If you love the irresistible combination of tender bread with gooey chocolate chip cookies, prepare to be completely smitten by Chocolate Chip Cookie Rolls. Imagine the softest, fluffiest roll hugging a generous layer of chocolate chip cookie dough, then baked until golden and topped with luscious cream cheese frosting. These are a dream for anyone who believes “there’s no such thing as too much chocolate,” and they’re exactly what you need for birthdays, brunches, and every delicious occasion in between.

Chocolate Chip Cookie Rolls Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe brings together a handful of pantry staples, but each ingredient plays a starring role in creating indulgent, bakery-worthy Chocolate Chip Cookie Rolls. From the tangzhong that makes the dough pillowy-soft, to the two kinds of chocolate chips, every item matters for achieving that rich flavor and soft, chewy bite.

All-purpose flour (for tangzhong and dough): Gives structure and makes the rolls fluffy yet hearty.
Water: Essential for the tangzhong, ensuring that signature moist, tender crumb.
Granulated sugar (dough): Sweetens the dough just enough to balance the filling.
Instant yeast: A quick-acting leavener that makes the rolls puff up beautifully.
Fine sea salt: Enhances all the flavors and keeps the dough from tasting flat.
Heavy cream (dough): Adds luxe richness, making the rolls extra tender.
Whole milk: Hydrates the dough while keeping it soft.
Egg (dough and filling): Binds and enriches both the dough and the cookie filling.
Vanilla paste or extract (dough and frosting): Delivers warm, aromatic undertones.
Unsalted butter (dough, filling, and frosting): Adds flavor and richness throughout the recipe.
Mini chocolate chips (dough and filling): Melt into every nook for a chocolatey surprise in each bite!
Light brown sugar (filling): Gives the cookie center that classic, caramelly depth.
Granulated sugar (filling): Balances the brown sugar for a perfect cookie texture.
Baking powder: Helps the cookie filling puff and remain tender.
Semi-sweet chocolate chips: Adds 💯 chocolate flavor to the cookie swirl.
Cream cheese (frosting): The only way to make the ultimate tangy-sweet topping.
Powdered sugar: Blends seamlessly into frosting for the smoothest finish.
Heavy cream (frosting): Makes the cream cheese icing silky and spreadable.

How to Make Chocolate Chip Cookie Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Tangzhong

Start by whisking together the water and 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour in a small saucepan. Set it over medium heat and whisk constantly for about 4 to 5 minutes, until a thick, smooth roux forms. This tangzhong is the secret to soft, moist Chocolate Chip Cookie Rolls, so don’t skip it! Spoon the mixture into a bowl to cool slightly.

Step 2: Make the Dough

In the bowl of your stand mixer, whisk together the remaining 3 1/2 cups of flour, granulated sugar, instant yeast, and salt. Add the heavy cream, milk, egg, vanilla, and your cooled tangzhong. Use the dough hook and mix on low until it just comes together. Then, with the mixer running, add softened butter one tablespoon at a time. Patience is key! Knead for an additional 11-12 minutes, until the dough is super smooth and elastic. Gently knead in the mini chocolate chips for bursts of flavor. Let the dough rest, covered, for 30 minutes.

Step 3: Whip Up the Cookie Dough Filling

Cream together butter, brown sugar, and sugar for 3 minutes until outrageously fluffy. Mix in the egg and vanilla, then add flour, salt, and baking powder. Add the mini and semi-sweet chocolate chips, stirring until your dough looks irresistibly packed with goodies. This filling is what gives Chocolate Chip Cookie Rolls their over-the-top decadence.

Step 4: Assemble the Rolls

Roll your dough into a 15×21-inch rectangle on a lightly floured surface—the thinner, the more swirls. Spread the cookie dough evenly, leaving a clean border at the top for sealing. Sprinkle extra chocolate chips over the filling, and press gently. Using a pizza cutter, slice the dough into twelve 1 3/4-inch strips. Roll each strip tightly into a swirl and place in a buttered or parchment-lined 9×13 pan. Cover and let rise until fluffy and doubled, about one hour.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

As your Chocolate Chip Cookie Rolls rise for their final proof, preheat the oven to 325°F. Slide them in for 30 to 40 minutes until golden brown and irresistible. The center rolls should register about 170°F when done. Let them cool for 15-20 minutes on a rack while you dream about frosting.

Step 6: Frost and Serve

Make the ultimate cream cheese frosting by mixing butter and cream cheese until smooth, then beating in powdered sugar. Add heavy cream and vanilla, and whip until dreamy. Slather it over the still-warm rolls so it melts into every nook. This is the final magical touch that transforms your rolls from amazing to unforgettable.

How to Serve Chocolate Chip Cookie Rolls

Garnishes

A lavish swoosh of cream cheese frosting is classic, but you can jazz it up by showering the tops with mini chocolate chips, a few shavings of dark chocolate, or even a pinch of flaky salt to highlight the deep cocoa notes in every bite. It’s these finishing touches that turn everyday rolls into a true showstopper.

Side Dishes

Since Chocolate Chip Cookie Rolls are beautifully decadent, pair them with sides that balance their richness—a fresh fruit salad, a bowl of berries, or even a scoop of tangy Greek yogurt with honey. A strong, hot coffee or a creamy glass of milk is the best beverage to complete this treat!

Creative Ways to Present

For brunch parties, arrange the rolls in a big spiral on a platter and drizzle with extra icing. For birthdays, place each roll in a cupcake liner and top with colorful sprinkles. Or try serving warm with a small scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate post-dinner treat. The options are as delightful as your imagination.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you somehow end up with leftover Chocolate Chip Cookie Rolls, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For a longer stash, pop them in the fridge—just be sure to let them come to room temp or rewarm before serving so the bread stays soft and the centers are gooey as ever.

Freezing

These rolls freeze like a dream! Just wrap each completely cooled roll tightly with plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. They’ll keep their flavor and texture for up to two months. To enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature, then reheat as needed.

Reheating

To bring back that fresh-from-the-oven softness, warm a roll in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a low oven at 300°F for about 8 minutes. If you’ve frosted them already, keep an eye out so the icing just gently softens, but doesn’t melt away completely.

FAQs

Can I make Chocolate Chip Cookie Rolls without a stand mixer?

Absolutely! While a stand mixer makes things easier, you can knead the dough by hand. Just be prepared for a little workout—knead until the dough is super smooth and elastic for the fluffiest rolls possible.

Can I use different types of chocolate chips?

For sure—mix and match! Use dark, milk, white, or even flavored chips. Just keep the total measurement the same so you don’t end up with too much or too little chocolate (if that’s even possible).

What if my dough is sticky?

Sticky dough is normal for soft rolls, but if it’s unmanageable, lightly flour your hands and work surface. Be careful not to add too much flour or you’ll lose that signature tender crumb.

Can I make the rolls ahead and bake in the morning?

Yes! Assemble the rolls in the pan, cover tightly, and let them rise overnight in the fridge. In the morning, bring them to room temperature while the oven preheats, then bake as directed.

Do these Chocolate Chip Cookie Rolls work for special occasions?

Honestly, they’re made for them! Whether it’s a birthday, brunch, or casual Sunday treat, these rolls light up any table and always get rave reviews from chocolate lovers of all ages.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a new go-to crowd-pleaser, you truly need to give these Chocolate Chip Cookie Rolls a try. Soft, gooey, and stuffed with melty chocolate, they’re always worth the (minimal!) effort and sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Don’t wait for a special occasion—your next sweet memory starts here!