Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

by

Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Introduction: Chocolate cinnamon rolls are a decadent twist on the classic cinnamon roll. These soft, fluffy rolls are filled with a rich chocolate and cinnamon mixture, creating a sweet and comforting treat that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Whether you’re enjoying them with a hot cup of coffee or sharing them with loved ones, these chocolate cinnamon rolls will quickly become a favorite indulgence in your baking repertoire. The combination of warm, gooey chocolate and spicy cinnamon wrapped in buttery dough is irresistible!

History: Cinnamon rolls, or “Cinnabon” style rolls, have roots in Scandinavian countries, where they were traditionally made as sweet buns. They were introduced to America in the 18th century, particularly in the form of a Swedish coffee bread. The chocolate version, however, is a more modern variation, likely popularized in the U.S. during the 20th century when chocolate began to be incorporated into a variety of baked goods. These chocolate cinnamon rolls, which incorporate both cocoa powder in the dough and a rich chocolate filling, are a wonderful fusion of two beloved sweet flavors.

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

  • 3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour
  • ¼ cup (50g) sugar
  • 2¼ tsp (1 packet) instant yeast
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 cup (240ml) warm milk
  • 4 tbsp (56g) melted butter
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tbsp (12g) cocoa powder

For the Chocolate-Cinnamon Filling:

  • ½ cup (100g) light brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp (15g) ground cinnamon
  • ½ cup (85g) semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
  • 4 tbsp (56g) softened butter

For the Icing:

  • 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
  • 2 tbsp (30ml) milk
  • ½ tsp vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preparing the Dough:

  1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, salt, and cocoa powder. Stir to combine.
  2. In a separate bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the warm milk, melted butter, and egg until smooth.
  3. Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until a dough forms.
  4. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment for this step.
  5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp towel, and allow it to rise for about 1–1.5 hours or until doubled in size.

2. Preparing the Filling:

  1. In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and cinnamon.
  2. In another small bowl, melt the butter for the filling.
  3. Stir the chocolate chips or chopped chocolate into the melted butter, allowing them to soften and slightly melt, then set aside.

3. Assembling the Rolls:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. After the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Roll the dough out into a rectangle, approximately 12 x 18 inches (30 x 45 cm).
  3. Brush the surface of the dough with the melted chocolate-butter mixture, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar evenly over the entire surface.
  4. Starting from one long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Slice the log into 12 even pieces.
  5. Arrange the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish, spacing them close together.
  6. Cover the dish with a clean towel and let the rolls rise again for 30 minutes, or until puffy.

4. Baking the Rolls:

  1. Once the rolls have risen, place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.

5. Making the Icing:

  1. While the rolls are baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract (if using) until smooth.
  2. Once the rolls are baked and slightly cooled, drizzle the icing generously over the top.

Methods:

  1. Dough Preparation: The key to a light, fluffy dough is kneading it well and allowing it to rise in a warm spot. Instant yeast makes the process quicker, but patience is still key for achieving that perfect texture.
  2. Filling: The melted chocolate and cinnamon-sugar blend creates a gooey, flavorful filling. Make sure to spread the filling evenly for consistent sweetness in every bite.
  3. Baking: Bake the rolls until golden brown, but don’t overbake. The rolls should stay soft and slightly pull apart easily.
  4. Icing: The final touch! The icing adds a sweet contrast to the richness of the chocolate and cinnamon. For a thicker icing, add a little less milk.

Lovers of Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls: Chocolate cinnamon rolls appeal to a wide variety of people: chocolate lovers, cinnamon fans, sweet tooths, and anyone who enjoys the comfort of homemade baking. They’re perfect for family gatherings, holiday breakfasts, or just a weekend treat. You can even get creative with the filling by adding nuts, berries, or other flavorings to personalize them!

Conclusion: Chocolate cinnamon rolls are the ultimate indulgence for anyone who loves a sweet, comforting, and flavorful pastry. They combine the richness of chocolate with the warmth of cinnamon, making them a perfect treat for almost any occasion. The process may take a little time, but the end result is so worth it. These rolls are best served fresh out of the oven, and you’ll find them hard to resist. Whether you’re enjoying them solo or with friends and family, they’re sure to be a hit.

So, what’s stopping you? Gather the ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and treat yourself to this sweet creation that’s perfect for any time of day. Happy baking!

Leave a Comment