Chocolate Chip Cookie Rolls: A Swirled Dream Come True

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. 1

   Make the Tangzhong: In a small saucepan, whisk 3 tablespoons flour and ½ cup milk until smooth. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until thickened to a paste (3-5 minutes). Transfer to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap directly on the surface, and cool completely.
2. 2

   Activate the Yeast: In a stand mixer bowl, combine ¾ cup warmed milk, yeast, and ¼ cup granulated sugar. Stir and let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
3. 3

   Mix the Dough: Add the cooled tangzhong, egg, 3 cups flour, and 1 teaspoon salt to the yeast mixture. Mix on low with a dough hook for 2 minutes. Increase speed to medium-low and knead for 5 minutes. Add softened butter, one tablespoon at a time, incorporating each before adding the next. Knead for 8-10 more minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. 4

   First Rise: Lightly grease a large bowl. Transfer dough, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1.5-2 hours, or until doubled.
5. 5

   Prepare the Cookie Filling: While dough rises, cream ½ cup softened butter, ½ cup granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg yolk and vanilla. Gradually add 1 ½ cups flour and ½ teaspoon salt, mixing until just combined. Stir in mini chocolate chips.
6. 6

   Assemble the Rolls: Punch down risen dough. On a lightly floured surface, roll into an 18x12-inch rectangle. Spread cookie filling evenly, leaving a ½-inch border on one long edge. Tightly roll dough into a log from the opposite long edge. Pinch seam to seal. Cut into 12 equal 1.5-inch pieces.
7. 7

   Second Rise: Arrange rolls cut-side up in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Cover loosely and let rise for 45-60 minutes, until puffy. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
8. 8

   Bake: Brush roll tops with milk. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until golden brown. Cool in pan for 10-15 minutes.
9. 9

   Make the Icing: Whisk sifted powdered sugar, ¼ cup milk/cream, vanilla bean paste, and a pinch of salt until smooth and pourable.
10. 10

    Finish: Drizzle warm rolls generously with icing. Sprinkle with crushed mini chocolate chip cookies. Serve warm.