Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

If you’ve ever dreamed of combining the gooey delight of cinnamon rolls with the rich decadence of chocolate, then these Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls are going to become your new absolute favorite. Every bite offers a perfect balance of deep cocoa flavor, warm cinnamon spice, and a luscious chocolate glaze that feels downright indulgent while still pulling at that cozy, comforting vibe you love in classic cinnamon rolls. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or a weekend treat, these Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls will fill your home with heavenly aromas and your heart with pure joy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward and essential, each playing a special role to bring the perfect texture, color, and flavor to your Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls. From the rich cocoa powders to the hint of espresso in the dough, everything works in harmony to create that unforgettable mouthfeel and taste.

• All-purpose flour (3 1/4 cups plus extra if needed): Forms the soft, tender base of the dough, allowing it to rise beautifully.
• Unsweetened cocoa powder (1/2 cup for dough, 2 Tbsp black cocoa for filling): Adds rich, deep chocolate flavor with stunning dark color.
• Instant dry yeast (2 tsp or 1 packet): Essential for that light, fluffy rise that makes cinnamon rolls so irresistible.
• Light brown sugar (2/3 cup): Brings a lovely molasses sweetness to the filling, perfectly balancing the chocolate and cinnamon.
• Ground cinnamon (1 tsp): The warm, spicy note that makes these cinnamon rolls classic yet unique.
• Unsalted butter (various amounts): Adds richness to the dough, filling, and glaze for a soft, melt-in-your-mouth finish.
• Whole milk (1 cup for dough plus 3 Tbsp for glaze): Tenderizes the dough and helps create a smooth, creamy glaze.
• Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Sweetens the dough just enough without overpowering the chocolate.
• Large egg (1): Binds everything together and adds structure to the dough.
• Instant espresso or coffee (1 tsp): Enhances the chocolate flavor with a subtle depth and richness.
• Milk or dark chocolate chips (2/3 cup for glaze): Create a luscious, glossy finish that you’ll want to drizzle generously on top.
• Powdered sugar (1 cup): Sweetens and thickens the glaze to perfection.
• Vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste (1 tsp): Adds a fragrant, mellow sweetness to the glaze, tying all the flavors together beautifully.

How to Make Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Cinnamon Roll Filling

While the dough is rising, whisk together the light brown sugar, black cocoa powder, and ground cinnamon to create a rich, flavorful filling. This mixture is what gives the rolls their signature sweet and slightly spiced punch, crucial for that unforgettable Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls experience.

Step 2: Make the Chocolate Cinnamon Roll Dough

Start by preheating your oven to 200 degrees Fahrenheit (95 Celsius). In a large bowl, combine all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, instant yeast, instant coffee, and salt. These dry ingredients create a foundation that’s both tender and wonderfully chocolatey. In a separate bowl, gently warm the milk with granulated sugar and butter until the butter melts and everything feels warm to the touch. Slowly pour this warm mixture into the dry ingredients, then add the egg and mix everything to form a sticky dough. Don’t forget to add a little flour as you knead until your dough feels tacky and elastic – this is the dough telling you it’s ready, promising soft, fluffy rolls.

Step 3: Let the Dough Rest and Roll Out

Cover the dough and let it rest for 15 minutes to relax the gluten, making it easier to roll out without snapping back. Once rested, roll your dough into a rectangle about 12 by 18 inches and half a centimeter thick. This thickness is perfect for layering in that unforgettable filling.

Step 4: Add Filling and Roll Up

Spread softened butter all over the dough leaving an inch uncovered on one long edge to seal the roll later. Sprinkle your prepared chocolate cinnamon filling evenly across the butter, pressing it down gently. Now tightly roll the dough toward the uncovered strip, sealing the edge to keep that delicious filling inside.

Step 5: Slice and Proof

Using dental floss or a sharp knife, cut the roll into nine equal pieces. Place them into a greased 8×8-inch pan, cover with foil, and let them rise in the turned-off oven for 30 minutes or until puffy. This step ensures your Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls bake up with a soft, cloud-like texture.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

After the rise, take off the foil and preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 Celsius). Bake your rolls uncovered for about 26 to 32 minutes. You want them just baked through but still tender and gooey, so keep an eye on them around that sweet spot of 28 minutes.

Step 7: Prepare the Chocolate Glaze

While rolls cool slightly, melt butter, chocolate chips, and milk together in the microwave. Stir in powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth and glossy. This luscious chocolate glaze is the finishing touch that turns these rolls into an irresistible treat.

Step 8: Glaze and Serve

Drizzle your warm cinnamon rolls generously with the chocolate glaze. Serve them warm for that melty, chocolatey magic that will keep everyone coming back for seconds.

How to Serve Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls

Garnishes

Adding a simple garnish like a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a few chocolate shavings brightens up your Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls visually while adding an extra layer of texture. A light dusting of cinnamon or a few chopped toasted nuts can also bring delightful contrast without stealing the show.

Side Dishes

Because these rolls are rich and satisfying on their own, pair them with fresh fruit like strawberries or raspberries to add a bright, juicy bite. A cup of strong coffee or a frothy cappuccino complements the chocolate flavors perfectly and rounds out your indulgent breakfast or dessert.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve these Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls in a rustic wooden box or on a large, colorful platter for a cozy brunch vibe everyone will love. You could even separate each roll into individual ramekins or mini skillets for a charming single-serving presentation that’s perfect for parties or gifting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To keep that lovely softness, place a slice of bread in the container – it helps maintain moisture so your rolls stay fluffy and delicious.

Freezing

You can freeze unbaked rolls tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and foil for up to three months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then let them rise before baking. Baked rolls also freeze well when stored in an airtight container, perfect for a future chocolatey treat.

Reheating

Reheat your Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or warm them in a low oven (300 degrees Fahrenheit / 150 Celsius) for 10 minutes. A quick drizzle of fresh glaze after warming brings back that just-made magic every single time.

FAQs

Can I use regular cocoa powder instead of black cocoa powder for the filling?

Yes, you can substitute regular unsweetened cocoa powder if you don’t have black cocoa. It will still deliver great chocolate flavor, though black cocoa gives a slightly deeper color and richer taste.

Do I have to use instant espresso or coffee in the dough?

While optional, a small amount of instant espresso enhances the chocolate flavor by adding a subtle depth. You can omit it if you prefer, but keep it for that subtle flavor boost.

How do I know when the dough has risen enough before baking?

Look for the rolls to be noticeably puffed up and soft to the touch after proving in the warm oven. They should roughly double in size, which usually takes about 30 minutes.

Can I make these rolls vegan?

These Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls rely on dairy and eggs for texture and flavor, but you could experiment with plant-based milk, vegan butter, and flax egg substitutes for a vegan version. However, some texture differences may occur.

What’s the best way to cut the cinnamon rolls without squishing them?

Using dental floss to slice through the rolled dough is a nifty trick, as it cuts cleanly without squashing the swirls. Just stretch the floss under the log and cross it over the top, then pull taut to slice.

Final Thoughts

These Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls combine the nostalgic charm of classic cinnamon rolls with the deep, luscious allure of chocolate in a way that feels both special and comforting. Once you try them, I promise they’ll become your go-to treat whenever you want to spoil yourself or impress friends with a homemade delight. So grab your ingredients, warm up that oven, and get ready to take your baking game to a whole new level of deliciousness!

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