Print

Delicious Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls

Delicious Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls

Delicious Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls combine rich chocolate, warm cinnamon spice, and a soft, gooey texture for an irresistible treat perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Made with basic pantry ingredients and featuring a luscious chocolate cinnamon filling and sweet glaze, these rolls offer a cozy and decadent flavor experience.

Ingredients

Scale

Dough

  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F / 43°C)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup melted butter
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Chocolate Cinnamon Filling

  • 1/2 cup softened butter
  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
  • 1 cup semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips (or finely chopped chocolate)

Glaze

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 23 tablespoons milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough: Begin by activating the yeast in the warm milk with a teaspoon of sugar. Let it sit until bubbly, about 5-10 minutes. In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, remaining sugar, eggs, melted butter, and the yeast mixture. Mix until a soft dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size, about 1 to 1.5 hours.
  2. Make the Chocolate Cinnamon Filling: While the dough rises, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and chopped chocolate in a bowl until well combined. This filling will melt inside the rolls during baking, infusing them with rich flavor.
  3. Roll Out the Dough and Add the Filling: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle approximately 16×12 inches. Spread the chocolate cinnamon filling evenly over the dough, ensuring every inch is covered for maximum gooeyness.
  4. Roll and Slice: Starting from the long edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Use a sharp knife to slice the log into 12 to 15 equal rolls, depending on size preference.
  5. Second Rise: Place the rolls on a greased baking pan or one lined with parchment paper, spaced slightly apart. Cover and allow them to rise again for about 30 minutes until puffy and airy.
  6. Bake to Perfection: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
  7. Glaze and Serve: While still warm, drizzle the rolls with a simple powdered sugar glaze made from powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Alternatively, use cream cheese frosting for a richer finish. Serve immediately for warm, indulgent bites.

Notes

  • Use fresh active dry yeast for the best rise and airy dough.
  • Allow the dough enough time to rise fully to achieve a soft, pillow-like texture.
  • Chop chocolate finely for even distribution and melting.
  • Use warm, not hot, milk when activating yeast to avoid killing it.
  • Bake the rolls on the middle rack for even cooking and best texture.
  • Store leftover rolls tightly wrapped at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain freshness.
  • Freeze unbaked rolls for up to 3 months; thaw and let rise before baking.
  • Reheat gently in a microwave or oven to revive softness.
  • For a vegan version, substitute plant-based milk and butter, and use flax eggs.
  • Experiment with fillings by adding nuts, dried fruit, or spices like nutmeg and cardamom.

Nutrition

Keywords: chocolate cinnamon rolls, cinnamon rolls, chocolate rolls, breakfast pastry, sweet rolls, brunch recipe