Sourdough Chocolate Rolls

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that will elevate your breakfast or snack time, you’ve come to the right place! These Sourdough Chocolate Rolls are not just any sweet roll; they combine the tangy flavor of sourdough with luscious ribbons of chocolate. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy weekend mornings, this recipe is one I cherish and can’t wait to share with you. The warm aroma filling your kitchen as they bake is a memory in the making!

What makes these rolls truly special is their fluffy texture and rich taste, all thanks to the power of sourdough. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to indulge on a busy weeknight, these rolls will surely bring smiles all around.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Unique: The combination of sourdough and chocolate creates a flavor profile that’s both surprising and satisfying.
• Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will adore these sweet rolls, making them perfect for sharing.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the dough in advance, allowing you to enjoy fresh rolls without the morning rush.
• Simple Ingredients: With just a few wholesome ingredients, you can create something extraordinary!
• Perfectly Sweet: The balance of sweetness from chocolate and sugar will satisfy any dessert lover’s cravings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Sourdough Chocolate Rolls use simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Let’s gather what we need to create this delicious treat!

For the Dough

• 200 g whole milk
• 100 g sourdough starter, active and bubbly
• 70 g cane sugar
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 430 g bread flour
• 5 g sea salt
• 8 tbs unsalted butter, room temperature (113g)

For the Filling

• 5 tbs unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1/2 cup cane sugar
• 2 tbs cocoa powder, unsweetened
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

For the Topping

• 1/4 cup whole milk
• 1/4 cup cocoa powder, unsweetened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla

Variations

The beauty of these Sourdough Chocolate Rolls is their flexibility! Feel free to get creative with your fillings and toppings:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Try Different Chocolates: Experiment with dark chocolate chips or even white chocolate for a unique twist.
• Add Spices: A sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg can add warmth and depth to your rolls.
• Fruit Filling: Swap out some chocolate for fruit preserves or fresh berries for a fruity version.

How to Make Sourdough Chocolate Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by warming up the whole milk until it’s lukewarm. In a large mixing bowl, combine this milk with your bubbly sourdough starter. Stir in the cane sugar until it’s dissolved. Then add in the egg and mix thoroughly. This step is crucial because it activates the yeast in your starter and helps create that wonderful rise.

Step 2: Add Dry Ingredients

Next, gradually add bread flour and sea salt into your mixture. Mix until everything is well combined, then knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-10 minutes until smooth. Kneading develops gluten which gives your rolls that fluffy texture we all love!

Step 3: First Rise

Place your kneaded dough into an oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise until doubled in size—this usually takes about 4-6 hours depending on the warmth of your kitchen. Patience is key here; this long rise allows those lovely flavors to develop.

Step 4: Prepare the Filling

While waiting for the dough to rise, mix together softened butter, cane sugar, cocoa powder, and semi-sweet chocolate chips in a bowl. This filling will bring richness to each bite when rolled up inside our dough.

Step 5: Roll Out the Dough

Once risen, punch down your dough gently to release any air bubbles. On a floured surface, roll it out into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick. Spread your filling evenly over this surface—don’t be shy here; every corner deserves some chocolate goodness!

Step 6: Shape Your Rolls

Starting from one side of the rectangle, tightly roll up your dough into a log shape. Slice into equal pieces (about 12) so they can be baked evenly. Place these slices cut-side up in a greased baking dish.

Step 7: Second Rise

Cover your rolls again with a cloth and let them rise for another hour until puffed up nicely. This second rise ensures that they are light and airy after baking.

Step 8: Bake Your Rolls

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake those beauties for around 30 minutes or until golden brown on top. The smell wafting through your home will be irresistible!

Step 9: Make the Topping

While they’re baking away, whisk together whole milk, cocoa powder, powdered sugar, and vanilla in a small bowl until smooth. Once your rolls are done baking and slightly cooled, drizzle this topping over them generously.

Enjoy these Sourdough Chocolate Rolls fresh out of the oven! They’re sure to become a new favorite recipe in your collection!

Pro Tips for Making Sourdough Chocolate Rolls

Making Sourdough Chocolate Rolls can be an incredibly rewarding experience, and a few helpful tips can ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Use an active sourdough starter: Make sure your sourdough starter is bubbly and has been fed within the last few hours. This helps with the rise and adds that delightful tangy flavor.
• Knead until smooth: Properly kneading the dough until it’s smooth and elastic is crucial. This creates a strong gluten structure that supports those gooey chocolate ribbons inside.
• Be patient with rising times: Sourdough requires longer fermentation times, so don’t rush! Allowing the dough to rise properly enhances flavor and texture.
• Adjust baking time based on oven variability: Every oven is different. Keep an eye on your rolls during baking and check for a golden-brown color. You can always use a toothpick to test doneness.
• Store properly after baking: To keep your rolls fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’re best enjoyed within a couple of days, but you can also freeze them for later enjoyment!

How to Serve Sourdough Chocolate Rolls

These delightful Sourdough Chocolate Rolls are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them at breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet treat, here are some ideas to elevate your presentation.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar on top adds a beautiful touch and enhances sweetness without overpowering the chocolate flavors.
• Chocolate shavings: For an extra indulgent look, sprinkle some chocolate shavings over the top before serving. It adds visual appeal and intensifies the chocolate experience.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits balances the richness of the rolls and adds a burst of freshness to your meal.
• Greek yogurt parfait: Layering creamy Greek yogurt with berries and granola provides a healthy contrast to the sweetness of the rolls while adding texture.
• Nutty granola: Serve with homemade or store-bought granola on the side for some crunch. The nuttiness complements the chocolate beautifully.
• Herbal tea or coffee: Pair these rolls with a warm cup of herbal tea or freshly brewed coffee for a cozy morning or afternoon snack experience.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Sourdough Chocolate Rolls will be sure to impress family and friends alike! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Sourdough Chocolate Rolls are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them in advance, and they store wonderfully for later enjoyment.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the rolls to cool completely.
• Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week.

Freezing

• Cool the rolls completely before freezing.
• Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped rolls into a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For frozen rolls, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight.
• To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place rolls on a baking sheet and warm for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

If you have questions about making these delightful rolls, you’re in the right place!

Can I use whole wheat flour for Sourdough Chocolate Rolls?

Yes! You can substitute part of the bread flour with whole wheat flour. Just keep in mind that this may alter the texture slightly, making it denser.

How long does it take to make Sourdough Chocolate Rolls from start to finish?

The total time will vary depending on your sourdough starter’s activity. Generally, you should expect around 5-6 hours from mixing the dough to baking, including rise times.

What can I use instead of eggs in Sourdough Chocolate Rolls?

For an egg substitute, try using a flaxseed meal mixture: combine 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it thickens.

Can I add nuts or fruit to my Sourdough Chocolate Rolls?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in some chopped nuts or dried fruits like cherries or cranberries to add an extra burst of flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Sourdough Chocolate Rolls as much as I do! Their unique combination of tangy sourdough and rich chocolate creates an unforgettable treat that’s sure to impress friends and family. Whether you savor them fresh out of the oven or save some for later, these rolls are bound to bring a smile. Happy baking!