Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls Espresso Cream (Printer-Friendly)

Rich cocoa dough filled with cinnamon and chocolate, finished with an espresso cream cheese topping.

# List of Ingredients:

→ Dough

01 - 1 cup whole milk, warmed to 110°F (43°C)
02 - 2 ¼ teaspoons instant yeast
03 - 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
04 - 2 large eggs, room temperature
05 - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
06 - 1 teaspoon salt
07 - 4 cups all-purpose flour
08 - ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder

→ Filling

09 - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
10 - ½ cup brown sugar
11 - 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
12 - 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
13 - ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate, chopped

→ Frosting

14 - 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
15 - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
16 - 2 cups powdered sugar
17 - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
18 - 2 teaspoons instant espresso powder

# Preparation Steps:

01 - Warm milk to 110°F (43°C), stir in instant yeast and granulated sugar. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
02 - Combine yeast mixture with eggs, melted butter, and salt in a large bowl. Gradually incorporate flour and cocoa powder until soft dough forms.
03 - Knead dough on floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth. Place in greased bowl, cover, and let rise 1 to 1.5 hours until doubled.
04 - Mix softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and cocoa powder until smooth.
05 - Punch down dough, roll into ½-inch thick rectangle. Spread filling evenly, sprinkle chopped chocolate, roll tightly, then cut into 12 pieces.
06 - Place rolls in greased 9x13 inch pan, cover, and let rise 30–40 minutes until puffy.
07 - Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake rolls for 25–30 minutes until golden brown.
08 - Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, cinnamon, and espresso powder, mixing until combined.
09 - Cool rolls for 5 minutes, spread frosting over warm rolls, and serve immediately.

# Additional Suggestions:

01 - Ensure yeast is fresh for optimal rise. Avoid overheating milk to preserve yeast activity.