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Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls

Overnight Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Calories: 380

Ingredients
  

  • 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
  • 1/4 cup warm water (110°F)
  • 1/2 cup whole milk, warmed
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tsp fine sea salt
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 3 1/2 to 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (for filling)
  • 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup mini semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (for glaze)
  • 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 to 2 tbsp milk

Method
 

  1. Proof the yeast in warm water until foamy. Whisk together milk, melted butter, sugar, salt, and eggs. Stir in yeast, cocoa, and 2 cups flour. Add remaining flour until a soft dough forms. Knead 6 to 8 minutes, cover, and let rise 1 hour until doubled.
  2. Punch down dough, roll to a 12x18 rectangle. Spread with softened butter, then sprinkle with brown sugar, cinnamon, and chocolate chips. Roll up tightly from a long side.
  3. Cut log into 12 slices and place cut-side up in a greased 9x13 pan. Cover and refrigerate at least 8 hours. Remove from fridge and let sit at room temperature while oven preheats to 350°F.
  4. Bake 20 to 25 minutes until edges are golden. Beat cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until smooth. Let rolls cool 5 minutes, then glaze and serve.

Notes

The dough needs an overnight rise in the fridge (at least 8 hours) after shaping, or you can do a same-day rise of about 45 to 60 minutes at room temperature before baking.