Chocolate cinnamon rolls with chocolate cream cheese frosting

Chocolate cinnamon rolls with chocolate cream cheese frosting are the ultimate treat for any occasion. These soft, gooey rolls combine rich chocolate flavor with a delightful cinnamon twist, topped off with a luscious chocolate cream cheese frosting. Perfect for brunch, dessert, or even a cozy family gathering, these rolls are sure to impress. With their irresistible aroma and melt-in-your-mouth texture, they will quickly become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of chocolate and cinnamon creates a mouthwatering taste that everyone loves.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create these delicious rolls.
• Versatile Treat: Ideal for breakfast, snacks, or dessert; these rolls fit any occasion perfectly.
• Decadent Frosting: The chocolate cream cheese frosting adds a rich finish that takes these rolls to the next level.
• Great for Sharing: This recipe yields 15 portions, making it perfect for gatherings or family breakfasts.

Tools and Preparation

To make these delightful chocolate cinnamon rolls with chocolate cream cheese frosting, you’ll need some essential tools and equipment. Having the right tools on hand will simplify the process and ensure great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rolling pin
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl is crucial for combining all your ingredients without spilling.
• Whisk: A whisk helps incorporate air into the dough, making your rolls light and fluffy.
• Rolling pin: This tool is essential for rolling out the dough to the perfect thickness before adding filling.

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 100 g butter
• 500 ml milk
• 100 g white sugar
• 7 g active dry yeast
• 640 g all-purpose flour
• 60 g dark cocoa powder
• 0.5 tsp salt
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp ground coffee (optional)

For the Filling

• 150 g brown sugar
• 2 tsp cinnamon
• some butter curls

For the Frosting

• 120 g cream cheese
• 4 tbsp milk
• 120 g powdered sugar
• 1 tbsp dark cocoa powder

How to Make Chocolate cinnamon rolls with chocolate cream cheese frosting

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a saucepan, melt the butter. Add in the milk, stirring until warm but not boiling.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the warm milk mixture with white sugar, stirring until dissolved.
3. Sprinkle in the active dry yeast, letting it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
4. In another bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, dark cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the yeast mixture along with the vanilla extract.

Step 2: Knead and Rise

1. Knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth (about 10 minutes).
2. Place it in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 3: Prepare Filling and Roll Out Dough

1. Once risen, punch down the dough gently and roll it out into a rectangle on a floured surface.
2. Spread some butter curls over the dough, then sprinkle with brown sugar, cinnamon, and optional ground coffee evenly across.

Step 4: Roll Up and Slice

1. Starting from one side of the rectangle, tightly roll up the dough into a log shape.
2. Slice into equal pieces (about 15). Place them cut-side up on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 5: Second Rise

1. Cover your rolls again with a cloth and let them rise for another 30 minutes while preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F).

Step 6: Bake Rolls

1. Bake your rolls for about 30 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 7: Make Frosting

1. While baking, beat together cream cheese, milk, powdered sugar, and additional dark cocoa powder until smooth.

Step 8: Frost Rolls

1. Once baked, let them cool slightly before generously topping them with your chocolate cream cheese frosting.

Enjoy every bite of these chocolate cinnamon rolls with chocolate cream cheese frosting!

How to Serve Chocolate cinnamon rolls with chocolate cream cheese frosting

Chocolate cinnamon rolls with chocolate cream cheese frosting are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With a Hot Beverage

• Coffee: Pair these rolls with a hot cup of coffee for a perfect breakfast or snack.
• Hot Chocolate: Enjoy them with creamy hot chocolate for an extra chocolatey indulgence.
• Tea: A light herbal tea can balance the sweetness and complement the flavors.

As a Dessert Platter

• Fruit Salad: Fresh fruits can add a refreshing contrast to the rich rolls.
• Ice Cream: Serve warm rolls alongside vanilla or chocolate ice cream for a decadent dessert.
• Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream on top adds an airy touch.

At Special Occasions

• Birthday Parties: These rolls make a delightful addition to birthday celebrations.
• Brunch Buffets: Perfect for brunch, they can be served alongside other sweet and savory dishes.

How to Perfect Chocolate cinnamon rolls with chocolate cream cheese frosting

To ensure your chocolate cinnamon rolls turn out perfectly, follow these tips for success.

• Use Fresh Yeast: Always check the expiration date on your yeast to ensure it rises properly.
• Knead Well: Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic for soft, fluffy rolls.
• Let It Rise: Allow enough time for the dough to rise; this enhances texture and flavor.
• Monitor Oven Temperature: Ensure your oven is preheated correctly for even baking.
• Frost When Cool: Apply the frosting only once the rolls have cooled slightly to prevent melting.

Best Side Dishes for Chocolate cinnamon rolls with chocolate cream cheese frosting

When serving chocolate cinnamon rolls with chocolate cream cheese frosting, consider these delicious side dishes that complement their rich flavors.

1. Fresh Berries: A blend of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries adds freshness and acidity.
2. Greek Yogurt: Creamy yogurt provides a tangy contrast that balances the sweetness.
3. Savory Quiche: A slice of quiche brings a savory element that pairs well with sweet rolls.
4. Crispy Bacon: The saltiness of crispy bacon contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the rolls.
5. Cheese Platter: Offer mild cheeses like brie or cream cheese for variety in texture and flavor.
6. Granola Parfait: Layer yogurt and granola for a crunchy, creamy side that adds depth to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking chocolate cinnamon rolls with chocolate cream cheese frosting can be rewarding, but avoiding common mistakes is key.

• Ignoring the yeast: Always check the expiration date of your active dry yeast. Fresh yeast ensures proper rising.
• Overworking the dough: Knead the dough just enough to combine ingredients. Over-kneading can lead to tough rolls.
• Skipping the resting time: Allowing the dough to rise is essential for fluffy rolls. Don’t rush this step; it makes a big difference.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Use proper measuring tools for dry and wet ingredients to maintain consistency in your recipe.
• Neglecting to preheat your oven: Preheating is crucial for even baking. Make sure your oven is at the right temperature before placing your rolls inside.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store chocolate cinnamon rolls with chocolate cream cheese frosting in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• For best results, place a piece of parchment paper between layers if stacking.

Freezing Chocolate cinnamon rolls with chocolate cream cheese frosting

• Wrap the rolls tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• This method preserves freshness for up to 2 months in the freezer.
• Label containers with dates for easy tracking.

Reheating Chocolate cinnamon rolls with chocolate cream cheese frosting

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place rolls on a baking sheet and heat for 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual rolls on a microwave-safe plate for about 20-30 seconds, checking regularly.
• Stovetop: Place rolls in a covered skillet over low heat for about 5 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making chocolate cinnamon rolls with chocolate cream cheese frosting.

How do I ensure my chocolate cinnamon rolls rise properly?

To ensure proper rising, make sure your yeast is active and allow the dough ample time to rise in a warm environment.

Can I make chocolate cinnamon rolls with chocolate cream cheese frosting ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough a day in advance and refrigerate it overnight. Just let it come to room temperature before baking.

What can I substitute for dark cocoa powder?

You can use regular cocoa powder, but your rolls will have a lighter flavor. Adjust sugar levels if needed.

How long do these chocolate cinnamon rolls last?

Stored properly, they last up to 3 days in the refrigerator or 2 months if frozen.

Final Thoughts

Chocolate cinnamon rolls with chocolate cream cheese frosting offer a delightful combination of flavors that everyone will love. They’re perfect for breakfast or as a sweet treat any time of day. Feel free to customize them by adding nuts or using different types of frosting!