Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
If you’re craving something warm, gooey, and positively irresistible, these Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls are guaranteed to hit the spot! Imagine classic soft cinnamon rolls swirling with ribbons of rich cocoa and melty chocolate chips, finished with a luxurious topping of your choice. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a decadent dessert, this recipe brings a comforting bakery treat right into your own kitchen. With their pillowy dough and chocolate-cinnamon filling, Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls are pure joy for any chocoholic or cinnamon roll lover.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You won’t believe how much flavor you can coax out of a handful of everyday ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role—not just in taste, but in achieving the luscious texture, golden crust, and signature swirl of these Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls. Let’s get to know the stars of your new favorite bake!
- Active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons): Ensures the rolls rise high and bake up fluffy—check the date to make sure it’s fresh!
- Warm milk (1 cup, about 110°F): Activates the yeast and lends richness to the dough for extra tenderness.
- Granulated sugar (1/3 cup): Sweetens the dough and also “feeds” the yeast during the first rise.
- Unsalted butter (1/3 cup, melted + 1/2 cup softened for filling): Adds rich flavor, helps make the dough soft, and creates that silky swirl in the filling.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): A little bit of salt truly enhances the chocolate and cinnamon flavors.
- Large eggs (2): Help bind the dough and deliver a lovely, tender crumb.
- All-purpose flour (4 cups): Classic cinnamon roll texture comes from this pantry staple—add it gradually and watch the magic happen!
- Brown sugar (1/2 cup, packed): Deepens the filling’s flavor and makes it beautifully gooey.
- Ground cinnamon (2 tablespoons): Provides that warming, familiar note no cinnamon roll should be without.
- Mini chocolate chips (1/2 cup): For pockets of melted chocolate in every single delicious bite.
- Cocoa powder (1/4 cup): Intensifies the chocolate presence in the filling for true chocoholics.
How to Make Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
Start your Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls journey by dissolving the active dry yeast in warm milk. Let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes until it looks foamy on top. This little waiting game tells you your yeast is alive and kicking, ready to give your rolls that signature pillowy lift.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
Pour in the sugar, melted butter, salt, eggs, and two cups of flour. Stir together until combined, then gradually work in the remaining flour. By the end, you’ll have a soft, slightly sticky dough that’s already teasing you with the promise of greatness.
Step 3: Knead Until Smooth
Now, on a lightly floured surface, knead the dough for about 5 to 7 minutes. You’ll want it elastic and smooth, able to bounce back when poked. This step makes all the difference for those dreamy, fluffy Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls.
Step 4: First Rise
Place your dough in a greased bowl, cover it up snugly, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled—usually about an hour. You’ll be amazed at how light and puffy it’s become!
Step 5: Roll and Fill
Pat the dough out onto a floured surface to a 16×12-inch rectangle. Spread the softened butter all across the dough’s surface. In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and cocoa powder, then sprinkle it evenly. Scatter mini chocolate chips everywhere—you want every bite to be special.
Step 6: Shape the Rolls
Here’s the fun part! Starting from the long side, roll up the dough tightly, like a delicious Swiss roll. Slice into twelve equal pieces and arrange them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. You’ll start to see those lovely swirls coming to life.
Step 7: Second Rise
Cover the rolls and let them rest for another 30 to 45 minutes. They’ll puff up once again, promising that soft, layered finish synonymous with Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the house smells like heaven and the rolls are golden and cooked through. Let them cool slightly before crowning them with cream cheese frosting, chocolate glaze, or your chosen topping.
How to Serve Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls
Garnishes
You can’t go wrong with a classic cream cheese frosting, a smooth chocolate glaze, or even just a dusting of powdered sugar. Feel free to add a shake of extra chocolate chips, toasted nuts, or a drizzle of caramel just before serving for even more celebration on your plate.
Side Dishes
Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls make a perfect centerpiece, but try pairing them with a bowl of fresh berries, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a mug of coffee or hot chocolate for the ultimate pick-me-up. Their sweetness balances beautifully with tart fruits and creamy drinks.
Creative Ways to Present
For a brunch party, arrange the rolls on a beautiful cake stand and sprinkle edible gold dust for a touch of glam. You can also slice them smaller for a sweet breakfast buffet, or even serve warm with mini ramekins of chocolate sauce for dipping. Any way you choose, Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls are always a showstopper!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls left (and that’s a big “if”!), keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer-lasting freshness, store them in the fridge where they’ll stay tender and delicious for up to five days.
Freezing
Want to make them in advance? Simply bake the rolls as directed, let them cool completely, and then wrap them tightly before freezing. They’ll keep beautifully for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge—your future self will thank you!
Reheating
To refresh Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls, pop them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or microwave for 15 to 20 seconds until warmed through. A light brush of melted butter or an extra spoonful of glaze will revive them to bakery-fresh glory.
FAQs
Can I make these Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls ahead of time and bake them in the morning?
Absolutely! After shaping the rolls and placing them in the baking dish, cover tightly and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, let the rolls come to room temperature and rise for about 45 minutes, then bake as directed. This makes morning gatherings a breeze!
What’s the best way to get even, perfect rolls?
After rolling up the dough, use a sharp knife or unscented dental floss to slice through the log. The floss gives you super clean cuts and keeps those scrumptious swirls perfectly intact.
Can I substitute dark chocolate for the mini chocolate chips?
Yes, you can use dark chocolate chips or even chop up your favorite chocolate bar for extra richness. Just be sure to keep the pieces small so they melt evenly throughout the rolls.
Do I need a stand mixer to make this dough?
Not at all! While a stand mixer with a dough hook makes things a bit easier, you can absolutely mix and knead the dough by hand. Just roll up your sleeves and enjoy the process—kneading is a great way to get in touch with your dough.
How do I know when the rolls are baked through?
The tops should be golden and the centers no longer doughy. If you’re unsure, gently pull one apart in the middle—if it’s set and springs back a bit, they’re ready. Don’t be afraid to give them an extra couple of minutes if needed!
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite as comforting as tearing into a tray of warm, gooey Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls, the rich aroma filling your kitchen and the promise of melty chocolate in every bite. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just learning the ropes, this recipe truly is a must-try. Make a batch soon, share with friends and family, and watch these cinnamon rolls become the most requested treat at your table!
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Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours (including rising time)
- Yield: 12 rolls 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich flavors of these decadent Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls that are perfect for breakfast or dessert. The soft, fluffy dough is swirled with a blend of cinnamon, brown sugar, and mini chocolate chips, making each bite a delightful treat.
Ingredients
Dough:
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
Filling:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: Dissolve yeast in warm milk, add sugar, melted butter, salt, eggs, and 2 cups of flour. Mix, gradually add remaining flour, knead until smooth. Let rise.
- Assemble the Rolls: Roll out dough, spread with softened butter. Mix brown sugar, cinnamon, cocoa powder, sprinkle over butter. Top with chocolate chips. Roll dough, slice into rolls, place in baking dish.
- Bake: Let rise, bake at 350°F for 20–25 minutes until golden.
- Serve: Cool slightly before frosting or serving.
Notes
- Top with cream cheese frosting or chocolate glaze.
- Use dark chocolate chips for extra richness.
- Prepare rolls the night before for morning baking.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 180 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 47 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg
