A Twist on a Classic

There’s something nostalgic about chocolate chip cookie dough—it’s the flavor of childhood, late-night cravings, and cozy baking sessions. But what if you could take that classic comfort and give it a flaky, golden twist? That’s exactly what Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Twists deliver: all the gooey goodness of cookie dough, wrapped in buttery pastry and baked to perfection.

I first made these on a rainy weekend when I wanted something indulgent but a little different. The result? A dessert that’s part cookie, part pastry, and completely addictive. They’re perfect for brunch spreads, dessert tables, or just a sweet treat with coffee.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to make the perfect cookie dough filling, choose the right pastry, shape beautiful twists, and bake them to golden perfection. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just craving something cozy, these twists are a guaranteed win.

What Are Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Twists?

Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Twists are a hybrid dessert that combines classic cookie dough with flaky or chewy pastry, twisted into spirals and baked until golden. Imagine the richness of chocolate chip cookies, but with the texture and elegance of a pastry—crispy edges, soft centers, and melty chocolate in every bite.

Unlike traditional cookies, these twists are layered and shaped, giving them a visual appeal that’s perfect for entertaining. They’re also easier to portion and serve, making them ideal for brunch buffets, dessert platters, or cozy weekend baking.

You can use puff pastry for a light, flaky finish or yeast dough for a more bread-like texture. Either way, the cookie dough filling stays gooey and satisfying, while the outer layers crisp up beautifully.

Bold tip: For maximum flakiness, use store-bought puff pastry and keep it cold until ready to shape. For a chewier twist, try a homemade enriched dough.

The Cookie Dough Filling

The heart of these twists is the cookie dough filling—rich, sweet, and packed with chocolate chips. You’ll want a dough that’s soft and scoopable, but not too wet, so it holds its shape during baking.

Key ingredients include:

Butter: for richness and structure
Brown sugar + granulated sugar: for depth and sweetness
Vanilla extract: adds warmth and classic cookie flavor
Flour: to bind the dough
Chocolate chips: mini chips work best for even distribution

Optional mix-ins can elevate the flavor:

Chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch
White chocolate chips for contrast
Cinnamon or espresso powder for warmth and complexity

The dough should be chilled before assembling—this helps prevent spreading and makes it easier to handle. You can make it ahead and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Bold tip: Chill the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes before using. It firms up the butter and makes layering and twisting much easier.

Dough & Pastry Options

Choosing the right dough is key to getting the texture you want. For a quick and flaky twist, store-bought puff pastry is your best friend. It’s buttery, easy to work with, and bakes up beautifully.

If you prefer a more homemade feel, try a yeast-based dough—similar to cinnamon roll dough. It’s soft, slightly chewy, and holds up well to the cookie dough filling.

For dietary needs, you can use:

Gluten-free pastry dough (store-bought or homemade)
Vegan puff pastry and dairy-free cookie dough

Whatever you choose, make sure to roll the dough evenly to avoid uneven baking. Thin spots can burn, while thick areas may stay undercooked.

Bold tip: Use a light dusting of flour on your surface and rolling pin to prevent sticking and ensure smooth, even layers.

Shaping the Twists

Shaping the twists is where the fun begins. Start by rolling out your dough into a rectangle, then spread a thin layer of chilled cookie dough over half. Fold the dough over to sandwich the filling, then gently press to seal.

Use a pizza cutter or sharp knife to slice the dough into strips—about 1 inch wide. Take each strip and twist gently, holding both ends and rotating in opposite directions. You’ll get a beautiful spiral with visible layers of dough and chocolate.

Place twists on a lined baking sheet, spacing them apart to allow for expansion. You can shape them straight or curve them slightly for a more rustic look.

Bold tip: A pizza cutter makes slicing fast and clean, especially if your dough is cold. It also helps maintain uniform width for even baking.

Baking Tips for Golden Twists

To get that perfect golden finish, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cold dough goes into a hot oven for maximum puff and crisp.

Brush each twist with an egg wash (1 egg + 1 tbsp water) for shine and color. You can also sprinkle with coarse sugar for extra crunch.

Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the twists are golden brown and the dough is fully cooked. Keep an eye on the edges—they can brown quickly. If needed, rotate the pan halfway through for even baking.

Let the twists cool slightly before serving. This helps the filling set and prevents burns from hot chocolate chips.

Bold tip: Bake on parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. It prevents sticking, makes cleanup easier, and helps the bottoms crisp evenly.