Chocolate Orange Cinnamon Rolls

If you’re looking for a treat that combines warmth, sweetness, and a hint of citrus magic, then these Chocolate Orange Cinnamon Rolls are just what you need! They fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma, making them the perfect addition to any cozy gathering or even a simple weekend breakfast. I love how they elevate the traditional cinnamon roll into something truly special, thanks to the delightful combination of chocolate and orange.

These rolls are not just for Christmas; they shine on busy weeknights or family brunches too. Trust me, once you try these Chocolate Orange Cinnamon Rolls, they will become a cherished recipe in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy preparation: This recipe is straightforward and beginner-friendly. You’ll feel like a pro baker in no time!
• Family favorite: The delicious blend of chocolate and orange makes these rolls irresistible to both kids and adults.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare the dough ahead of time and bake them fresh when you’re ready.
• Festive flair: With their vibrant appearance and flavors, they make any occasion feel special.
• Deliciously indulgent: Soft, gooey, and sweet—these rolls are pure comfort food.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is key to making these Chocolate Orange Cinnamon Rolls. You probably have some of these staples right in your pantry!

For the Dough:

• 60 grams Unsalted butter
• 220 millilitres Whole milk
• 1 packet (11 grams) Fast-action dried yeast
• 50 grams Caster sugar
• 1 medium Egg (room temperature)
• 1 medium Egg yolk (room temperature)
• 460 grams Strong white bread flour (plus more for dusting)
• 50 grams Cocoa powder (I used Menier 100% Cocoa Powder)
• 1 teaspoon Salt

For the Filling:

• 60 grams unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 120 grams light brown sugar/muscovado sugar
• 4 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 large Orange (zest only)

For the Frosting:

• 50 grams Milk chocolate (I use Menier Swiss Milk Chocolate)
• 75 grams Full-fat cream cheese (room temperature)
• 50 grams Icing sugar
• 1 large Orange (juice only)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are a few fun ideas to mix things up:

• Add nuts: Incorporate chopped walnuts or hazelnuts in the filling for extra crunch.
• Try different citrus: Swap out oranges for lemons or even grapefruits for a zesty twist.
• Make it vegan: Use plant-based butter, non-dairy milk, and flax eggs as substitutes.
• Experiment with spices: Add nutmeg or cardamom to the filling for added warmth and flavor.

How to Make Chocolate Orange Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by melting the unsalted butter and mixing it with warm milk. This step is important because it activates the yeast when combined with sugar. Once it’s slightly cooled, sprinkle in the yeast and let it sit for about 5 minutes until bubbly. Next, add in your egg, egg yolk, flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Mix until a soft dough forms!

Step 2: Knead the Dough

Transfer your dough onto a floured surface. Knead it gently for about 10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. This step develops gluten which gives your rolls that fluffy texture we all love.

Step 3: Let It Rise

Form the dough into a ball and place it in an oiled bowl. Cover it with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size—about 1-2 hours. Patience is key here; this rising time ensures soft rolls!

Step 4: Make the Filling

While your dough rises, whip up that scrumptious filling! In a bowl, combine room-temperature butter with brown sugar, cinnamon, and orange zest until smooth. The aroma will be heavenly!

Step 5: Roll Out the Dough

Once your dough has risen beautifully, punch it down gently to release air bubbles. Roll it out into a rectangle about half an inch thick on a floured surface. Spread that luscious filling evenly across the surface.

Step 6: Shape Your Rolls

Starting from one end of the rectangle, carefully roll up the dough tightly into a log shape. Slice into equal pieces—about 10 works perfectly! Place them cut-side up in a greased baking dish.

Step 7: Second Rise

Cover those beauties with a towel again and let them rise for another hour until puffy. This second rise helps achieve maximum fluffiness!

Step 8: Bake Them Up

Preheat your oven while you wait! Once they’ve risen nicely, pop them into your preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 20 minutes or until they’re golden brown.

Step 9: Prepare the Frosting

While your rolls bake away happily in the oven, melt chocolate over low heat or in short bursts in the microwave. Let it cool slightly before mixing it with cream cheese and icing sugar along with fresh orange juice.

Step 10: Frost & Enjoy!

Once baked to perfection, drizzle that creamy frosting over warm rolls straight out of the oven. They’re best enjoyed fresh but can also be stored covered at room temperature.

There you have it! A delightful batch of Chocolate Orange Cinnamon Rolls ready to be shared with loved ones—or kept all to yourself! Enjoy every gooey bite!

Pro Tips for Making Chocolate Orange Cinnamon Rolls

Baking these delightful rolls is a labor of love, and with a few helpful tips, you’ll achieve bakery-worthy results!

• Use fresh ingredients – Always check the expiration dates on your yeast and baking powder. Fresh ingredients will ensure that your rolls rise properly and have the best flavor.

• Knead thoroughly – Kneading your dough for about 10 minutes will develop gluten, giving your rolls that soft and fluffy texture we all crave. Don’t rush this step!

• Let the dough rise in a warm place – Find a cozy spot in your kitchen to let the dough rise. A warm environment helps the yeast work its magic, resulting in perfectly puffed rolls.

• Don’t skip the frosting – The milk chocolate orange cream cheese frosting adds a rich and creamy finish that perfectly complements the rolls. It’s what takes them from good to absolutely heavenly!

• Experiment with fillings – Feel free to play around with additional fillings like nuts or dried fruits. Just keep in mind that too much filling can make rolling tricky!

How to Serve Chocolate Orange Cinnamon Rolls

These Chocolate Orange Cinnamon Rolls are not just delicious; they’re also beautiful! Presenting them well can enhance your guests’ experience during special gatherings or cozy breakfasts.

Garnishes

• Orange zest – Sprinkle some freshly grated orange zest over the top of the frosted rolls for an extra burst of citrus aroma and color.
• Chocolate shavings – Add a sprinkle of chocolate shavings for a touch of elegance that complements the chocolate flavor beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad – A light and refreshing fruit salad adds a nice contrast to the rich flavors of the cinnamon rolls. Choose seasonal fruits like berries, oranges, and apples for a vibrant mix.

• Greek yogurt with honey – Creamy Greek yogurt drizzled with honey provides a lovely tanginess that balances out the sweetness of the rolls while adding a boost of protein.

• Herbal tea or coffee – Pair these rolls with a warm cup of herbal tea or coffee for a comforting breakfast or afternoon treat. The warmth enhances the aromas of chocolate and orange beautifully.

Enjoy creating these mouthwatering Chocolate Orange Cinnamon Rolls, perfect for festive occasions or simply treating yourself! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Chocolate Orange Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for meal prep, making them an ideal treat to enjoy throughout the week. With a little planning, you can savor these delights fresh out of the oven or at your convenience!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the rolls to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftover rolls in an airtight container to keep them moist.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped rolls in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months; label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating

• To reheat frozen rolls, remove from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
• Arrange rolls on a baking sheet and cover loosely with foil.
• Heat in the oven for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Chocolate Orange Cinnamon Rolls:

Can I use a different type of flour for Chocolate Orange Cinnamon Rolls?

Yes! While strong white bread flour gives the best texture, you can experiment with all-purpose flour or even gluten-free alternatives. Just be aware that it may alter the final outcome.

How can I make my Chocolate Orange Cinnamon Rolls even more flavorful?

Adding extra orange zest or using high-quality cocoa powder can enhance flavor. You can also try different spices like nutmeg or cloves for a unique twist on this classic recipe!

What’s the best way to store Chocolate Orange Cinnamon Rolls?

The best way to store these delicious rolls is in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them!

How do I prepare Chocolate Orange Cinnamon Rolls ahead of time?

You can prepare the dough and filling ahead of time, then assemble and refrigerate overnight. Simply bake them fresh in the morning for a delightful breakfast treat!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Chocolate Orange Cinnamon Rolls! They’re not just a treat; they’re a warm hug of flavors that brings festive cheer. Enjoy every gooey bite and share them with loved ones! Happy baking!