Cookie Monster Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

If you’re looking for a fun twist on a classic treat, then this Cookie Monster Cinnamon Rolls Recipe is just the thing! These delightful rolls are not only soft and fluffy but also bursting with the rich flavors of cinnamon and chocolate cookies. Kids and adults alike will get a kick out of the vibrant blue dough and the extra cookie crumbles on top. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special family gathering, these cinnamon rolls will surely steal the show!

I love making these rolls for brunch or as a sweet surprise after school. They bring smiles to everyone’s faces and make any day feel a little more special. So, let’s jump right in and create some magical moments together in the kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and easily available ingredients, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Family-Friendly Fun: The colorful dough and cookie-filled goodness make these rolls an exciting treat for kids and adults alike.
• Deliciously Decadent: The combination of cinnamon, chocolate cookies, and cream cheese icing creates an irresistible flavor explosion.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday, birthday, or just because, these cinnamon rolls fit right in!
• Make Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the dough in advance and bake them fresh when you’re ready to enjoy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are some simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully to create your Cookie Monster Cinnamon Rolls. Gather them up, and let’s get started!

For the Dough

• ¾ cup warm milk (about 110°F)
• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg + 1 egg yolk
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Blue gel food coloring

For the Filling

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
• ½ cup crushed chocolate sandwich cookies (like Oreos)
• ¼ cup mini chocolate chips

For the Cream Cheese Icing

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2–3 tablespoons milk (adjust for consistency)

For the Topping

• ½ cup crushed chocolate cookies
• Extra mini chocolate chips (optional)

Variations

This Cookie Monster Cinnamon Rolls Recipe is super flexible! Here are some fun ideas to customize your rolls:

• Add More Chocolate: Toss in some dark chocolate chunks for an extra indulgent treat.
• Try Different Fillings: Swap out the chocolate cookie filling for peanut butter or Nutella for a delightful twist.
• Go Nutty: Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the filling for added crunch.
• Experiment with Frosting: Instead of cream cheese icing, try a vanilla glaze or even whipped coconut cream for a lighter option.

How to Make Cookie Monster Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Make the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy. This step is crucial as it helps activate the yeast, giving your rolls that perfect rise. Next, stir in granulated sugar, egg, egg yolk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Then mix in 2 cups of flour along with salt until combined. Gradually add the remaining flour while kneading until you achieve a soft and slightly sticky dough. Don’t forget to add a few drops of blue food coloring! Knead until the color is evenly distributed. Transfer to a greased bowl, cover it up, and let it rise for about 1 to 1½ hours until doubled in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

While waiting for your dough to rise, mix together softened butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon in a small bowl until smooth. Stir in crushed chocolate cookies and mini chocolate chips. This filling brings an extra layer of flavor that complements the dough perfectly.

Step 3: Roll and Fill the Dough

Once your dough has risen beautifully, lightly flour your surface and roll it out into a rectangle measuring about 14×9 inches. Spread your delicious filling evenly over this surface. Now comes the fun part—roll up your dough tightly from one long side! Cut into 12 even rolls so each bite will be filled with gooey goodness.

Step 4: Second Rise and Bake

Place those lovely rolls into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover them again and let them rise for another 30 to 45 minutes while you preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake these beauties for about 20 to 25 minutes until they turn golden brown on top.

Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese Icing

In another bowl, beat together softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar along with vanilla extract and milk until creamy. Adjust with milk as needed to reach your desired consistency.

Step 6: Assemble and Serve

Drizzle that luscious cream cheese icing over warm cinnamon rolls straight from the oven. Finish off by sprinkling some crushed chocolate cookies and extra mini chocolate chips on top if you like! Serve warm—your friends and family will love every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Cookie Monster Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Making these delightful Cookie Monster Cinnamon Rolls is a fun and rewarding experience, and I want you to succeed! Here are some handy tips to ensure your rolls turn out perfectly.

• Use Fresh Yeast: Always check the expiration date on your yeast. Fresh yeast ensures that your dough rises beautifully and results in fluffy, soft rolls.

• Knead Until Soft: When kneading the dough, aim for a soft and slightly sticky texture. This helps the gluten develop, giving your cinnamon rolls that perfect fluffy bite.

• Adjust Food Coloring Gradually: Start with just a few drops of blue gel food coloring, then add more as needed. This way, you can achieve the right shade without going overboard!

• Don’t Rush the Rising Time: Allowing the dough to rise until it’s doubled in size is crucial for achieving that light and airy texture. Patience pays off with delicious results!

• Serve Warm: These cinnamon rolls are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven! Warm rolls enhance the flavors of the filling and icing, making every bite a delight.

How to Serve Cookie Monster Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Presenting your Cookie Monster Cinnamon Rolls in an appealing way can make them even more enjoyable. Here’s how to make them shine!

Garnishes

• Crushed Chocolate Cookies: Sprinkling crushed chocolate cookies over the icing adds crunch and extra flavor, making each roll even more decadent.
• Mini Chocolate Chips: A few extra mini chocolate chips on top not only look adorable but also provide delightful bursts of chocolate in every bite.

Side Dishes

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad balances the sweetness of the cinnamon rolls while adding vibrant color to your table. Think juicy berries, crisp apples, and zesty citrus!
• Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or tea pairs wonderfully with these sweet rolls, enhancing their flavors and creating a cozy atmosphere.
• Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fresh fruit for a light side dish that contrasts nicely with the rich sweetness of the cinnamon rolls.
• Scrambled Eggs: For a heartier breakfast or brunch option, serve scrambled eggs alongside your rolls. The savory eggs provide a nice balance to the sweetness.

Enjoy these cookie-filled delights with family and friends, and don’t forget to share your creations! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cookie Monster Cinnamon Rolls Recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy these delightful treats any time. With a little planning, you can make them ahead of time or store leftovers for later!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cinnamon rolls to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Make sure to label the bags with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat the rolls in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warm.
• You can also microwave individual rolls for about 20-30 seconds, but they may not retain their original texture as well.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this fun and delicious recipe:

Can I make Cookie Monster Cinnamon Rolls Recipe without blue food coloring?

Absolutely! The blue food coloring is just for fun and visual appeal. Feel free to omit it or use your favorite color instead.

How long does the Cookie Monster Cinnamon Rolls Recipe take from start to finish?

This delightful recipe takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes from start to finish, including rising times. It’s worth every minute of anticipation!

Can I substitute other cookies in the filling?

Certainly! While chocolate sandwich cookies add a great flavor, you can use any crushed cookies that you love. Just keep in mind that different flavors will change the overall taste.

What can I use instead of cream cheese in the icing?

If you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative, consider using a vegan cream cheese substitute or a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and almond milk.

Final Thoughts

I hope you have as much fun making this Cookie Monster Cinnamon Rolls Recipe as I did! These vibrant rolls are not only visually stunning but are also packed with delicious flavors that everyone will love. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just a cozy weekend brunch, these cinnamon rolls are sure to bring smiles all around. Enjoy your baking adventure, and don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family!