Rich & Fluffy Chocolate Sweet Rolls

Ingredients:

For the dough:

  • 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
  • 1/2 cup warm milk (110°F)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 large eggs
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the chocolate filling:

  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (or chopped chocolate)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
  • 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the glaze:

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons milk (or heavy cream for richness)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions:

  1. Activate the yeast:
    In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and 1 tablespoon of sugar in the warm milk. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy.
  2. Make the dough:
    In a large mixing bowl, combine the yeast mixture with the remaining sugar, softened butter, eggs, salt, and vanilla extract. Gradually add in the flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms.
  3. Knead the dough:
    Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook to knead on medium speed for about 5 minutes.
  4. Let the dough rise:
    Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover with a clean kitchen towel. Allow it to rise for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.
  5. Prepare the chocolate filling:
    While the dough is rising, make the chocolate filling by melting the butter and mixing it with the brown sugar, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract. Stir in the chocolate chips until smooth. Let it cool slightly.
  6. Roll out the dough:
    Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll the dough into a rectangle about 12×18 inches in size.
  7. Spread the filling:
    Spread the chocolate mixture evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Roll the dough tightly from the long side, creating a log.
  8. Cut the rolls:
    Slice the dough into 12 equal pieces and arrange them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, placing the spiral side up.
  9. Let the rolls rise again:
    Cover the dish with a towel and let the rolls rise for another 30 minutes, or until they have puffed up.
  10. Bake the rolls:
    Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
  11. Make the glaze:
    While the rolls are baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust the consistency with more milk if necessary.
  12. Glaze the rolls:
    Once the rolls are out of the oven and slightly cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top while they are still warm.
  13. Serve:
    Let the rolls cool for a few minutes before serving. They’re best enjoyed warm and gooey!

Notes:

  • If you want an extra rich filling, add a couple of tablespoons of heavy cream to the chocolate filling.
  • For a more decadent treat, you can top the rolls with whipped cream or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
  • You can make the dough ahead of time, refrigerate it overnight, and bake the rolls in the morning for an easy breakfast option.

Nutrition (per serving):

  • Calories: ~350-400 kcal (depends on portion size and glaze)
  • Protein: ~5g
  • Carbs: ~50g
  • Fat: ~15g
  • Fiber: ~3g
  • Sodium: ~250mg