Hot Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls: A Cozy Treat for Any Occasion

Soft, fluffy cinnamon rolls meet rich hot chocolate flavor in this indulgent, comforting dessert. With a cocoa-spiced filling, melty chocolate chips, and a smooth chocolate glaze, these rolls are perfect for chilly mornings, holiday brunches, or anytime you crave something warm and sweet.

Why You’ll Love These Rolls

Deep chocolate flavor from cocoa in both the filling and glaze
Soft, bakery-style texture thanks to a tender yeast dough
Perfect for holidays or weekends when you want a cozy homemade treat
Customizable sweetness with optional chocolate chips or extra glaze

Ingredients

For the Dough

2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
½ cup warm milk (110°F / 43°C)
¼ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
1 large egg
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon salt

For the Filling

¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
¼ cup packed brown sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
½ cup mini chocolate chips (optional)

For the Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
2–3 tablespoons milk
½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

Combine warm milk and yeast in a small bowl and let sit 5 minutes until foamy.
In a large bowl, whisk sugar, melted butter, egg, and vanilla. Stir in the yeast mixture.
Gradually add flour and salt until a soft dough forms.

2. Knead & First Rise

Knead on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise 1 hour or until doubled.

3. Make the Filling

Mix cocoa powder, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
Roll dough into a 12×18-inch rectangle, spread softened butter, then sprinkle cocoa mixture and chocolate chips.

4. Roll & Cut

Roll tightly from the long side into a log.
Cut into 12 slices and arrange in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

5. Second Rise

Cover and let rise 30 minutes until puffy.

6. Bake

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes, until lightly golden.

7. Prepare the Glaze

Whisk powdered sugar, cocoa powder, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
Adjust milk for a drizzle-ready consistency.

8. Glaze & Serve

Cool rolls 5 minutes, drizzle generously with chocolate glaze, and serve warm.

Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Rolls

Use warm—not hot—milk to avoid killing the yeast.
Don’t over-flour the dough or rolls may become dense.
Let them rise fully for the softest texture.
Add marshmallows on top for a true hot-chocolate feel.

Storage & Reheating

Refrigerate: Up to 3 days in an airtight container
Freeze: Up to 2 months (unglazed works best)
Reheat: Microwave 20–30 seconds or warm in a 300°F oven

Final Thoughts

Hot Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls combine everything we love about winter desserts—warm spices, rich cocoa, and pillowy soft dough—into one irresistible bake. Whether shared at brunch or enjoyed with a mug of cocoa on a quiet morning, these rolls bring pure comfort in every bite.