Ingredients
For the Dough:
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40 g (⅓ cup) bread flour
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240 g (1 cup) water
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7 g (1 packet) instant yeast
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60 g (¼ cup) warm water
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100 g (½ cup) granulated sugar
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500 g (4 cups) bread flour
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2 large eggs
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60 g (¼ cup) canola oil
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3 tbsp milk powder or buttermilk powder
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½ tsp fine sea salt
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2 tsp pure vanilla extract
For the Filling:
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85 g (6 tbsp) unsalted butter
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85 g dark chocolate, chopped
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40 g (⅓ cup) powdered sugar
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35 g (⅓ cup) cocoa powder
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2 tsp ground cinnamon
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Pinch of fine sea salt
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1 tsp pure vanilla extract
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½ cup heavy cream (optional, for extra gooey rolls)
For the Glaze:
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2 tbsp cream cheese, softened
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1 cup powdered sugar
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1 tsp vanilla bean paste or extract
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Pinch of salt
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2–4 tbsp milk
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2 tbsp cocoa powder (optional for chocolate glaze)
Instructions
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Prepare the Tangzhong:
Whisk together 40 g bread flour and 240 g water in a small pot. Cook over medium heat, stirring, until thick and pasty. Let it cool slightly. -
Activate the Yeast:
Mix yeast with 60 g warm water and a pinch of sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy. -
Make the Dough:
In a stand mixer, combine the tangzhong, yeast, eggs, sugar, oil, milk powder, salt, vanilla, and flour. Knead for 5–7 minutes until a soft dough forms. Place in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for 2 hours or until doubled. -
Prepare the Filling:
Melt butter and chocolate together, then stir in powdered sugar, cocoa, cinnamon, salt, and vanilla. Adjust with a splash of milk if needed. -
Shape the Rolls:
Roll dough into a 13×20-inch rectangle. Spread filling evenly, then roll into a log. Slice into 1-inch rounds. -
Second Rise:
Arrange slices in a greased 9×13-inch pan, cover, and let rise for 45–60 minutes, or until puffy. -
Bake:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour ½ cup heavy cream over the rolls (optional) and bake for 30–35 minutes until golden. -
Glaze & Serve:
Whisk glaze ingredients and drizzle over warm rolls. Serve immediately or store airtight.
Notes
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Make Ahead: Prepare the rolls the night before, refrigerate, and bake fresh in the morning.
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Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of espresso powder to enhance chocolate flavor.
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Storage: Keep in an airtight container for 2 days. Warm in the microwave for 20 seconds before serving.
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Substitution: Swap dark chocolate for milk chocolate if you prefer sweeter rolls.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Rest Time: 3 hours
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American