chocolate peanut butter sweet rolls

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of chocolate and creamy peanut butter, you’ve come to the right place! These chocolate peanut butter sweet rolls are a family favorite in my home. They are perfect for cozy weekend brunches, holiday gatherings, or even just a sweet pick-me-up after a long day. The soft, fluffy rolls paired with a luscious frosting make them an irresistible indulgence that everyone will enjoy.

What I love most about this recipe is how it fills the kitchen with warmth and delicious aromas as it bakes. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make! Whether you’re baking these sweet rolls for breakfast or dessert, they bring smiles all around and are sure to become a cherished tradition in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll find this recipe approachable and fun.
• Family-Friendly: Chocolate and peanut butter are classic flavors loved by kids and adults alike!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the dough in advance, letting it rise overnight for fresh-baked rolls in the morning.
• Customizable Toppings: Add your favorite toppings or fillings to make each batch unique!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These chocolate peanut butter sweet rolls use simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need to whip up this delicious treat!

For the Rolls

• 1 cup milk {dairy or non-dairy}
• 1 3/4 cups white flour {+ 3/4 cup (separated)}
• 1/4 cup dark cocoa powder {regular is okay too!}
• ¼ cup vegetable oil or melted coconut oil
• ¼ cup white sugar
• ½ tbsp instant active dry yeast {about ½ a package}
• ¼ tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp baking soda
• ¼ tsp salt

For the Filling

• 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter
• 2-3 tbsp sugar
• 1/4 cup chocolate chips

For the Frosting

• 4 oz cream cheese (at room temperature)
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter (at room temperature)
• 1-2 tbsp peanut butter (to taste)
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• pinch of salt
• chopped peanut butter cups

Variations

This recipe is quite flexible, allowing you to customize it to fit your tastes! Here are some fun variations you can try:

• Add nuts: Throw in some chopped peanuts for added crunch.
• Switch up the chocolate: Use white chocolate chips instead of regular chocolate chips for a different flavor.
• Try different nut butters: Substitute almond or cashew butter if you’re feeling adventurous!
• Make it cinnamon-y: Sprinkle some cinnamon into the filling for an extra layer of flavor.

How to Make chocolate peanut butter sweet rolls

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a large nonstick pot, combine the milk, oil, and ¼ cup of sugar. Heat it up until it’s about 120°F; it should feel warm but not burning hot. Once heated, remove from heat and sprinkle the yeast on top. Letting this mixture sit for a few minutes helps activate the yeast so your rolls will rise beautifully.

Step 2: Mix in Flour and Cocoa

Mix in 1 3/4 cups of flour along with your cocoa powder. Cover the pot with a clean tea towel and let your dough rise for about an hour. This first rise is crucial as it develops flavor and texture.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

After an hour has passed, add in your salt, baking powder, baking soda, and additional flour as needed. Knead until everything is well combined; the goal is a soft yet smooth dough that isn’t too sticky! Cutting an X on top helps create space for rising later on.

Step 4: Second Rise

Cover the dough again with a tea towel and let it rise for an additional 6 hours—or even overnight if possible! The cocoa can slow down rising time slightly. This step enhances texture and flavor.

Step 5: Roll Out Your Dough

Once risen, lightly flour your surface and dump out the dough. Knead gently while adding more flour as needed until it’s smooth. Roll it out into a rectangle shape (not too thin!). Spread that creamy peanut butter all over—microwaving it for just a few seconds makes spreading easier—then sprinkle on sugar and chocolate chips!

Step 6: Roll It Up

Starting with one long side closest to you, carefully roll up your dough while keeping all that delicious filling inside.

Step 7: Cut Into Rolls

Using a large knife, slice into 1½–2 inch pieces and place them in a greased 9×13 pan. Make sure there’s space between each roll; they need room to rise!

Step 8: Final Rise

Cover with plastic wrap again; let them rise either for an hour in a warm space or refrigerate overnight if desired.

Step 9: Baking Time

When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 375°F. Bake those beauties for about 15–18 minutes until they’re no longer doughy on top.

Step 10: Make Your Frosting

While those rolls bake away, it’s frosting time! In a medium bowl, beat together cream cheese, peanut butter, and softened butter until all is smooth. Add powdered sugar along with vanilla extract and salt—mixing until creamy!

Step 11: Frost & Enjoy!

Once cooled slightly after baking, spread that heavenly frosting over the rolls and finish with chopped peanut butter cups on top. Enjoy every bite of these delightful chocolate peanut butter sweet rolls!

Pro Tips for Making chocolate peanut butter sweet rolls

Making chocolate peanut butter sweet rolls is a delightful experience, and with these handy tips, you’ll elevate your baking game even further!

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh yeast and quality peanut butter make a big difference in flavor and texture. Check expiration dates to ensure your rolls rise beautifully.
• Temperature matters – When warming the milk, be sure it’s not too hot! If your milk is too hot, it can kill the yeast, preventing the dough from rising properly.
• Knead well – Kneading helps develop gluten, giving your rolls that perfect soft and fluffy texture. Don’t rush this step; aim for at least 2-3 minutes of kneading for optimal results.
• Let it rise – Be patient during the rising times! The longer you let the dough rise (up to 8 hours), the better the flavor will develop. Overnight is ideal if you can plan ahead.
• Experiment with toppings – Feel free to mix in different toppings or fillings like nuts or dried fruit. This adds a personal touch and variety to each batch!

How to Serve chocolate peanut butter sweet rolls

These chocolate peanut butter sweet rolls are not only delicious but also visually appealing! Present them on a lovely platter or individual plates with some decorative touches for an inviting dessert or breakfast treat.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts – Sprinkle crushed peanuts on top of the frosting for an added crunch and nutty flavor.
• Drizzle of chocolate syrup – A light drizzle of chocolate syrup over the frosted rolls creates a beautiful presentation and enhances the chocolate flavor.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad – A refreshing fruit salad balances out the sweetness of the rolls. Think berries, melons, or citrus fruits for a burst of color and flavor.
• Yogurt parfaits – Serve alongside creamy yogurt layered with granola and fruits. It complements the rich sweetness while adding some tanginess.
• Coffee or tea – A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea pairs perfectly with these sweet rolls, enhancing their flavors while providing a cozy beverage option.

With these serving suggestions, your chocolate peanut butter sweet rolls will be a hit at any gathering or simply enjoyed at home!

Make Ahead and Storage

This chocolate peanut butter sweet rolls recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious treats throughout the week without much hassle. You can easily make these rolls ahead of time and store them for later enjoyment!

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 freshness, keep the container in the refrigerator where they can last up to a week.

Freezing

• After baking and cooling, wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place the wrapped rolls in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months, ensuring you have an indulgent treat on hand whenever you need one!

Reheating

• To reheat, remove the desired number of rolls from the freezer and let them thaw in the fridge overnight if possible.
• For quick reheating, place them in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave in 15-second intervals until warm.
• If you prefer a crispy exterior, reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Got questions? No problem! Here are some common inquiries about chocolate peanut butter sweet rolls that might help.

Can I make chocolate peanut butter sweet rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and let it rise overnight in the refrigerator, making it easy to bake fresh rolls whenever you’re ready.

How do I store leftover chocolate peanut butter sweet rolls?

Store your leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate them for up to a week.

What can I use instead of cream cheese for frosting?

If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use a dairy-free cream cheese substitute or even Greek yogurt mixed with powdered sugar for a lighter option.

Can I freeze chocolate peanut butter sweet rolls?

Yes! Freeze them after baking by wrapping each roll tightly. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months, ready for a delightful treat anytime!

How long do chocolate peanut butter sweet rolls take to prepare?

The total time is around 6 hours including rising times. However, most of that is hands-off waiting time!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating these delightful chocolate peanut butter sweet rolls! They combine comfort and sweetness perfectly, making them an excellent addition to your baking repertoire. Whether shared with friends or enjoyed solo, these rolls are sure to bring smiles all around. Enjoy making this special treat and feel free to share your experience with me—I’d love to hear how they turn out!