If you have a soft spot for classic cinnamon rolls and a weakness for cookies, the Cookie Monster Cinnamon Rolls Recipe is going to become your absolute favorite. Imagine tender, fluffy rolls swirled with cinnamon sugar and crushed chocolate chip cookies, all topped with irresistibly creamy, bright blue frosting and a sprinkle of cookie crumbs for that playful Cookie Monster vibe. This recipe brings together the best of both worlds: the comforting warmth of homemade cinnamon rolls with the fun, crunchy surprise of cookies baked right inside. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for weekend breakfasts, brunches with friends, or any time you want to treat yourself to a smile-inducing sweet delight.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cookie Monster Cinnamon Rolls Recipe relies on simple yet essential ingredients that each play a key role in creating the perfect balance of soft dough, cinnamon sweetness, and cookie crunch. From the warm spices to the creamy frosting, every element comes together to make these rolls unforgettable.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour 🌾: The foundation for soft and chewy dough that rises beautifully.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar 🍬: Adds subtle sweetness and helps activate the yeast.
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast 🧁: Essential for the dough to rise and become fluffy.
- 1/2 tsp salt 🧂: Balances the flavors and enhances the sweetness.
- 1/2 cup whole milk 🥛: Creates a tender dough with richness and moisture.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted 🧈: Adds buttery flavor and softness to the dough.
- 1/4 cup water 💧: Keeps the dough hydrated and helps with yeast activation.
- 1 large egg 🥚: Provides structure and richness to the dough.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened 🧈: Used for the cinnamon sugar filling for a creamy, spreadable base.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar 🍬: Sweetens the filling perfectly.
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon 🍂: Infuses each bite with that classic warm spice flavor.
- 1/2 cup crushed chocolate chip cookies 🍪: Adds delightful crunch and bursts of chocolate.
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened 🧀: Base for the luscious frosting with a hint of tanginess.
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened 🧈: Makes the frosting rich and smooth.
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar 🍬: Sweetens the frosting to perfection and creates a creamy texture.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract 🍨: Enhances the frosting with warm, sweet notes.
- 1-2 tbsp milk 🥛: Adjusts frosting consistency for easy spreading.
- Blue food coloring 💙: Gives the frosting that fun and vibrant Cookie Monster blue color.
- 1/2 cup crushed chocolate chip and Oreo cookies 🍪: Sprinkled on top for the ultimate Cookie Monster look and crunch.
How to Make Cookie Monster Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by mixing together 2 cups of the flour, granulated sugar, yeast, and salt in a large bowl. Warm the milk, melted butter, and water until about 110°F—this temperature is perfect to wake up the yeast without killing it. Add these warm liquids along with the egg to your flour mixture and stir until combined. Gradually mix in the remaining flour until the dough feels smooth and elastic. Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm space for about an hour, or until it doubles in size. This resting period is the magic that turns simple ingredients into a pillowy, airy dough.
Step 2: Roll Out the Dough
After your dough has doubled, punch it down gently to release the air, then transfer it to a floured surface. Roll it out into a rectangle measuring roughly 12 by 18 inches. This shape is key for creating those perfectly even cinnamon rolls.
Step 3: Add Cinnamon Sugar Filling
Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough’s surface, creating a luscious, slippery base. Sprinkle the cinnamon, sugar, and crushed chocolate chip cookies evenly on top—this mixture will melt into the dough during baking, delivering that thrilling cookie crunch in every bite.
Step 4: Assemble the Rolls
Starting from the long edge, roll the dough up tightly into a log shape. The rolling action distributes the filling beautifully throughout. Using a sharp knife, slice this log into 12 equal pieces, ready to fit snugly into your baking dish.
Step 5: Bake the Rolls
Place the rolls side by side in a greased 9×13-inch baking pan. Cover them and let them rise again for 30 minutes, helping them get fluffy and tender. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes until the tops are brilliantly golden brown and smell heavenly.
Step 6: Make the Cookie Monster Frosting
While the rolls cool slightly, whip together the softened cream cheese, butter, and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Stir in vanilla extract and add milk a little at a time until you get the perfect spreading sweetness. Mix in blue food coloring until you achieve that iconic, vibrant Cookie Monster blue that will make these rolls instantly joyful.
Step 7: Frost and Decorate
Spread the luscious blue frosting generously over the warm cinnamon rolls. Finally, sprinkle the crushed chocolate chip and Oreo cookies on top to add texture and amp up the Cookie Monster fun. These cookies add the perfect crunch and a playful finish you won’t be able to resist.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Dig in while the rolls are still slightly warm for that gooey, melt-in-your-mouth experience. These Cookie Monster Cinnamon Rolls Recipe beauties are super soft, sweet, and bursting with cookie flavor—guaranteed to brighten any breakfast table or dessert spread.
How to Serve Cookie Monster Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
To add extra flair, consider garnishing with a few whole mini chocolate chip cookies or Oreo halves on the plate. A light dusting of powdered sugar over the frosted rolls looks gorgeous too and enhances their sweetness without overpowering the blue frosting.
Side Dishes
Pair these rolls with a tall glass of cold milk or a cup of freshly brewed coffee for a balanced contrast of creamy and bitter notes. Fresh fruit like sliced strawberries or a citrus salad also complements the rich cinnamon and cookie flavors wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a birthday breakfast or themed party, serve these cinnamon rolls on a vibrant blue platter or with cute Cookie Monster-themed napkins. You can also add edible blue glitter or sprinkles on the frosting for a fun, festive look that kids and adults alike will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
These cinnamon rolls are great kept in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Keep the frosting covered separately if possible to prevent it from getting sticky. When ready to enjoy again, simply unwrap and serve.
Freezing
You can freeze both unbaked and fully baked Cookie Monster cinnamon rolls. For unbaked rolls, assemble them in the pan, freeze until solid, then wrap tightly before returning to the freezer. Baked rolls freeze well once completely cooled—just wrap them in foil and place in a freezer bag.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw frozen rolls in the refrigerator overnight, then warm them in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. For fresh rolls, a quick 20-second zap in the microwave for a single serving works to revive that soft, gooey texture.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cookies in this recipe?
Absolutely! While crushed chocolate chip and Oreos are classic here, feel free to experiment with your favorites like peanut butter cups or gingersnaps to put your own twist on the Cookie Monster Cinnamon Rolls Recipe.
Is it necessary to use both milk and water in the dough?
The combination of milk and water helps create a dough that is rich yet light. Milk adds flavor and tenderness, while water helps the yeast activate properly. You could use all milk, but the texture might be slightly denser.
How do I know when the rolls are done baking?
Look for golden brown tops and a light spring-back when gently pressed. You can also insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
Can I make the dough or rolls ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it overnight to bake fresh cinnamon rolls the next morning. Just bring the dough to room temperature and allow it to rise fully before rolling and baking.
What if I don’t have blue food coloring?
No worries! The bright blue frosting is fun but not required. You can leave the frosting white or tint it with any other food coloring you prefer. The rolls will be delicious no matter what.
Final Thoughts
This Cookie Monster Cinnamon Rolls Recipe is a playful yet delicious treat that combines the joy of cinnamon rolls with the whimsy of cookies and frosting. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just yourself, these rolls bring a big smile and a moment of pure comfort. Don’t wait to try this recipe—it’s sure to become a treasured favorite in your kitchen as it has in mine!
Print
Cookie Monster Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 cinnamon rolls
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in these fun and delicious Cookie Monster Cinnamon Rolls, perfect for breakfast or dessert. Soft, fluffy cinnamon rolls are filled with cinnamon sugar and crushed chocolate chip cookies, baked to golden perfection, and topped with vibrant blue Cookie Monster-inspired cream cheese frosting and cookie crumbles for a playful twist.
Ingredients
Dough
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 large egg
Filling
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup crushed chocolate chip cookies
Frosting
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1–2 tbsp milk
- Blue food coloring
Decoration
- 1/2 cup crushed chocolate chip cookies and Oreo cookies
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of flour, granulated sugar, active dry yeast, and salt. Heat the milk, melted butter, and water until warm, about 110°F. Add the warm liquid and egg to the flour mixture and mix until combined. Gradually add the remaining flour, stirring until the dough is smooth and elastic. Cover and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Roll Out the Dough: Punch down the risen dough and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll the dough into a 12×18-inch rectangle.
- Add Cinnamon Sugar Filling: Evenly spread the softened butter over the rolled dough. Sprinkle the cinnamon, sugar, and crushed chocolate chip cookies evenly over the butter to create the filling layer.
- Assemble the Rolls: Starting from the long side, roll the dough tightly into a log. Cut the rolled dough into 12 equal slices.
- Bake the Rolls: Place the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover and let rise for an additional 30 minutes. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 25-30 minutes until the rolls are golden brown and cooked through.
- Make the Cookie Monster Frosting: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, butter, and powdered sugar until smooth. Add vanilla extract and milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired frosting consistency. Stir in blue food coloring until the frosting is a vibrant blue color.
- Frost and Decorate: Allow the baked cinnamon rolls to cool slightly, then spread the blue cream cheese frosting over the top. Sprinkle crushed chocolate chip cookies and Oreo cookie crumbles on top for that signature Cookie Monster look.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve these soft, sweet, and cookie-packed cinnamon rolls warm for a delightful breakfast or dessert treat that’s sure to bring smiles.
Notes
- Ensure the milk mixture is warm but not hot to avoid killing the yeast.
- For best results, let dough rise in a draft-free, warm environment.
- You can adjust the amount of cookie crumbles in the filling and decoration to taste.
- If desired, use gluten-free flour blend to make the recipe gluten-free (note this changes texture).
- Frosting consistency can be adjusted by adding more or less milk.
- Leftover cinnamon rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently in the microwave before serving to restore softness.
