There’s something truly special about waking up to the smell of freshly baked cookies and cream cinnamon rolls, especially when they require no kneading! Picture this: you roll out of bed, still a little sleepy, and as you make your way to the kitchen, you’re greeted by the warm, chocolatey aroma wafting from your oven. These gooey rolls, bursting with crushed Oreos and swirled with a melt-in-your-mouth cream cheese frosting, are not only indulgent but also incredibly easy to prepare.
Whether it’s a lazy Sunday brunch or a sweet surprise for loved ones, this no-knead recipe promises a hassle-free baking experience, even with the option to make them overnight. Imagine the joy of pulling these fluffy creations from the oven, drizzled with frosting and dusted with extra Oreos, every bite reminiscent of your favorite dessert—but in roll form! Let’s dive into this delightful recipe and bake some happiness together!
Why are Cookies and Cream Cinnamon Rolls a must-try?
Simplicity at its finest: This no-knead recipe takes the hassle out of baking, making it accessible for all skill levels.
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of gooey frosting and crushed Oreos creates a sweet treat that’s hard to resist.
Overnight Option: Prep these rolls in advance and wake up to their warm, fragrant goodness—perfect for busy mornings!
Versatility: Customize your rolls by experimenting with different sandwich cookies or add-ins for a unique twist.
Crowd-Pleasing: Ideal for brunch gatherings or family dessert nights, these cinnamon rolls are bound to impress everyone at the table!
Cookies and Cream Cinnamon Rolls Ingredients
For the Dough
- Warm Water – Activates the yeast; ensure it’s warm, not hot for best results.
- Granulated Sugar – Feeds the yeast for proper activation; can substitute with honey or agave syrup.
- Active Dry Yeast – Acts as a leavening agent for rising; instant yeast can work too, though flavor may vary.
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides the structure; weigh it for accuracy or use bread flour for chewiness.
- Crushed Oreos – Adds cookies and cream flavor; about 4 Oreos work perfectly.
- Sea Salt – Elevates overall flavor; do not skip this essential ingredient.
- Unsalted Butter – Gives richness to the dough; should be very soft for easy mixing, margarine is an option.
- Large Eggs – Enrich the dough and aid in leavening; use at room temperature for better mixing.
- Pure Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor; vanilla bean or powder can also be used as substitutes.
- Warm Milk – Increases moisture; any milk is fine, just warm it up before incorporating.
For the Filling
- Brown Sugar – Sweetens the filling, enhancing moisture; avoid using granulated sugar for the best outcome.
- Ground Cinnamon – Adds warm, spiced flavor; ensure it’s fresh for optimal taste.
- Heavy Cream – Essential for gooey, moist rolls; do not replace it with lower-fat options.
For the Frosting
- Cream Cheese – Gives a tangy base for frosting; mascarpone can be substituted for a different flavor.
- Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the frosting; no direct substitute, but for a low-sugar option, try stevia.
Get ready to enjoy these lovely Cookies and Cream Cinnamon Rolls that will surely have your family and friends begging for seconds!
How to Make Cookies and Cream Cinnamon Rolls
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Prep the Dough:
In a small bowl, combine warm water, granulated sugar, and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it’s foamy. Meanwhile, in a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, sea salt, and crushed Oreos to create a delightful mixture. -
Mix Ingredients:
Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients, then add the softened unsalted butter, large eggs, pure vanilla extract, warm milk, and your yeast mixture. Mix everything together until it forms a cohesive dough that feels slightly sticky! -
First Rise:
Cover the dough with a clean cloth and place it in a warm area to rise. Allow it to double in size, about 45 minutes; you’re looking for a puffy, airy texture! -
Shape and Fill:
Once risen, gently transfer the dough to a floured surface. Roll it into a large rectangle (approximately 18” x 24”). Spread a mixture of brown sugar, ground cinnamon, softened butter, and additional crushed Oreos generously over the dough. Roll it tightly into a log, then slice into 12 equal pieces. -
Second Rise:
Place the rolls in a greased baking pan, cover, and let them rise again until they’re nice and puffy—about 30 minutes. This is key for those fluffy rolls! -
Bake:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Before baking, pour the heavy cream over the rolls, then pop them in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they’re golden brown—trust me, you’ll know they’re ready by the incredible aroma! -
Frost and Serve:
Allow the rolls to cool slightly. In the meantime, whisk together cream cheese and powdered sugar for your frosting. Spread generously over the warm rolls and garnish with extra crushed Oreos.
Optional: Top with a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an extra chocolatey touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Cookies and Cream Cinnamon Rolls
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Mix with Care: Avoid overmixing the dough; a gentle hand will keep your cookies and cream cinnamon rolls fluffy rather than dense and tough.
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Perfect Temperature: Ensure your warm water is around 110°F (43°C)—too hot can kill the yeast, while too cool will not activate it effectively.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ground cinnamon and quality Oreos can elevate the flavor immensely, so check your pantry for freshness!
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Don’t Rush the Rise: Allow the dough to rise until it doubles in size for optimal fluffiness; rushed rising often leads to denser rolls.
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Customize Flavor: Feel free to switch up the filling with different sandwich cookies for a unique twist on these delicious rolls—experiment, and have fun!
What to Serve with Cookies and Cream Cinnamon Rolls?
Bringing together a delightful menu to complement your decadent rolls can elevate any meal experience.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the richness of the rolls, providing a vibrant contrast.
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Rich Coffee: A warm, aromatic cup of coffee enhances the sweet flavors, creating the perfect cozy brunch vibe.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Indulge even further by serving a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream alongside the rolls for a heavenly dessert.
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Maple Syrup Drizzle: A light drizzle adds a sweet, maple flavor that complements the cinnamon and adds a touch of warmth.
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Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy whipped cream is a delightful topping, enhancing the overall sweetness and adding a luscious texture.
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Chocolate Milk: For a fun and comforting pairing, serve chocolate milk, as the flavors harmonize beautifully with the cookies and cream effects.
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Nutty Granola: Sprinkle some crunchy granola on the side for added texture and a nutty flavor that complements the sweetness.
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Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai tea create a wonderful pairing with the cinnamon rolls, wrapping you in a warm embrace on chilly mornings.
Storage Tips for Cookies and Cream Cinnamon Rolls
Room Temperature: Store plain, cooled rolls at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain freshness.
Fridge: For longer storage, place the baked cookies and cream cinnamon rolls in a sealed container in the fridge, where they will last up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze the rolls in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat rolls in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through, ensuring they maintain their gooey texture.
Cookies and Cream Cinnamon Rolls Variations
Feel free to play around with these fun twists to make your cinnamon rolls even more delightful!
- Different Cookies: Swap Oreos for any flavored sandwich cookie like peanut butter or mint for a unique twist.
- Chocolate Chips: Add a handful of chocolate chips into the filling for extra bursts of sweetness in every bite. They melt beautifully and enhance the chocolatey flavor.
- Nutty Delight: Incorporate chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, into the filling for a delightful crunch and added richness. The combination of flavors turns the rolls into a gourmet treat.
- Spice It Up: Sprinkle in some pumpkin pie spice along with cinnamon for a cozy fall flavor profile that’s simply irresistible. Just imagine the warmth as it fills the room!
- Coconut Cream: For a tropical touch, replace heavy cream with coconut cream in the rolls. This gives them a creamy, dairy-free twist while enhancing the flavor.
- Dulce de Leche: Drizzle dulce de leche on top of the frosting for an indulgent caramel flavor that takes your rolls to the next level. It’s like a sweet hug in every bite!
- Fruit-Filled: Mix in dried fruits like raisins or cranberries into the filling for a surprising and wholesome addition, enhancing the flavor profile beautifully.
- Blueberry Swirl: Instead of traditional chocolate flavors, fold in fresh blueberries into the dough for a refreshing fruity twist that pairs deliciously with cream cheese frosting.
Enjoy making these custom variations and creating your own unique cinnamon rolls that cater to your flavor preferences!
Make Ahead Options
These Cookies and Cream Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply follow the recipe up to the end of the first rise, then tightly cover and refrigerate the shaped rolls. This not only allows them to develop flavor but also ensures moist and gooey results. When you’re ready to bake, simply let the rolls come to room temperature for about 30 minutes and allow for a second rise before baking. You’ll enjoy warm, frosted rolls with minimal effort, making your morning routine a delightful experience!
Cookies and Cream Cinnamon Rolls Recipe FAQs
What type of Oreos should I use for these cinnamon rolls?
I recommend using regular Oreo cookies, as they provide the classic cookies and cream flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, feel free to experiment with flavored sandwich cookies to give your rolls a unique twist!
How should I store any leftover rolls?
Store baked cookies and cream cinnamon rolls in a sealed container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For lasting freshness, refrigerate them where they can stay good for up to 4 days. Just be sure to reheat before serving for that delightful gooeyness!
Can I freeze these cinnamon rolls?
Absolutely! You can freeze the rolls after baking. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1-2 hours until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag, and they’ll last up to 3 months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best results.
What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise?
If you find that your dough isn’t rising, it could be due to inactive yeast. Make sure your yeast is fresh and your water is warm (about 110°F / 43°C). If your yeast mixture doesn’t foam within 5 minutes, it’s best to start over with fresh yeast.
Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
Yes! For a make-ahead option, prepare the rolls up to the second rise, then cover tightly and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, let them come to room temperature and rise until doubled before baking. This way, you can enjoy fresh cinnamon rolls with minimal morning effort!
Are these cinnamon rolls suitable for a gluten-free diet?
While this recipe uses all-purpose flour, you can make it gluten-free by substituting the flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Just ensure the other ingredients, like baking powder and any fillers, are also gluten-free. Enjoy baking your own gluten-free cookies and cream cinnamon rolls!
Delicious No Knead Cookies and Cream Cinnamon Rolls Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small bowl, combine warm water, granulated sugar, and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it’s foamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, sea salt, and crushed Oreos.
- Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients, then add the softened unsalted butter, large eggs, pure vanilla extract, warm milk, and your yeast mixture. Mix everything until it forms a cohesive dough.
- Cover the dough and let it rise for about 45 minutes.
- Once risen, roll it into a rectangle. Spread a mixture of brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and butter over the dough. Roll tightly and slice into 12 pieces.
- Place the rolls in a greased baking pan, cover, and let them rise for about 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Pour the heavy cream over the rolls and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
- Allow to cool slightly. Whisk together cream cheese and powdered sugar for frosting. Spread over warm rolls and garnish with crushed Oreos.