Description
Indulge in warm, gooey cinnamon rolls made entirely from scratch, filled with a rich cinnamon-sugar swirl and decadent chocolate chips. Topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting that perfectly balances sweetness and tang, these rolls are an irresistible treat for breakfast or dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
For the dough:
- 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 tsp salt
For the filling:
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
For the cream cheese frosting:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1-2 tbsp milk (as needed for consistency)
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve yeast in warm milk and let sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy. This step ensures the yeast is active and ready to help the dough rise.
- Mix Dough Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add melted butter, egg, and the yeast mixture. Mix until a soft dough forms, ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5-7 minutes for easier kneading.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size. This rising develops the dough’s texture and flavor.
- Roll Out Dough: Punch down the dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a 15×12 inch rectangle to prepare for filling.
- Add Filling: Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough’s surface. In a small bowl, mix brown sugar with cinnamon, then sprinkle it evenly over the butter. Scatter mini chocolate chips on top to add richness.
- Form the Roll: Starting from the long edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Pinch the seam to seal it well to prevent filling from leaking.
- Cut and Arrange Rolls: Cut the roll into 12 equal slices and place them cut side up in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Cover and let rise again for 30-45 minutes until puffed for a light texture.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and cooked through, giving them a perfect soft and fluffy interior.
- Prepare Frosting: While baking, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing well. Add milk as needed until the frosting reaches a spreadable consistency.
- Frost and Serve: Remove rolls from oven and allow to cool for about 10 minutes before spreading the cream cheese frosting generously on top. Serve warm to enjoy the gooey texture and rich flavors.
Notes
- For extra gooey rolls, drizzle a little melted chocolate over the frosting.
- Use fresh yeast for the best rise and texture.
- Dough can be prepared the night before and refrigerated, then baked fresh in the morning for convenience.
