Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls

When you think of indulgence, few things compare to warm chocolate cinnamon rolls fresh from the oven. The aroma alone—a heady mix of melted chocolate, fragrant cinnamon, and buttery dough—feels like a hug on a chilly morning.

In my family, chocolate cinnamon rolls are more than just breakfast; they’re a treasured tradition. My grandmother would make them on special Sundays, her kitchen filled with the sound of laughter and the smell of rising dough. She believed that chocolate brought joy and cinnamon brought warmth, and together, they created a treat that turned an ordinary day into something magical. Whether it was a birthday, a snowy winter morning, or just a day we needed extra love, her chocolate cinnamon rolls appeared like a delicious surprise.

These rolls carry centuries of tradition. Cinnamon rolls trace back to Northern Europe, especially Sweden’s kanelbullar, but adding chocolate takes them into pure indulgence territory. This recipe is a sweet fusion of old-world baking and modern comfort food, perfect for sharing with family, bringing to brunch, or making for a cozy night in.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chocolate cinnamon rolls are soft, gooey, and packed with rich, decadent flavor. The swirl of melted chocolate mixed with spiced cinnamon creates a balance between sweetness and spice. They’re surprisingly easy to make, especially if you prepare the dough the night before. Best of all, they’re a showstopper—whether you’re serving guests or just treating yourself, they make every occasion feel special.

INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED

For the dough:

• 1 cup warm milk
• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon salt

For the filling:

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
• ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate

For the glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2–3 tablespoons milk
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

HOW TO MAKE CHOCOLATE CINNAMON ROLLS

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making chocolate cinnamon rolls is a joyful process, almost as rewarding as eating them. I still remember standing on a stool next to my grandmother, watching her roll out the dough with careful hands, teaching me to spread the filling “with love, not haste.”

Step 1: Make the Dough
In a large bowl, combine the warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy. Stir in the sugar, egg, and melted butter. Gradually mix in the flour and salt until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place it in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Set aside.

Step 3: Roll and Fill
Punch down the dough and roll it out into a rectangle (about 16×12 inches). Spread the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the dough, then sprinkle the chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate on top.

Step 4: Roll Up and Cut
Starting from the long side, roll the dough tightly into a log. Cut into 12 even pieces and place them in a greased baking dish, leaving a little space between each. Cover and let rise again for 30–45 minutes.

Step 5: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the chocolate cinnamon rolls for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 6: Glaze
While the rolls are baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla to make a smooth glaze. Drizzle over the warm rolls and serve immediately.

HELPFUL TIPS

• Make Ahead: Prepare the rolls the night before, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Let them come to room temperature before baking.
• Chocolate Choice: Dark chocolate gives a richer flavor, while milk chocolate adds extra sweetness.
• Extra Gooey: Add a little heavy cream over the rolls before baking for ultra-soft, gooey centers.
• Freezing: Baked rolls freeze well. Just reheat gently in the oven when ready to serve.

DETAILS

Prep Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours
Yield: 12 rolls
Category: Dessert, Breakfast
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American, European-inspired
Diet: Vegetarian

NOTES

Feel free to add chopped nuts or a drizzle of melted chocolate on top for extra flair. For a dairy-free version, use plant-based milk and butter.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION (Per Roll, Approximate)

Calories: 320
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Sugar: 20g
Fiber: 2g
Sodium: 180mg

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I make these chocolate cinnamon rolls vegan?
Yes! Swap the milk and butter for plant-based alternatives and use a flax egg instead of the regular egg.

How do I know when they’re done baking?
The tops should be golden, and the centers should no longer look doughy. You can gently lift a roll to check the bottom—lightly golden is perfect.

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, but skip the proofing step. Just mix it directly into the flour.

STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS

Store leftover chocolate cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Warm them slightly in the microwave or oven before serving for the best texture.

Related Recipes

If you liked this recipe, you’ll definitely enjoy these other cheesy delights:

• Chocolate Chip Cookie Rolls
• Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups
• Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins

CONCLUSION

Chocolate cinnamon rolls are more than a recipe—they’re a heartwarming experience. Whether you bake them to share with family or enjoy them quietly with a cup of coffee, they bring a sense of joy and indulgence to your table. I hope this recipe fills your home with the same warmth and love it’s brought to mine.

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