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Cozy Hot Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls

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These cozy hot chocolate cinnamon rolls combine the nostalgic flavor of rich hot chocolate with gooey cinnamon rolls, perfect for chilly mornings or cozy evenings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 1/2 cups (440g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 1/4 tsp (1 packet) instant yeast
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) warm milk (around 110°F/43°C)
  • 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp (15g) unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 tsp cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/3 cup (60g) mini chocolate chips
  • 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
  • 2 tbsp (30ml) milk
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy. Add melted butter, egg, and salt. Gradually mix in flour until a soft dough forms.
  2. Knead the Dough: Knead the dough for 8-10 minutes (or 5 minutes with a stand mixer) until smooth and elastic. Place in a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
  3. Make the Filling: Mix brown sugar, cocoa powder, and cinnamon in a small bowl. Spread softened butter over the rolled-out dough, then sprinkle the sugar mixture evenly. Add mini chocolate chips.
  4. Roll and Slice: Roll the dough tightly into a log and slice into 12 equal pieces. Arrange them in a greased baking dish.
  5. Second Rise: Cover and let rise for another 30 minutes while preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  6. Bake: Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
  7. Prepare the Glaze: Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Pour over warm rolls and serve.

Notes

[‘Using room temperature eggs and softened butter makes for better texture.’, ‘Don’t overheat milk; aim for warm but not scalding.’, ‘Roll the dough tightly to ensure the filling stays intact.’, ‘Allow the dough to rise properly for soft, fluffy rolls.’, ‘Experiment with glaze flavors by adding espresso or almond extract.’]

Nutrition

Keywords: hot chocolate cinnamon rolls, chocolate dessert, cinnamon rolls recipe, holiday brunch, cozy dessert