Chocolate Chip Cookie Rolls

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that can brighten any day, these Chocolate Chip Cookie Rolls are just the ticket! Imagine soft, fluffy cinnamon rolls filled with rich chocolate chip cookie dough, all topped with a luscious vanilla bean glaze. They’re perfect for busy weeknights when you want something special or for family gatherings where everyone is sure to gather around the dessert table. Trust me, once you make these, they’ll become a favorite in your home!

Baking these rolls brings back warm memories of cozy mornings and sweet aromas wafting through the kitchen. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing them with loved ones, these Chocolate Chip Cookie Rolls are bound to put a smile on everyone’s face.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: The steps are simple and straightforward, making it fun to whip up this delicious treat.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves cookies and cinnamon rolls! This recipe combines the best of both worlds.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s breakfast or dessert, these rolls fit right in at any gathering.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare the dough ahead of time and bake when you’re ready for fresh rolls!
• Decadent Flavor: The combination of gooey chocolate and buttery dough is simply irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is part of the joy of baking! Here’s what you’ll need to create your own batch of Chocolate Chip Cookie Rolls:

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

For the Filling

• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
• 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips

For the Topping

• 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 quite flexible! Here are some fun ideas to mix things up:

• Add Nuts: Throw in some chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch.
• Change Up the Chocolate: Try white chocolate chips or dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a different flavor.
• Swap the Glaze: Drizzle with melted chocolate instead of glaze for an extra chocolaty experience.
• Customize Your Fillings: Add dried fruits like cranberries or cherries along with the chocolate for a fruity twist.

How to Make Chocolate Chip Cookie Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Tangzhong

Start by making tangzhong—it’s basically a roux that helps keep your rolls moist and soft. Mix together 1/4 cup of flour and 3/4 cup of water in a saucepan. Heat it over medium heat until it thickens. Let it cool before using it in your dough. This step is important because it enhances the texture of your final product!

Step 2: Make the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine 3 ½ cups of flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. In another bowl, whisk together heavy cream, milk, egg, and vanilla. Once combined, add this mixture along with your tangzhong to the dry ingredients. Mix until everything comes together into a soft dough. Knead it gently until smooth—this is where you build that lovely texture!

Step 3: Let It Rise

Place your dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size—about an hour. This step is crucial—it gives your rolls that airy quality we love.

Step 4: Prepare Your Filling

While waiting, mix softened butter with mini chocolate chips in a small bowl. This will be your scrumptious filling! The melted butter helps everything combine beautifully while baking.

Step 5: Roll It Out

Once your dough has risen, roll it out into a rectangle on a floured surface. Spread your filling evenly across the top. Then roll up tightly into a log—you want those layers to stay intact!

Step 6: Slice and Arrange

Cut your log into equal pieces—12 works well! Place them in a greased baking dish close together but not touching. Cover again and let them rise until they puff up—about another half hour.

Step 7: Bake Away!

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake those beautiful rolls for about 30 minutes until golden brown on top! Keep an eye on them; every oven behaves differently.

Step 8: Whip Up That Glaze

While they cool slightly, prepare your creamy vanilla glaze by mixing room-temperature butter and cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and heavy cream until you achieve that perfect drizzle consistency!

Step 9: Drizzle & Enjoy!

Once cooled slightly but still warm from the oven, drizzle that heavenly glaze over your Chocolate Chip Cookie Rolls. Serve warm and watch everyone’s faces light up with joy!

Pro Tips for Making Chocolate Chip Cookie Rolls

Making chocolate chip cookie rolls can be a delightful experience, especially with a few helpful tips to ensure your rolls turn out perfect!

• Measure flour correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid adding too much flour. This ensures your dough remains soft and fluffy, which is key for those gooey rolls.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ingredients like milk, cream, and eggs mix more easily when they are at room temperature, leading to a smoother dough and better texture in your rolls.

• Don’t rush the rising time: Allowing the dough to rise properly is essential for achieving that light and airy texture. A warm environment speeds up the process; consider placing it near a warm oven or in a sunny spot.

• Chill the filling: If you refrigerate the chocolate chip cookie dough filling for about 30 minutes before using it, it will be easier to spread and will hold its shape better during baking.

• Glaze while warm: Drizzle the vanilla bean glaze over the rolls while they are still warm from the oven. This allows the glaze to soak into the rolls, creating an even more delicious treat!

How to Serve Chocolate Chip Cookie Rolls

Presenting your chocolate chip cookie rolls can be just as delightful as making them! Here are some ideas to elevate your serving game.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some finely chopped walnuts or pecans on top of the glaze for an added crunch and nutty flavor.
• Chocolate drizzle: A simple melted chocolate drizzle over the glaze adds an extra layer of chocolatey goodness that everyone will love.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad adds a bright contrast to the rich chocolate rolls, balancing flavors beautifully with seasonal fruits like berries and melons.
• Yogurt parfait: Serve with a yogurt parfait layered with granola and fresh fruit for a wholesome breakfast option or brunch companion.
• Coffee or tea: Pair these delicious rolls with a hot cup of coffee or tea. The warmth of your drink complements the gooeyness of the rolls perfectly!
• Scrambled eggs: For a heartier breakfast, serve alongside fluffy scrambled eggs. The savory flavor contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the rolls.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll have everything you need to enjoy your homemade chocolate chip cookie rolls! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Chocolate Chip Cookie Rolls are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious treat any time of day! You can make them ahead and store or freeze them, ensuring you always have a sweet option ready to go.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate them in the airtight container for up to a week.
• If you notice the rolls getting dry, a piece of bread in the container can help keep them moist.

Freezing

• Allow the rolls to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months; just make sure to label them with the date!

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, remove the rolls from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• Warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
• For individual servings, microwave for about 20-30 seconds until warm.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Chocolate Chip Cookie Rolls.

Can I use different types of chocolate chips in my Chocolate Chip Cookie Rolls?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix it up by using dark chocolate chips, white chocolate chips, or even a combination. The rich flavors will still turn out delightful!

How do I know when my Chocolate Chip Cookie Rolls are done baking?

Your rolls should be golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped lightly. If they are browning too quickly, cover them loosely with foil to prevent burning while they finish baking.

Can I make these Chocolate Chip Cookie Rolls gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that your baking powder is also gluten-free for best results.

Is there a dairy-free option for these rolls?

You can replace dairy ingredients like butter and cream with plant-based alternatives such as coconut oil and almond milk. This way, you can still enjoy these delicious rolls without dairy!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am about these delightful Chocolate Chip Cookie Rolls! They’re not just a treat but also a fun project that fills your kitchen with warmth and sweetness. Enjoy making this recipe with family or friends, and remember that it’s not only about the end result but also the joy of creating something special together. Happy baking!