Description
These irresistible chocolate cinnamon rolls combine the classic soft and fluffy texture of cinnamon rolls with a rich chocolate twist. Perfect for breakfast or dessert, they offer a delightful swirl of cocoa and cinnamon topped with a luscious chocolate glaze. Ideal for chocolate lovers seeking a homemade treat that impresses.
Ingredients
Scale
Dough
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) instant yeast
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
Filling
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 2–3 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Add warm milk, melted butter, and eggs. Mix until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough by hand or with a dough hook for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Roll and Fill: Punch down the dough and roll it out into a 16×12-inch rectangle on a floured surface. Spread softened butter evenly over the surface. Mix brown sugar, cocoa powder, and cinnamon in a small bowl, then sprinkle evenly over the buttered dough. Scatter mini chocolate chips on top.
- Shape the Rolls: Starting from the long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Cut the log into 12 equal rolls. Place the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover and let rise again for 30–40 minutes until puffed.
- Bake the Rolls: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20–25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- Make the Glaze and Serve: While the rolls bake, whisk together powdered sugar, cocoa powder, milk, and vanilla extract to make the glaze. Once the rolls are warm from the oven, drizzle the glaze over them and serve immediately.
Notes
- You can prepare the rolls the night before and bake in the morning—refrigerate after shaping and let rise at room temperature before baking.
- Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the filling for added texture.
- Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on the glaze for an extra flavor contrast.
