Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Hazelnut Icing Recipe

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If you adore the cozy spices of cinnamon and the indulgent allure of chocolate, then you are going to fall head over heels for this Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Hazelnut Icing Recipe. These rolls are the perfect blend of soft, fluffy dough swirled with a rich cocoa twist and a generous filling of cinnamon sugar, all topped with a luscious hazelnut icing that’s creamy, nutty, and downright addictive. Whether it’s a weekend brunch or a special treat to brighten your day, these rolls feel like a warm hug fresh from the oven, inviting you to savor every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind this Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Hazelnut Icing Recipe lies in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a vital role, from creating tender dough to building layers of flavor and finishing with that irresistible hazelnut glaze.

• 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for soft, pillowy rolls that rise beautifully.
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds a deep chocolate flavor and rich color.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Balances the cocoa’s bitterness and helps activate the yeast.
• 1 packet instant yeast (2 1/4 tsp): Essential for that fluffy, risen texture.
• 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors in the dough.
• 1 cup warm milk (110°F): Activates the yeast and creates a tender crumb.
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and moisture.
• 1 large egg: Gives structure and a beautiful golden hue.
• 1/2 cup brown sugar: Brings a deep, caramel sweetness to the filling.
• 2 tbsp ground cinnamon: Infuses the rolls with classic warmth and spice.
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened: For that melty layer that helps the filling stick.
• Optional 1/2 cup crushed nuts (hazelnuts or pecans): Adds crunch and extra nutty flavor to the filling.
• 1 cup powdered sugar: The base for the smooth, sweet icing.
• 1/4 cup hazelnut spread (like Nutella): Brings creamy hazelnut richness to the glaze.
• 2-3 tbsp milk: Adjusts icing consistency to a perfect drizzle.

How to Make Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Hazelnut Icing Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by combining the dry ingredients — flour, cocoa powder, sugar, yeast, and salt — in a large bowl. Then, add the warm milk, melted butter, and egg, stirring until everything forms a soft dough. Knead this dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. Place it in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise for around an hour until it doubles in size. This patience results in a tender and airy base that sets these rolls apart.

Step 2: Make the Filling

While the dough is rising, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. This simple blend is the heart of the rolls’ irresistible filling, creating that classic warm sweetness that complements the chocolate perfectly.

Step 3: Assemble the Rolls

After the dough has risen, gently roll it out into a 12 by 18-inch rectangle. Spread the softened butter evenly over the surface — this buttery layer helps the cinnamon sugar to stick and melt into the dough during baking. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture generously, and if you’re using nuts, scatter the crushed hazelnuts or pecans on top for an extra layer of flavor and texture. Then, roll the dough tightly from one long edge, creating even spirals, and cut it into 12 slices.

Step 4: Second Rise

Place these sliced rolls in a greased baking dish, leaving a little space between each one so they can expand as they bake. Cover the dish and allow the rolls to rise a second time for about 30 minutes — this step ensures they become light and fluffy.

Step 5: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for approximately 25 minutes until they turn a gorgeous golden-brown and fill your kitchen with that comforting aroma. This is the moment when the dough sets, and the cinnamon sugar melts into gooey pockets inside each roll.

Step 6: Make the Icing

While the rolls are baking, whisk together powdered sugar, hazelnut spread, and milk until smooth and creamy. Adjust the milk to get the icing to the right consistency for drizzling—thick enough to coat but thin enough to flow luxuriously over each roll.

Step 7: Glaze the Rolls

Let the rolls cool for a few minutes once out of the oven. Then generously drizzle the hazelnut icing over them so it pools in between each swirl, turning every bite into a sweet, nutty indulgence.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Serve these Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Hazelnut Icing Recipe warm for the ultimate experience. Paired with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate, they’re pure comfort in edible form.

How to Serve Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Hazelnut Icing Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate presentation, consider sprinkling some toasted chopped hazelnuts or pecans over the icing. A light dusting of cocoa powder or a few chocolate shavings can also add a decorative flourish that hints at the chocolatey goodness inside.

Side Dishes

These rolls shine on their own but can be paired with fresh fruit like strawberries or orange slices for a refreshing contrast. A side of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can turn your breakfast treat into a decadent dessert.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties or brunch gatherings, arrange the rolls on a rustic wooden board or in individual cupcake liners to make serving effortless. You could even slice the batch into smaller bite-sized pieces for a fun finger food option that everyone can enjoy.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps their soft texture intact while allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Refrigeration tends to dry them out, so it’s best avoided unless your kitchen is very warm.

Freezing

If you want to prepare ahead, these rolls freeze brilliantly. After baking and cooling completely, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil or place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature.

Reheating

To revive that fresh-baked softness and melty icing feel, gently warm the rolls in a microwave for about 15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 300°F for 5-7 minutes. If needed, add a drizzle more of the hazelnut icing to refresh their luscious finish.

FAQs

Can I use a different nut spread for the icing?

Absolutely! While hazelnut spread is classic and delicious here, you can experiment with almond butter or peanut butter combined with powdered sugar and milk for a unique twist.

Is it possible to make the dough without cocoa powder?

Yes, omitting cocoa powder will give you traditional cinnamon rolls rather than chocolate ones. For this Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Hazelnut Icing Recipe though, cocoa powder is key to that signature chocolate flavor and color.

How do I know if my yeast is still active?

Check your yeast by mixing it with warm water and a pinch of sugar before adding to the dough. If it bubbles and foams within 5-10 minutes, it’s active and ready to help your rolls rise perfectly.

Can I make these rolls vegan?

To veganize this recipe, substitute milk with a plant-based alternative, use vegan butter, and replace the egg with a flaxseed or chia “egg” mixture. Adjust rising times as needed for best results.

Why do my rolls sometimes turn out dense?

Dense rolls can result from under-kneading, using water that’s too hot or too cold for the yeast, or skipping the second rise. Following each step carefully, especially proofing, will ensure light and fluffy rolls every time.

Final Thoughts

Making the Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Hazelnut Icing Recipe is truly a rewarding baking adventure that fills your home with warmth and irresistible aromas. Once you experience the soft cocoa-infused dough paired with that luscious hazelnut glaze, you’ll find it hard not to share this delicious creation with everyone you love. So roll up your sleeves and treat yourself to a batch — your taste buds will thank you!

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