Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Hazelnut Icing

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that will make your kitchen smell heavenly, these Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Hazelnut Icing are just the ticket! This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it combines the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon and chocolate in a way that feels like a big hug. Perfect for holiday brunches or cozy family gatherings, these rolls will have everyone asking for seconds (or thirds!). Trust me; whether you’re cooking for adults or kids, these sweet rolls are sure to impress.

The best part? They’re surprisingly easy to make! You can whip them up on a busy weeknight or prepare them ahead of time for a weekend treat. The rich chocolatey goodness paired with the creamy hazelnut icing is simply irresistible!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of chocolate and cinnamon creates a mouthwatering taste that everyone loves.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and ingredients, even novice bakers can create these delicious rolls.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore these sweet treats, making them perfect for any occasion.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the dough in advance, so you can enjoy fresh rolls with minimal effort on busy mornings.
• Decadent Icing: The hazelnut icing takes these rolls to another level, adding an extra layer of yumminess.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to get started on these Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Hazelnut Icing. You’ll find everything you need right in your pantry!

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 (softened)
• 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 quite flexible! Feel free to get creative and put your own spin on these delectable rolls.

• Add Nuts: Throw in some chopped hazelnuts or walnuts for added crunch and texture.
• Try Different Spreads: Swap out hazelnut spread for almond butter or peanut butter if you prefer.
• Mix Up the Flavor: Consider adding a dash of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor even more.
• Top with Fruit: Add fresh berries or sliced bananas on top before serving for a fruity twist!

How to Make Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Hazelnut Icing

Step 1: Butter the Pan

Start by greasing a 9×13 inch pan with some butter. This step is important because it helps prevent the rolls from sticking, ensuring they come out perfectly fluffy and intact.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of flour, cocoa powder, sugar, yeast, and salt. This blend forms the base of our dough. Mixing dry ingredients first ensures that everything is evenly distributed before we add our wet ingredients.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl or measuring cup, combine water and butter. Microwave this mixture in short bursts until the butter is mostly melted. You want it warm but not scalding hot—this helps activate the yeast properly!

Step 4: Create the Dough

Pour the warm water mixture into your dry ingredients along with an egg. Mix well until everything is combined. Gradually add flour, about ¼ cup at a time, until your dough starts to come together into a sticky ball.

Step 5: Knead Your Dough

Transfer your dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 4-6 minutes until smooth and elastic. Kneading develops gluten in the flour which gives our rolls that lovely chewy texture.

Step 6: Let it Rise

Place your dough in a bowl, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 10 minutes. This short rise allows the yeast to work its magic before we shape our rolls.

Step 7: Roll Out Dough

Once risen, roll out your dough into a large rectangle about 15×10 inches. This is where all those delicious fillings will go!

Step 8: Fill It Up!

Spread softened butter over your rolled-out dough. Then mix cinnamon and sugar together before sprinkling generously over the buttery surface—this adds wonderful flavor throughout each bite.

Step 9: Roll It Up

Starting from one long side of the rectangle, roll tightly toward the opposite end. Pinch to seal once you reach the end—this keeps all that yummy filling inside!

Step 10: Cut into Rolls

Using a sharp knife (or dental floss if you prefer!), cut your rolled dough into 12 equal sections. Arranging them cut-side down in your prepared pan allows each roll to rise beautifully.

Step 11: Second Rise

Cover your pan tightly and let those rolls rise again in a warm spot for about an hour or until doubled in size. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 12: Bake Away!

Bake those scrumptious rolls in your preheated oven for about 25-35 minutes until they are no longer doughy inside. Once baked to perfection, cool them on a wire rack for at least 20 minutes.

Step 13: Prepare Icing

While those delicious rolls cool down, whip up your icing! Beat softened butter until light and fluffy before gradually mixing in powdered sugar. Then add hazelnut spread and salt—mix until fully incorporated before adjusting consistency with milk if needed.

Step 14: Ice & Serve!

Once cooled slightly, spread that heavenly hazelnut icing generously over each roll. Slice yourself a piece (or two) and dig in! Enjoy every gooey bite of these Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Hazelnut Icing—you deserve it!

Pro Tips for Making Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Hazelnut Icing

Making chocolate cinnamon rolls can be a delightful experience, and a few pro tips can elevate your baking game!

• Measure Ingredients Accurately: Precision in measuring flour, sugar, and cocoa powder ensures that your dough has the right texture and flavor. Using a kitchen scale can help achieve the perfect ratios.

• Let Dough Rise Properly: Allowing the dough to rise in a warm place is crucial for developing flavor and achieving that fluffy texture. A good tip is to preheat your oven for a minute or two, then turn it off and place your dough inside covered with a towel.

• Use Fresh Yeast: Ensuring your yeast is fresh will give your rolls that lovely lift. If your yeast doesn’t bubble when mixed with warm water and sugar, it might be time to get a new packet.

• Spread the Icing Generously: Don’t hold back on spreading the hazelnut icing! It not only adds flavor but also makes the rolls visually appealing. The more icing, the merrier!

• Experiment with Fillings: While this recipe is delicious as is, feel free to add nuts or other spices to the filling for extra depth of flavor. Chopped walnuts or pecans can add a lovely crunch!

How to Serve Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Hazelnut Icing

Presenting these chocolate cinnamon rolls beautifully can make all the difference at any gathering. Here are some ideas to enhance their appeal!

Garnishes

• Chopped Hazelnuts: Sprinkling some chopped hazelnuts on top of the icing adds texture and an extra nutty flavor that complements the hazelnut spread beautifully.

• Chocolate Shavings: A dusting of dark chocolate shavings over the icing not only looks elegant but also enhances the chocolatey goodness of your rolls.

Side Dishes

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad balances out the richness of the cinnamon rolls. Use seasonal fruits like berries, melons, and citrus for a colorful presentation.

• Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with honey and granola for a creamy side dish that offers protein and crunch, perfectly complementing the sweetness of cinnamon rolls.

• Coffee or Tea: Serving freshly brewed coffee or herbal tea alongside these rolls creates a cozy atmosphere. The warmth of these beverages pairs wonderfully with sweet treats.

• Scrambled Eggs: A simple scramble made with fresh herbs provides a savory contrast to the sweet rolls, making it an excellent choice for brunch gatherings.

Enjoy sharing these delightful chocolate cinnamon rolls with hazelnut icing at your next brunch or gathering! They’re sure to impress everyone at the table while filling their hearts (and bellies) with joy.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Hazelnut Icing are perfect for meal prep and can easily fit into your busy schedule! You can make them ahead of time or store any leftovers to enjoy later.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the rolls to cool completely before storing.
• Place 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.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap individual rolls tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Make sure to label the bag with the date!

Reheating

• Thaw frozen rolls overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Warm them gently in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or until heated through.
• You can also reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious recipe:

Can I use different types of flour for Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Hazelnut Icing?

Yes, you can experiment with different flours! Whole wheat flour or a gluten-free blend may work, but keep an eye on the texture as it may require adjustments in liquid.

How do I make the icing for Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Hazelnut Icing thicker?

If you want a thicker icing, simply add more powdered sugar until you reach your desired consistency. Just remember to mix well after each addition!

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

Absolutely! You can substitute the egg with a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water) or unsweetened applesauce (1/4 cup) for an egg-free version.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Hazelnut Icing as much as I do! They’re not just a treat; they bring joy and warmth to any gathering. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a cozy morning at home, these rolls are sure to impress. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your creations!