Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

If you have a sweet tooth and love that perfect combo of warm, gooey, and chocolatey, this Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls Recipe is going to become your new favorite treat. Imagine soft, tender rolls infused with a rich cocoa flavor, swirled with a fragrant cinnamon sugar filling, and finished off with a luscious hazelnut glaze that melts in your mouth. It’s a wonderful twist on the classic cinnamon roll that makes any breakfast, brunch, or dessert feel like a special occasion. Once you try it, you’ll be hooked on the magical marriage of chocolate and cinnamon wrapped in fluffy dough.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting started is a breeze because the ingredients for this Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls Recipe are straightforward, but each one plays a crucial role in delivering that perfect texture, flavor, and sweetness. From the cocoa powder that gives depth to the dough to the brown sugar and cinnamon that bring that classic warmth in the filling, every component is essential.

• 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure and softness for perfectly fluffy rolls.
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds a rich chocolate flavor and beautiful dark color to the dough.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Balances the bitterness of the cocoa and helps activate the yeast.
• 1 packet instant yeast (2 1/4 tsp): The magic ingredient that makes the dough rise light and airy.
• 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness.
• 1 cup warm milk (110°F): Activates the yeast and creates tender dough.
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted: Keeps the dough moist and adds richness.
• 1 large egg: Adds structure and richness to the dough.
• 1/2 cup brown sugar: Sweet and moist, perfect for the cinnamon filling.
• 2 tbsp ground cinnamon: Delivers that warm, spicy kick that pairs beautifully with chocolate.
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened: Helps the cinnamon sugar stick and melt into the dough.
• Optional: 1/2 cup crushed nuts (hazelnuts or pecans): Adds a delightful crunch and extra flavor contrast.
• 1 cup powdered sugar: The base for the silky glaze.
• 1/4 cup hazelnut spread (like Nutella): Infuses the icing with luxurious hazelnut chocolate goodness.
• 2-3 tbsp milk: Adjusts glaze consistency for easy drizzling.

How to Make Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by whisking together the dry ingredients: flour, cocoa powder, granulated sugar, yeast, and salt. Adding the wet ingredients — warm milk, melted butter, and egg — turns that mix into a soft, chocolatey dough. Kneading on a floured surface for about five minutes develops the gluten and makes the dough smooth and stretchy, which is the key to those fluffy, pillowy rolls. Letting the dough rise in a warm spot until doubled in size makes sure your rolls are light and airy.

Step 2: Make the Filling

While the dough is rising, combine brown sugar with cinnamon. This classic combo is the heart of the filling, delivering that familiar sweet and spicy flavor that contrasts perfectly with the cocoa in the dough. If you’re a fan of nuts, having some crushed hazelnuts or pecans on hand adds an irresistible crunch later.

Step 3: Assemble the Rolls

Once the dough has risen, roll it out into a neat rectangle about 12 by 18 inches. Spreading softened butter all over the dough creates a rich base so the cinnamon sugar sticks and melts into every swirl. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mix evenly, then add your nuts if you’re using them. Carefully roll the dough tightly from one long edge to get those beautiful spirals, then slice into 12 even rolls. This is the part where you start to see the magic taking shape!

Step 4: Second Rise

Place the rolls in a greased baking dish, making sure to space them slightly so they have room to puff up even more. Cover with a towel and let them rise for about 30 minutes — this second rise ensures they bake up soft and fluffy with beautifully defined swirls.

Step 5: Bake

Pop those glorious rolls into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). After about 25 minutes, you’ll have golden brown, fragrant chocolate cinnamon rolls that are practically begging to be eaten. The smell alone is worth the wait!

Step 6: Make the Icing

While the rolls bake, whisk together powdered sugar, hazelnut spread, and milk. Adjust the milk to get a smooth, drizzle-able glaze. This icing adds an irresistible finishing touch, marrying chocolate and hazelnut flavors in a silky sweet coating.

Step 7: Glaze the Rolls

Once the rolls have cooled just enough so the icing won’t completely melt off, drizzle the glaze generously over the top. This final step transforms these rolls from fantastic to unforgettable.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls Recipe warm with a cozy cup of coffee or hot chocolate for the ultimate indulgence. Every bite is soft, gooey, and packed with wonderful flavors that feel like a warm hug.

How to Serve Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Garnishes

To add a little extra wow factor, try sprinkling chopped toasted nuts over the glaze for crunch and nutty aroma. A light dusting of cocoa powder or powdered sugar can also make them look bakery-perfect and irresistible.

Side Dishes

This rich and sweet treat pairs beautifully with simple sides like fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream to balance out the richness. A creamy latte or spiced chai tea also make perfect beverage companions, rounding out your indulgent breakfast or dessert spread.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve these rolls in individual ramekins or muffin tins for portable personal treats. You can also drizzle the icing in a zigzag pattern or create a thicker glaze puddle on the side for dunking. Either way, presentation that invites sharing always makes this Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls Recipe even more delightful.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover rolls tightly in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps the rolls soft and moist, ready to be enjoyed again without drying out.

Freezing

You can freeze unbaked rolls after assembling them and before the second rise—just cover tightly and freeze for up to three months. When ready, thaw in the fridge overnight, let rise as usual, then bake. Alternatively, freeze fully baked rolls in an airtight container and thaw gently before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftover rolls by warming them in the microwave for about 20 seconds or in a low oven (300°F) wrapped in foil for 10 minutes. Adding a touch of butter or reheating with a damp paper towel protects the rolls from drying and keeps them soft and melt-in-your-mouth delicious.

FAQs

Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?

Yes! If you only have active dry yeast, dissolve it in the warm milk and sugar first and let it sit until foamy, about 5 to 10 minutes, before mixing into the flour. This extra step activates the yeast properly.

What if I don’t have hazelnut spread for the icing?

No worries! You can substitute with cream cheese frosting, plain powdered sugar glaze, or even melted chocolate for the icing. Each will offer a different but tasty finish to your rolls.

Can I make these rolls gluten-free?

While the dough relies on gluten for its structure, you can experiment with gluten-free flour blends that include xanthan gum, but it may affect the texture slightly. Using a tested gluten-free cinnamon roll recipe might yield more consistent results.

Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?

Definitely! Swap the milk with plant-based milk, use a flax egg (ground flaxseed mixed with water) instead of the egg, and substitute butter with vegan margarine or coconut oil. The flavor will still be rich and amazing.

How long does it take to make the entire recipe?

From start to finish, this Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls Recipe takes about 2 hours and 10 minutes, including rising and baking time. It’s a perfect weekend project with delicious rewards!

Final Thoughts

Honestly, there’s something so comforting and joyful about baking a batch of these Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls. The warm aroma filling your kitchen, the gooey chocolate-cinnamon swirls, and that mouthwatering hazelnut glaze create an experience worth every minute spent. Whether you’re sharing with family, friends, or savoring alone, this recipe will brighten any morning or sweet moment. I can’t wait for you to try this Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls Recipe and make it your own indulgent tradition.

Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.1 from 50 reviews

• Author: admin
• Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Delight in these rich and fluffy Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls, combining the warmth of cinnamon with the indulgence of cocoa powder and hazelnut spread. Perfect for a cozy breakfast or special brunch, these rolls offer a chocolatey twist on a classic treat, topped with a luscious hazelnut glaze.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Dough

• 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 packet instant yeast (2 1/4 tsp)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup warm milk (110°F)
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg

Filling

• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• Optional: 1/2 cup crushed nuts (e.g., hazelnuts or pecans)

Icing

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup hazelnut spread (e.g., Nutella)
• 2–3 tbsp milk

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, granulated sugar, instant yeast, and salt. Add the warm milk, melted unsalted butter, and egg. Stir until a soft dough forms. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour until it has doubled in size.
2. Make the Filling: In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and ground cinnamon until well combined.
3. Assemble the Rolls: Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a 12×18 inch rectangle. Evenly spread the softened butter over the dough. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the butter, and if using, scatter the crushed nuts on top. Starting from one long edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Cut the log into 12 equal slices.
4. Second Rise: Place the cinnamon roll slices in a greased baking dish, arranging them with space in between to allow for expansion. Cover the dish with a towel or plastic wrap and let the rolls rise for another 30 minutes until puffy.
5. Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for approximately 25 minutes or until they turn golden brown on top.
6. Make the Icing: While the rolls are baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, hazelnut spread, and 2 to 3 tablespoons of milk until the icing is smooth and pourable.
7. Glaze the Rolls: Remove the cinnamon rolls from the oven and let them cool slightly for 5 to 10 minutes. Drizzle the hazelnut icing generously over the warm rolls.
8. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the chocolate cinnamon rolls warm, ideally paired with coffee or hot chocolate for a comforting treat.

Notes

• For extra nutty flavor, toast the nuts before adding to the filling.
• Make sure the milk is warm but not hot to activate the yeast properly.
• You can prepare the dough the night before and refrigerate it overnight to develop more flavor.
• Use room temperature butter for easier spreading in the filling.
• Adjust the milk amount in the icing to reach your desired consistency.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat gently before serving.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Breakfast, Brunch, Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American