Name: Chocolate Espresso Rolls
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 cup warm milk ((110°F/45°C)); 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast; 1 teaspoon sugar; ½ cup granulated sugar; ⅓ cup unsalted butter ((softened)); 1 teaspoon salt; 2 eggs; 4 cups all-purpose flour; ½ cup unsalted butter ((softened)); ¼ cup heavy cream; ½ cup brown sugar ((packed)); 2 tablespoons cocoa powder; 1 tablespoon instant coffee powder; ½ cup dark chocolate ((finely chopped)); ½ cup heavy cream ((to pour over rolls before baking)); 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 tablespoon instant coffee powder; 2-3 tablespoons heavy cream ((adjust for desired consistency))

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When I think about the perfect way to start my day or end a delightful meal, Chocolate Espresso Rolls come to mind. There’s something magical about the combination of rich chocolate and robust espresso that awakens my senses and wraps me in a cozy embrace. One rainy afternoon, as I was brewing my favorite coffee, I decided to experiment in the kitchen. The aroma of melting chocolate and the warmth of freshly baked rolls filled my home with a sense of comfort. What started as a simple craving turned into a delicious masterpiece that I now share with family and friends. These rolls are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even as a sweet treat after dinner. Trust me, once you try making Chocolate Espresso Rolls, you’ll find every excuse to whip up a batch!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
45 mins

Prep Time:
20 mins

Cook Time:
25 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
6 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
KitchenAid Artisan 5 Quart Stand Mixer, Classic Wooden Rolling Pin, 9×13-inch Casserole Dish

Why You Need This Chocolate Espresso Rolls

Decadent Flavor Combination

The rich flavors of chocolate and espresso create an indulgent experience that will leave your taste buds dancing. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of sweetness and coffee that pairs wonderfully with your morning coffee or as an afternoon pick-me-up.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a festive gathering, a cozy breakfast with loved ones, or simply a sweet treat for yourself, Chocolate Espresso Rolls fit right in. They’re versatile and can elevate any occasion, making them a favorite in my house!

Easy to Make

Despite their gourmet appearance, these rolls are surprisingly easy to prepare. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll be creating a bakery-worthy treat in no time. I love that even novice bakers can impress their friends and family with this recipe!

Warm and Comforting

There’s nothing quite like the feel of warm, fresh rolls straight from the oven. The comforting scents wafting through your kitchen will evoke feelings of nostalgia and warmth, making Chocolate Espresso Rolls a recipe you’ll want to revisit time and time again.

Customization Options

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! You can experiment with different fillings, types of chocolate, or even add nuts for an extra crunch. This flexibility allows you to make Chocolate Espresso Rolls uniquely yours!

Impressive Presentation

These rolls not only taste amazing but also look stunning on any table. The swirls of chocolate and coffee create an eye-catching design that will impress anyone who sees them. It’s the perfect blend of beauty and flavor!

Everything You Need for Chocolate Espresso Rolls

When it comes to making Chocolate Espresso Rolls, the quality of your ingredients matters. Using fresh, high-quality components ensures that your rolls turn out delicious and flavorful. Here are the main players in this recipe:

Warm Milk: Provides the necessary moisture and activates the yeast for a perfect rise.
Active Dry Yeast: This is what makes the dough rise beautifully, giving the rolls their fluffy texture.
Sugar: Both granulated and brown sugar contribute to the sweetness and rich flavor.
Unsalted Butter: Adds a rich, creamy flavor to the rolls and their filling.
All-Purpose Flour: Forms the base of the dough, giving it structure.
Cocoa Powder: Infuses deep chocolate flavor into the rolls.
Instant Coffee Powder: Enhances the coffee flavor, making it more pronounced.
Dark Chocolate: The star of the filling, adding richness and depth.
Heavy Cream: Creates a moist texture and adds decadence.

Step by Step Guide for Chocolate Espresso Rolls

Making Chocolate Espresso Rolls is a journey of delightful aromas and tastes. Here’s how you can embark on this delicious adventure!

Start by dissolving the yeast in the warm milk along with a teaspoon of sugar in a large bowl. Let this mixture sit for about five minutes. The yeast will froth up if it’s good, indicating that you’re ready to proceed.
In the bowl of your stand mixer, combine the granulated sugar, butter, salt, eggs, and all-purpose flour. Pour in the yeast mixture and mix on medium speed until the dough is well combined and starts pulling away from the sides of the bowl.
Transfer the dough into an oiled bowl and cover it. Allow it to rise in a warm place for about one hour or until it has doubled in size. This is an essential step for achieving fluffy rolls.
While the dough rises, prepare the filling. In a separate medium bowl, mix the softened butter, heavy cream, brown sugar, cocoa powder, and instant coffee powder until well combined. Then, fold in the dark chocolate pieces.
Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle, approximately twelve by eighteen inches. Spread the filling evenly over the dough, ensuring to leave a small border around the edges.
Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Slice the log into eight even pieces and place them in a greased nine-by-thirteen inch baking dish. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let rise for another thirty to forty-five minutes until they’ve doubled in size.
After the rolls have risen, pour half a cup of heavy cream over them right before baking. This step is crucial for adding moisture and richness.
Preheat your oven to three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit (one hundred seventy-five degrees Celsius). Bake the rolls for twenty-five to thirty minutes or until they are golden brown.
While the rolls are baking, prepare the coffee icing by whisking together the powdered sugar, instant coffee powder, and a splash of heavy cream until smooth. Adjust the consistency if needed.
Once the rolls are baked and slightly cooled, drizzle the coffee icing generously over the top. Enjoy your homemade Chocolate Espresso Rolls warm!

Things Worth Knowing

Rising Time: Ensure your kitchen is warm for the dough to rise effectively. If it’s cold, use your oven light to help.
Quality Ingredients: Use fresh ingredients, especially the yeast and chocolate, for the best flavor and texture.
Don’t Skip the Cream: The addition of heavy cream in both the dough and filling is key to achieving that soft, fluffy texture.
Watch the Bake Time: Keep an eye on the rolls; golden brown tops indicate they’re ready. Overbaking will lead to a dry texture.

Make It Your Own

Feel free to experiment and personalize your Chocolate Espresso Rolls! Here are some fun tips to get started:

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. They are best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated.
Freezing: You can freeze unbaked rolls after slicing. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. Let them rise before baking.
Pairing: These rolls pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.
Experiment with Fillings: Try adding nuts, fruits, or different types of chocolate for a unique twist!
Presentation: Serve them warm on a beautiful platter and drizzle with extra icing for an impressive look.

Side Dish Ideas for Chocolate Espresso Rolls

Serving Chocolate Espresso Rolls can be just as much fun as making them! Here are some ideas to round out your meal:

Fresh Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad can balance the rich flavors of the rolls.
Coffee or Tea: Serve with a cup of your favorite brew, enhancing the coffee flavor of the rolls.
Savory Breakfast Options: Pair with scrambled eggs or a savory breakfast casserole for a delightful brunch experience.
Seasonal Dishes: In fall, consider adding spiced pumpkin dishes, or in summer, light salads to accompany the rolls.
Holiday Gatherings: These rolls are perfect during festive occasions like Christmas or Easter, adding a sweet touch to the table.
Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in a cool place, and you can even warm them slightly in the oven before serving.

FAQ

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and filling in advance. Simply follow the recipe up to the point before baking, then cover and refrigerate the rolls. When you’re ready to bake, allow them to come to room temperature and rise as instructed.

I recommend using high-quality dark chocolate for the filling as it enhances the flavor of the rolls. Look for chocolate that contains at least 70% cocoa for a rich taste that pairs well with the coffee.

Yes! You can freeze unbaked rolls after slicing them. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. Just let them rise before baking when you’re ready to enjoy them.

Keep an eye on the rolls as they bake. They should be golden brown on top and cooked through. You can also check the internal temperature; it should be around 190°F (88°C) when fully baked.

While all-purpose flour works great for this recipe, you can try using bread flour for a chewier texture. Just keep in mind it may change the overall feel of the rolls, but they will still be delicious!

Conclusion

These Chocolate Espresso Rolls are a delightful blend of flavors that make them a special treat any time of the day. With their rich filling and soft texture, they’ll surely impress your family and friends. I encourage you to try making these rolls at home and enjoy the warm, comforting vibes they bring. Happy baking!