Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Hazelnut Icing

If you’re looking for a delightful way to brighten your mornings, these Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Hazelnut Icing are just the ticket! There’s something truly special about pulling a warm, gooey roll from the oven and savoring its rich cocoa flavor combined with that comforting hint of cinnamon. These rolls are not only perfect for cozy weekend brunches but also make an impressive centerpiece for family gatherings or holiday breakfasts. Trust me; they will have everyone reaching for seconds!

What makes this recipe even better is how easy it is to prepare. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting, you’ll find that making these Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Hazelnut Icing is a breeze. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll be able to whip up a batch in no time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: Even if you’re new to baking, this recipe guides you through each step.
• Family-Friendly: With their sweet chocolatey goodness, kids and adults alike will love these rolls!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a busy weekday morning or a festive brunch, these rolls fit right in.
• Make Ahead Option: Prepare the dough the night before and enjoy fresh rolls in the morning!
• Deliciously Decadent: The combination of chocolate and hazelnut icing is simply irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this recipe, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you will need to create your own batch of Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Hazelnut Icing:

For the Dough

• 4 – 4 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 packets Fleischmann’s RapidRise® Yeast
• ½ cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 ½ cups warm water
• 6 tablespoons butter
• 1 egg

For the Filling

• 3 tablespoons softened butter
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• ⅓ cup sugar

For the Icing

• ½ cup softened butter
• 1 cup hazelnut spread (like Nutella)
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• Milk (as needed)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to get creative in the kitchen! Here are a few ideas for variations that can add your personal touch:

• Add Nuts: Chop up some hazelnuts or walnuts and sprinkle them in for extra crunch.
• Try Different Spices: Mix in some nutmeg or cardamom for a unique twist on flavor.
• Use Different Spreads: Experiment with almond butter or peanut butter instead of hazelnut spread.
• Top with Fruit: Add sliced bananas or berries on top of the icing for a fresh finish.

How to Make Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Hazelnut Icing

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan. This ensures that your rolls bake evenly and don’t stick when it’s time to serve!

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together your dry ingredients: flour, cocoa powder, sugar, yeast, and salt. Mixing these well helps distribute the yeast evenly throughout your dough.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, combine warm water and butter; stir until the butter is mostly melted. This step is crucial because using warm water activates the yeast and helps create soft rolls.

Step 4: Mix Dough Together

Add an egg to the dry mixture followed by your warm water mixture. Stir until everything combines into a sticky dough. It’s okay if it feels messy at first—this part is all about bringing those flavors together!

Step 5: Knead Your Dough

Gradually add more flour until the dough holds together but remains slightly sticky. Knead on a floured surface for about 4-6 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Kneading develops gluten which gives your rolls their fluffy texture.

Step 6: Let It Rise

Cover your dough and let it rise in a warm area for about 10 minutes. This short rise helps give it just enough lift before shaping!

Step 7: Roll It Out

Roll out your dough into a rectangle (15×10 inches). Spread softened butter over the surface generously—this creates that wonderfully rich filling we all crave!

Step 8: Sprinkle Cinnamon Mixture

In a separate bowl, mix together cinnamon and sugar; then sprinkle this blend evenly over the buttered dough. This step adds so much flavor that will seep throughout each roll.

Step 9: Shape Your Rolls

Roll the dough tightly from one long side to another; pinch seams to seal well. This ensures that all those delicious layers stay intact as they bake!

Step 10: Cut Into Rolls

Using a sharp knife or dental floss (yes, really!), cut into 12 equal rolls. Using dental floss helps keep those layers intact without squishing them.

Step 11: Arrange & Rise Again

Arrange rolls cut-side down in your prepared pan; cover again and let rise for about an hour until they double in size. Patience here pays off big time with fluffy results!

Step 12: Bake Your Rolls

Bake for about 25-35 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. The smell wafting through your kitchen during baking is almost as good as eating them!

Step 13: Prepare Hazelnut Icing

While they bake, beat softened butter until fluffy in a bowl; gradually add powdered sugar, hazelnut spread, salt, and milk until desired consistency is reached. This icing is creamy perfection!

Step 14: Finish & Serve!

Spread icing over warm rolls before serving—they’ll soak up some of that deliciousness! Enjoy every bite of these Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Hazelnut Icing hot out of the oven!

Pro Tips for Making Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Hazelnut Icing

Baking can be a delightful experience, and with these tips, you’ll elevate your chocolate cinnamon rolls to perfection!

• Use fresh ingredients: Ensure your yeast is active by checking the expiration date. Fresh ingredients lead to better rise and overall flavor.
• Knead thoroughly: Kneading the dough for 4-6 minutes helps develop gluten, resulting in soft and fluffy rolls that are perfectly chewy.
• Monitor rising time: Keep an eye on the dough while it rises. The warm environment should help it double in size; if it’s taking too long, try a slightly warmer spot.
• Don’t skip the icing: The hazelnut icing is what makes these rolls truly special! Spread it on while the rolls are warm so that it melts slightly and creates a gooey topping.
• Experiment with fillings: Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips along with the cinnamon and sugar for an extra layer of flavor!

How to Serve Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Hazelnut Icing

These chocolate cinnamon rolls look as good as they taste, making them perfect for any occasion! Whether it’s a cozy brunch or a festive gathering, here’s how to present this delightful dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped hazelnuts: Sprinkle some chopped hazelnuts over the icing for added crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the rolls beautifully.
• Fresh berries: Serve alongside fresh raspberries or strawberries for a pop of color and a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the rolls.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness to your table and balances out the sweetness of the rolls.
• Greek yogurt: A dollop of creamy Greek yogurt provides a tangy contrast that pairs wonderfully with sweet pastries, enhancing their flavor profile.
• Coffee or tea: Brewed coffee or herbal tea makes for a comforting drink option that perfectly complements the warmth and richness of your chocolate cinnamon rolls.
• Smoothie bowl: A light smoothie bowl can offer a refreshing counterpoint, packed with nutrients and flavors that harmonize well with your decadent treat.

With these serving suggestions, your Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Hazelnut Icing will shine at any gathering! Enjoy creating delicious memories around this fantastic recipe.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Hazelnut Icing are perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare them in advance, making them a delightful treat any time you crave something sweet.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• Always let the icing cool before covering to prevent it from getting soggy.

Freezing

• Allow baked rolls to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just label the bag with the date!

Reheating

• To reheat frozen rolls, let them thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
• Warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• If you prefer, you can microwave individual rolls for about 20-30 seconds.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe:

Can I make Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Hazelnut Icing without eggs?

Yes! You can substitute the egg with a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water) or use unsweetened applesauce as an alternative.

How do I achieve the best results when making Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Hazelnut Icing?

To ensure your rolls are soft and fluffy, make sure your yeast is fresh and active. Also, allow enough time for the dough to rise and avoid overbaking.

Can I use a different type of nut spread instead of hazelnut?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap out hazelnut spread for almond or peanut butter, depending on your preference.

How long do these chocolate cinnamon rolls stay fresh?

When stored properly at room temperature, they should stay fresh for about 2 days. Refrigeration extends their life up to a week!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Hazelnut Icing as much as I do! They’re not just a treat; they create wonderful moments filled with warmth and joy. Whether it’s a special occasion or a cozy weekend brunch, these rolls will surely delight everyone around your table. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your delicious results!