Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Hazelnut Icing

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that will make your kitchen smell heavenly and bring smiles to everyone at the table, these Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Hazelnut Icing are just what you need! I can almost feel the warmth of family gatherings as we dig into these soft, gooey rolls. They are not only perfect for holiday brunches but also make an excellent after-school snack or a cozy weekend breakfast. Trust me; once you’ve tasted these, you’ll want to share them with friends and family!

What makes this recipe special is its rich chocolate flavor combined with the warm spices of cinnamon, all topped off with a creamy hazelnut icing that is simply irresistible. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying out your first roll recipe, you’ll find this one easy to follow and absolutely rewarding.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavors: The combination of chocolate and cinnamon creates a mouthwatering taste that everyone loves.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will be delighted by these sweet rolls, making them perfect for any gathering.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, you’ll have fresh rolls ready without any fuss!
• Make Ahead Option: Prepare the dough in advance and bake them fresh before serving for the best experience.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as breakfast or dessert; they fit perfectly into any meal plan!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For these delicious Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Hazelnut Icing, you’ll need some simple, wholesome ingredients that you may already have in your pantry. Let’s gather everything you need to create this sweet masterpiece!

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 water
• 6 tablespoons butter (for the dough)
• 1 egg

For the Filling

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

For the Icing

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

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Add Nuts: Chop up some walnuts or pecans and sprinkle them into the filling for an extra crunch.
• Fruit Twist: Incorporate dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for a fruity surprise.
• Spice it Up: Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or cardamom in place of cinnamon for a unique flavor profile.
• Frosting Alternatives: Try using a cream cheese frosting instead of hazelnut icing for a tangy contrast.

How to Make Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Hazelnut Icing

Step 1: Butter Your Pan

Start by buttering a 9×13 inch pan. This will prevent your rolls from sticking and help them get that lovely golden color while baking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of flour, cocoa powder, sugar, yeast, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients first helps distribute the yeast evenly throughout the dough.

Step 3: Prepare Wet Ingredients

Combine water and butter in a bowl or liquid measuring cup. Microwave it in short increments until the butter is mostly melted. The mixture should be warm but not too hot to touch—this temperature helps activate the yeast properly.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Add the warm water mixture and egg into your dry ingredients. Mix well until everything is incorporated. This step brings all those delicious flavors together.

Step 5: Forming the Dough

Gradually add flour, about ¼ cup at a time, until the dough starts coming together in a ball. It will be sticky but manageable with floured hands.

Step 6: Knead Your Dough

Transfer your dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 4-6 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Kneading develops gluten which gives your rolls their fluffy texture.

Step 7: Let it Rise

Place the kneaded dough into a bowl, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 10 minutes. This quick rise helps improve texture without waiting too long.

Step 8: Roll Out Dough

Roll your dough into a large rectangle (about 15×10 inches). Rolling it out evenly ensures that each roll has the same amount of filling.

Step 9: Add Filling

Spread softened butter over your rolled-out dough, then mix together cinnamon and sugar to sprinkle on top. This filling creates that wonderful flavor we crave in every bite!

Step 10: Roll It Up

Starting from one long side of the rectangle, roll tightly all the way to the other side. Pinch the seam to seal it well—this keeps all that gooey goodness inside!

Step 11: Cut into Rolls

Using either a sharp knife or dental floss (a neat trick!), cut your rolled dough into 12 equal sections. This gives you perfectly portioned rolls ready for baking.

Step 12: Arrange in Pan

Place each cut roll cut-side down in your prepared baking pan. They should be snug but not overcrowded—this allows them room to rise more.

Step 13: Second Rise

Cover your pan tightly again and let it rise in a warm area for about an hour or until they double in size. In this time, preheat your oven to 350 degrees.

Step 14: Bake Your Rolls

Bake your rolls in the preheated oven for about 25-35 minutes until they are no longer doughy in the center. Let them cool on a wire rack for at least 20 minutes before icing.

Step 15: Make Icing

To prepare your icing, whip softened butter until light and fluffy using either a whisk or hand mixer—this aeration gives it that lovely texture! Gradually mix in powdered sugar until well incorporated.

Step 16: Add Hazelnut Spread

Mix in hazelnut spread along with salt until combined smoothly. Adjust consistency by adding remaining powdered sugar and milk one tablespoon at a time until it’s easy to spread.

Step 17: Ice & Serve

Finally, spread that luscious icing generously over each roll while they’re still slightly warm—just enough so it melts into every crevice! Then serve up these decadent treats warm!

Enjoy every bite of these Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Hazelnut Icing; they truly are comfort food at its finest!

Pro Tips for Making Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Hazelnut Icing

Making these chocolate cinnamon rolls can be a delightful experience, especially with a few helpful tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Use Fresh Yeast: Ensure your yeast is fresh and active for the best rise. If in doubt, perform a quick test by adding it to warm water with a bit of sugar; if it bubbles up, you’re good to go!

• Knead Well: Kneading the dough until smooth and elastic is crucial. This step develops gluten, which gives your rolls their fluffy texture. Don’t skip it!

• Warm Rising Environment: Let the dough rise in a warm place (like near a window or in an oven set to low). This encourages yeast activation and results in fluffy rolls.

• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the oven! Overbaking can lead to dry cinnamon rolls. They should be soft and slightly golden on top.

• Customize Your Icing: Feel free to experiment with different flavors in your icing! A dash of vanilla or almond extract can add an extra layer of flavor that complements the hazelnut beautifully.

How to Serve Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Hazelnut Icing

These chocolate cinnamon rolls are not only delicious but also visually stunning, making them perfect for any occasion! Here are some creative ideas for serving them.

Garnishes

• Chopped Hazelnuts: Sprinkle chopped hazelnuts on top of the icing for added crunch and flavor.
• Cocoa Powder Dusting: A light dusting of cocoa powder adds an elegant touch and enhances the chocolate flavor.
• Fresh Berries: Serve alongside fresh raspberries or strawberries for a pop of color and freshness that balances the richness.

Side Dishes

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the sweet rolls.
• Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a wholesome side that complements the sweetness of the rolls while adding creaminess.
• Coffee or Tea: Pair these rolls with a warm cup of coffee or tea. The warmth and flavors enhance each bite!
• Scrambled Eggs: For those who enjoy savory options, serve scrambled eggs on the side; they provide protein and balance out the sweetness perfectly.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Hazelnut Icing will not only taste amazing but also look fabulous on your brunch table! Enjoy every delightful bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Hazelnut Icing are perfect for meal prep! You can make the dough ahead of time or even freeze the rolls for a delightful treat anytime.

Storing Leftovers

• Place leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature.
• Enjoy them within 2-3 days for the best taste and texture.

Freezing

• After baking, allow the rolls to cool completely.
• Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• For best results, consume within 2-3 months.

Reheating

• For individual rolls, microwave for 15-20 seconds until warm.
• To reheat a batch, wrap them in aluminum foil and place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making these delicious chocolate cinnamon rolls!

Can I make Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Hazelnut Icing ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and let it rise, then refrigerate it overnight. In the morning, let it come to room temperature before rolling and baking.

What can I substitute if I don’t have hazelnut spread for the icing?

If you don’t have hazelnut spread, you can use any nut butter (like almond or cashew) or even chocolate spread that fits your dietary needs. The icing will still be delicious!

How do I get my Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Hazelnut Icing to rise properly?

Make sure your yeast is fresh and that you’re using warm water (not hot). A warm environment is key; consider placing your dough in a slightly warmed oven or a sunny spot in your kitchen.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Hazelnut Icing as much as I do! They’re a treat that brings smiles to faces young and old alike. Perfect for brunch gatherings or just a cozy weekend at home, they truly are special. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; I’m sure you’ll love the rich flavors and gooey goodness! Happy baking!