Ingredients
For the Dough
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1 cup (240 g) whole milk, warmed to 100–110°F
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2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
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½ cup (90 g) brown sugar
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1 whole egg + 1 egg yolk
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1 tablespoon vanilla extract
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4 cups (480 g) all-purpose flour
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½ cup (50 g) dark cocoa powder, sifted
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1 teaspoon instant coffee (optional)
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1 teaspoon kosher salt
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2 ounces (½ stick) butter, softened
For the Filling
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2 ounces (½ stick) butter, softened
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2 tablespoons dark cocoa powder
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2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
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½ cup (90 g) dark brown sugar
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1 teaspoon instant coffee (optional)
For the Glaze
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1 cup (130 g) powdered sugar, sifted
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¼ cup (25 g) cocoa powder, sifted
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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About 4 tablespoons cream or milk (adjust to desired consistency)
Instructions
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Activate the yeast: Warm the milk to 100–110°F. Pour into a mixing bowl and sprinkle the yeast over the top. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
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Mix wet ingredients: Add brown sugar, egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract. Stir to combine.
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Make the dough: Add flour, sifted cocoa powder, instant coffee, salt, and softened butter. Knead with a dough hook on speed 2 for 6–7 minutes, scraping the bowl as needed, until the dough forms. It should be soft and slightly sticky. If too wet, add a tablespoon of flour at a time.
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First rise: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp towel and let the dough rise in a warm spot for 60–90 minutes or until doubled in size.
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Prepare filling: Mix softened butter, cocoa powder, cinnamon, dark brown sugar, vanilla, and instant coffee into a smooth paste.
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Shape the rolls: Turn the dough out onto a cocoa-dusted surface. Roll it into a large rectangle (about 14×18 inches). Spread the filling evenly. Roll the dough tightly into a log and cut into 12 equal pieces.
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Second rise: Arrange rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover and let rise for another 60–90 minutes until puffy.
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Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake rolls for 30–35 minutes until they’re golden and cooked through.
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Make glaze: Whisk powdered sugar, cocoa powder, vanilla, and cream until smooth. Drizzle over warm rolls.
Notes
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Ensure the milk is not hotter than 110°F; otherwise, it can kill the yeast.
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For an extra-rich flavor, mix melted dark chocolate into the glaze.
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These rolls can be frozen (unbaked or baked) for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Additional Rise Time: 2 hours
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian