Sourdough Chocolate Rolls

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that will impress your family and friends, these Sourdough Chocolate Rolls are just the ticket! Imagine the comforting aroma of fresh rolls baking in your oven, filling your home with warmth and sweetness. The combination of tangy sourdough and rich chocolate creates a mouthwatering experience that is simply irresistible. Whether it’s a busy weeknight, a cozy family gathering, or a special brunch occasion, these rolls will always be a hit!

What makes this recipe even more special is how easy it is to prepare. With a little planning ahead for the rise time, you can have these delicious rolls ready to enjoy in no time. Plus, they’re perfect for sharing or savoring all on your own!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, even beginner bakers can master these rolls.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack, they fit right in!
• Family-Friendly Delight: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet chocolate surprise in every bite.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the dough in advance and bake when you’re ready for fresh rolls.
• Deliciously Unique Flavor: The tangy notes of sourdough paired with chocolate create an unforgettable taste experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Sourdough Chocolate Rolls come together with simple and wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Each component plays an essential role in creating that fluffy texture and rich flavor we all adore.

For the Dough

• 200 g whole milk
• 100 g sourdough starter, active and bubbly
• 70 g cane sugar
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 430 g bread flour
• 5 g sea salt
• 8 tbs unsalted butter, room temperature (113 g)

For the Filling

• 5 tbs unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1/2 cup cane sugar
• 2 tbs cocoa powder, unsweetened
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

For the Glaze

• 1/4 cup whole milk
• 1/4 cup cocoa powder, unsweetened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily customize these rolls to suit your taste or what you have on hand.

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
• Change the Chocolate: Swap semi-sweet chocolate chips for dark chocolate or even white chocolate if you’re feeling adventurous!
• Try Different Extracts: Experiment with almond or hazelnut extract instead of vanilla in the glaze for a fun twist.
• Make It Fruity: Add dried cherries or cranberries to the filling for a burst of tartness that complements the chocolate.

How to Make Sourdough Chocolate Rolls

Step 1: Prepare Your Dough

Start by warming your milk until it’s lukewarm—this helps activate your sourdough starter. In a large mixing bowl, combine the milk with your bubbly sourdough starter and sugar. Mixing these ingredients brings together sweetness and tanginess right from the start!

Step 2: Mix in Egg and Dry Ingredients

Add in your egg next! This not only enriches the dough but also adds moisture. Gradually mix in bread flour and sea salt until everything is combined. This step is crucial as it helps develop gluten which gives our rolls that lovely fluffy texture.

Step 3: Knead and Rise

Now comes the fun part—kneading! Turn your dough onto a floured surface and knead it for about 10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. Place it back into a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise until doubled in size. Patience is key here; this long rise time gives our rolls their unique flavor.

Step 4: Prepare Your Filling

While waiting for your dough to rise, whip up that rich filling! In a bowl, mix softened butter with cane sugar and cocoa powder until creamy. Fold in semi-sweet chocolate chips. This filling will make each roll a delightful surprise!

Step 5: Shape Your Rolls

Once your dough has risen beautifully, roll it out into a rectangle on a floured surface. Spread your filling evenly over the dough before rolling it tightly into a log shape. Cut them into equal pieces and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 6: Second Rise

Let those beautiful rolls rise again until they puff up nicely—this usually takes about 30-45 minutes. This second rise ensures they are light and fluffy when baked.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake those rolls for about 30 minutes until golden brown. The smell will be heavenly—try not to eat them all straight out of the oven!

Step 8: Drizzle with Glaze

While they cool slightly, prepare that luscious glaze by whisking together whole milk, cocoa powder, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle generously over each roll before serving!

Enjoy every bite of these Sourdough Chocolate Rolls; they truly are made with love! Perfectly sweetened with rich chocolate ribbons throughout—they’re sure to become one of your favorites too!

Pro Tips for Making Sourdough Chocolate Rolls

Making Sourdough Chocolate Rolls can be a delightful experience, and these tips will ensure your rolls turn out perfectly every time!

• Use Active Starter: Ensure your sourdough starter is active and bubbly before using it. This will give your rolls the best rise and flavor, enhancing that signature tanginess.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Bring all refrigerated ingredients to room temperature before mixing. This helps everything combine smoothly, resulting in a fluffy texture.
• Knead Gently: When kneading the dough, do so gently until just combined. Over-kneading can lead to tough rolls, while gentle handling keeps them soft and airy.
• Longer Rise Equals Better Flavor: Don’t rush the rising times. Allowing the dough to rise longer gives it a richer flavor and more complex texture, which is what sourdough is all about!
• Chill Before Baking: If you have time, chilling the shaped rolls in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before baking can enhance their shape and texture. It helps them maintain their structure as they bake.

How to Serve Sourdough Chocolate Rolls

These Sourdough Chocolate Rolls are not only delicious but also visually appealing. Here are some ideas on how to present them beautifully!

Garnishes

• Chocolate Shavings: Sprinkle some chocolate shavings on top of your rolls right before serving for an elegant touch that enhances their chocolatey goodness.
• Fresh Berries: Add a few fresh raspberries or strawberries on the side to provide a pop of color and a refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate flavors.

Side Dishes

• Greek Yogurt: A dollop of plain Greek yogurt adds creaminess and a slight tang that balances the sweetness of the rolls.
• Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant fruit salad with seasonal fruits provides a refreshing complement that lightens up your breakfast spread.
• Coffee or Tea: Pairing these rolls with a warm cup of coffee or herbal tea makes for a perfect cozy morning ritual or afternoon treat.
• Nutty Granola: A sprinkle of crunchy granola on top or served on the side adds texture and additional flavor, making your meal feel wholesome and satisfying.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Sourdough Chocolate Rolls will be a hit at any breakfast table or gathering! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Sourdough Chocolate Rolls are perfect for meal prep! You can make them in advance, allowing you to enjoy a delicious breakfast or snack whenever the craving strikes.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Allow the 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.

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, remove the rolls from the freezer and let them thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
• Reheat in a microwave for about 15-20 seconds or in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might come to mind while preparing your Sourdough Chocolate Rolls.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of bread flour for sourdough chocolate rolls?

Using whole wheat flour will give your Sourdough Chocolate Rolls a denser texture. If you want a lighter roll, stick with bread flour or mix both for added nutrition.

How do I know if my sourdough starter is active enough for this recipe?

Your sourdough starter should be bubbly and have doubled in size after feeding. A simple test is to drop a spoonful of it into a glass of water; if it floats, it’s ready to use!

Can I make Sourdough Chocolate Rolls without using chocolate chips?

Absolutely! You can substitute chocolate chips with chopped nuts or dried fruits if you prefer. Just keep an eye on the sweetness level and adjust accordingly.

How long does it take for the dough to rise?

The rising time can vary but typically takes about 4-6 hours at room temperature. For more flavor, consider letting it rise overnight in the fridge!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Sourdough Chocolate Rolls as much as I do! Their unique combination of tangy sourdough and rich chocolate makes them truly special. Whether you’re serving them at breakfast or enjoying one as a sweet treat during your day, they’re sure to bring joy. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your results!