Chocolate Sweet Rolls

By Tyla | Last modified on Feb 26, 2026

Featured in: Desserts

Nothing beats the comforting aroma of freshly baked chocolate sweet rolls filling your kitchen on a quiet morning. These rolls offer a perfect blend of soft, fluffy bread swirled with a rich chocolate and warm cinnamon filling that melts in your mouth, making every bite a delightful indulgence. Ideal for brightening up breakfast or treating yourself at dessert time, they bring warmth and happiness to any table.

This recipe is designed to be approachable and forgiving, making it a great project for bakers of all levels. Prepare the dough ahead of time to have these delightful rolls ready for an effortless morning surprise that feels both special and homemade.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Soft, fluffy bread paired with rich chocolate and warm cinnamon for irresistible flavor.
Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, bringing joy to both kids and adults.
Make-ahead dough option for a stress-free baking experience.
Simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps.

Ingredients

Whole milk: Provides the liquid base for a tender dough, adding richness and moisture.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough and activates the yeast to ensure proper rising.
Active dry or instant yeast: Essential for making the dough rise and creating fluffy rolls.
Unsalted butter (melted): Adds softness and a rich buttery flavor to the dough.
Large eggs: Help to enrich the dough and give structure.
Bread flour: High protein flour that provides structure and chewiness in the rolls.
Brown sugar: Used in the filling to add sweetness with a hint of molasses depth.
Cocoa powder: Delivers the rich chocolate flavor in the filling.
Ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and spice that complements the chocolate perfectly.
Semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melt during baking for pockets of gooey chocolate throughout.

Instructions

Activate the Yeast: In a mixing bowl, whisk the warm milk with 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar and the yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy to ensure your yeast is alive and ready. This step is crucial for a good rise and fluffy texture.
Combine Wet Ingredients and Flour: Add the remaining sugar, melted butter, eggs, salt, and one cup of bread flour to the yeast mixture. Mix on medium speed to integrate ingredients gently. This develops the dough’s structure and incorporates air for lightness.
Knead the Dough: Gradually add the remaining flour while mixing until a soft dough forms that’s slightly sticky but manageable. Knead by hand or with a mixer for 6–8 minutes until elastic and smooth, which creates gluten for a perfect chew.
First Rise: Place the dough into a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 2 hours until doubled. This slows activates fermentation, enhancing flavor and texture.
Prepare Filling and Roll Dough: On a floured surface, roll the dough into a large rectangle. Evenly sprinkle the brown sugar, cocoa powder, ground cinnamon, and chocolate chips over the dough. Roll up tightly to enclose the filling and keep flavors sealed inside.
Slice and Arrange: Cut the rolled dough into twelve equal slices using a sharp knife or dental floss to keep the shapes intact. Place the rolls cut-side up in a greased baking dish for even baking and a beautiful spiral appearance.
Second Rise: Cover the rolls loosely again and let them rise for another hour until they puff noticeably. This final proof ensures a soft crumb and tender rolls after baking.
Bake to Golden Perfection: Bake the rolls at 350°F (177°C) for 25–28 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. The smell of chocolate and cinnamon filling baking through will fill your kitchen and tease your senses.
Prepare and Drizzle Icing: Mix warmed cream, confectioners’ sugar, espresso powder, and vanilla extract to create a rich, glossy icing. Drizzle generously over warm rolls to add sweetness and a subtle coffee flavor contrast.

You Must Know

Make sure your milk is warm (not hot) to avoid killing the yeast.
Kneading time is essential for developing the gluten needed in bread dough.
Allowing the dough to rise fully twice guarantees a light and airy texture.
Use a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss to slice the rolls evenly and cleanly.

Storage Tips

Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to keep them soft. For longer storage, freeze the cooled rolls wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Reheat gently before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm with coffee, tea, or a glass of cold milk. These rolls also pair wonderfully with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for an elevated dessert experience.

Professional Tips

Allow the dough to come to room temperature before rolling out for easier handling.
Brush the dough with melted butter before adding filling for extra richness.
Let the rolls cool slightly before adding icing to prevent melting into the dough.

FAQs

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?: Yes, but bread flour’s higher protein content gives better chew and structure. Using all-purpose may yield softer rolls.
What if I don’t have cocoa powder?: You can substitute with melted chocolate but reduce liquid slightly. Unsweetened cocoa gives a more pronounced chocolate flavor.
Can I prepare the dough the night before?: Yes! After kneading, cover and refrigerate overnight. Allow the dough to come to room temperature before proceeding.
How do I store leftover rolls?: Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or freeze for longer storage. Reheat gently before eating.
Can I add nuts or dried fruit?: Absolutely. Chopped nuts or dried cherries add a nice texture and flavor twist inside the filling.
What is the purpose of the espresso powder in the icing?: Espresso powder enhances the chocolate flavor without adding a strong coffee taste, making the icing richer.