Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) instant yeast
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup warm buttermilk (110°F)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon Filling:
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1-2 tablespoons milk (to thin)
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, sugar, yeast, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, mix warm buttermilk, melted butter, egg, red food coloring, and vanilla.
- Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until soft and elastic.
- Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour (until doubled in size).
2. Make the Cinnamon Filling
- In a bowl, mix brown sugar, cocoa powder, cinnamon, and vanilla.
- Spread softened butter evenly over the rolled-out dough.
- Sprinkle the cinnamon mixture on top.
3. Assemble the Rolls
- Roll out the dough into a 15×10-inch rectangle.
- Spread the cinnamon sugar filling evenly over the dough.
- Roll the dough into a tight log and cut into 12 equal rolls.
- Place in a greased baking dish, cover, and let rise for 30 minutes.
4. Bake the Cinnamon Rolls
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, until golden brown and fluffy.
5. Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
- Beat together cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk.
- Spread over warm cinnamon rolls.
6. Serve & Enjoy
- Let cool slightly before drizzling with extra frosting.
- Serve warm and enjoy the gooey, soft deliciousness!
Notes
How to Store & Reheat
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Microwave for 10-15 seconds to make them soft again.