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Cozy Diploma Cookie Rolls Recipe Easy Cinnamon Sugar Swirl Treats

diploma cookie rolls - featured image

Soft, buttery cinnamon sugar cookie rolls with a tender dough and a sweet swirl, perfect for cozy mornings or casual brunches.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 ½ cups (320 g) all-purpose flour
  • ¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar
  • 2 ¼ tsp (one packet) instant yeast
  • ¾ cup (180 ml) warm milk (about 110°F / 43°C)
  • 4 tbsp (57 g) unsalted butter, melted and cooled
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ cup (110 g) packed brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
  • 3 tbsp (43 g) unsalted butter, softened
  • Optional: pinch of nutmeg or cardamom
  • Optional topping: powdered sugar glaze or cream cheese frosting

Instructions

  1. Warm the milk to about 110°F (43°C). Stir in 1 tsp of sugar and sprinkle the yeast over the top. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until foamy.
  2. In a large bowl, combine flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Add the melted butter, egg, and the foamy yeast mixture. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, knead with a stand mixer dough hook on medium speed for 6-7 minutes.
  4. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
  5. While the dough rises, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and softened butter in a small bowl until spreadable. Add a pinch of nutmeg if desired.
  6. Punch down the risen dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a 12×16 inch (30×40 cm) rectangle about ¼-inch thick.
  7. Spread the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the dough, reaching all edges.
  8. Roll the dough tightly from one long edge into a log. Slice into 12 equal rolls using a sharp knife.
  9. Place the rolls cut side up in a parchment-lined baking dish or sheet, leaving space between them. Cover and let rise for 20-30 minutes until puffy.
  10. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake rolls for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
  11. Let rolls cool slightly before drizzling with powdered sugar glaze or cream cheese frosting if desired.

Notes

If dough is too sticky during rolling, sprinkle a bit more flour but avoid overdoing it to keep rolls soft. Rotate baking pan halfway through baking for even browning. Avoid overbaking to keep rolls tender inside; a quick broil for 1-2 minutes can add crispiness if desired. Dough can be prepared ahead and refrigerated overnight; bring to room temperature before rolling. Rolls can be frozen before or after baking.

Nutrition

Keywords: cinnamon rolls, cookie rolls, cinnamon sugar swirl, easy baking, cozy treats, homemade rolls