Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls are the ultimate breakfast treat for chocolate lovers. These indulgent rolls feature a soft cocoa-infused yeast dough, complemented by a rich cinnamon-sugar filling and topped with a glossy chocolate glaze. Each bite is a perfect blend of sweetness and warmth, making them the ideal start to your day. Let’s dive into this rich chocolate cinnamon rolls recipe and discover how to make these delightful pastries!
Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls
There are countless reasons to adore Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls. First and foremost, they combine the rich flavors of chocolate and cinnamon, creating a perfect balance of sweetness. Not only are these rolls incredibly delicious, but they also fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma while baking. As a bonus, they are versatile; you can serve them warm as breakfast or as a delightful dessert. This recipe is easy to follow, making it suitable for novice bakers, and the result will impress even the most discerning chocolate lovers. Additionally, this dish can be made in advance, making it a convenient choice for busy mornings. With these chocolatey cinnamon treats, you can create cherished family moments around the breakfast table.

Ingredients for Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls
Gather these items:
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (Plus more for dusting)
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (Dutch-process preferred)
- 1 packet instant yeast (2 1/4 tsp)
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F)
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter (Melted (for dough))
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (For dough)
- 1 large egg (Room temperature)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (Softened (for filling))
- 3/4 cup brown sugar (Packed)
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder (For filling)
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon (For filling)
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar (For glaze)
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder (For glaze)
- 3 tbsp milk (For glaze)
How to Make Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Mix flour, cocoa, sugar, yeast, and salt; add warm milk, butter, and egg to form dough.
- Step 2: Knead for 5–7 minutes, place in a greased bowl, cover, and rise for 1 hour.
- Step 3: Roll dough into a rectangle, spread with butter, and sprinkle with cinnamon-cocoa sugar.
- Step 4: Roll up, cut into 12 rolls, place in a pan, and let rise for 30–45 minutes.
- Step 5: Bake at 350°F for 20–25 minutes until edges are set.
- Step 6: Whisk glaze ingredients together and pour over warm rolls.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls
Keep these in mind:
- Use Dutch-process cocoa for a richer flavor.
- Ensure your yeast is fresh for optimal rising.
- For a gooey center, slightly under-bake the rolls.
- Experiment with fillings like nuts or chocolate chips for added texture.
Best Ways to Serve Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls
These rolls are incredibly versatile! Serve them warm with a drizzle of the chocolate glaze for a decadent breakfast. Pair them with a side of fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful dessert experience. You can also enjoy them with a cup of coffee, creating the perfect morning indulgence.
How to Store and Reheat Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls
To store your Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To reheat, simply place them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or warm them in the oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes. This will revive their soft texture and warm chocolatey flavor, perfect for any time of day!
Frequently Asked Questions About Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls
What’s the secret to perfect Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls?
The secret lies in the dough preparation. Make sure to knead it well and allow it to rise properly; this ensures fluffy and soft rolls. Using fresh ingredients is also crucial for the best flavors.
Can I make Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and fill the rolls the night before, then refrigerate them. In the morning, simply let them rise before baking for a fresh breakfast treat.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls?
To avoid issues, measure your ingredients accurately and ensure the milk is warm, not hot, to activate the yeast properly. Be cautious not to over-knead the dough, as it can become tough.
Variations of Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls You Can Try
If you’re looking to mix things up, consider these variations: add a layer of cream cheese frosting for a tangy twist, or try using flavored cocoa powder like mocha for a different taste. You could also create mocha cinnamon rolls by incorporating espresso powder into the dough for a caffeinated kick. Experiment with different nuts or fruits to find your perfect combination!
For more delicious recipes, check out our Cinnamon Spiced Veggie Loaf or Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies. If you’re interested in baking tips, visit Best Zucchini Bread Recipe for more insights!
For more information on the benefits of baking with chocolate, you can refer to Healthline’s article on dark chocolate benefits.
Print
Delicious Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls Recipe for Breakfast
- Total Time: 175 minutes
- Yield: 12 rolls 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These indulgent Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls feature a soft cocoa-infused yeast dough, a rich cinnamon-sugar filling, and a glossy chocolate glaze. They are the ultimate breakfast for chocolate lovers.
Ingredients
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (Plus more for dusting)
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (Dutch-process preferred)
- 1 packet instant yeast (2 1/4 tsp)
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F)
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter (Melted (for dough))
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (For dough)
- 1 large egg (Room temperature)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (Softened (for filling))
- 3/4 cup brown sugar (Packed)
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder (For filling)
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon (For filling)
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar (For glaze)
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder (For glaze)
- 3 tbsp milk (For glaze)
Instructions
- Mix flour, cocoa, sugar, yeast, and salt; add warm milk, butter, and egg to form dough.
- Knead for 5–7 minutes, place in a greased bowl, cover, and rise for 1 hour.
- Roll dough into a rectangle, spread with butter, and sprinkle with cinnamon-cocoa sugar.
- Roll up, cut into 12 rolls, place in a pan, and let rise for 30–45 minutes.
- Bake at 350°F for 20–25 minutes until edges are set.
- Whisk glaze ingredients together and pour over warm rolls.
Notes
- Prep Time: 60 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 20 g
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 55 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg
