As a passionate baker and an undeniable chocolate lover, my kitchen often becomes a haven for all things cocoa. It’s no secret I have a special affinity for chocolate recipes, not only because they consistently prove popular with you, my wonderful readers, but also because they bring me immense joy to create. Seriously, ask anyone – I will never, ever decline a chocolate dessert when it’s offered at a restaurant. There’s just something inherently comforting and luxurious about a well-crafted chocolate treat.

These exquisite chocolate cinnamon rolls utilize my trusted and thoroughly tested brioche cinnamon roll dough. This rich, buttery dough provides the perfect foundation for a truly indulgent experience. But we don’t stop there! The rolls are generously stuffed with a robust chocolate filling, expertly crafted from fragrant cocoa powder and tiny, melting mini chocolate chips that ensure chocolate in every single bite. And, of course, the grand finale wouldn’t be complete without a generous layer of my simple yet incredibly satisfying chocolate cream cheese frosting. Because, honestly, how could I possibly resist?

If your cravings for chocolate are insatiable and you’re looking for more ways to get your fix, you absolutely must try some of my other favorite creations. Dive into the gooey goodness of my brown butter chocolate chip espresso cookies, savor the rich complexity of my chocolate walnut cake, or delight in the perfect bite-sized pleasure of my mini chocolate cupcakes. Each one is a testament to the versatility and deliciousness of chocolate.

And for those who, like me, hold a special place in their heart for classic cinnamon rolls, you’re in for a treat with my cinnamon coffee rolls with maple espresso icing! They offer a delightful twist on the traditional, perfect for those mornings when you want something a little extra special.

Why You’ll Fall in Love with These Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls!

• A Chocolate Lover’s Dream Come True! If the thought of waking up to a warm, gooey, chocolate-infused breakfast fills you with joy, then you’ve found your perfect match. This recipe seamlessly marries the beloved comfort of classic cinnamon buns with the irresistible allure of rich chocolate. It’s the ultimate breakfast indulgence or a spectacular dessert that will satisfy even the deepest chocolate cravings. You’re absolutely welcome for this culinary masterpiece!
• Unbelievably Fluffy and Tender Enriched Dough: The secret to truly exceptional cinnamon rolls lies in the dough, and our brioche-style dough is nothing short of perfection. Crafted with a rich mixture of eggs, granulated sugar, and unsalted butter, this dough bakes up incredibly light, airy, and oh-so-fluffy. But here’s a game-changing tip: just before baking, we pour a generous amount of warm heavy cream over the rolls. This special touch ensures they emerge from the oven unbelievably moist, tender, and with that coveted gooey texture that makes every bite heavenly.
• The Ultimate Special Occasion Breakfast (or Anytime Treat!): Let’s be honest, these chocolate cinnamon rolls are undeniably decadent and gloriously over-the-top – and I wouldn’t have them any other way! Their luxurious nature makes them absolutely ideal for festive mornings like Christmas, Easter brunch, or any other special occasion that calls for an extra touch of sweetness. The best part? You can easily prepare the dough the night before, allowing you to wake up and simply bake these beauties for a stress-free, unforgettable morning.
• Simple Yet Impressive: Don’t be intimidated by the delicious results; this recipe is designed to be approachable for home bakers of all skill levels. With clear, step-by-step instructions and helpful tips, you’ll be baking bakery-quality chocolate cinnamon rolls in your own kitchen in no time. The effort is minimal, but the payoff in flavor and satisfaction is huge!

Gather Your Essential Ingredients

Crafting the perfect chocolate cinnamon roll starts with selecting the right ingredients. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why each component is crucial:

• All-Purpose Flour: While some cinnamon roll recipes might call for bread flour for extra chewiness, I find that standard all-purpose flour yields beautifully soft and tender rolls in this recipe. It’s readily available and provides a consistent texture. You *could* substitute bread flour in a pinch, but stick to all-purpose if you want the exact fluffy results as intended.
• Unsalted Butter: Always opt for unsalted butter in baking. This allows you complete control over the total salt content in your recipe, ensuring a balanced flavor. You’ll need it for both the dough and the filling, so make sure to bring it to room temperature as specified for optimal mixing and spreading.
• Cinnamon: Yes, these are chocolate rolls, but a touch of ground cinnamon in the filling is non-negotiable! It adds a warm, aromatic depth that perfectly complements and enhances the rich chocolate flavor, preventing the rolls from tasting one-dimensional.
• Whole Milk: For the richest, most tender dough, whole milk is highly recommended. The higher fat content contributes significantly to the brioche’s luxurious texture and flavor. Semi-skimmed or skimmed milk simply won’t yield the same results, so please use whole milk for the best experience.
• Mini Chocolate Chips: I’ve extensively tested this recipe with both regular and mini chocolate chips. Through trial and error, I discovered that regular-sized chocolate chips tend to migrate or fall out during the rolling and baking process. Mini chocolate chips, however, stay beautifully nestled within the filling, ensuring a delightful burst of chocolate in every single bite. If you can, definitely use mini chocolate chips!
• Cream Cheese: For the decadent chocolate cream cheese frosting, full-fat cream cheese is an absolute must. I once ran out and tried low-fat cream cheese, and the frosting turned out disappointingly runny and lacked the rich, creamy consistency we’re aiming for. Stick to full-fat for that luscious, pipeable frosting. Ensure it’s cold when you start the frosting for the best texture.
• Active Dry Yeast: This is the magical ingredient that makes your dough rise, creating those signature fluffy rolls. Always check the expiration date on your yeast package to ensure it’s fresh and active. Old or inactive yeast will result in dense, heavy rolls that don’t rise properly.
• Cocoa Powder: I developed this recipe using Dutch-processed cocoa powder, which is known for its darker color and richer, less acidic chocolate flavor. However, if you only have natural unsweetened cocoa powder on hand, you can use it in a pinch. Just be aware that the final flavor profile might be slightly different, and the color a bit lighter.
• Large Eggs: Essential for an enriched brioche dough, eggs contribute to the dough’s structure, richness, and golden color. Make sure they are at room temperature to incorporate smoothly into the dough.
• Granulated Sugar & Light Brown Sugar: Granulated sugar is used in the dough to feed the yeast and add sweetness. Light brown sugar, with its molasses notes, is crucial for the filling, providing a deeper flavor and helping to keep the filling moist.
• Kosher Salt: A touch of salt is vital in both the dough and the frosting to balance the sweetness and enhance all the other flavors.
• Vanilla Extract: A classic flavor enhancer for the frosting, vanilla extract adds warmth and depth to the chocolate.
• Confectioners’ Sugar: The base for our smooth, dreamy chocolate cream cheese frosting, confectioners’ sugar (powdered sugar) dissolves beautifully, creating a silky texture.

Creative Substitutions & Delicious Additions

While this recipe is perfect as written, don’t hesitate to get creative! Here are a few ideas to customize your chocolate cinnamon rolls:

• Cocoa Powder Variety: As mentioned, you can use natural unsweetened cocoa powder if you don’t have Dutch-processed. Natural cocoa powder is slightly more acidic and will yield a lighter color, but still delicious. For an even darker, more intense chocolate flavor, consider using dark cocoa powder.
• Frosting Alternatives: If you’re looking to change up the topping, the possibilities are endless!
  • Classic Cream Cheese Frosting: For a less chocolate-intensive experience, swap the chocolate cream cheese icing for the traditional version from my brioche cinnamon rolls recipe.
  • Brown Butter Icing: For a sophisticated nutty flavor, try the incredible browned butter icing from my browned butter cinnamon rolls. It adds a layer of depth that is truly irresistible.
  • Plain Glaze: A simple powdered sugar glaze (powdered sugar mixed with a little milk or water) can also be a delicious, lighter alternative.
• Spice It Up: Enhance the warm notes by adding a pinch of cardamon or allspice to the cinnamon filling alongside the cocoa powder for a more complex aroma.
• Nutty Crunch: Fold in finely chopped toasted pecans or walnuts into the chocolate filling for an added layer of texture and a complementary flavor.
• Citrus Zest: A tiny bit of orange zest in the dough or frosting can beautifully brighten the rich chocolate flavor. Orange and chocolate are a classic pairing for a reason!
• Coffee Boost: For an espresso-chocolate twist, add a teaspoon of instant espresso powder to the cocoa filling or even dissolved in the milk for the dough. It deepens the chocolate flavor without making it taste explicitly like coffee.

1. Step 1: Activate the Yeast and Prepare the Dough. Begin by gently warming the whole milk in the microwave or a small saucepan until it’s lukewarm (around 105-115°F or 40-46°C). It should be warm to the touch, but not hot enough to kill the yeast. Pour the warm milk into a medium bowl and sprinkle the active dry yeast over the top, stirring lightly to combine. Let this mixture sit for 5-10 minutes. You’ll know your yeast is active and ready when it becomes foamy and bubbly, indicating it’s alive and thriving! In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the dough hook attachment, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, kosher salt, a pinch of ground cinnamon, and a pinch of ground nutmeg. Give these dry ingredients a quick mix. Now, pour in the activated yeast mixture, the room temperature eggs, and the softened, room temperature unsalted butter pieces. Begin beating on low speed for 2-3 minutes until the ingredients start to come together. Then, increase the speed to medium and continue beating for another 3 minutes. The goal is a smooth, elastic dough that is slightly sticky but easily pulls away from the sides of the bowl. Lightly oil the mixing bowl (or a clean, separate bowl), scrape the dough into it, and cover it loosely with plastic wrap. Allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free place until it has visibly doubled in size. This typically takes about an hour to an hour and a half, depending on your room temperature.

2. Step 2: Prepare the Pan and Filling. While your dough is on its first rise, or once it has almost doubled in size, take a 9×13-inch baking pan and generously grease it with butter. This will prevent the rolls from sticking and ensure they brown beautifully. Set the greased pan aside. In a separate small bowl, combine the light brown sugar, ground cinnamon, cocoa powder, and a pinch of salt. Whisk these ingredients together until they are thoroughly mixed and there are no clumps. This forms the aromatic and flavorful base for your chocolate cinnamon filling.

3. Step 3: Roll Out the Dough and Apply Butter. Once your dough has doubled in size, gently punch it down to release the air. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured work surface. Using a floured rolling pin, carefully roll the dough into a large rectangle. Aim for dimensions of approximately 18×12 inches (46×30.5 cm). Try to achieve an even thickness across the entire rectangle to ensure uniformly sized rolls. Now, take your softened unsalted butter (from the filling ingredients) and, using a pastry brush, generously brush it evenly over the entire surface of the rolled-out dough, leaving a small ¼-inch margin uncovered along one of the long edges. This butter layer will help the filling adhere and create that irresistible gooeyness.

4. Step 4: Add the Chocolate Filling. Evenly sprinkle the prepared chocolate cinnamon filling mixture (brown sugar, cinnamon, cocoa powder, and salt) over the buttered dough, making sure to cover all the brushed areas right up to that ¼-inch margin you left on the long edge. Gently pat it down with your hands to help it stick. Next, sprinkle the mini chocolate chips liberally over the chocolate cinnamon layer. The mini chips are key here, as they distribute better and are less likely to fall out during the rolling process.

5. Step 5: Roll Up the Dough. Starting from the long side of the rectangle that is *not* the ¼-inch margin you left bare, begin to tightly roll the dough into a log. The tighter you roll, the more spirals your cinnamon rolls will have, and the less likely the filling will spill out. Take your time with this step, ensuring an even, snug roll from one end to the other.

6. Step 6: Slice the Rolls. Once your dough is rolled into a tight log, it’s time to cut it into individual cinnamon rolls. You’ll want to aim for 12 equal-sized pieces. For the cleanest cuts, I highly recommend using unflavored dental floss. Simply slide a piece of floss under the log, cross the ends over the top, and pull to slice through. Alternatively, a sharp serrated knife can also be used, employing a gentle sawing motion to avoid squishing the rolls. Don’t worry if a little bit of the chocolate filling oozes out; that’s perfectly normal and part of the charm! Arrange the cut rolls in your prepared 9×13-inch baking pan, leaving a little space between each roll for expansion during the second rise.

7. Step 7: Second Rise and Oven Preheat. Loosely cover the baking pan containing your cut rolls with plastic wrap. Place them in a warm, draft-free spot and allow them to rise for another hour. During this second rise, the rolls will expand and become noticeably puffier. You’ll know they’re ready when they look plump and a gentle poke with your finger leaves a slight indentation that slowly springs back, but doesn’t disappear completely. If it bounces back immediately, they need more time; if the indentation stays, they might be slightly over-proofed, but still bakeable. While the cinnamon rolls are rising, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Simultaneously, gently warm the heavy cream in a small saucepan or microwave until it’s just warm to the touch. This warm cream is a secret ingredient for ultimate gooeyness!

8. Step 8: Bake to Golden Perfection. Once the rolls have completed their second rise and your oven is preheated, remove the plastic wrap. Carefully pour the warm heavy cream over the tops of the rolls and into the spaces between them. This step is crucial for achieving that incredibly moist and gooey interior. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-35 minutes, or until the tops are beautifully golden brown and the rolls are cooked through. Baking times can vary, so keep an eye on them. Once baked, remove them from the oven. You can enjoy these divine chocolate cinnamon rolls as they are, warm and fresh, or for an extra layer of indulgence, allow them to cool slightly before generously covering them with the prepared chocolate cream cheese frosting. The warmth of the rolls will make the frosting slightly melt, creating a blissful experience!

Expert Baking Tips for Perfect Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls

Achieving bakery-quality chocolate cinnamon rolls at home is easier than you think with these expert tips:

• The Magic of Adding Heavy Cream: This isn’t just a suggestion; it’s a non-negotiable step for truly sensational cinnamon rolls! Pouring warm heavy cream over the rolls just before baking creates a steamy, moist environment in the oven. The cream gets absorbed into the dough, resulting in rolls that are incredibly light, exceptionally fluffy, and unbelievably gooey from the inside out. I’ve tested this recipe extensively both with and without this step, and the difference is truly transformative. Don’t skip it!
• The Importance of Room Temperature Ingredients: For both the dough and the filling, ensure all your dairy ingredients (milk, butter, eggs, and for the frosting, cream cheese) are at room temperature unless otherwise specified (like cold cream cheese for frosting). Room temperature ingredients emulsify much more easily, creating a smoother, more uniform dough. Softened butter for the filling will spread effortlessly, ensuring an even coating. Cold ingredients, especially butter and eggs, can stiffen the dough and make it harder to mix and rise effectively.
• Mastering the Art of Slicing Cinnamon Rolls: This step can sometimes be a bit fiddly, but I’ve experimented with several methods to find the best approach.
  • Unflavored Dental Floss: My absolute favorite and most recommended way to cut the rolls is by using unflavored dental floss. It creates perfectly clean, round cuts without squishing the delicate dough. Simply slide a long piece of floss under the rolled log, cross the ends over the top where you want to cut, and pull firmly.
  • Serrated Knife: A sharp serrated knife can also work, but it requires a gentle sawing motion to minimize squishing. It might not give as perfectly round a shape as floss, but it’s effective.
  • Pizza Cutter (Alternative Method): For a different approach, instead of rolling the entire sheet of dough into one log, you can cut the buttered and filled dough into long strips with a pizza cutter, then roll up each strip individually. This can sometimes result in more consistent individual rolls, though it takes a little more time.
• Overnight Preparation for Stress-Free Mornings: Want to wake up to freshly baked chocolate cinnamon rolls without the early morning hustle? You can easily prep these rolls the night before! Follow all the steps until the rolls are placed in the baking dish for their final rise. Instead of letting them rise for a full hour, allow them to rise for only about 30 minutes at room temperature. Then, cover them tightly with plastic wrap and place them in the refrigerator overnight (for up to 12-14 hours). The next morning, remove them from the fridge and let them sit at room temperature for 30-45 minutes while your oven preheats. Then, proceed with pouring the heavy cream and baking as usual. This slow, cold rise develops deeper flavors and makes for an incredibly convenient breakfast.
• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Once the flour is added, mix the dough just until it comes together and forms a smooth ball. Overmixing can develop too much gluten, resulting in tough, chewy rolls instead of light and fluffy ones.
• Proofing Environment: A warm, draft-free spot is ideal for rising dough. If your kitchen is cold, you can create a warm environment by placing the bowl in a slightly warm (but not hot) oven that has been turned off, or near a sunny window.
• Keep an Eye on the Oven: Every oven is different. While the recipe suggests a baking time, start checking your rolls a few minutes early to ensure they don’t overbake. They should be golden brown and feel firm but springy to the touch.

Delightful Serving Suggestions

These decadent chocolate cinnamon rolls are absolutely divine on their own, but they also shine when paired with other delicious treats. Here are some ideas to make your chocolate cinnamon roll experience even more special:

• The Ultimate Breakfast or Brunch Spread: If you’re hosting a grand brunch gathering, these chocolate cinnamon rolls are an absolute must-have centerpiece. Serve them alongside a vibrant array of fresh seasonal fruits, my incredibly fluffy buttermilk french toast, crispy bacon or sausage for a savory contrast, and plenty of freshly brewed coffee or a selection of teas. The combination of sweet and savory will impress all your guests!
• Pair with Coffee or Hot Chocolate: For a simple yet perfect pairing, enjoy a warm chocolate cinnamon roll with a strong cup of coffee, a creamy latte, or for an extra chocolatey treat, a rich hot chocolate.
• Dessert Upgrade: Turn these rolls into an even more decadent dessert! Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top. A drizzle of chocolate syrup or caramel sauce would also be heavenly.
• Holiday Morning Tradition: Make these a cherished part of your holiday traditions. They are especially perfect for Christmas morning, New Year’s Day, or any special family gathering where a touch of indulgence is desired.
• With a Glass of Milk: Sometimes, the simplest pairings are the best. A cold glass of milk cuts through the richness of the chocolate cinnamon rolls beautifully.

Storage & Freezing Instructions

To keep your chocolate cinnamon rolls tasting fresh and delicious, proper storage is key:

Room Temperature Storage: Once cooled, store any leftover rolls covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days. I find that storing them in the fridge tends to dry them out, so avoid refrigeration if you plan to enjoy them within a couple of days. To reheat, simply pop a roll into the microwave for 15-20 seconds until warm and soft. The frosting will get wonderfully gooey again!

Refrigerated Storage: If you need to store them for a longer period, you can keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Be aware that refrigeration can slightly dry them out, but they’ll still be delicious. To reheat, warm them in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until heated through.

Freezing Baked Rolls: These chocolate cinnamon rolls freeze exceptionally well! Allow the baked rolls to cool completely (without frosting, if possible, for best results, or with frosting if you don’t mind a slight texture change). Place them in a freezer-safe bag or an airtight container, ensuring they are well-sealed to prevent freezer burn. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

To Serve Frozen Rolls: The night before you want to enjoy them, transfer the frozen rolls to the refrigerator to defrost slowly. The next morning, or once defrosted, you can reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warm and soft. If they were frozen with frosting, the frosting might be a little firmer after thawing, but still delicious.

Expand Your Breakfast Menu with These Delightful Recipes!

If you’ve loved making and devouring these chocolate cinnamon rolls, you’re sure to enjoy exploring more of my breakfast and brunch creations. Here are some fantastic recipes to try next and add to your baking repertoire:

If you’ve made these incredible chocolate cinnamon rolls, I would absolutely love to hear from you! Please make sure to leave a ⭐️ rating and a thoughtful review below to share your experience. Your feedback helps me and other bakers, and it truly makes my day to see your creations. So, don’t forget to tag me on Instagram @alpineella so I can admire your delicious results! You can also follow along for more baking inspiration and updates on Pinterest, Facebook, and TikTok!

Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Chocolate Cream Cheese Icing

Ella Gilbert

Nutrition