Go Back
Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls

Decadent Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls

Soft, fluffy cinnamon rolls with a rich chocolate filling and creamy icing. A perfect treat for breakfast or brunch.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 12 rolls
Course: Breakfast, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

Dough Ingredients
  • 1 cup Warm Milk (105-115°F)
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons Active Dry Yeast (1 packet)
  • 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar
  • 1 Large Egg
  • 4 tablespoons Melted Unsalted Butter cooled slightly
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 3 1/2 - 4 cups All-Purpose Flour
Filling Ingredients
  • 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (1 stick), softened
  • 3/4 cup Packed Light Brown Sugar
  • 2 tablespoons Unsweetened Cocoa Powder
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons Ground Cinnamon
Icing Ingredients
  • 1 cup Powdered Sugar
  • 2-4 tablespoons Milk
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract

Equipment

  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • 9x13 inch baking pan
  • Mixing Spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Rolling Pin

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Combine warm milk, yeast, and sugar in a large bowl. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Add egg, melted butter, and salt to the yeast mixture. Whisk to combine. Gradually add flour, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Let rise in a warm place for 1-1 ½ hours, or until doubled.
  4. While the dough rises, cream together butter, brown sugar, cocoa powder, and cinnamon for the filling.
  5. Punch down the dough, roll it into a 12x18 inch rectangle, spread the filling evenly, and roll it into a log. Cut into 12 slices.
  6. Place rolls in a greased 9x13 inch pan; let rise for 30-45 minutes, or until almost doubled. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. Let cool for 10 minutes before frosting.
  8. Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla for the icing. Drizzle over warm rolls and serve.

Notes

For a richer chocolate flavor, use dark cocoa powder. You can also add chocolate chips to the filling. Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.