Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. In a separate bowl, mix the warm milk, melted butter, and eggs together. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until a dough begins to form. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle in a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time.
Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.
Make the Filling: While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until smooth. Set aside.
Roll Out the Dough: After the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle, approximately 16×12 inches in size.
Assemble the Rolls: Spread the cinnamon-sugar butter mixture evenly over the dough. Sprinkle the mini chocolate chips on top of the cinnamon filling. Starting from one edge, carefully roll the dough into a log.
Cut the Rolls: Slice the dough into 12 equal pieces using a sharp knife or dental floss. Arrange the slices in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Let the Rolls Rise Again: Cover the rolls with a kitchen towel and allow them to rise for an additional 30 minutes, or until they puff up and fill the baking dish.
Bake the Rolls: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cinnamon rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
Prepare the Icing: While the rolls are baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and salt in a small bowl to make the icing.
Finish and Serve: Once the rolls are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool for about 5 minutes. Drizzle the icing over the warm rolls and serve!
Tips for Serving and Storing:
Serving Tips: These chocolate chip cinnamon rolls are best enjoyed warm and fresh out of the oven. Serve them with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of milk for the ultimate indulgence. They also make an excellent brunch item or dessert at any gathering.
Storing Leftovers: If you happen to have any leftovers (which is unlikely!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply microwave them for about 20-30 seconds or heat them in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.
Freezing: You can freeze the rolls before baking. After assembling and cutting them, place the rolls on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag or airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as instructed.
Variants:
Nutty Cinnamon Rolls: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the cinnamon-sugar filling for a crunchy texture that pairs beautifully with the chocolate chips.
Vegan Version: To make these rolls vegan, substitute the butter with vegan butter and use a plant-based milk (like almond or oat milk). You can also replace the eggs with a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons of water for each egg).
Caramel Drizzle: Instead of the icing, drizzle some homemade or store-bought caramel sauce over the rolls for a rich and indulgent twist.
Different Chocolate: Experiment with different types of chocolate chips, such as dark chocolate, white chocolate, or even a blend of your favorites.
FAQ:
Can I make these cinnamon rolls ahead of time? Yes! You can assemble the rolls the night before, place them in the refrigerator, and bake them the next morning. Just be sure to let them rise for about 30 minutes before baking.
What can I use instead of mini chocolate chips? If you don’t have mini chocolate chips, you can chop regular chocolate bars into small pieces, or use milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even chocolate chunks for a different texture.
Can I freeze the unbaked rolls? Absolutely! After rolling and slicing the dough, freeze the rolls on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as usual.
Can I make these rolls without using yeast? While yeast is responsible for the fluffy texture of these rolls, you could experiment with a baking powder version for a quicker, biscuit-like roll. However, the result won’t be quite the same.
How can I make my rolls fluffier? Ensure that your dough is well-kneaded to develop the gluten, and don’t skip the two rise times. These steps help the dough develop the necessary air pockets to make the rolls light and fluffy.
Conclusion:
These Chocolate Chip Cinnamon Rolls are a delicious twist on the classic cinnamon roll, offering the perfect balance of warm, spiced cinnamon flavor and rich, melty chocolate. Whether you enjoy them for breakfast or as a sweet treat during the day, they are guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth. With their soft texture and decadent chocolate filling, they’re the ultimate indulgence for any occasion. Try them out and enjoy a taste of cinnamon-sugar heaven with every bite!
ADVERTISEMENT
