What are some of the best breakfast treats you have ever had? Remember those mornings when a freshly baked batch of cinnamon rolls filled the house with Ice Cream? What is the most amazing aroma? Cookie Monster Cinnamon Rolls take that cozy feeling and dial it up to eleven! Is it true that cinnamon rolls are made in a vat of bright blue? How do I prevent cookie pieces from sticking to the frosting? It’s that simple, and the flavor is absolutely divine! What are some good party rolls to Make? Is it more difficult to believe in
What is a cookie monster cinnamon roll?
Think of it as a cinnamon roll that went to the costume party and decided to dress up as everyone’s. What is your favorite blue, cookie-loving monster What’s a cinnamon roll? We’re talking a vibrant blue vanilla glaze, and crushed Chocolate Chip Cookies generously sprinkled. What is it like to eat a chicken breast? The name, well, it’s pretty self explanatory, isn’t it? How come Cookie Monster exploded all over these rolls in the best possible way?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Where do I start? What I love about this recipe is how it manages to be both incredibly delicious and easy to make. What is so simple? What’s the breakdown of the
- Flavor Explosion:The warm, spiced cinnamon filling combined with the sweet, creamy vanilla glaze and the crunchy, crunchy tahini crust. Chocolate chip cookies are a match made in heaven. Each bite is a delightful mix of textures and tastes that will leave you wanting more.
- SurprisinglyDo not let the bright blue color fool you. These rolls are easy to make. We’re using a simple dough recipe that comes together quickly, and the decorating part is just plain fun.
- Kid-Friendly Fun:My kids love these cookies and they are always asking for them. What is a good way to get your kids involved in the kitchen?
- Budget-Friendly InIf you already have most of the ingredients in your pantry, you probably have some of them already. If you don’t have any, they’re all readily available at your local grocery store and won’t break the bank.
I’ve tried other fancy Cinnamon Roll recipes, some with elaborate fillings or complicated doughs. Cookie Monster Cinnamon Rolls are just as satisfying, if not more so, because they’re so much more than they are. What is fun to make and eat? What are some good weekend brunch ideas? What is a little What are some of the best crowd pleasers?
How to Make Cookie Monster Cinnamon Rolls
Quick Overview
How do you make a Cookie Monster Cinnamon Roll? How do I make dough? I’ll start by making a dough, letting it rise, and then rolling it out to spread it. What is the Best Cinnamon-su What happens when you bake them to golden perfection, and then drench them in a vibrant blue. What are some good recipes to serve with vanilla glaze, and top them with crushed cookies? Is it fun, relatively quick, and the results are absolutely worth it? Is it possible to mess up these cookies?
Ingredients
For the Main Batter: What are some examples?
- 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F). I used whole milk, but you can also use almond milk for a slightly different flavor.
- 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast. Make sure your yeast is fresh! Old yeast won’t rise properly.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar. This helps feed the yeast and adds a touch of sweetness to the dough.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted. This adds richness and flavor to the dough.
- What are the benefits of salt?
- 1 large egg. This adds structure and richness to the dough.
- I always use unbleached flour for the best results. I use 2 cups of all-purpose flour plus more for dusting.
For the Filling:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened. Make sure it’s soften, not melted, so it spreads easily.
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar. Dark brown or light brown works equally well.
- I like to use ground cinnamon for the best flavor. I use a high quality cinnamon.
For the Glaze:
- 4 cups powdered sugar. Sift it for an extra smooth glaze.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted. This adds richness and helps the glaze set up properly.
- 1/4 cup milk. Add more or less to reach your desired consistency.
- What is the best vanilla flavor?
- What is the best food coloring gel?
- 1 cup chocolate chip cookies, crushed. I like to use Chips Ahoy! What are some good chocolate chip cookies?
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating up, grease a 9×13 inch baking pan. Is it safe to use butter or cooking spray? I always prefer parchment paper because it guarantees the rolls won’t stick!
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt. Set aside. Make sure everything is evenly distributed so the yeast has a consistent environment to thrive in. Don’t skip the whisking – it really makes a difference in the final texture.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine the warm milk, melted butter, yeast, and salt. Mix well. Give it a gentle stir and let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until the yeast is foamy. How do you know if your yeast is active? If it doesn’t foam, your yeast might be old and you’ll need to start over.
Step 4: Combine
Mix wet ingredients into dry ingredients and mix until a shaggy dough forms. First, turn out the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, or until it is smooth. How do I make my skin smooth and elastic? If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour. What is the goal of making dough that’s easy to handle but not too dry?
Step 5: Prepare Filling
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, brown butter, and cinnamon. Set aside. What makes these rolls so delicious? Add a pinch of cinnamon or cloves for extra warmth.
Step 6: Layer & Swirl
Roll out dough into a large rectangle, about 12×18 inches. Spread the cinnamon-sugar filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border along one of the edges. Starting from the opposite long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal. Use a sharp knife or dental floss to cut the log into 12 equal slices. Place the rolls in the prepared baking pan, spacing them evenly apart.
Step 7: Bake
Cover the pan with a clean kitchen towel and let the rolls rise for about 30-45 minutes. Is it possible to double the size of a banana? What is the best way to make soft, fluffy rolls? Is it safe to bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes? Keep an eye on them – ovens can vary, and you don’t want them to burn!
Step 8: Cool & Glaze
While the rolls are baking, prepare the glaze. In a large bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, melted butter, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add blue food coloring, a few drops at a time, until you reach your desired shade of blue. Once the rolls are out of the oven, let them cool slightly before drizzling the glaze over the top. Immediately sprinkle with crushed Chocolate Chip cookies.
Step 9: Slice & Serve
Let the glaze set for a few minutes before slicing and serving. These rolls are best enjoyed warm, with a glass of cold milk or a cup of hot coffee. They’re perfect straight from the pan, gooey and delicious! You can use a serrated knife for clean slices, but honestly, sometimes digging in with a spoon is the best way to go!
What to Serve It With
These Cookie Monster Cinnamon Rolls are pretty amazing on their own, but here are some ideas for making them even more special:
For Breakfast: Pair them with a strong cup of coffee or a creamy latte. The sweetness of the rolls is perfectly balanced by the bitterness of the coffee. A side of fresh fruit, like berries or sliced bananas, adds a healthy touch.
For Brunch: Arrange the rolls on a pretty platter and serve them alongside a mimosa or a Bellini. They’re also great with a savory dish, like a quiche or a frittata, for a balanced brunch spread.
As Dessert: Warm up the rolls slightly and serve them with a scoop of vanilla Ice Cream or a dollop of whipped cream. A drizzle of chocolate sauce or caramel sauce would also be delicious. I sometimes add a sprinkle of sea salt to the glaze for a salty-sweet contrast.
For Cozy Snacks: Enjoy them with a glass of milk or a cup of hot chocolate on a chilly evening. They’re also perfect for sharing with friends and family during a movie night or game night. My family loves these after dinner on the weekends with a big mug of Hot Cocoa.
My grandmother always served cinnamon rolls with a side of bacon, and honestly, it’s a tradition I still uphold! The salty bacon complements the sweet rolls perfectly. Don’t knock it ’til you try it!
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Cookie Monster Cinnamon Rolls
Want to take your Cookie Monster Cinnamon Rolls to the next level? Here are some of my top tips, learned from years of baking experience:
Yeast Activation: Make sure your milk is warm, not hot, when you add the yeast. Hot milk will kill the yeast, and your dough won’t rise. The ideal temperature is around 110°F (43°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, just make sure the milk is warm to the touch but not scalding.
Kneading the Dough: Don’t over-knead the dough! Over-kneading can result in tough rolls. Knead until the dough is smooth and elastic, but not too stiff. If you’re using a stand mixer, knead for about 5 minutes on medium speed. If you’re kneading by hand, knead for about 7-10 minutes.
Filling Customization: Feel free to experiment with the filling! Add chopped nuts, raisins, or even a little bit of orange zest for a unique twist. I’ve also tried adding a layer of Cream Cheese to the filling, which makes the rolls extra decadent.
Glaze Variations: The glaze is where you can really get creative! Try adding a few drops of lemon juice for a tangy glaze, or a pinch of cinnamon for a warmer flavor. You can also use different extracts, like almond or maple, to customize the taste. The key is to adjust the amount of milk to achieve your desired consistency.
Baking Time: Keep a close eye on the rolls while they’re baking. Ovens can vary, so the baking time may need to be adjusted. The rolls are done when they’re golden brown and the center is set. If the tops are browning too quickly, tent the pan with foil.
Cookie Crumbles: I’ve tested this recipe with a range of different cookies. While Chips Ahoy! creates a fun, iconic look, Oreos offer a richer, more chocolatey note. Even gluten-free cookies work beautifully! Feel free to experiment and crush your own favorite cookies on top.
I once tried to rush the rising process by putting the dough in a slightly too-warm oven and, well, it definitely didn’t work! The dough ended up proofing too quickly and the rolls were dense and uneven. Patience is key when it comes to baking these!
Storing and Reheating Tips
Want to enjoy these Cookie Monster Cinnamon Rolls later? Here’s how to store and reheat them:
Room Temperature: These rolls can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days. Make sure to cover them tightly to prevent them from drying out. I like to use an airtight container or wrap them in plastic wrap.
Refrigerator Storage: For longer storage, you can refrigerate the rolls for up to 5 days. Again, make sure to cover them tightly. The glaze may harden in the refrigerator, but it will soften up when you reheat the rolls.
Freezer Instructions: To freeze the rolls, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Glaze Timing Advice: If you’re planning to store the rolls, it’s best to wait to glaze them until you’re ready to serve. This will prevent the glaze from becoming sticky or dissolving. You can make the glaze ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it.
Reheating: To reheat the rolls, you can microwave them for a few seconds until they’re warm. You can also reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. If you’re reheating them from frozen, add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it: my recipe for Cookie Monster Cinnamon Rolls. If you’re looking for a fun, delicious, and relatively easy breakfast or dessert that’s guaranteed to put a smile on everyone’s face, then this is the recipe for you. The combination of warm cinnamon, sweet glaze, and crunchy cookies is simply irresistible. They’re just the perfect treat and one of the most popular baked goods I’ve ever made. And they are so much fun to bake with the kids!
If you love these playful cinnamon rolls, you might also enjoy my recipe for classic cinnamon rolls or maybe even a batch of colorful sprinkle-covered cupcakes. Happy baking, and I can’t wait to hear how your Cookie Monster Cinnamon Rolls turn out! Don’t forget to share your photos and variations in the comments below. I’m always looking for new ideas!
Cookie Monster Cinnamon Rolls
Ingredients
Dough
- 1 cup Warm Milk About 105-115°F
- 2.25 tsp Active Dry Yeast
- 0.5 cup Granulated Sugar
- 0.5 tsp Salt
- 0.25 cup Melted Butter
- 3.5 cups All-Purpose Flour
Filling
- 0.5 cup Softened Butter
- 0.75 cup Brown Sugar Packed
- 2 tsp Ground Cinnamon
Frosting
- 4 oz Cream Cheese Softened
- 0.5 cup Butter Softened
- 3 cups Powdered Sugar
- 2 tbsp Milk
- Blue Food Coloring
- Candy Eyes
- Mini Chocolate Chip Cookies
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- In a large bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let stand for 5 minutes until foamy. Add sugar, salt, melted butter, and flour. Mix until a soft dough forms.
- Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place dough in a greased bowl, turning to coat. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- In a separate bowl, combine softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon for the filling.
- Punch down the risen dough and roll it out into a large rectangle. Spread the cinnamon-sugar filling evenly over the dough. Roll the dough tightly into a log and slice into 12 rolls.
- Place rolls in the prepared baking dish. Cover and let rise for another 30 minutes.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
- While the rolls are baking, prepare the frosting. In a large bowl, beat together softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and milk, beating until light and fluffy. Tint with blue food coloring.
- Let the rolls cool slightly before frosting. Decorate with blue frosting, candy eyes, and mini chocolate chip cookies.
