Chocolate Pecan Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

I absolutely love how this Chocolate Pecan Cinnamon Rolls Recipe combines the rich, indulgent flavors of chocolate and warm cinnamon with the satisfying crunch of toasted pecans. It’s one of those recipes that feels like a special treat but isn’t complicated to make, which makes it perfect for weekend breakfasts or cozy gatherings. When I first tried this recipe, the deep cocoa paired with the subtle coffee in the dough totally surprised me in the best way – it adds a complexity that elevates the rolls beyond the ordinary.

You’ll find that these rolls are wonderfully soft and gooey on the inside with a beautiful chocolate ganache glaze on top that ties everything together. Whether you’re baking for a holiday brunch or just craving a decadent homemade pastry, this Chocolate Pecan Cinnamon Rolls Recipe is worth every bite and effort.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Chocolate Pecan Cinnamon Rolls Recipe plays a key role – from the cocoa and coffee in the dough that deepen the chocolate flavor, to the brown sugar and cinnamon filling that adds warmth. Here are some notes on the essentials you’ll want to prepare before starting your baking adventure.

• Cooking spray: Important for greasing bowls and pans to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
• Granulated sugar: Used both to activate the yeast and sweeten the dough just right.
• Active dry yeast: The magic behind fluffy, risen dough – always check your yeast is fresh for best rise.
• All-purpose flour: Provides structure; measuring carefully helps keep dough consistency perfect.
• Unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds that deep chocolate flavor without overpowering sweetness.
• Instant coffee granules: Enhances the chocolate’s richness subtly; don’t skip it even if you’re not a coffee drinker.
• Kosher salt: Balances sweetness and brings out flavor complexity.
• Large egg: For binding and richness in the dough.
• Pure vanilla extract: Adds sweet floral notes that complement the cocoa and cinnamon.
• Unsalted butter (dough & filling): Softened for dough and filling, adds tenderness and indulgent flavor.
• Light brown sugar: Sweet with a hint of molasses; perfect for cinnamon roll filling.
• Ground cinnamon: The heart of the classic cinnamon roll experience.
• Semisweet chocolate chips: Used inside the rolls and for the ganache topping for melty chocolate pockets.
• Heavy cream: To make a luscious chocolate ganache as a finish.
• Finely chopped toasted pecans: Adds crunch and nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with chocolate and cinnamon.

Variations

One of the things I adore about this Chocolate Pecan Cinnamon Rolls Recipe is how adaptable it is. You can easily switch up nuts or chocolate types to match your preferences or dietary needs. Feel free to experiment – you might just discover your new favorite combo!

• Nut-Free Version: I’ve swapped out pecans for sunflower seeds when baking for a nut-free household, and it worked wonderfully without losing crunch.
• White Chocolate Filling: For a sweeter twist, try white chocolate chips instead of semisweet—my kids beg for this variation frequently.
• Vegan Adaptation: Use plant-based butter and a flax egg substitute; I tested this and achieved a delightfully tender dough.
• Spicy Cinnamon Roll: Adding a pinch of cayenne to the filling gives a surprising kick that’s surprisingly addictive.

How to Make Chocolate Pecan Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Activate Your Yeast and Prep the Dough

Start by lightly greasing a large bowl with cooking spray—this will be where your dough rises beautifully. Combine lukewarm water with a teaspoon of granulated sugar and sprinkle in the yeast; let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy. This step is crucial—if your yeast doesn’t foam, it’s usually a sign it’s expired or your water was too hot or cold, so start over to ensure fluffy rolls.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients and Combine

In your mixer bowl, mix the flour, cocoa powder, instant coffee granules, salt, and remaining sugar. Then add the yeast mixture, egg, and vanilla extract. Begin mixing on low until the dough starts to come together. Gradually increase speed to medium and add butter one tablespoon at a time. Keep mixing for about 5 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic – it should peel away from the sides of the bowl but still be a bit tacky.

Step 3: Let the Dough Rise

Transfer the dough to your prepared bowl, turning it once to coat all sides in a light film of oil. Cover with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let it rise at room temperature until it nearly doubles in size, usually 1 to 2 hours. I like to keep mine in a warm spot, like near my oven or on top of the fridge, to speed up the process.

Step 4: Prepare and Spread the Filling

While the dough rises, mix your filling by combining softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and cocoa powder until smooth and spreadable. This blend is what really gives these rolls their warm, chocolaty, cinnamon-packed taste you’ll adore. I often taste a little dollop here—because quality control!

Step 5: Roll, Fill, and Cut

Once the dough has risen, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and roll it into a large 18” by 15” rectangle. Use an offset spatula to evenly spread the cinnamon chocolate filling over the dough, then sprinkle half the chocolate chips on top. Starting at one long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log, trimming the ends for neatness. Cut the log into 12 equally sized pieces – about 1½ inches thick.

Step 6: Second Rise and Bake

Grease a 13×9 inch baking dish, arrange the rolls cut side down, and cover them again. Let them rise until just nearly doubled, about 30 to 45 minutes. I find that patience here pays off with super fluffy rolls. Then bake uncovered at 375°F for 20-25 minutes. The tops will look set but not necessarily browned, so don’t worry if they’re still light.

Step 7: Make the Ganache and Add Pecans

While the rolls cool slightly, melt the remaining chocolate chips with heated heavy cream in the microwave in short bursts, stirring to create a smooth, glossy ganache. Pour the ganache over the warm rolls and sprinkle chopped toasted pecans on top. I like to toast my pecans lightly in a dry pan beforehand to boost their aroma and crunch.

How to Serve Chocolate Pecan Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Garnishes

I like to keep it simple with the pecans and ganache topping, but for extra flair, a sprinkle of flaky sea salt adds a beautiful contrast to the sweet chocolate. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a few fresh mint leaves can also brighten the presentation, especially for special occasions.

Side Dishes

These rolls shine on their own but pairing them with fresh fruit like sliced oranges or berries adds brightness. For brunch, I often serve them alongside a creamy latte or hot chocolate—it’s a dreamy combo that my family really enjoys.

Creative Ways to Present

For birthdays or holidays, I arrange the rolls in a circular pattern on a wide plate and drizzle extra ganache in a lattice over the top. Topping with edible flowers or finely chopped nuts adds an elegant touch. I’ve even served these rolls warm in individual ramekins with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a fun twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually store leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days — they remain soft and perfect for snacking. If you want to keep them longer, refrigeration works but can dry them out unless covered well.

Freezing

This recipe freezes beautifully! After assembling and cutting the rolls, I freeze them on a baking sheet before placing in a sealed bag. When you want to bake, thaw in the fridge overnight, let rise, then bake as usual. The flavor and texture remain just as delicious.

Reheating

I reheat leftover rolls in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or wrapped in foil at 300°F in the oven for 10 minutes. This revives their gooey texture without making them tough or dry. Adding a little extra ganache or butter before warming helps keep them luscious.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Chocolate Pecan Cinnamon Rolls Recipe holds a special place in my kitchen because it brings together all my favorite flavors in one indulgent package. I truly enjoy baking these for friends and family and watching their faces light up at the first gooey bite. If you’re looking for a chocolatey twist on a classic favorite that feels both comforting and luxurious, I wholeheartedly recommend giving this recipe a try. Trust me, once you make them, you’ll be hooked too!

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