01 -
In a medium bowl, combine packed light brown sugar, black cocoa powder, and ground cinnamon. Mix well and set aside.
02 -
In a large bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, combine all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, instant dry yeast, fine salt, and instant espresso or coffee.
03 -
In a separate microwave-safe bowl, add whole milk, granulated sugar, and unsalted butter. Heat on high for 60-90 seconds until warm to the touch. Stir the mixture to combine.
04 -
Gradually add the warm milk mixture to the dry ingredients and mix on medium speed using a dough hook until a dough forms. Add in the large egg and mix on low until a sticky dough ball forms.
05 -
Continue mixing on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until the dough becomes elastic. Add additional flour 1 tablespoon at a time as needed until the dough pulls away from the bowl and feels tacky but not sticky.
06 -
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the dough rest for 15 minutes to relax the gluten.
07 -
Generously flour your work surface and roll the dough into a rectangle approximately 12 x 18 inches and 1/4 inch thick.
08 -
Spread softened butter evenly over the dough, leaving a 1 inch border along one long edge. Sprinkle the prepared chocolate cinnamon filling evenly over the buttered area and pat gently into the surface.
09 -
Tightly roll up the dough from the long edge toward the uncovered strip. Cut the log into 9 equal pieces using dental floss or a sharp knife.
10 -
Grease an 8 x 8 inch square pan and place the rolls in the pan. Cover with foil and place in a turned-off 200°F oven for 30 minutes to let the rolls rise.
11 -
Remove the pan from the oven and discard the foil. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Bake the rolls for 26-32 minutes, or until desired doneness is reached. Let cool for at least 5 minutes before glazing.
12 -
In a medium bowl, combine unsalted butter, chocolate chips, and whole milk. Microwave on medium-high power for 60 seconds. Stir until the chocolate is melted and fully combined.
13 -
Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract to the chocolate mixture. Stir until the glaze is smooth.
14 -
Drizzle the glaze over the slightly cooled cinnamon rolls and serve warm.