Introduction
There’s something undeniably comforting about the aroma of fresh-baked bread wafting through your home. And when that bread is filled with rich chocolate and a touch of cinnamon, it’s bound to bring a smile to your face. These Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect indulgence for breakfast or as a delightful afternoon snack. Soft, gooey, and topped with a luscious icing, these rolls are a sweet hug in every bite!
Ingredients
- For the dough:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) instant yeast
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup milk, warmed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- For the filling:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
- For the icing:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3-4 tbsp milk
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Yield: 12 rolls
Directions and Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, instant yeast, and salt. Mix well to ensure an even distribution of ingredients.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the warmed milk and melted butter. Add the eggs and mix until fully combined.
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir until a soft dough starts to form.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic to the touch.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- While the dough is rising, prepare the filling by mixing the softened butter, brown sugar, cocoa powder, ground cinnamon, and salt in a bowl until creamy and well combined.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready for baking.
- Once the dough has risen, turn it out onto a floured surface and roll it into a large rectangle.
- Spread the chocolate cinnamon filling evenly over the rolled-out dough.
- Starting from one long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log, sealing in all that delicious filling.
- Cut the log into 12 equal pieces and place them in a greased baking dish, leaving a little space between each roll.
- Cover the rolls with a cloth and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
- Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and a lovely aroma fills your kitchen.
- While the rolls cool slightly, prepare the icing by mixing the powdered sugar, cocoa powder, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Drizzle the icing generously over the cooled rolls before serving, and watch everyone delight in their chocolatey goodness!
Notes or Tips
- For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg to the filling.
- You can make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight, allowing it to rise slowly.
- For a fun twist, try adding chocolate chips to the filling for an extra burst of chocolate flavor.
Cooking Techniques
The key to perfect rolls is kneading the dough until it is smooth and elastic, which develops the gluten structure essential for fluffy rolls. Additionally, giving the dough adequate time to rise allows it to puff up beautifully in the oven, resulting in delightfully soft rolls.
FAQ
- Can I freeze these rolls? Yes! Once baked, they can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just be sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap.
- What can I use if I don’t have instant yeast? You can use active dry yeast, but you’ll need to activate it in warm water before adding it to the dry ingredients.
- How can I store leftover rolls? Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the fridge for up to a week.
Conclusion
These Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls are more than just a sweet treat; they are a delightful experience that brings joy to any gathering. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven on a leisurely weekend morning or served at a cozy get-together, they are sure to steal the show. So roll up your sleeves, embrace the baking magic, and indulge in the rich, inviting flavors of these delicious rolls!