Chocolate Cinnamon Roll with Espresso Cream Cheese Icing

If you’re looking for a delightful way to treat yourself and your loved ones, I have just the recipe for you! These Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Espresso Cream Cheese Icing bring a cozy twist to your brunch table or dessert spread. Imagine soft, fluffy rolls bursting with cocoa flavor and swirled with warm cinnamon, all topped off with a luscious cream cheese icing infused with espresso. It’s the perfect indulgence for any occasion, whether it’s a lazy Sunday morning or a festive family gathering.

What makes this recipe even more special is how easy it is to prepare. You’ll love the heavenly aroma that fills your kitchen as these rolls bake. Plus, they’re perfect for sharing, making them a hit at potlucks or holiday brunches!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent Flavor: The combination of chocolate and cinnamon creates a rich, comforting taste that everyone loves.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you’ll be able to whip these up in no time!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s breakfast, dessert, or just because, these rolls are versatile enough to fit any moment.
• Make Ahead Convenience: Prepare the dough in advance for an effortless morning treat—just bake and frost when you’re ready!
• Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will adore these sweet rolls; they’re sure to become a beloved recipe in your home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these delicious Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Espresso Cream Cheese Icing, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that you probably already have on hand. Here’s what you need:

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 recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to experiment and make it your own. Here are some fun variations:

• Add Nuts: Mix in some chopped pecans or walnuts into the filling for an extra crunch.
• Use Different Chocolates: Swap semi-sweet chocolate for dark chocolate or even white chocolate chips for a unique twist.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the filling for an aromatic flavor boost.
• Fruit Delight: Sprinkle in some dried cherries or cranberries along with the chocolate for a fruity surprise!

How to Make Chocolate Cinnamon Roll with Espresso Cream Cheese Icing

Step 1: Make the Dough

In the bowl of a stand mixer, start by combining warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let this sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy—the yeast needs this time to activate. Then mix in eggs, softened butter, and salt. Gradually add flour and cocoa powder while kneading with a dough hook. In about 5–7 minutes, the dough should be smooth and slightly tacky. Place it in a greased bowl, cover it up snugly with plastic wrap or a damp cloth, and let it rise until doubled—this can take about 1 to 1½ hours.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

Once your dough has risen beautifully, it’s time to whip up the filling! In a separate bowl, stir together softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and cocoa until it forms a paste. This mixture will be spreadable and filled with delicious flavors that will complement our rolls perfectly.

Step 3: Shape the Rolls

After punching down your risen dough—this releases any air bubbles—roll it out into a rectangle about 12×18 inches. Spread that luscious filling evenly across the surface of the dough. Don’t forget to sprinkle chopped chocolate over this layer! Now roll tightly from one long side into a log shape and cut it into 12 even rolls.

Step 4: Second Rise

Place those beautiful rolls in a greased 9×13-inch pan. Cover them again and allow them to rise for another 30-40 minutes until they look puffy and ready to bake! While they rise, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s nice and hot when you’re ready.

Step 5: Bake

Pop those rolls in the oven and let them bake for about 25–30 minutes until their centers are set and their tops turn lightly golden brown. The smell wafting through your kitchen will be heavenly!

Step 6: Make the Frosting

While your rolls cool slightly after baking, let’s prepare that dreamy frosting! In another bowl, beat together cream cheese and butter until smooth—this step is crucial for achieving that creamy consistency. Gradually add powdered sugar along with ground cinnamon and your espresso mixture. Beat until fluffy; this frosting is going to elevate those rolls!

Step 7: Frost & Serve

Spread that delicious frosting over warm rolls right before serving—they’ll soak up some creaminess while still warm! If you’re feeling fancy, top them off with chocolate curls or flakes for an extra touch of indulgence.

And there you have it—a batch of mouthwatering Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Espresso Cream Cheese Icing that will surely please everyone at your table! Enjoy every bite!

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

Baking can be a delightful adventure, so here are some tips to ensure your chocolate cinnamon rolls turn out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh ingredients: Ensuring that your yeast and baking soda are fresh is crucial for a good rise. Outdated ingredients can lead to dense rolls that don’t fluff up as intended.
• Knead the dough well: Proper kneading develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in a soft and chewy texture. Aim for a smooth, slightly tacky dough that springs back when you poke it.
• Let the dough rise in a warm place: A warm, draft-free environment helps the dough rise better. You can place it in an oven preheated to 200°F (93°C) and then turned off or near a sunny window.
• Don’t skimp on resting time: Allowing the rolls to rest and rise adequately after shaping is essential for achieving that light, airy texture. Patience will reward you with fluffy rolls!
• Spread frosting while warm: Applying the espresso cream cheese icing right after baking allows it to melt slightly into the rolls, creating a luscious coating that enhances flavor and texture.

How to Serve Chocolate Cinnamon Roll with Espresso Cream Cheese Icing

These delicious chocolate cinnamon rolls are perfect for any occasion and can be served in various ways to impress your guests or just treat yourself!

Garnishes

• Chocolate curls: Shave some semi-sweet chocolate with a vegetable peeler to create elegant curls that add visual appeal.
• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle finely chopped walnuts or pecans on top for added crunch and flavor contrast.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A bright and refreshing mix of seasonal fruits complements the richness of the cinnamon rolls.
• Yogurt parfaits: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy, crunchy side that balances sweetness.
• Coffee or tea: Serve these rolls alongside a rich cup of coffee or your favorite herbal tea to enhance their decadent flavors.
• Breakfast quiche: Pairing with a savory quiche adds variety to your brunch spread while keeping things light.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Chocolate Cinnamon Roll with Espresso Cream Cheese Icing will surely delight everyone at your table! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Espresso Cream Cheese Icing are perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time and enjoy them fresh or save some for later. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your delicious rolls.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the rolls to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to a week.

Freezing

• Wrap individual rolls tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped rolls in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen rolls overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Warm the rolls for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave them individually for about 15-20 seconds.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making these delightful treats!

Can I make Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Espresso Cream Cheese Icing vegan?

Absolutely! You can substitute eggs with flax eggs or applesauce, use plant-based milk, and replace butter with margarine or coconut oil. The cream cheese frosting can also be made with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative.

How do I store leftover Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Espresso Cream Cheese Icing?

Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate them for about a week. They can also be frozen for longer storage.

Can I prepare the dough for Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Espresso Cream Cheese Icing the night before?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and let it rise overnight in the refrigerator. Just remember to bring it back to room temperature before shaping and baking.

What can I use instead of instant espresso powder?

If you don’t have instant espresso powder on hand, feel free to use instant coffee granules as a substitute! Just dissolve it similarly in milk.

How do I know when my Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls are done baking?

Your rolls are done when they’re lightly golden on top and the centers feel set. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Espresso Cream Cheese Icing! They’re not just delicious but also bring warmth and comfort to any occasion. Whether it’s a festive brunch or a cozy weekend treat, these rolls are sure to impress. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your experience—I would love to hear how they turn out for you