease of preparation, these rolls are sure to impress with their golden-brown crust and creamy, dreamy filling, making them perfect for special occasions or everyday treats.

Key Ingredients

The magic of these rolls lies in the combination of a few key ingredients. You’ll need a package of active dry yeast, warm water, flour, sugar, salt, eggs, and butter for the dough. For the filling, a store-bought cookies and cream spread or a homemade equivalent made from crushed cookies and cream cheese will provide the rich, creamy center. Practical substitutions can be made for dietary restrictions, such as using gluten-free flour or vegan butter alternatives, ensuring that everyone can enjoy these tasty treats.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by activating the yeast in warm water, then combine it with flour, sugar, salt, eggs, and melted butter in a large mixing bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms, then knead for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
2. Step 2: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 20 minutes, or until it has doubled in size. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) during this time.
3. Step 3: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the risen dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Spread the cookies and cream filling evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges. Roll the dough into a tight log, starting from the long side, and cut into 8-10 equal pieces.
4. Step 4: Place the rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch of space between each roll. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown. Let the rolls cool for a few minutes before glazing with a simple powdered sugar glaze or serving as is.

Handy Tips

• For an extra crispy crust, brush the tops of the rolls with a little bit of egg wash before baking. To avoid overbaking, keep an eye on the rolls after 15 minutes, as oven times can vary. If you find the dough too sticky, add a little more flour. If it’s too dry, add a small amount of warm water.

Heat Control

When baking the rolls, it’s crucial to maintain the right temperature and baking time. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 18-20 minutes. The rolls are done when they’re golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. Keep an eye on them to prevent overbaking, which can lead to dry, crumbly rolls instead of soft and fluffy ones.

Crunch Factor

The ideal texture for these rolls is soft and fluffy on the inside with a slightly crispy crust on the outside. To achieve this, make sure not to overmix the dough, which can lead to toughness. Also, don’t overbake, as this will dry out the rolls. If you prefer a crunchier exterior, you can brush the tops with egg wash before baking or sprinkle with granulated sugar for an added crunch.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• To ensure the rolls rise evenly and bake consistently, use a combination of all-purpose flour and a little bit of bread flour for added structure. For a shortcut, use store-bought pizza dough or crescent roll dough as a substitute for homemade dough.

Storage Tips

• These rolls are best served fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze the baked rolls for up to 2 months and thaw at room temperature or reheat in the microwave. The best containers for storing are glass or plastic with tight-fitting lids to maintain freshness.

Gift Packaging Ideas

These rolls make a wonderful gift, especially when packaged in a decorative tin or a paper bag tied with a ribbon. Consider adding a personal touch with a handwritten note or a small jar of homemade cookies and cream spread for an extra-special gift. For a more rustic look, wrap the rolls individually in parchment paper and place them in a wicker basket lined with a checkered cloth.

Flavor Variations

• 🌟 Different spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom to the dough for a unique twist on the classic flavor.
• 🌟 Creative toppings: Once the rolls are baked, top them with chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or even candy pieces for added texture and flavor.
• 🌟 Ingredient swaps: Substitute the cookies and cream filling with other creamy spreads like Nutella, peanut butter, or marshmallow creme for a different flavor profile.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If the rolls turn out too dense, it might be due to overmixing the dough. If they’re too dry, it could be from overbaking. Adjust your mixing and baking times accordingly for better results.
• Ingredient replacements: If you’re out of a particular ingredient, don’t be afraid to substitute. For example, you can use almond milk instead of regular milk or vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
• Over/undercooking signs: Keep an eye on the rolls while they’re baking. If they’re undercooked, they’ll be pale and soft to the touch. If they’re overcooked, they’ll be dark brown and hard. Adjust the baking time as needed.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze the rolls after baking. Simply place them in a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or reheat in the microwave when ready to serve.
• Is it gluten-free? The original recipe contains gluten due to the use of all-purpose flour. However, you can make a gluten-free version by substituting the flour with a gluten-free flour blend and adjusting the liquid content accordingly.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double or even triple the recipe if you’re serving a larger crowd. Just keep in mind that you may need to adjust the baking time slightly for larger batches.

Conclusion

In conclusion, our Easy Cookies and Cream Rolls Recipe is a versatile and delicious addition to any meal or occasion. With its simple ingredients, easy preparation, and impressive results, it’s a must-try for bakers of all levels. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast solution, a decadent dessert, or a special gift for a loved one, these rolls are sure to please. So go ahead, get creative with the recipe, and enjoy the process of baking something truly special. Happy baking!