Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls

Chocolate cinnamon rolls are a delightful twist on the classic cinnamon roll, combining the rich flavors of chocolate with the warm spices of cinnamon. These soft, fluffy rolls are filled with a sweet chocolate-cinnamon mixture and topped with a creamy icing, making them a perfect treat for breakfast or dessert. Whether you're a chocolate lover or simply looking to indulge in a comforting baked good, these rolls are sure to satisfy your cravings.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
  
  

• ½ cup granulated sugar
  
  

• 2 packets (4½ teaspoons) active dry yeast
  
  

• 1 teaspoon salt
  
  

• 1 cup whole milk
  
  

• ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
  
  

• 1 large egg
  
  

For the Filling:

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  
  

• ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  
  

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  
  

• ½ cup granulated sugar
  
  

• ½ cup brown sugar, packed
  
  

For the Icing:

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  
  

• 1 cup powdered sugar
  
  

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  
  

Directions

1. Prepare the Dough:
   
   

   • Warm the whole milk to about 110°F (43°C).
     
     

   • In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, granulated sugar, and active dry yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy.
     
     

   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt.
     
     

   • Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg to the flour mixture. Stir until a dough forms.
     
     

   • Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5–7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
     
     

   • Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
     
     

2. Prepare the Filling:
   
   

   • In a medium bowl, mix together the softened butter, unsweetened cocoa powder, ground cinnamon, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until well combined.
     
     

3. Assemble the Rolls:
   
   

   • Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles.
     
     

   • Roll the dough out on a floured surface into a rectangle approximately 16 inches by 24 inches.
     
     

   • Spread the chocolate-cinnamon filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
     
     

   • Starting from one long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log.
     
     

   • Cut the rolled dough into 12 equal pieces.
     
     

   • Place the rolls into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, ensuring they are close together.
     
     

   • Cover the dish with a clean cloth and let the rolls rise for about 30 minutes, or until they have puffed up.
     
     

4. Bake the Rolls:
   
   

   • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
     
     

   • Bake the rolls for 25–30 minutes, or until they are golden brown.
     
     

   • Remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool slightly.
     
     

5. Prepare the Icing:
   
   

   • In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
     
     

6. Serve:
   
   

   • Spread the cream cheese icing over the warm rolls.
     
     

   • Serve immediately and enjoy!
     
     

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: Approximately 350 kcal
  
  

• Protein: 5g
  
  

• Carbohydrates: 45g
  
  

• Fat: 15g
  
  

• Cholesterol: 30mg
  
  

• Sodium: 200mg
  
  

• Sugar: 20g