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: 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 tsp); 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 tsp salt; 1 cup milk, warmed; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 large eggs; 1 cup dark chocolate chips; 1 cup dried cranberries; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp cinnamon (optional)

Highlighted under: Tasty Treat Recipes

When I first combined chocolate and cranberries in these rolls, I was amazed at how their flavors evolved into something extraordinary. The sweet tartness of the cranberries perfectly complements the melting chocolate, creating a delightful surprise in every bite. We love serving these rolls fresh from the oven, where the warm chocolate melts and the cranberries burst with flavor. This recipe has become a favorite in our household, perfect for breakfast or an indulgent treat any time of the day.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-15T11:31:30.357Z

After my first batch of Melting Chocolate-Cranberry Rolls came out of the oven, I couldn't resist the scrumptious aroma. The combination of rich chocolate and tart cranberries captivated not just me, but my whole family. Each bite is a burst of flavor, and I remember my kids sneaking pieces while they were still warm! A tip I found invaluable is letting the dough rest for a few minutes before shaping to improve the texture.

With a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create these irresistible rolls at home. I enjoy tweaking the filling with spices like cinnamon for an extra layer of flavor. When I make these rolls, I don't just bake; I create a joyful kitchen experience that makes everyone eager to dig in!

        Why You'll Love These Rolls
        Surprising burst of tart cranberry flavor with every bite
Decadent melting chocolate that adds richness
Perfect for sharing at gatherings or enhancing your breakfast

      

Creating the Perfect Dough

The dough is the foundation of these Melting Chocolate-Cranberry Rolls, and getting it right is crucial for achieving the ideal texture. The warm milk you use not only activates the yeast but also helps to create a tender crumb. Be sure to check that your milk is lukewarm, around 110°F (43°C), to avoid killing the yeast. If you don’t have a thermometer, it should feel warm but not hot to the touch.

Kneading the dough is another key step; aim for 5-7 minutes until it feels smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle in small amounts of flour as needed, but be cautious not to add too much flour, which can make the rolls dense. A well-kneaded dough will pass the ‘windowpane test’—when stretched, it should form a thin membrane without tearing.

Filling Variations and Techniques

While this recipe features dark chocolate and cranberries, feel free to experiment with different fillings to suit your taste. Milk chocolate or white chocolate can offer a sweeter contrast to the tartness of the cranberries. For an extra flavor boost, consider adding orange zest or chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts; they add a delightful crunch and depth to the rolls. Just remember to balance the sweetness with your chosen chocolates.

To incorporate the filling evenly, rolling the dough tightly is essential. When you spread the melted chocolate and cranberries, ensure they cover the dough almost to the edges to avoid pockets of filling when rolled. Additionally, if you like a more pronounced chocolate flavor, you can drizzle more melted chocolate on top before baking for a gooey finish.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to prepare your rolls.

For the Dough

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

For the Filling

1 cup dark chocolate chips
1 cup dried cranberries
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp cinnamon (optional)

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious rolls.

Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 10 minutes until frothy. Add melted butter, eggs, flour, and salt.

Mix until a dough forms, then knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth.

Let it Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Roll out the Dough

Once risen, punch down the dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle. Spread melted chocolate chips, cranberries, and optional cinnamon over the dough.

Shape the Rolls

Starting from one edge, roll the dough tightly to form a log. Cut into 12 equal pieces and place them in a greased baking dish.

Final Rise

Cover the rolls and let them rise for another 30 minutes, until puffy.

Bake

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.

Serve

Let the rolls cool slightly before serving. Enjoy the melted chocolate and cranberry goodness!

Don’t forget to let your rolls cool before digging in for the perfect melting experience!

Pro Tips

For an extra indulgent touch, drizzle melted chocolate over the rolls just before serving.

Storage and Reheating Tips

These rolls are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep them soft, you can place a slice of bread in the container; it will help maintain moisture. For longer storage, freeze the rolls individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then in a freezer bag. They can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months.

When you're ready to enjoy them again, thaw the rolls at room temperature. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes, or until warmed through. This will revive their fluffy texture and melty chocolate goodness, making it feel like they’re freshly baked.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your rolls don’t rise properly, it might be due to inactive yeast. Always check the expiration date on your yeast, and make sure your liquid is at the right temperature when mixing. If the dough feels too dry after kneading, it can benefit from an additional splash of warm milk mixed in gradually. Conversely, if it’s too sticky, a little extra flour can help.

During baking, keep an eye on the rolls; if they brown too quickly, you can tent them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning while the insides finish cooking. Look for golden-brown tops and a lightly crisp bottom as indicators that they’re done. A kitchen thermometer can help ensure the interior reaches about 190°F (88°C) for perfectly baked rolls.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

Yes, you can, but fresh cranberries are more tart. Consider adding extra sugar to balance the flavors.

→ How can I store leftover rolls?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also freeze them for up to a month.

→ Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the dough, let it rise, then punch it down and refrigerate overnight. Just let it come to room temperature before rolling out.

→ What is the best way to reheat the rolls?

Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes for the best texture.