Chocolate cinnamon rolls are a delightful twist on the classic cinnamon roll, combining rich chocolate flavors with the warm spices of cinnamon. These rolls feature a soft, fluffy dough filled with a decadent chocolate-cinnamon mixture, then topped with a tangy cream cheese icing. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet treat any time of day, these rolls are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether you're an experienced baker or a novice, this recipe is straightforward and yields delicious results.

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
  
  

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  
  

• 2 packets active dry yeast (or about 4 1/2 teaspoons)
  
  

• 1 cup whole milk
  
  

• 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
  
  

• 1 large egg
  
  

• 1 teaspoon salt
  
  

For the Filling:

• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  
  

• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  
  

• 1/4 cup brown sugar
  
  

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  
  

For the Cream Cheese Icing:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  
  

• 1 cup powdered sugar
  
  

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  
  

Directions:

1. Prepare the Dough:
   
   

   • In a small bowl, warm the milk to about 110°F (43°C).
     
     

   • Add the yeast and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar to the warm milk.
     
     

   • Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
     
     

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

   • Make a well in the center and add the melted butter, egg, and the yeast mixture.
     
     

   • Mix until a dough forms.
     
     

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

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

2. Prepare the Filling:
   
   

   • In a small bowl, mix together the cocoa powder, cinnamon, and brown sugar.
     
     

   • Set aside.
     
     

3. Assemble the Rolls:
   
   

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

   • Punch down the risen dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface.
     
     

   • Roll the dough into a 12x18-inch rectangle.
     
     

   • Spread the softened butter over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
     
     

   • Sprinkle the cocoa-cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the buttered surface.
     
     

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

   • Cut the roll into 12 equal slices using a serrated knife or dental floss.
     
     

   • Place the rolls in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
     
     

   • Cover and let them rise for about 30 minutes, or until puffed.
     
     

   • Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown.
     
     

4. Prepare the Cream Cheese Icing:
   
   

   • In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
     
     

   • Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract.
     
     

   • Continue to beat until the icing is smooth and creamy.
     
     

5. Serve:
   
   

   • Once the rolls have cooled slightly, spread the cream cheese icing over the top.
     
     

   • Serve warm and enjoy!
     
     

Nutrition (per serving):

• Calories: Approximately 350 kcal
  
  

• Protein: 5g
  
  

• Carbohydrates: 50g
  
  

• Fat: 15g
  
  

• Saturated Fat: 8g
  
  

• Cholesterol: 40mg
  
  

• Sodium: 200mg
  
  

• Fiber: 2g
  
  

• Sugar: 25g