Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls

Published on: December 18, 2025

Delicious chocolate cinnamon rolls topped with creamy frosting

Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls are a fudgy, chocolatey delight that will take your breakfast or dessert to the next level. As you pull them from the oven, the warm, sweet aroma of chocolate and cinnamon fills your kitchen, enticing everyone to indulge. With their gooey, rich filling and fluffy bread, these rolls are not just a treat; they’re a cozy hug in a bite. Perfect for any time of year, they showcase the magic of simple ingredients transformed into something special, making them a sustainable and easy choice for your family or gatherings.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a brunch, celebrating a holiday, or simply seeking comfort food on a chilly day. Their delightful combination of flavors—rich chocolate paired with warm spices—makes them incredibly inviting. Plus, this recipe is remarkably convenient, requiring minimal effort while delivering maximum taste, making it a versatile option for both special events and weekday breakfasts. Each roll is a little piece of heaven that is sure to brighten any day.

Seasonal Ingredients Spotlight

This recipe highlights fresh, local, and seasonal ingredients that elevate its appeal. The rich cocoa powder provides a deep, dark hue, while the warm spices of cinnamon and brown sugar create an inviting, aromatic blend. The colors of the ingredients come together to evoke warmth and comfort, perfect for cozy gatherings. Using fresh and sustainable ingredients not only enhances the flavor but also supports local farmers and producers, making this dish as responsible as it is delicious.

What You’ll Need

1 cup whole milk (warmed to 100–110°F)
1 packet active dry yeast (or instant yeast)
½ cup brown sugar (light or dark)
1 large egg
1 egg yolk
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
4 cups all-purpose flour (or bread flour)
½ cup dark cocoa powder (or regular cocoa for a sweeter dough)
1 teaspoon instant coffee (optional, enhances chocolate flavor)
¼ teaspoon salt
2 oz unsalted butter (softened, for dough)
2 oz unsalted butter (softened, for filling)
2 tablespoons dark cocoa powder (for filling)
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (for filling)
⅓ cup brown sugar (for filling)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for filling)
1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
2 tablespoons dark cocoa powder (for glaze)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for glaze)
2–3 tablespoons heavy cream (or milk/espresso)

Feel free to substitute with almond milk or coconut oil to cater to dietary needs. The dough is soft and slightly sticky, providing a cozy texture, while the filling creates a rich, gooey center.

How to Make This Recipe

1. Prepare the Base

In a mixing bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes foamy, and the yeast activates, creating a lovely aroma reminiscent of a bakery.

2. Mix the Ingredients

Stir in brown sugar, egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract to the yeast mixture, enhancing the flavor profile. Add flour, cocoa powder, instant coffee (if using), salt, and softened butter. Mix until fully combined, resulting in a rich and chocolatey dough.

3. Knead the Dough

Knead with a dough hook for 6–7 minutes until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms. Add flour if necessary to achieve the right texture. The dough should be smooth and elastic, with a deep chocolate color.

4. Let the Dough Rise

Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place for 60–90 minutes, or until it doubles in size. This resting time will allow the flavors to meld beautifully.

5. Roll the Dough

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and roll it into a large rectangle, about ¼-inch thick. The dough should feel soft beneath your rolling pin and release a delightful aroma.

6. Prepare the Filling

Mix the filling ingredients—softened butter, cocoa, cinnamon, brown sugar, and vanilla—in a bowl. Spread evenly over the rolled-out dough, creating a rich filling.

7. Shape the Rolls

Roll the dough tightly into a log and cut it into 12 even pieces using a sharp knife or dental floss for neat edges. Each piece should be plump and filled with chocolatey goodness.

8. Second Rise

Arrange the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch pan. Cover and let rise for another 60–90 minutes until puffy. The rolls should look like clouds of chocolate awaiting to be baked.

9. Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature ensures an even bake, leaving the rolls soft and golden.

10. Bake the Rolls

Bake rolls for 30–35 minutes, or until baked through and lightly golden on top. The kitchen will be enveloped in an irresistible scent as they bake.

11. Make the Glaze

Prepare the glaze by whisking powdered sugar, cocoa powder, vanilla, and cream together until smooth. It should be velvety and glossy, ready to enhance the warm rolls.

12. Finish and Serve

Spread the glaze over warm rolls before serving. As the glaze drips down the sides, they transform into an enticing dessert ready to be devoured.

Essential Tools

Mixing bowls
Dough hook/stand mixer (optional)
Rolling pin
Sharp knife or dental floss (for cutting rolls)
Greased baking pan (9×13 inches)
Measuring cups and spoons

These essential tools will ensure your baking experience is smooth and enjoyable.

Meal Prep & Storage Tips

For those who love meal prep, Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls can be made ahead of time. Prepare the rolls up to the second rise, then cover and refrigerate overnight before baking. To store leftover rolls, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days or freeze them for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.

Perfect Pairings

Pair these Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with a warm cup of coffee, a creamy latte, or even a glass of cold almond milk for a delightful experience. They also go well with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat. With their beautiful presentation, serve them drizzled with glaze and a sprinkle of cocoa for an inviting display.

Nutrition Facts

Calories: ~180 kcal
Fat: 8 g
Carbohydrates: 24 g
Protein: 3 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 14 g

Avoid These Common Pitfalls

Avoid dough that is too dry—it can be adjusted by adding a splash of warm milk until pliable. If your chocolate coating breaks, ensure that your melted chocolate is smooth and warm before applying. For evenly shaped rolls, use a cookie scoop for consistent sizing.

Pro Tips for Best Results

To achieve the ultimate Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls, allow your dough to rise in a warm, draft-free area for optimal results. Add a pinch of sea salt to the glaze for a delightful flavor contrast, and try to serve them warm straight from the oven for that irresistible gooey texture.

Recipe Variations to Explore

Feel free to add a twist to your rolls by incorporating crushed nuts, chocolate chips, or even swapping the cocoa powder for matcha for a unique flavor. Explore seasonal variations, such as adding pumpkin spice in the fall or making a peppermint version during the holidays!

Dietary Adaptations & Safety Info

To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. For a dairy-free option, use almond milk and coconut oil in place of butter. Always check for allergens when preparing for others.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the rolls up to the second rise, refrigerate overnight, and bake the next day.

2. How should I store leftovers?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.

3. Can I use instant yeast?
Absolutely! You can use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast; just mix it with the dry ingredients.

4. What can I use instead of whole milk?
You can use almond milk, oat milk, or any dairy alternative you prefer for a similar result.

5. How do I reheat frozen rolls?
Let the frozen rolls thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake them in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes until warmed through.

Final Thoughts & Next Steps

Now that you have all the insights to create perfect Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls, gather your ingredients and give this delightful recipe a try! We’d love to see your creations—tag us on social media or leave a comment below. For more delicious recipes, click here.