Meet the Miami college couple behind Roll and Dough, home of viral cinnamon rolls

Every Sunday at the Farmers Market at Merrick Park, the scene looks more like a concert line than a food stand.

More than a hundred people wait—sometimes for hours—for a Roll and Dough cinnamon roll.

What started as a college survival strategy has become one of Miami’s hottest viral food sensations, powered by TikTok, grit and a whole lot of flour.  

At the center of it all is Julie Pierre, a 20-year-old Florida International University student whose college kitchen has turned into ground zero for a baking phenomenon.

“Today I made 255 cinnamon rolls all by hand,” Pierre says in one TikTok video.

Pierre began documenting the process online and posted the videos on social media.

“I feel like a lot of people would like to see the amount of work that I’m putting in right here,” she told NBC6.

The response was instant. Her videos have now racked up more than 15 million views, and every farmers market appearance ends the same way: completely sold out.

“I kind of figured that a line was going to happen, but I didn’t think a line of that insanity was going to happen,” she said.

Behind the brand is not just Pierre, but her business partner and boyfriend Jovan Mitchell. The couple built Roll and Dough out of necessity after Pierre’s financial aid was unexpectedly delayed.

“I did not receive any funding for three months,” she said. So, she baked.

While juggling classes at FIU, Pierre and Mitchell poured everything they had into the business—often literally.

One thing that sets her apart is a special ingredient inspired by her Haitian roots. She adds Haitian Cremas, a flavor that keeps customers coming back week after week.

Her business is proof that sometimes all it takes is a little faith, flour and a viral moment to change everything.

The duo plans to open a brick-and-mortar bakery in 2026, turning their once-temporary solution into a permanent Miami staple.

Until then, you’ll find them every Sunday—rolling dough and selling out fast.

For more information go to https://www.rollanddough.com/.

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