Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls

Introduction

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with these Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls, topped with luscious Hazelnut Icing. Perfect for cozy mornings or as a decadent dessert, these rolls are easy to make and absolutely irresistible! My family recently tried this recipe, and the delightful aroma that filled our kitchen was just the beginning. As soon as we took the first bite, we were met with a soft, gooey texture that combined the rich flavors of chocolate and cinnamon. The hazelnut icing added a luxurious touch that made these rolls a standout treat. It’s safe to say that they were a hit, disappearing quickly and leaving everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

• Decadent Flavor: The combination of chocolate and cinnamon creates a rich flavor profile that is both comforting and indulgent.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward instructions, this recipe is accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weekend brunch or a special celebration, these rolls are sure to impress.
• Customizable: You can easily add nuts or different fillings to suit your taste preferences.
• Irresistible Hazelnut Icing: The creamy icing elevates the rolls from delicious to extraordinary.

Ingredients

For the 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

For the 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)

For the Hazelnut Icing:

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

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough:

• In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, granulated sugar, yeast, and salt.
• Add the warm milk, melted butter, and egg. Stir until a soft dough forms.
• Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
• Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

2. Make the Filling:

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

3. Assemble the Rolls:

• Roll the dough out into a large rectangle (about 12×18 inches).
• Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough.
• Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the butter. If desired, add crushed nuts on top.
• Starting at one long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log.
• Cut the log into 12 equal slices using a sharp knife or dental floss.

4. Second Rise:

• Arrange the rolls in a greased baking dish, leaving space between them to rise.
• Cover with a towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes.

5. Bake:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Bake the rolls for about 25 minutes or until cooked through and slightly golden on top.

6. Make the Icing:

• In a medium bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, hazelnut spread, and milk until smooth and pourable. Adjust with more milk if needed for desired consistency.

7. Glaze the Rolls:

• Allow the rolls to cool slightly after baking.
• Drizzle the hazelnut icing generously over the warm rolls.

8. Serve and Enjoy:

• These rolls are best served warm. Pair them with coffee or hot chocolate for an ultimate treat!

Nutrition Facts

• Yield: 12 rolls
• Calories per serving: Approximately 300 calories per roll (calories may vary based on specific ingredients used).

Preparation Time

• Total Time: Approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes
  • Prep Time: 1 hour and 45 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve warm directly from the oven.
• Drizzle with extra hazelnut icing for added indulgence.
• Pair with beverages like coffee or hot chocolate.
• Enjoy as breakfast or an afternoon snack.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container for later enjoyment.

Additional Tips

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your yeast is fresh for optimal rising.
2. Knead Well: Kneading helps develop gluten which gives your rolls structure and chewiness.
3. Don’t Rush Rising Times: Allowing your dough to rise properly will result in fluffier rolls.
4. Experiment with Fillings: Try adding chocolate chips or different nuts for variety.
5. Store Properly: Keep leftover rolls in an airtight container; they can be reheated in the microwave.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
A1: Yes, but it may alter the texture slightly; consider mixing half whole wheat with half all-purpose flour.Q2: How do I know if my yeast is active?
A2: Mix yeast with warm water (around 110°F) and sugar; it should become frothy within about five minutes.Q3: Can I prepare these rolls ahead of time?
A3: Yes! Prepare them up to cutting them into rolls, then refrigerate overnight before baking.Q4: What if my dough is too sticky?
A4: Gradually add more flour until you achieve a manageable consistency.Q5: Can I freeze these cinnamon rolls?
A5: Yes! Freeze unbaked rolls after slicing; thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.Q6: What can I substitute for hazelnut spread?
A6: You can use chocolate spread or cream cheese frosting as alternatives.Q7: How long do leftovers last?
A7: Stored properly in an airtight container, they can last up to three days at room temperature.Q8: Can I make mini versions of these rolls?
A8: Absolutely! Just cut smaller pieces from your rolled dough.Q9: What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
A9: Microwave them for about 20 seconds or warm them in an oven at low heat.Q10: How do I make my icing thicker?
A10: Add more powdered sugar gradually until you reach your desired consistency.

Conclusion

These Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls are not only delightful but also straightforward to make. The combination of rich cocoa dough filled with sweet cinnamon goodness topped off with creamy hazelnut icing creates an irresistible treat that will have everyone coming back for more. Whether enjoyed on a lazy Sunday morning or as part of a festive gathering, these rolls are sure to bring joy and satisfaction to any occasion. Try this recipe today and indulge in one of life’s sweetest pleasures!

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