Rolo Cookies

If you’re looking for a treat to satisfy any sweet craving, Rolo cookies are the perfect choice. Each bite combines the rich caramel centers of Rolo candies with the satisfying crunch of pretzels and pecans, creating a delightful mix of textures and flavors.

Rolos are bite-sized chocolate-covered caramels known for their creamy caramel centers and smooth milk chocolate coating. They melt perfectly in the oven, creating gooey pockets of caramel that pair wonderfully with the crunchy pretzels and nutty pecans. This combination not only adds a delicious contrast of textures but also elevates the overall flavor profile of the cookies, making them an unusual and irresistible treat.

Ingredients for Rolo Cookies

• Butter: Softened butter provides a rich and creamy base for the cookies, ensuring a tender texture.  
• Brown sugar: Packed brown sugar adds a deep, caramel-like sweetness that complements the chocolate.  
• Sugar: Sugar contributes to the sweetness and helps the cookies spread properly. Cane sugar or a natural sweetener like monk fruit will work instead of white sugar if that’s your preference.
• Large egg: The egg acts as a binder, giving structure to the cookies. For a vegan option, substitute with a flaxseed egg.
• Vanilla extract: Vanilla enhances the overall flavor, adding warmth and depth.  
• All-purpose flour: Flour provides the foundation of the cookie dough.
• Baking cocoa: Cocoa provides a rich chocolate flavor. Dutch-processed cocoa can be used for a more intense chocolate taste.
• Baking powder: Baking powder helps the cookies rise, making them light and fluffy.
• Baking soda: Baking powder provides lift and texture.  
• Rolo candies: Rolo candies add gooey caramel centers that melt into the cookies.  
• Pretzels: Coarsely crushed pretzels provide a crunchy texture and a hint of salt. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pretzels.
• Coarsely chopped pecans: Pecans add a nutty flavor and additional crunch. Walnuts are also a great substitute.

Directions

Step 1: Cream the butter and sugars

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Preheat the oven to 350°F. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugars until light and fluffy, five to seven minutes. Beat in the egg and vanilla until well combined.

Editor’s Tip: Creaming the butter and sugars thoroughly will help the cookies have a light and airy cookie texture.

Step 2: Combine the dry ingredients

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Whisk together the flour, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda and salt in another bowl. Gradually add the dry mixture to the creamed butter mixture, beating until combined.

Editor’s Tip: Sifting the dry ingredients helps prevent lumps and ensures an even distribution in the dough.

Step 3: Mix in the extras

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Stir in the halved Rolos, crushed pretzels and pecans until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Editor’s Tip: Chilling the dough for 30 minutes can help the cookies maintain their shape and prevent excessive spreading during baking.

Step 4: Shape and bake 

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Drop the dough by 1/4 cupfuls about 2 inches apart onto parchment-lined baking sheets. Bake until the cookies look crackled, 12 to 14 minutes.

Editor’s Tip: Use an ice cream scoop or cookie scoop to portion the dough for uniform cookies.

Let cookies cool completely on the pans. 

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Recipe Variations

• Add different mix-ins: Substitute chocolate candies or mini peanut butter cups for the Rolo candies for a new flavor twist.
• Incorporate dried fruit: Mix in dried cranberries or cherries for a sweet and tart contrast to the rich chocolate.
• Try different nuts: Replace the pecans with walnuts, almonds or hazelnuts to change the nutty flavor and texture of the cookies.

How to Store Rolo Cookies

Allow the cookies to cool completely. Store them between pieces of waxed paper in an airtight container for up to one week or in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

How to freeze Rolo Cookies

Place the baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Store them in a freezer bag for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving. 

Recipe Tips for Chocolate Rolo Cookies

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Are Rolo Cookies vegetarian?

Yes, Rolo Cookies can be considered vegetarian as long as all ingredients, including the Rolos, do not contain any animal-derived gelatin or other non-vegetarian additives. Always check the ingredient list to be sure.

Are Rolo candies gluten-free?

Yes, Rolo candies are generally gluten-free. However, it is important to check the packaging for any potential cross-contamination or changes in the ingredient list.

How do you keep the dough from sticking to your hands?

Before handling the dough, lightly coat it with flour or oil to prevent it from sticking to your hands.  

Why are my cookies spreading too much?

If the cookies spread more than you expected during baking, they may need to be chilled. Chill the dough in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to give the cookies a better chance of maintaining their shape and preventing spreading too much during baking.