There is nothing quite as comforting and indulgent as a freshly baked batch of cinnamon rolls loaded with rich, melty chocolate. This Gooey Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls Recipe is an absolute dream come true for anyone who loves soft, fluffy dough layered with a luscious cinnamon sugar filling and pockets of warm chocolate that melt in your mouth. The creamy glaze on top brings it all together, transforming an already delicious treat into pure magic. Whether you’re making these for a special weekend brunch or surprising loved ones with a homemade delight, this recipe is guaranteed to become one of your all-time favorites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every single ingredient in this recipe plays a key role in creating the perfect balance of tender dough, sweet spice, and luscious chocolate that defines these gooey cinnamon rolls. From the simple dairy and pantry staples to the generous amount of cinnamon and chocolate, each component is essential to achieve that irresistibly soft and flavorful result.
- Milk (1/2 cup): Provides moisture and helps create a tender, rich dough texture.
- Water (1/2 cup + 1 tablespoon): Activates the yeast and keeps the dough soft but elastic.
- Large egg (1): Adds richness and binds the dough for a smoother structure.
- Oil (2 tablespoons): Keeps the dough moist and enhances tenderness without weighing it down.
- Unbleached all-purpose flour (3 1/2 cups or more): The backbone of the dough that gives it structure and chewiness.
- Sugar (1/4 cup): Feeds the yeast and adds gentle sweetness to the dough itself.
- Rapid-rise or instant yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons): Helps the dough rise quickly and evenly for a light, airy texture.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Balances sweetness and enhances all of the other flavors.
- Chocolate chips or chunks (1 cup): Creates molten pockets of chocolate that infuse every bite with richness.
- Unsalted butter (1/4 cup, room temperature): Provides creaminess to the filling and helps spread the cinnamon sugar evenly.
- Brown sugar (3/4 cup): Deep, caramel-like sweetness that pairs beautifully with cinnamon.
- Ground cinnamon (2 tablespoons): The warming spice star that gives these rolls their signature flavor.
- Pinch of salt: Adds depth and balance to the filling’s sweetness.
- Cream cheese (4 ounces, room temperature): The base of the glaze that adds tangy richness and creaminess.
- Powdered sugar (1 cup): Sweetens and thickens the glaze perfectly.
- Heavy cream (2 tablespoons): Creates a silky smooth consistency for the glaze.
- Vanilla extract (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a lovely fragrant note to the glaze.
How to Make Gooey Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
Start by combining the rapid-rise yeast with a tablespoon of warm water and a little sugar in a small bowl. Let it sit for about five minutes until it becomes foamy and bubbly—this means your yeast is alive and ready to make your dough rise fabulous and fluffy.
Step 2: Mix the Dough Ingredients
In a larger bowl, whisk together the milk, water, egg, oil, salt, and the activated yeast mixture. This combination lays the foundation for a tender dough with a subtly rich flavor. Once everything is combined, gradually add the flour, stirring continuously until it starts to come together as a dough.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it for about five minutes until it feels soft, smooth, and elastic. If the dough feels sticky, sprinkle a little extra flour as you knead, but be careful not to add too much or your rolls can turn out dense. Lightly oil the dough ball and cover it to rest for 45 minutes, allowing it to double in size.
Step 4: Prepare the Filling Mixture
While the dough is rising, mix together the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, chocolate chips, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. This is the heavenly filling that will melt and caramelize inside your rolls as they bake, creating the gooey effect that makes this Gooey Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls Recipe so special.
Step 5: Roll Out and Fill the Dough
When the dough has doubled in size, gently punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a 15 by 11-inch rectangle. Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar-chocolate mixture on top. Roll the dough tightly from the long edge into a log, making sure to keep it snug so the filling stays inside every swirl.
Step 6: Slice and Let Rise Again
Cut the rolled dough into slices about 3/4 inch thick, then place them spaced about an inch apart into two greased 9-by-9-inch or round baking pans. Let the rolls rise for another 45 minutes. This second rise is crucial for that perfect fluffy, soft inside while you preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake the cinnamon rolls in the center rack of your oven for 25 minutes until they are golden brown and irresistible. Allow them to cool slightly for about 10 minutes to let the filling settle but remember, the best part is enjoying them while they’re still warm and molten inside!
Step 8: Prepare the Cream Cheese Glaze
Warm the cream cheese for about 15 seconds in the microwave for easy mixing. Beat it together with powdered sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract until fluffy and creamy. This luscious glaze is what turns these rolls into a melt-in-your-mouth masterpiece—spread or pipe generously over the warm rolls for the full Gooey Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls Recipe experience.
How to Serve Gooey Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch of flair, consider sprinkling a few mini chocolate chips over the glaze before it sets or a light dusting of cinnamon powder. Fresh berries or a sprinkle of chopped nuts like pecans can also add delightful texture contrasts while complementing the warm spices in your rolls.
Side Dishes
These gooey cinnamon rolls are a showstopper on their own but pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee, chai tea, or even a glass of cold milk for the ultimate indulgent treat. If you want to create a brunch spread, fresh fruit salad or a creamy yogurt parfait make wonderful side dishes that balance the sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
Instead of serving straight from the pan, try stacking a few rolls on a pretty plate and drizzling extra glaze over the top right at the table. You can also serve smaller rolls in individual ramekins for an elegant touch that will wow your guests. Wrapping a warm cinnamon roll in parchment paper makes a charming gift for friends and family too!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once fully cooled, store your Gooey Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls Recipe leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to keep them soft and delicious. For longer storage, refrigeration is best, though the rolls may firm up slightly and benefit from reheating before serving.
Freezing
You can freeze the unbaked, sliced rolls after assembling them by wrapping the pans tightly in plastic wrap and foil, storing them in the freezer for up to two months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge, allow them to rise again for about 45 minutes, then bake as usual. Baked rolls can also be frozen, wrapped individually, then reheated gently.
Reheating
To revive your leftover cinnamon rolls, warm them in the microwave for about 20 to 30 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil for 10-15 minutes. Add a little extra glaze or butter for that fresh-baked feel. The key is to reheat gently so they stay soft and gooey.
FAQs
Can I use regular yeast instead of rapid-rise yeast?
Yes, you can substitute active dry yeast for rapid-rise yeast, but you’ll need to proof it first and allow extra rising time. Rapid-rise yeast speeds up the process, which is why it’s preferred for this recipe.
Is it necessary to use cream cheese in the glaze?
While cream cheese adds a tangy richness that complements the sweetness of the rolls perfectly, you can make a simpler glaze with just powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla if needed. The cream cheese glaze just takes the flavor and creaminess to the next level.
Can I make these cinnamon rolls dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute dairy milk with almond or oat milk, use a plant-based butter alternative for the filling, and swap cream cheese for a vegan cream cheese substitute in the glaze. The rolls will still be wonderfully soft and flavorful.
How do I prevent my cinnamon rolls from becoming dry?
The key is not to overbake them and to store leftovers properly in an airtight container. Adding the buttery filling and cream cheese glaze helps keep moisture locked in, making every bite tender and gooey.
Can I add nuts or other fillings?
Definitely! Chopped pecans, walnuts, or even a handful of dried fruit like raisins can be mixed into the filling to add texture and extra flavor. Feel free to experiment to make the recipe your own precious favorite.
Final Thoughts
If you are looking for a show-stopping sweet treat that fills your kitchen with incredible aromas and melts hearts with every bite, you simply must try this Gooey Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls Recipe. It’s the perfect blend of comfort and decadence, with soft dough, warm cinnamon, and ooey-gooey melted chocolate wrapped into one unforgettable experience. Trust me, once you make these, they’ll become a staple in your baking repertoire that everyone will rave about. So roll up your sleeves and get ready to create some truly magical cinnamon rolls!
Print
Gooey Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
- Yield: 18 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in these gooey chocolate cinnamon rolls, featuring a soft, tender dough filled with rich chocolate chips and a cinnamon-sugar blend, topped with a creamy vanilla cream cheese glaze. Perfect as a sweet breakfast treat or an indulgent dessert, these cinnamon rolls combine classic flavors with luscious chocolate for an irresistible bake.
Ingredients
Dough
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup water plus 1 tablespoon warm water
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 3 1/2 cups or more unbleached all purpose flour, divided
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 1/4 teaspoons rapid-rise or instant yeast (1 envelope)
- 1 teaspoon salt
Filling
- 1 cup chocolate chips or chocolate chunks
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
Glaze
- 4 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the yeast, 1 tablespoon of warm water, and sugar. Let it sit for 5 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Mix Dough: In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, remaining water, egg, oil, salt, and the activated yeast mixture until well combined.
- Add Flour and Knead: Gradually add the flour while mixing until a dough begins to form. If sticky, add more flour tablespoon by tablespoon until the dough pulls away from the bowl. Transfer to a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. Lightly oil the dough, cover it, and allow it to rise for 45 minutes until doubled in size.
- Prepare Filling: In a bowl, mix the brown sugar, cinnamon, chocolate chips, and a pinch of salt. Set aside.
- Roll and Fill Dough: Once risen, punch down the dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a 15 by 11-inch rectangle. Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar chocolate mixture on top. Starting from the long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log.
- Slice and Proof: Cut the rolled dough into 3/4-inch thick slices. Place the rolls about 1 inch apart in two greased 9×9 or round pans. Let them rise for another 45 minutes until puffy.
- Preheat Oven: After 30 minutes of the second rise, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake: Bake the cinnamon rolls on the center rack for 25 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove and let them cool for 10 minutes.
- Make Glaze: Warm the cream cheese in the microwave for 15 seconds to soften. Beat together the cream cheese, powdered sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract for 3-5 minutes until fluffy and creamy.
- Glaze and Serve: Pipe or spoon the glaze generously over the warm cinnamon rolls. Serve them warm for the best gooey chocolate experience.
Notes
- Use instant or rapid-rise yeast for quicker activation and rising times.
- If dough is too sticky during kneading, add flour in small increments to avoid a dense dough.
- Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before making the glaze to avoid lumps.
- For extra gooey rolls, serve immediately while warm.
- Can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days; reheat gently before serving.
