Melting Chocolate-Cranberry Rolls

Name: Melting Chocolate-Cranberry Rolls
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 12 rolls
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup milk, warmed; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 large egg; 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; 1 cup dried cranberries; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1 teaspoon cinnamon

Highlighted under: Sweet Recipes

I can't express how much joy these Melting Chocolate-Cranberry Rolls bring to our gatherings. Every time I make them, the combination of gooey chocolate and tart cranberries creates a delightful experience that captures the essence of comfort in every bite. The dough is soft and pillowy, making it easy to enjoy, while the filling provides a surprising burst of flavor. Whether for breakfast or dessert, these rolls are an indulgence I could never resist, and I love sharing them with family and friends during special occasions.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-15T11:25:30.531Z

When I first experimented with these rolls, I was amazed at how well the flavors meld together. The tartness of the cranberries cuts through the sweetness of the chocolate, balancing the overall taste perfectly. I found that letting the dough rise a little longer gives it an even fluffier texture, which makes each roll feel like a little cloud of happiness.

In one of my attempts, I decided to sprinkle a bit of sea salt on top before baking, which elevated the flavor to new heights. This simple addition turned them into a true standout dish. I've received compliments from everyone who has tasted them, confirming that this combination is indeed a winner!

        Why You'll Love These Rolls
        Decadent chocolate combined with tangy cranberries offers a delightful flavor twist.
Soft, pillowy dough that practically melts in your mouth.
Versatile enough for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet dessert treat.

      

Understanding the Dough

The dough for these Melting Chocolate-Cranberry Rolls is the backbone of the recipe. When combining the dry ingredients, be sure to mix them thoroughly to prevent any clumps of yeast, which can lead to uneven rising. The dough should become smooth and elastic during kneading; if it’s too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour, up to one tablespoon at a time, until you achieve the right consistency. An effective kneading technique involves pushing the dough away from you with the heel of your hand and then folding it back over.

The rising phase is crucial; it allows the yeast to ferment, producing gases that create air pockets in your rolls, making them fluffy. Keep the dough in a warm, draft-free place for optimal rising. If your kitchen is cold, placing the bowl inside an oven preheated to the lowest setting for a few minutes can create a suitable environment. Allow the dough to double in size, which usually takes about an hour, but keep an eye on it to avoid over-proofing.

After rising, gently punch down the dough to release the air. This step redistributes the yeast for even flavor and texture throughout the rolls. It may seem counterintuitive to deflate the dough, but it helps create that ideal soft, pillowy texture characteristic of these rolls. Remember, the dough should be soft but not sticky after you finish kneading.

Crafting the Perfect Filling

The filling combines semi-sweet chocolate and dried cranberries, creating a balance of sweet and tart flavors that is truly delightful. Use high-quality chocolate chips for the best melting results; consider dark chocolate for a more intense flavor if desired. If you prefer a healthier twist, you can substitute the chocolate chips with dark chocolate bars chopped into smaller pieces for varied texture and richness.

Dried cranberries add a wonderful tartness that not only complements the sweetness of the chocolate but also adds chewiness to the filling. If you can't find dried cranberries, feel free to substitute with other dried fruits such as cherries or blueberries; just ensure they are not overly sweetened. Mixing in a teaspoon of orange zest can also elevate the flavor, bringing a refreshing brightness to the rolls.

When assembling the rolls, evenly spreading the filling is key. It ensures that each roll gets its fair share of the delicious concoction. Consider using a spatula to smooth the filling, making it easier to spread without tearing the dough. This careful assembly contributes to the visual appeal and overall enjoyment of your rolls when they emerge from the oven.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before starting:

For the Dough

3 cups all-purpose flour
1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup milk, warmed
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 large egg

For the Filling

1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 cup dried cranberries
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon

Make sure to have a clean workspace for rolling out the dough.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious rolls:

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Mix well. Then, add the warmed milk, melted butter, and egg. Stir until a dough starts to form.

Knead on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth.

Let the Dough Rise

Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Prepare the Filling

In a medium bowl, mix together the chocolate chips, dried cranberries, brown sugar, and cinnamon.

Assemble the Rolls

Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle. Spread the filling evenly over the dough, then roll it tightly from the long side. Slice into 12 equal pieces.

Bake the Rolls

Place the rolls in a greased baking dish, cover, and let rise for another 30 minutes. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.

Allow the rolls to cool slightly before serving.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, drizzle melted chocolate over the rolls once cooled for a beautiful finish.

Serving Suggestions

These Melting Chocolate-Cranberry Rolls are ideal for a cozy breakfast or an exquisite dessert. To serve them warm, cover them with a clean kitchen towel right after baking to keep the moisture in. You can drizzle some icing made from powdered sugar and milk for an extra sweet touch, or enjoy them plain for a less sugary option. Pairing them with a cup of coffee or herbal tea adds to the delightful experience.

For a more decadent treat, try serving the rolls alongside whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, particularly if they are still warm. They also make for an enticing centerpieces at brunches or gatherings when arranged on a decorative platter. If you have leftovers, consider slicing them in half and toasting them lightly to revive their lovely texture.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These rolls can be made ahead of time for convenience. After assembling the rolls but before baking, cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove from the fridge and allow them to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to an hour before baking so they can rise slightly.

For storage, keep any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. To freeze, place individual rolls in a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. This helps restore their soft, gooey texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

Fresh cranberries can be used, but they may be too tart. If you do, consider adding more sugar to the filling.

→ How do I store leftover rolls?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for a week.

→ Can I freeze these rolls?

Absolutely! Freeze unbaked rolls after slicing. You can bake them directly from the freezer, just increase baking time by a few minutes.

→ What can I substitute for milk?

You can use almond milk, soy milk, or any non-dairy alternative as a substitute.