There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked chocolate rolls wafting through your kitchen. These soft, pillowy rolls are swirled with rich chocolate filling and finished with a luscious glaze—pure bliss in every bite! Whether you’re making them for a cozy weekend breakfast, a special dessert, or simply to satisfy a chocolate craving, this recipe is a must-try.
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Why You’ll Love These Chocolate Rolls
- Soft and fluffy – The dough is light and airy, perfect for absorbing the rich chocolate filling.
- Rich chocolatey swirls – Every bite is packed with melted chocolate and a hint of sweetness.
- Perfect for any occasion – Serve them for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.
- Make-ahead friendly – You can prepare the dough the night before and bake fresh in the morning!
What Do Chocolate Rolls Taste Like?
Imagine biting into a cloud-like roll that’s delicately sweet with a buttery richness, then melting into swirls of chocolate filling. The contrast of the soft dough with the deep, cocoa-infused layers is irresistible! And if you add a drizzle of glaze or a sprinkle of powdered sugar? Absolute perfection.
Benefits of Making Chocolate Rolls at Home
- Healthier than store-bought – No preservatives, just pure homemade goodness.
- Customizable – Adjust the sweetness, experiment with fillings, or add toppings.
- Fun to make – Kneading dough and swirling chocolate is a rewarding baking experience.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Dough:
- 3 ½ cups (440g) all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
- ¾ cup (180ml) warm milk (110°F/45°C)
- ¼ cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- ½ tsp salt
For the Chocolate Filling:
- ½ cup (100g) brown sugar
- 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¼ cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup (90g) chopped dark chocolate or mini chocolate chips
Optional Glaze:
- 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp milk or heavy cream
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Stand mixer (optional)
- Rolling pin
- Baking dish (9×13-inch)
- Pastry brush
- Sharp knife or dough scraper
Additions and Substitutions
- Chocolate variety – Swap dark chocolate for milk or white chocolate.
- Nutty twist – Add chopped hazelnuts, pecans, or almonds for crunch.
- Extra indulgence – Spread a thin layer of Nutella over the dough before adding the filling.
- Dairy-free option – Use almond milk and dairy-free butter.
How to Make Chocolate Rolls
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a small bowl, mix warm milk, yeast, and 1 tsp of sugar. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt.
- Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough for 8–10 minutes (by hand or with a stand mixer) until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Step 2: Make the Chocolate Filling
- In a bowl, mix brown sugar, cocoa powder, and softened butter until smooth.
- Chop the dark chocolate into small pieces or use chocolate chips.
Step 3: Shape and Fill the Rolls
- Punch down the risen dough and roll it into a 16×12-inch rectangle on a floured surface.
- Spread the chocolate filling evenly over the dough, leaving a ½-inch border.
- Sprinkle the chopped chocolate over the filling.
- Roll the dough tightly from the long side into a log.
- Cut into 12 even rolls using a sharp knife or dental floss.
- Arrange in a greased baking dish, cover, and let rise for another 30–45 minutes.
Step 4: Bake
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the rolls for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Let them cool slightly before adding the glaze.
Step 5: Make the Glaze (Optional)
- Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Drizzle over warm chocolate rolls.
What to Serve with Chocolate Rolls
- A hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy pairing.
- Fresh berries to balance the richness.
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
Tips for Perfect Chocolate Rolls
- Warm but not hot milk – Too hot will kill the yeast; too cold won’t activate it.
- Don’t rush the rise – Letting the dough fully double in size gives the best texture.
- Use a sharp knife or dental floss – This keeps the rolls neatly shaped.
- Bake until just golden – Overbaking can make them dry.
The Science Behind Soft and Fluffy Chocolate Rolls
If you’ve ever wondered what makes chocolate rolls soft and fluffy, the secret lies in gluten development and yeast fermentation. Kneading helps build gluten, giving the dough structure while keeping it elastic. The yeast, on the other hand, creates air pockets that expand during baking, making the rolls light and pillowy. Using butter and eggs adds richness, while milk helps create a tender crumb.
Fun Variations of Chocolate Rolls
- Chocolate Orange Rolls – Add orange zest to the filling for a citrusy zing.
- Mocha Rolls – Add 1 tsp instant coffee to the chocolate filling for a coffee kick.
- S’mores Rolls – Sprinkle crushed graham crackers and mini marshmallows inside.
- Salted Caramel Rolls – Drizzle homemade caramel sauce over the rolls before serving.
The History of Chocolate Rolls
Chocolate rolls are a delightful fusion of European baking traditions, combining elements from Swiss chocolate pastries and classic cinnamon rolls. The concept of sweet, swirled breads dates back centuries, with variations found in French pain au chocolat and Scandinavian cardamom rolls. The modern chocolate roll brings together rich cocoa flavors and soft yeast dough, making it a beloved treat worldwide.
How to Make Your Chocolate Rolls Extra Special
While these chocolate rolls are already indulgent, there are plenty of ways to make them even more special! One great way is to brush the rolls with heavy cream before baking—this keeps them ultra-soft and gives them a golden, glossy finish. Another idea? Stuff the centers with chocolate ganache or a dollop of peanut butter before rolling them up for a surprise filling. You can also go the extra mile by topping the baked rolls with chopped chocolate and toasted nuts or serving them with a warm chocolate or caramel dipping sauce for an extra layer of decadence.
How to Make Chocolate Rolls Healthier
If you love chocolate rolls but want a healthier version, there are plenty of ways to make them more nutritious without sacrificing flavor! Here are a few swaps you can try:
- Use whole wheat flour – Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
- Reduce the sugar – Cut back on the sugar in both the dough and the filling. The chocolate itself will still provide plenty of sweetness.
- Choose dark chocolate – Dark chocolate has more antioxidants and less sugar than milk chocolate.
- Use natural sweeteners – Swap granulated sugar for honey, coconut sugar, or maple syrup.
- Add protein – Mix a little Greek yogurt into the dough or use almond butter as part of the filling.
Even with these healthy adjustments, the chocolate rolls will still be soft, sweet, and delicious!
The Best Way to Reheat Chocolate Rolls
There’s nothing better than enjoying a warm, gooey chocolate roll! If you have leftovers, here’s how to reheat them so they taste just as fresh as when they were first baked:
- Oven method (best for texture): Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C), place the rolls on a baking sheet, and warm them for 10 minutes. This method keeps them soft and fresh.
- Microwave method (quickest): Place a single roll on a plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for 15–20 seconds. This prevents them from drying out.
- Air fryer method: Heat at 320°F (160°C) for 5 minutes. This gives the rolls a slight crisp on the outside while keeping the inside warm and soft.
For an extra treat, spread a little butter on top before reheating or drizzle more chocolate glaze after warming. Enjoy your chocolate rolls like they’re fresh out of the oven! 🍫
The Perfect Chocolate Roll for Every Season
These chocolate rolls aren’t just for winter mornings by the fireplace—they’re perfect for every season! In the summer, try serving them with fresh berries and whipped cream for a refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate. During the fall, swap the cocoa filling for pumpkin spice and chocolate chips for a warm and cozy twist. And when the holidays roll around? Drizzle white chocolate over the top and sprinkle crushed peppermint candies for a festive treat!
Conclusion
These soft and fluffy chocolate rolls are the ultimate treat—rich, buttery, and loaded with chocolate goodness! I’d love to hear how your chocolate rolls turn out! Leave a comment, share your photos on Pinterest, and don’t forget to subscribe for more delicious recipes.
Now, go grab your ingredients and let’s get baking! 🍫💕
Print
Soft and Fluffy Chocolate Rolls Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 rolls 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These soft and fluffy chocolate rolls are filled with a rich, gooey chocolate filling and baked to perfection. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, they’re easy to make and better than any store-bought treat. Serve warm with a drizzle of glaze for an irresistible homemade delight!
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 3 ½ cups (440g) all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
- ¾ cup (180ml) warm milk (110°F/45°C)
- ¼ cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- ½ tsp salt
For the Chocolate Filling:
- ½ cup (100g) brown sugar
- 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¼ cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup (90g) chopped dark chocolate or mini chocolate chips
For the Optional Glaze:
- 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp milk or heavy cream
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a small bowl, mix warm milk, yeast, and 1 tsp of sugar. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt.
- Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead for 8–10 minutes (by hand or with a stand mixer) until smooth and elastic.
- Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1–1.5 hours until doubled in size.
- Make the Chocolate Filling:
- In a bowl, mix brown sugar, cocoa powder, and softened butter until smooth.
- Chop the dark chocolate into small pieces or use chocolate chips.
- Shape and Fill the Rolls:
- Punch down the risen dough and roll it into a 16×12-inch rectangle.
- Spread the chocolate filling evenly, leaving a ½-inch border.
- Sprinkle chopped chocolate over the filling.
- Roll the dough tightly from the long side into a log.
- Cut into 12 even rolls and arrange in a greased baking dish.
- Cover and let rise for another 30–45 minutes.
- Bake:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake rolls for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before adding the glaze.
- Make the Glaze (Optional):
- Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Drizzle over warm rolls and enjoy!
Notes
- Make-ahead option: Prepare the rolls up to the second rise, then refrigerate overnight. Let come to room temperature before baking.
- Storage: Store at room temperature for up to 2 days, in the fridge for 5 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes or microwave for 15–20 seconds.
- Variations: Add orange zest for a citrus twist, swap dark chocolate for milk chocolate, or sprinkle chopped nuts for extra crunch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Rising Time: 2 hours
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, European
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Keywords: Chocolate Rolls, Homemade Chocolate Rolls, Sweet Rolls, Bakery Chocolate Rolls, Easy Chocolate Roll Recipe