Imagine the heavenly aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls filling your kitchen — now add the irresistible charm of melted chocolate chips swirling through soft, fluffy dough. That’s what a Chocolate Chip Cinnamon Roll is all about: the perfect balance of gooey sweetness, warm spice, and rich chocolate indulgence.
This recipe is a dream come true for dessert lovers and breakfast enthusiasts alike. It combines two classic favorites — chocolate chip cookies and cinnamon rolls — into one melt-in-your-mouth treat. Fun fact: the earliest cinnamon rolls date back to Sweden, where they’re called kanelbullar! But our version gets an upgrade with everyone’s favorite addition — chocolate.
What makes this dish so special? It’s easy, family-friendly, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making brunch for guests or treating yourself on a Sunday morning, these rolls are ready in no time and guaranteed to impress.
If you’ve already fallen in love with my Gluten-Free Lemon Curd Cookies, get ready for another irresistible bake that’s just as easy and rewarding. So grab your apron, preheat the oven, and let’s create a batch of Chocolate Chip Cinnamon Rolls that will have everyone asking for seconds!
What is a Chocolate Chip Cinnamon Roll?
Ever wondered what makes a Chocolate Chip Cinnamon Roll so addictive? It’s that magical combo of classic cinnamon roll dough stuffed with sweet, melty chocolate chips that makes you question — dessert or breakfast? Why not both!
The name pretty much says it all: a swirl of soft dough, buttery cinnamon sugar, and gooey chocolate that melts perfectly when baked. Legend has it that a baker once dropped chocolate chips into his cinnamon roll dough by accident — and the world became a sweeter place!
As they say, the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, and these rolls prove it every single time. Ready to win hearts and fill bellies? Let’s get baking — because your next favorite recipe starts here!
Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Chip Cinnamon Roll
There’s something magical about this recipe, and here’s why it deserves a spot in your kitchen rotation:
1. Soft, Gooey, and Irresistible
Each bite is a swirl of buttery dough, spiced cinnamon sugar, and melted chocolate chips. It’s comfort food at its finest — warm, rich, and full of cozy flavor. Think of it as a dessert that doubles as breakfast!
2. Save Money, Bake Happiness
Why spend extra at a bakery when you can make Chocolate Chip Cinnamon Rolls at home for a fraction of the cost? With simple pantry ingredients and no fancy tools, this recipe is budget-friendly and perfect for busy mornings or weekend treats.
3. Flavorful Add-Ons
Add a drizzle of vanilla glaze, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, or even a cream cheese frosting if you’re feeling fancy. Each version offers a new layer of deliciousness.
If you loved my Chocolate Coconut Layer Cake, this recipe will give you that same rich, bakery-style vibe — with a warm cinnamon twist. Go ahead and make a batch today; your kitchen will smell like a dream come true!
How to Make Chocolate Chip Cinnamon Roll in 3 Easy Steps
Quick Overview
This recipe is all about simplicity. You’ll only need about 20 minutes of prep time and 25 minutes of baking, making it perfect for beginners or last-minute dessert cravings. The result? Golden, fluffy rolls bursting with cinnamon sugar and melty chocolate chips — a treat that looks fancy but feels effortless!
Key Ingredients for Chocolate Chip Cinnamon Roll
Here’s what you’ll need to make these heavenly rolls:
For the Dough:
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 ¼ tsp instant yeast (1 packet)
- ½ tsp salt
- ¾ cup warm milk
- 3 tbsp melted butter
- 1 large egg
F or the Filling:
- 3 tbsp softened butter
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips
For the Glaze (optional but delicious):
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tbsp milk
- ¼ tsp vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Add melted butter, egg, and salt, then mix in flour gradually until a soft dough forms. Knead for 5–6 minutes until smooth. Cover and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Step 2: Roll and Fill
Once the dough has risen, roll it into a rectangle (about ¼-inch thick). Spread softened butter over the top, sprinkle brown sugar and cinnamon evenly, then scatter chocolate chips all over. Roll the dough tightly from the long side and cut into 8–10 equal pieces.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Place rolls in a greased baking dish, cover, and let rise for another 20 minutes. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes or until golden brown. Drizzle with glaze if desired — and get ready for the best smell ever!
What to Serve Chocolate Chip Cinnamon Roll With
These rolls are delicious on their own, but if you want to create the ultimate brunch experience, try pairing them with:
- A hot cup of cappuccino or latte
- Fresh fruit salad for a refreshing contrast
- Vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert twist
- A side of scrambled eggs and bacon for a sweet-and-savory combo
You can also serve them with homemade hot chocolate or vanilla chai latte for a cozy weekend treat. Whatever you choose, this Chocolate Chip Cinnamon Roll will always be the star of your table.
Top Tips for Perfecting Chocolate Chip Cinnamon Roll
- Use fresh yeast — it makes all the difference for fluffy rolls.
- Don’t overfill with chocolate; too much can cause the dough to tear.
- Warm milk, not hot! It should be around 110°F to activate the yeast without killing it.
- Try variations: Add chopped nuts or drizzle melted Nutella for extra decadence.
- Make ahead: Prepare the rolls, refrigerate overnight, and bake fresh in the morning.
Even if you’re new to baking, these tips ensure success every time. Remember — baking should be fun, not stressful!
Storing and Reheating Tips
- To Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- To Freeze: Place cooled rolls in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- To Reheat: Warm in the microwave for 15–20 seconds or in a preheated oven at 300°F for 5 minutes. The rolls will taste freshly baked every time!
FAQ About Chocolate Chip Cinnamon Roll
Q: Can I use store-bought dough for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Using pre-made dough is a time-saver and still gives great results.
Q: What type of chocolate chips work best?
A: Mini semi-sweet chocolate chips melt evenly and add perfect sweetness to each bite.
Q: Can I make these rolls vegan?
A: Yes! Substitute plant-based milk, vegan butter, and an egg replacer to make them fully vegan.
Q: Can I add frosting instead of glaze?
A: Definitely — a cream cheese frosting takes this Chocolate Chip Cinnamon Roll to the next level.
There you have it — a soft, sweet, and chocolatey creation that’s guaranteed to make your mornings brighter. The Chocolate Chip Cinnamon Roll brings together everything you love about homemade baking: rich flavor, comforting warmth, and that fresh-from-the-oven magic.
Whether it’s breakfast, dessert, or an anytime treat, these rolls are simple to make, fun to share, and impossible to resist. So grab your ingredients, follow these easy steps, and bake up happiness today. Your kitchen — and your family — will thank you!
If you’re planning a dessert spread, it also pairs beautifully with Mini Caramel Peanut Cheesecakes or Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake Bites.