chocolate peanut butter sweet rolls

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that feels like a warm hug, then these chocolate peanut butter sweet rolls are just the thing! Imagine fluffy rolls filled with creamy peanut butter and gooey chocolate—it’s a delightful combination that makes my heart sing every time I bake them. These rolls are perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, bringing smiles to everyone’s faces as they pull apart those warm, delicious layers.

This recipe is one of my absolute favorites because it combines simple ingredients to create something truly special. Plus, the smell of freshly baked bread wafting through your kitchen is simply unbeatable!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can whip these up with confidence.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike go crazy for these sweet rolls—perfect for breakfast or dessert!
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the dough ahead of time and let it rise overnight for an effortless morning treat.
• Decadent Flavor: The rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter filling creates an irresistible taste that will have everyone asking for seconds.
• Versatile: These rolls can be enjoyed warm or cold, making them a great snack any time of day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients for these delicious chocolate peanut butter sweet rolls. You probably have most of them in your pantry already!

For the Rolls

• 1 cup milk {dairy or non-dairy}
• 1 3/4 cups white flour {+ 3/4 cup (separated)}
• 1/4 dark cocoa powder {regular is okay (too!)}
• ¼ cup vegetable oil or melted coconut oil
• ¼ cup white sugar
• ½ tbsp instant active dry yeast {about ½ a package}
• ¼ tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp baking soda
• ¼ tsp salt

For the Filling

• 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter
• 2-3 tbsp sugar
• 1/4 chocolate chips

For the Frosting

• 4 oz cream cheese (at room temperature)
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter (at room temperature)
• 1-2 tbsp peanut butter (to taste)
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• pinch of salt
• chopped peanut butter cups

Variations

This recipe is pretty flexible, so feel free to get creative! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add Some Spice: Sprinkle in some cinnamon or nutmeg into the filling for a warm, cozy flavor.
• Change Up the Chocolate: Use white chocolate chips instead of regular ones for a different twist.
• Mix and Match Nuts: Swap out the peanut butter for almond or cashew butter if you’re feeling adventurous.
• Go Fruity: Add some chopped bananas or strawberries into the filling for a fruity surprise.

How to Make chocolate peanut butter sweet rolls

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a large nonstick pot, combine the milk, oil, and ¼ cup of sugar. Heat this mixture to about 120F—warm but not burning hot—over medium heat. Remove it from the burner and sprinkle in the yeast. Letting it sit gives the yeast time to activate, which is crucial for our dough to rise beautifully later on.

Step 2: Mix in Dry Ingredients

Once your yeast has had a few minutes to work its magic, mix in 1 3/4 cups of flour and 1/4 cup of cocoa powder. Cover the pot with a clean tea towel and let it rise for about an hour. This initial rise is important as it helps develop flavor and texture!

Step 3: Prepare for Second Rise

After the first rise, add in salt, baking powder, baking soda, and more flour as needed until you have a soft but not too sticky dough. Knead until everything is well combined. Cutting an X on top helps with rising during this next stage. Cover again with your tea towel and let it rise another 6+ hours—or even overnight if you can!

Step 4: Shape Your Rolls

Once your dough has risen again, lightly flour a clean surface and knead it briefly before rolling it out into a rough rectangle. Spreading warmed peanut butter over this surface makes it easier to manage! Then sprinkle with sugar and chocolate chips before rolling it up tightly from one long side.

Step 5: Cut and Place in Pan

With a sharp knife, cut your rolled dough into slices about 1½–2 inches thick. Place them carefully in a greased 9×13 pan—make sure to leave space between each roll so they have room to expand while they bake!

Step 6: Final Rise Before Baking

Cover your pan with plastic wrap and let those beauties rise again! You can either do this in a warm spot for an hour or pop them in the fridge overnight if you’ve prepared ahead.

Step 7: Bake Your Rolls

When you’re ready to enjoy these treats, preheat your oven to 375F. Bake them for about 15–18 minutes until they look dry on top—not doughy anymore!

Step 8: Make That Frosting!

While your rolls are baking away, whip up some frosting! In a medium bowl, beat together cream cheese, peanut butter, and softened butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar along with vanilla and salt; beat until fluffy!

Step 9: Frost & Enjoy!

Let those rolls cool down before spreading on that heavenly frosting generously. Top with chopped pieces of peanut butter cups if you like! Now dig in—and enjoy every bite of these chocolate peanut butter sweet rolls!

Pro Tips for Making chocolate peanut butter sweet rolls

Making these chocolate peanut butter sweet rolls is a delightful experience, and a few handy tips can elevate your baking game!

• Use room temperature ingredients – Ensuring that your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature helps them blend smoothly into the frosting, resulting in a creamy and fluffy texture.

• Knead until smooth – Kneading the dough until it’s soft and smooth, but not too sticky, ensures an even rise and light texture in your rolls. Take your time with this step for the best results!

• Don’t skip the overnight rise – Letting the dough rise overnight allows the flavors to deepen and improves the texture of your rolls. It’s worth the wait!

• Microwave the peanut butter – Slightly warming your peanut butter before spreading makes it easier to work with and helps it spread evenly over the dough. This little trick can save you from a messy filling!

• Leave space between rolls – When placing your cut rolls in the baking pan, make sure to leave some space between each roll. This allows them to expand beautifully while they bake.

How to Serve chocolate peanut butter sweet rolls

These chocolate peanut butter sweet rolls are perfect for brunches, cozy weekends, or as a delightful dessert treat! They can be served warm or at room temperature, making them versatile for any occasion.

Garnishes

• Chopped peanuts – Sprinkle some chopped peanuts on top of your frosted rolls for an extra crunch that complements the creamy textures of peanut butter.
• Drizzle of chocolate syrup – A light drizzle of chocolate syrup adds a touch of elegance and enhances the chocolate flavor in your rolls.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad – A refreshing fruit salad with seasonal fruits balances out the richness of the sweet rolls perfectly; think berries, melons, and citrus!
• Yogurt parfaits – Layering yogurt with granola and fruits creates a delightful contrast in texture and flavor that pairs wonderfully with these rolls.
• Coffee or tea – A warm cup of coffee or tea complements these sweet treats beautifully while providing a comforting beverage option for your gathering.
• Scrambled eggs with herbs – For a savory touch, serve some fluffy scrambled eggs seasoned with fresh herbs alongside your sweet rolls; this combination is simply heavenly!

Enjoy serving up these delicious chocolate peanut butter sweet rolls to friends and family – they’re sure to be a hit!

Make Ahead and Storage

These chocolate peanut butter sweet rolls are perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time and enjoy their delightful flavor any day of the week. Here’s how to store and preserve their deliciousness.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator, where they will last up to a week.
• Be sure to let them cool completely before sealing to avoid moisture buildup.

Freezing

• Cool the rolls completely, then wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped rolls in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just label with the date!

Reheating

• To reheat frozen rolls, remove from the freezer and thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
• For a quick warm-up, microwave each roll for about 15-20 seconds until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about chocolate peanut butter sweet rolls.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of white flour for chocolate peanut butter sweet rolls?

Yes! You can substitute whole wheat flour for white flour. However, you may need to adjust the liquid slightly since whole wheat absorbs more moisture.

How do I ensure my chocolate peanut butter sweet rolls rise properly?

Make sure your yeast is fresh and active. Additionally, allowing the dough to rise in a warm environment will help it rise effectively. If you’re using cocoa powder, it may slow down the rising process, so give it enough time!

What are some variations I can try with chocolate peanut butter sweet rolls?

You can experiment by adding different fillings such as nuts, dried fruits, or even swapping out chocolate chips for caramel bits. Get creative and find your favorite combination!

How should I store leftover chocolate peanut butter sweet rolls?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited about these chocolate peanut butter sweet rolls as I am! They bring together the rich flavors of chocolate and creamy peanut butter into a soft, pillowy treat that’s perfect any time of day. Whether you’re enjoying them fresh out of the oven or savoring leftovers throughout the week, these rolls are bound to bring joy. So roll up your sleeves and give this recipe a try – you won’t regret it!