Chocolate Cinnamon Roll with Espresso Cream Cheese Icing

If you’re looking for a cozy, indulgent treat that’s perfect for any occasion, look no further than these Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Espresso Cream Cheese Icing. Imagine soft, fluffy rolls filled with rich cocoa and warm cinnamon, all topped with a luscious coffee-flavored frosting. This recipe brings comfort to the breakfast table, perfect for lazy weekends or special family gatherings. Every bite feels like a warm hug!

These rolls are not just delicious; they also make your kitchen smell heavenly as they bake. Whether you’re treating yourself on a busy weeknight or impressing guests at brunch, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent flavor: The combination of chocolate and cinnamon creates a delightful taste that is hard to resist.
• Easy to prepare: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers will feel confident tackling this recipe.
• Perfect for sharing: These rolls make 12 generous servings, making them ideal for family and friends.
• Make-ahead option: You can prepare the dough the night before and let it rise in the fridge for easy baking in the morning.
• Customizable toppings: Feel free to add your favorite toppings like chocolate curls or nuts for an extra touch!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients makes this recipe even more enjoyable. You’ll find everything you need right in your pantry and fridge. Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

For the Dough

• 240 g whole milk (1 cup, warmed to 110°F)
• 2 ¼ tsp instant yeast (1 packet)
• 50 g granulated sugar (¼ cup)
• 2 large eggs (room temperature)
• 115 g unsalted butter (½ cup, softened)
• 1 tsp salt
• 570 g all-purpose flour (4 3/4 cups)
• 30 g unsweetened cocoa powder (¼ cup)

For the Filling

• 113 g unsalted butter (½ cup, softened)
• 200 g brown sugar (1 cup, packed)
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
• 50 g semi-sweet chocolate (finely chopped or mini chips)

For the Frosting

• 225 g cream cheese (8 oz, room temperature)
• 60 g unsalted butter (¼ cup, room temperature)
• 240 g powdered sugar (2 cups, sifted)
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 2 tsp instant espresso powder (dissolved in 1 tbsp milk or cream)
• Pinch of salt

Variations

This Chocolate Cinnamon Roll with Espresso Cream Cheese Icing recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative based on what you have or what flavors you love:

• Add nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans can add a delightful crunch.
• Try different chocolates: Use dark chocolate or white chocolate chips for a twist on flavor.
• Mix in fruit: Diced bananas or strawberries can be added to the filling for a fruity surprise.
• Experiment with spices: A dash of nutmeg or cardamom can elevate the flavor profile beautifully.

How to Make Chocolate Cinnamon Roll with Espresso Cream Cheese Icing

Step 1: Make the Dough

In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy; this step is crucial as it activates the yeast. Then mix in the eggs, softened butter, and salt. Add in flour and cocoa powder before kneading with a dough hook for about 5–7 minutes until you have a smooth and slightly tacky dough. Place it in a greased bowl, cover it up, and let it rise for about 1–1 ½ hours until it’s doubled in size. This first rise helps develop flavor and texture.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

While waiting for your dough to rise, stir together softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and cocoa into a paste. This filling is what makes these rolls so indulgent!

Step 3: Shape the Rolls

Once your dough has risen beautifully, punch it down gently to release gas bubbles. Roll it out into a large rectangle measuring approximately 12×18 inches. Spread your filling evenly across this surface and sprinkle chopped chocolate over it. Now roll tightly from one long side into a log shape and cut into 12 even rolls.

Step 4: Second Rise

Place the rolls into a greased 9×13-inch pan. Cover them lightly and let them rise again for about 30–40 minutes until puffy. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) during this time so it’s ready when your rolls are!

Step 5: Bake

Bake those lovely rolls in your preheated oven for about 25–30 minutes until their centers are set and tops are lightly golden. Your kitchen will smell divine!

Step 6: Make the Frosting

While your rolls are baking away, beat together cream cheese and butter until smooth in texture. Gradually add powdered sugar along with cinnamon and your dissolved espresso mixture plus salt. Beat this delightful mixture until fluffy—this frosting is everything!

Step 7: Frost & Serve

Once baked rolls have cooled slightly but are still warm, spread that luscious frosting generously over each roll! If you’re feeling extra fancy, top them off with some chocolate curls or flakes before serving immediately. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making Chocolate Cinnamon Roll with Espresso Cream Cheese Icing

Creating the perfect Chocolate Cinnamon Roll with Espresso Cream Cheese Icing is a delightful adventure, and these tips will help ensure your rolls are a hit!

• Use fresh yeast: Always check the expiration date on your yeast. Fresh yeast guarantees that your dough will rise beautifully, resulting in soft and fluffy rolls.

• Knead until smooth: Properly kneading the dough for 5–7 minutes is crucial. It develops gluten, which gives your rolls their lovely structure and texture.

• Don’t rush the rising: Letting the dough rise until it has doubled in size is essential. This slow fermentation enhances flavor and ensures a light, airy roll.

• Check oven temperature: Use an oven thermometer to confirm that your oven is at the right temperature. Baking at the correct temperature ensures even cooking, preventing overly dry or soggy rolls.

• Experiment with fillings: Feel free to get creative with your filling! Adding nuts or different types of chocolate can give a unique twist to the classic recipe while keeping it deliciously indulgent.

How to Serve Chocolate Cinnamon Roll with Espresso Cream Cheese Icing

Serving these decadent chocolate cinnamon rolls can be just as fun as making them! Here are some ideas to elevate your presentation and make them irresistibly inviting.

Garnishes

• Chocolate curls: Shave some dark chocolate with a vegetable peeler for an elegant touch that complements the flavors.
• Fresh berries: Add a handful of fresh raspberries or strawberries for a pop of color and a refreshing contrast to the rich rolls.
• Powdered sugar dusting: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a sweet touch and makes your baked goods look pro-level!

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the sweetness of your rolls perfectly.
• Greek yogurt with honey: The creaminess of Greek yogurt drizzled with honey offers a tangy contrast that pairs beautifully with the rich flavors.
• Coffee or herbal tea: A warm cup of coffee or soothing herbal tea complements the espresso cream cheese icing while enhancing the overall experience.
• Scrambled eggs: For a savory balance, serve fluffy scrambled eggs on the side. Their mild flavor provides a satisfying counterpoint to sweet cinnamon rolls.

Enjoy every bite of your Chocolate Cinnamon Roll with Espresso Cream Cheese Icing! Whether it’s brunch with friends or a special treat for yourself, these rolls are sure to bring joy to any occasion.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Espresso Cream Cheese Icing are not only a delightful treat but also perfect for meal prep! You can enjoy the indulgence of fresh, warm rolls any time with just a little planning.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For extended freshness, refrigerate them for up to a week.
• If you prefer, you can also wrap individual rolls tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a container.

Freezing

• Allow the baked rolls to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Don’t forget to label your containers!

Reheating

• To reheat from the refrigerator, simply place a roll on a microwave-safe plate and warm it for about 20-30 seconds.
• For frozen rolls, let them thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat as above, or bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious recipe!

Can I make Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Espresso Cream Cheese Icing without eggs?

Absolutely! You can substitute the eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce. Use 1 tablespoon of flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg or replace each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce for a vegan version.

What if I don’t have espresso powder?

If you can’t find espresso powder, feel free to use instant coffee granules instead. Just dissolve them in the same amount of milk or cream as indicated in the recipe for that rich coffee flavor.

How should I store my Chocolate Cinnamon Roll with Espresso Cream Cheese Icing?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them wrapped tightly!

Can I add nuts or different fillings to my rolls?

Definitely! Feel free to customize these rolls by adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans or even swapping out chocolate for dried fruit such as raisins or cranberries.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Espresso Cream Cheese Icing as much as I do! They are not just sweet treats; they bring warmth and joy into your home. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a cozy weekend morning, these rolls are sure to impress. Happy baking!