Name: Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Espresso Cream Cheese Icing Delight
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 150 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Whole Milk (Warmed to about 110°F (43°C)); 2 ¼ teaspoons Instant Yeast (Ensure fresh); 2 tablespoons Granulated Sugar; 2 large Eggs (Room temperature); 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (Melted); 1 teaspoon Salt; 4 cups All-Purpose Flour; ½ cup Unsweetened Cocoa Powder; 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (Softened); ½ cup Brown Sugar; 2 tablespoons Ground Cinnamon; ½ cup Semi-Sweet Chocolate (Chopped); 8 ounces Cream Cheese (Softened); 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (Softened); 2 cups Powdered Sugar; 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon; 2 teaspoons Instant Espresso Powder

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The warm, enticing aroma of fresh-baked rolls wafts through my kitchen, instantly transporting me to a cozy café on a Sunday morning. Today, I’m excited to share my favorite recipe: Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Espresso Cream Cheese Icing. These delectable treats are not only a delightful way to elevate your brunch but also a quick triumph in the pursuit of homemade comfort. With a rich cocoa dough swirled with melting chocolate and a hint of cinnamon, each fluffy roll is topped with a luscious espresso-infused cream cheese frosting that makes every bite a moment to savor. Whether it’s a gathering of friends or a sweet indulgence for yourself, you’ll find these rolls are worth every minute of prep. Curious about how to create this delightful treat at home? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why will you love these rolls?

Rich, Decadent Flavor: The combination of chocolate and cinnamon creates a heavenly experience that’s impossible to resist.

Easy-to-Follow Steps: This recipe is straightforward, allowing both novice and seasoned bakers to create mouthwatering rolls with minimal effort.

Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a lazy weekend brunch or a festive gathering, these rolls are sure to impress your guests and keep everyone coming back for more.

Gooey Texture: Each roll boasts a soft and fluffy interior paired with a slightly crispy exterior, complemented by that irresistible espresso cream cheese icing.

Versatile Variations: Feel free to experiment with different chocolate types or toppings—each twist adds a unique flair to this classic treat. You might also enjoy them alongside a warm cup of coffee or with a sweet touch from these Cookie Butter Cinnamon or Blueberry Cinnamon Rolls for a delightful morning spread!

Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls Ingredients

For the Dough
• Whole Milk – Adds moisture and richness; any milk type or non-dairy alternative at a similar temperature works well.
• Instant Yeast – Provides leavening for the dough; ensure it’s fresh for the best rise.
• Granulated Sugar – Enhances sweetness and activates yeast; swap with brown sugar for deeper flavor.
• Large Eggs – Contributes to the structure and richness of the rolls; using room temperature eggs improves texture.
• Unsalted Butter – Adds flavor and tenderness; can be substituted with margarine or dairy-free butter.
• Salt – Balances sweetness and strengthens gluten structure.
• All-Purpose Flour – Forms the base structure of the rolls; bread flour can be used for a chewier bite.
• Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Provides essential chocolate flavor in the dough; Dutch-processed cocoa offers a smoother taste.

For the Filling
• Unsalted Butter (for filling) – Adds moisture to the filling; ensure it’s softened for easy mixing.
• Brown Sugar – Sweetens and adds moisture; coconut sugar is a great alternative for a richer flavor.
• Ground Cinnamon – Offers warmth and spice to the filling, complementing the chocolate beautifully.
• Semi-Sweet Chocolate – Enhances the richness of the filling; dark chocolate will add a more intense taste.

For the Frosting
• Cream Cheese – Base for the frosting providing creaminess; low-fat options are available for a lighter take.
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the frosting; consider using alternative sweeteners if preferred.
• Ground Cinnamon (for frosting) – Adds depth of flavor to the frosting.
• Instant Espresso Powder – Infuses the frosting with coffee richness; omit for a simpler cream cheese frosting.

Now that you’re equipped with the key ingredients, get ready for an adventure in baking these indulgent Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Espresso Cream Cheese Icing!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Espresso Cream Cheese Icing

Step 1: Make the Dough
Begin by warming 1 cup of whole milk to about 110°F (43°C) and stir in 2 ¼ teaspoons of instant yeast and 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar. Let the mixture sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes frothy. In a large mixing bowl, combine the yeast mixture with 2 large eggs, 4 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Gradually incorporate 4 cups of all-purpose flour and ½ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, mixing until a soft dough forms.

Step 2: Knead and Rise
Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead it for about 8–10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1–1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size. During this time, the dough will develop flavor and texture, setting the stage for delicious Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling
While the dough rises, prepare the rich filling by mixing 4 tablespoons of softened unsalted butter, ½ cup of brown sugar, 2 tablespoons of ground cinnamon, and 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder in a small bowl until it forms a smooth paste. This sweet mixture will blend harmoniously with the chocolate dough, creating an irresistible swirl of flavors in your Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls.

Step 4: Shape the Rolls
Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release air, then roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a rectangular shape about ½ inch thick. Spread the prepared filling evenly over the surface and sprinkle with ½ cup of chopped semi-sweet chocolate. Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log, then cut it into 12 equal pieces using a sharp knife or dental floss for clean cuts.

Step 5: Second Rise
Arrange the sliced rolls in a greased 9×13 inch baking pan, leaving some space between each to allow for rising. Cover the pan with a kitchen towel and let the rolls rise for an additional 30–40 minutes, or until they are puffy and nearly doubled in size. This second rise ensures your Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls are light and fluffy after baking.

Step 6: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while the rolls complete their second rise. Once preheated, place the baking pan in the oven and bake the rolls for 25–30 minutes, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown and feel set in the middle. The baking aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist already!

Step 7: Make the Frosting
While the rolls are baking, prepare the delightful frosting by beating 8 ounces of softened cream cheese and 4 tablespoons of softened butter in a mixing bowl until smooth and creamy. Gradually add in 2 cups of powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 2 teaspoons of instant espresso powder, mixing until the frosting is light and fluffy. This rich icing perfectly complements the decadent flavors of the rolls.

Step 8: Frost & Serve
Once the rolls are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool for about 5 minutes. Generously spread the espresso cream cheese frosting over the warm rolls, allowing it to melt slightly and soak into the tops. Serve these mouthwatering Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Espresso Cream Cheese Icing while warm, and watch everyone delight in this scrumptious treat!

What to Serve with Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Espresso Cream Cheese Icing

Delight in complementing flavors that create a loving, comforting feast alongside these indulgent rolls.

Fresh Fruit Salad: A burst of seasonal fruits adds brightness and a healthy contrast to the rich rolls.
Crispy Bacon or Sausage: The savory, salty element balances the sweetness of the rolls, delivering a satisfying savory and sweet experience.
Fluffy Scrambled Eggs: Light and airy eggs provide a neutral base that pairs perfectly without overpowering the delicate flavors of your rolls.
Coffee or Espresso: A warm cup enhances the espresso notes in the icing, creating a cohesive flavor experience that lifts every bite.
Vanilla Ice Cream: For a decadent twist, serve these rolls warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, allowing the creamy softness to meld with the rich chocolate.
Chocolate Drizzle: Elevate your rolls further by drizzling melted chocolate on top for an extra layer of indulgence that chocolate lovers will adore.

Make Ahead Options

These Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Espresso Cream Cheese Icing are a fantastic choice for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can make the dough up to 24 hours ahead by allowing it to rise, then shaping the rolls and refrigerating them overnight. Alternatively, you can prepare and bake the rolls, letting them cool completely, and then store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature or up to 2 months in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat the rolls in a warm oven for about 10 minutes before frosting with the espresso cream cheese icing. This way, you’ll have deliciously gooey rolls that taste just as fresh!

Expert Tips for Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls

Ingredient Accuracy: Use a kitchen scale to weigh your ingredients for precision. This ensures your Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls turn out perfect every time.
Dough Temperature: Ensure your milk is warm but not hot to activate the yeast properly. Too hot can kill the yeast, leading to flat rolls.
Prevent Overmixing: When combining ingredients for the dough, mix just until a soft dough forms. Overworked dough can lead to tough rolls instead of fluffy ones.
Rising Time: Be patient with the rising times. If your kitchen is cold, consider placing the dough in a warm area to achieve that light and airy texture.
Frosting Consistency: Adjust the consistency of the espresso cream cheese icing by adding powdered sugar or a splash of milk until smooth and spreadable.
Storage Tips: Store any leftover Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days to keep them fresh and delicious.

Variations & Substitutions for Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls

Feel free to get creative with this recipe, as there are many ways to personalize your delicious rolls!

Dairy-Free: Use almond or oat milk and vegan cream cheese instead of traditional dairy products for a plant-based delight.
For those who enjoy non-dairy options, this swap will help you create a similar gooey texture and keep the flavor on point!
Nutty Twist: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the filling for a delightful crunch and added depth.
The nutty texture pairs beautifully with the soft and fluffy rolls, making each bite feel even more indulgent and satisfying.
Chocolate Variations: Experiment with different types of chocolate for filling—dark, milk, or white chocolate create unique flavors.
The variations in chocolate will add a fun twist and complement the cinnamon beautifully, keeping it exciting for every baking adventure!
Fruity Touch: Incorporate raisins or dried cherries into the filling for a sweet fruit surprise.
The tartness of dried fruit balances the sweetness of the roll, creating layers of flavor that are absolutely delightful.
Spiced Icing: Swap the espresso powder in the frosting for chai spice or ginger for a warm and aromatic touch.
This alteration gives the frosting a seasonal twist, perfect for cozy gatherings or holiday celebrations!
Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, ensuring you add xanthan gum if your mix doesn’t already include it.
With the right adjustments, you can still enjoy a fluffy roll without missing out on that comforting texture.
Less Sweet: For a less sweet option, reduce the quantity of sugar in both the dough and frosting; try swapping half of the sugar with unsweetened applesauce.
This adjustment maintains moisture while cutting back on the sugar, perfect for those watching their intake.
Rich Chocolate Fill: Add a layer of chocolate hazelnut spread instead of, or in addition to, semi-sweet chocolate in the filling.
This will create a luscious, melty flavor that takes these rolls to a whole new level of decadence—perfect for chocolate lovers!

With these variations, you’ll never tire of making Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls and you might also enjoy pairing them with a side of Baked Mac Cheese for that perfect evening cozy meal!

How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls

Room Temperature: Store leftover Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to keep them soft and delicious.

Fridge: If you’d like to extend their shelf life, refrigerate the rolls in an airtight container where they’ll stay fresh for 4–5 days.

Freezer: To freeze, wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the microwave for 15–20 seconds for optimum gooeyness!

Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Espresso Cream Cheese Icing Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe ingredients for these rolls?
Absolutely! For the best Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls, ensure your milk is warm, around 110°F (43°C), to activate the yeast. Incorporating room temperature eggs will help create a smoother dough. When selecting butter, choose unsalted for better control over the sweetness of the rolls.

What’s the best way to store leftover Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls?
For optimal freshness, store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If longer storage is needed, refrigerate them for up to 5 days. Always ensure the container is well-sealed to maintain softness.

Can I freeze Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls, and how should I do it?
Yes! To freeze, wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, they’ll be deliciously fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, remove from the freezer, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, and reheat in the microwave for 15–20 seconds for the best texture.

What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise properly?
If your dough doesn’t rise, it could be due to inactive yeast. Ensure your yeast is fresh, and your milk is warm—not hot—when combining the initial ingredients. If the dough hasn’t risen after the recommended time, try placing it in a warmer, draft-free area. Sometimes, patience is key—allow it more time to grow!

Are there any dietary considerations with this recipe?
You might want to note that this recipe contains eggs, dairy, and gluten. For a dairy-free option, use plant-based milk and a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for the frosting. If you’re accommodating specific allergies, feel free to substitute as needed, like using egg replacements or gluten-free flour mixes!

What if I don’t have instant espresso powder for the frosting?
If you don’t have instant espresso powder, you can simply omit it for a classic cream cheese frosting option. Alternatively, brew a strong cup of coffee and cool it to incorporate into your frosting for a delicious flavor kick. The more the merrier!