Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 3 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
- ¾ cup warm milk (110°F)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon red food coloring
For the Cinnamon Filling:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
For the Cream Cheese Glaze:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons milk
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, yeast, salt, and cocoa powder.
- Add warm milk, melted butter, egg, vanilla, and red food coloring. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Step 2: Make the Filling
- In a small bowl, mix softened butter, brown sugar, cocoa powder, and cinnamon until smooth.
Step 3: Roll & Fill
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a 15×12-inch rectangle.
- Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough.
- Roll the dough tightly from the long side into a log. Cut into 12 equal rolls.
Step 4: Second Rise & Bake
- Place rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover and let rise for 30-45 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese Glaze
- Beat together cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until smooth.
- Spread over warm cinnamon rolls.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
🍽 Serve Warm – Best enjoyed fresh out of the oven!
☕ Pair with Coffee or Tea – A cozy breakfast treat.
🍓 Top with Fresh Berries – Add strawberries or raspberries for extra flavor.
🍫 Drizzle with Chocolate – A touch of melted white or dark chocolate makes them extra decadent!