Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Hazelnut Icing

The perfect way to jazz up any holiday brunch and make your guests extremely satisfied, these rich, delicious, chocolate cinnamon rolls with hazelnut icing will delight adults and kids alike! With their soft, fluffy texture and decadent topping, they are an irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy family breakfast or a festive gathering, this recipe is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of chocolate and cinnamon creates a heavenly taste that everyone loves.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip these up!
• Impressive Presentation: These rolls look as good as they taste, making them perfect for special occasions.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve them warm for breakfast or as a sweet dessert after dinner.
• Customizable Icing: Feel free to adjust the hazelnut icing to your liking or experiment with different toppings.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking these delightful chocolate cinnamon rolls with hazelnut icing, gather all the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13 inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Rolling pin
• Sharp knife or dental floss
• Electric hand mixer (optional)
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining dry ingredients and wet mixtures effectively.
• Rolling pin: Helps to roll out the dough evenly for perfect cinnamon rolls.
• Electric hand mixer: Makes whipping the icing quick and easy, ensuring a smooth texture.

Ingredients

The perfect way to jazz up any holiday brunch and make your guests extremely satisfied, these rich, delicious chocolate cinnamon rolls with hazelnut icing will delight adults and kids alike!

For the Dough

• 4 – 4 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 packets Fleischmann’s RapidRise® Yeast
• ½ cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 ½ cups water
• 6 tablespoons butter
• 1 egg

For the Filling

• 3 tablespoons softened butter
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• ⅓ cup sugar

For the Icing

• ½ cup butter (softened)
• 1 cup hazelnut spread (such as Nutella)
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• milk (as needed)

How to Make Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Hazelnut Icing

Step 1: Butter the Baking Pan

Butter a 9×13 inch pan generously to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl:
Whisk together 2 cups of flour, cocoa powder, sugar, yeast, and salt until combined.

Step 3: Prepare Wet Ingredients

Combine:
Water and butter in a bowl or liquid measuring cup.
Microwave for 20 seconds at a time until butter is mostly melted. The water should be warm but not too hot to touch.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Add:
The warm water mixture and egg to the dry ingredients.
Mix well until combined.

Step 5: Form the Dough

Gradually add:
Flour ¼ cup at a time until dough begins to form into a ball. It will still be sticky but manageable with floured hands.

Step 6: Knead the Dough

On a lightly floured surface:
Transfer dough using floured hands.
Knead for about 4-6 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 7: Let Dough Rise

Place dough in a bowl:
Cover tightly with plastic wrap.
Let it rise in a warm place for about 10 minutes.

Step 8: Roll Out the Dough

Roll dough into:
A large flat rectangle approximately 15×10 inches.

Step 9: Add Filling Ingredients

Spread:
Softened butter over the dough evenly.
In a small bowl:
Stir together cinnamon and sugar; sprinkle it all over the buttered dough.

Step 10: Roll Up the Dough

Beginning from one long side:
Roll tightly towards the opposite side.
Pinch the seam to seal well.

Step 11: Cut into Rolls

Using either:
* A sharp knife or dental floss, cut dough into 12 equal sections carefully.

Step 12: Arrange in Baking Pan

Place cinnamon rolls cut-side-down in the buttered pan evenly spaced out.

Step 13: Second Rise

Cover tightly again:
Allow rolls to rise in a warm place for about an hour or until doubled in size. Preheat oven to 350 degrees during this time.

Step 14: Bake

Bake in preheated oven for about:
25–35 minutes until they are no longer doughy. Allow cooling on a wire rack for at least 20 minutes after baking.

Step 15: Prepare Icing

Using either whisk or electric hand mixer:
Whip softened butter until light and fluffy for about 2–3 minutes. Gradually mix in two cups of powdered sugar.

Step 16: Mix Hazelnut Icing

Add:
Hazelnut spread and salt into whipped mixture. Cream together until fully incorporated. Slowly add remaining powdered sugar along with milk one tablespoon at a time until icing is smooth enough to spread easily.

Step 17: Ice Rolls & Serve

Spread icing generously over cooled cinnamon rolls. Enjoy these delightful chocolate cinnamon rolls with hazelnut icing!

How to Serve Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Hazelnut Icing

These chocolate cinnamon rolls with hazelnut icing are perfect for any occasion! Whether it’s a cozy brunch or a festive celebration, serving them creatively can elevate the experience.

Family Brunch

• Serve warm cinnamon rolls on a large platter for an inviting family brunch. Pair them with fresh fruit to balance the sweetness.

Coffee Pairing

• Offer these rolls alongside freshly brewed coffee or espresso. The rich flavors complement each other beautifully and enhance the overall taste experience.

Dessert Option

• Present chocolate cinnamon rolls as a delightful dessert after dinner. Drizzle extra hazelnut icing on top for an indulgent finish.

Breakfast Treats

• For a special weekend breakfast, serve the rolls with whipped cream and sliced strawberries. This adds a refreshing touch to the rich flavors.

Gift Idea

• Package individual rolls in cute boxes tied with a ribbon. They make wonderful homemade gifts for friends and family!

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How to Perfect Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Hazelnut Icing

Perfecting your chocolate cinnamon rolls with hazelnut icing takes practice and attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you achieve bakery-quality results.

• Use fresh yeast – Always check the expiration date on your yeast. Fresh yeast ensures proper rising and fluffy texture.
• Knead well – Kneading your dough is crucial for developing gluten. This will give your rolls that perfect chewy texture.
• Let them rise – Allow the dough ample time to rise. A warm environment helps activate the yeast, resulting in lighter rolls.
• Don’t skip the cooling – Letting your cinnamon rolls cool slightly before adding icing allows it to set without melting away completely.
• Experiment with toppings – Feel free to add chopped nuts or chocolate chips inside the roll for added texture and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Hazelnut Icing

Complementing chocolate cinnamon rolls with delicious side dishes enhances your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness, making it a perfect contrast to rich cinnamon rolls.
2. Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a healthy side that balances out the sweetness of the rolls.
3. Scrambled Eggs – Fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein, making it a satisfying brunch combo that contrasts nicely with sweet pastries.
4. Bacon Strips – Crispy bacon introduces savory elements that pair perfectly with sweet chocolate cinnamon rolls.
5. Hash Browns – Golden brown hash browns add texture and heartiness, creating a well-rounded meal experience.
6. Smoothies – Blend up some smoothie goodness using spinach, banana, and yogurt for a nutrient-packed drink alongside your sweets.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making chocolate cinnamon rolls with hazelnut icing can be a delightful experience, but some common mistakes may hinder your results.

• Using cold ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, especially butter and egg, are at room temperature. This helps the dough rise better.
• Over-kneading the dough: Knead just until smooth and elastic. Over-kneading can make the rolls tough instead of soft and fluffy.
• Not letting the dough rise enough: Allow the dough to rise fully for the best texture. Skipping this step will produce dense rolls.
• Skipping the icing: The hazelnut icing adds a rich flavor. Don’t skip it; it’s essential for that perfect finish!
• Cutting uneven pieces: Make sure to cut the rolls evenly. This ensures they bake uniformly, preventing some from being undercooked or overcooked.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store any leftover chocolate cinnamon rolls in an airtight container.
• item They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Hazelnut Icing

• item Wrap individual rolls tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• item They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Hazelnut Icing

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place rolls on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place a roll on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat for about 15-20 seconds.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid. Warm for about 5 minutes, checking frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries regarding chocolate cinnamon rolls with hazelnut icing.

Can I make Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Hazelnut Icing ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and let it rise overnight in the fridge before baking them fresh in the morning.

What type of hazelnut spread should I use?

Any good-quality hazelnut spread works well, such as Nutella or similar brands, for creamy consistency and great flavor.

How do I know when my chocolate cinnamon rolls are done?

They should be golden brown on top and feel firm yet springy to touch. A toothpick inserted should come out clean.

Can I customize my Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls with Hazelnut Icing?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, dried fruits, or even different spices to cater to your taste preferences.

What if my dough doesn’t rise properly?

If your dough isn’t rising, check if your yeast is active. It should bubble when mixed with warm water. If not, try using fresh yeast.

Final Thoughts

These chocolate cinnamon rolls with hazelnut icing are a fantastic treat that brings joy to any gathering or breakfast table. Their rich flavor profile combined with customizable options makes them incredibly versatile. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or add your twist, these rolls are sure to impress!