chocolate peanut butter sweet rolls

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of chocolate and peanut butter, you’ve come to the right place! These chocolate peanut butter sweet rolls are not just a dessert; they’re a warm hug on a plate. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this recipe brings everyone together with its sweet aroma and irresistible taste. You can even make them ahead of time, so they’re ready to go when you need a little indulgence!

What makes these sweet rolls extra special is how simple they are to whip up. With just a few wholesome ingredients and some love, you’ll create a batch that’s sure to impress anyone lucky enough to have one (or two!). So grab your apron, and let’s get started on this delicious journey!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of chocolate and creamy peanut butter creates an indulgent treat that everyone will love.
• Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, making these rolls is as easy as pie (or should I say, as easy as sweet rolls?).
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will be reaching for these soft, warm rolls—perfect for sharing!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the dough in advance, making it ideal for busy mornings or spontaneous gatherings.
• Customizable Toppings: Add your favorite toppings or mix-ins for a personalized touch!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Let’s gather everything we need for our chocolate peanut butter sweet rolls.

For the Rolls

• 1 cup milk {dairy or non-dairy}
• 1 3/4 cups white flour {+ 3/4 cup (separated)}
• 1/4 dark cocoa powder {regular is okay (too!)}
• ¼ cup vegetable oil or melted coconut oil
• ¼ cup white sugar
• ½ tbsp instant active dry yeast {about ½ a package}
• ¼ tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp baking soda
• ¼ tsp salt

For the Filling

• 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter
• 2-3 tbsp sugar
• 1/4 chocolate chips

For the Frosting

• 4 oz cream cheese (at room temperature)
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter (at room temperature)
• 1-2 tbsp peanut butter (to taste)
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• pinch of salt
• chopped peanut butter cups

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! If you want to switch things up, here are some fun variations to consider:

• Add Nuts: Mix in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
• Change the Chocolate: Use white chocolate chips instead of regular ones for a different flavor twist.
• Try Different Nut Butters: Swap out peanut butter for almond or cashew butter if you’re feeling adventurous.
• Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne pepper in the filling for a unique kick!

How to Make chocolate peanut butter sweet rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large nonstick pot, combine the milk, oil, and ¼ cup of sugar. Heat this mixture over medium heat until it reaches about 120F—warm but not too hot! Then remove it from the burner and sprinkle the yeast on top. This step is crucial because it activates the yeast, which helps our rolls rise beautifully.

Step 2: First Rise

Mix in the 1 3/4 cups of flour and 1/4 cup of cocoa. Cover the pot with a clean tea towel and let that dough rise for about 1 hour. This resting time allows the yeast to work its magic and creates that fluffy texture we all love.

Step 3: Knead and Second Rise

After the first rise, add in salt, baking powder, baking soda, and more flour as needed. Knead until everything is well combined—your dough should be soft but not sticky. Don’t forget to cut an X on top before covering it again with a tea towel. Let it rise for another 6+ hours; overnight is best if you can manage it!

Step 4: Roll Out and Fill

Once your dough has risen beautifully again, lightly flour your surface and knead it gently for 2-3 minutes. Roll out into a rectangle—not too thin! Spread that creamy peanut butter across the surface (microwaving it helps!) before sprinkling on sugar and chocolate chips.

Step 5: Shape Your Rolls

Starting from one long side closest to you, roll up your dough carefully so none of that delicious filling escapes. Use a sharp knife to slice into 1½-2 inch pieces. Place these in a greased 9×13 pan with some space between them—this allows them room to puff up while they bake!

Step 6: Final Rise and Bake

Cover with plastic wrap again; let them rise for an hour in a warm spot or refrigerate overnight if you prefer. When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 375F and pop those rolls in! Bake for about 15-18 minutes until they look dry on top.

Step 7: Make the Frosting

While your sweet rolls bake away, whip up some frosting! In a medium bowl, beat together cream cheese, peanut butter, and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until light & fluffy.

Step 8: Enjoy!

Let those beautiful rolls cool slightly before spreading on frosting generously! Top with chopped pieces of peanut butter cups if you’re feeling fancy. Enjoy every delectable bite!

Pro Tips for Making chocolate peanut butter sweet rolls

Creating the perfect chocolate peanut butter sweet rolls is a delightful journey – these tips will guide you to success!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Having your milk, cream cheese, and butter at room temperature ensures better mixing and a smoother texture in both the dough and frosting.
• Don’t rush the rise: Allowing the dough to rise thoroughly is key for achieving light and fluffy rolls. If possible, let it rise overnight; the flavors develop beautifully!
• Microwave the peanut butter for easy spreading: A quick zap in the microwave makes the peanut butter easier to spread on the dough, minimizing any tearing or sticking.
• Cut evenly sized rolls: Using a sharp knife to cut uniform pieces of dough helps them bake evenly. This means every roll will have the perfect golden crust!
• Experiment with fillings: Don’t hesitate to add your favorite mix-ins like chopped nuts or different types of chocolate! This can customize your sweet rolls and make them uniquely yours.

How to Serve chocolate peanut butter sweet rolls

These chocolate peanut butter sweet rolls are best served warm and fresh out of the oven, but they can also be a delightful treat any time of day. Here are some fun ideas on how to present and enjoy them!

Garnishes

• Chopped peanuts: Adding a sprinkle of chopped peanuts on top of your frosting enhances texture and adds an extra nutty flavor that complements the peanut butter.
• Drizzle of melted chocolate: A quick drizzle of melted dairy-free chocolate over the frosted rolls brings an indulgent touch that’s visually appealing.
• Cocoa powder dusting: For a simple yet elegant garnish, dust a little cocoa powder over the top for a hint of bitterness that balances the sweetness.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A vibrant fruit salad with seasonal fruits adds a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of your rolls.
• Yogurt parfaits: Layering dairy-free yogurt with granola and berries creates a deliciously creamy side that pairs well with coffee or tea.
• Smoothies: A smoothie packed with greens and fruits not only adds nutrition but also balances out the rich flavors of your sweet rolls.
• Nutty granola bars: For those who want a wholesome crunch, serving homemade or store-bought nutty granola bars alongside can make for a satisfying breakfast or snack option.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your chocolate peanut butter sweet rolls will surely impress family and friends! Enjoy baking this delightful treat!

Make Ahead and Storage

These chocolate peanut butter sweet rolls are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them in advance and enjoy their deliciousness throughout the week. Follow these simple tips to ensure they stay fresh and tasty.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover sweet rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you prefer, you can refrigerate them for a longer shelf life; just remember to let them come to room temperature before serving.

Freezing

• To freeze the rolls, allow them to cool completely after baking.
• Wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat the rolls in the oven at 350F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave individual rolls for about 20-30 seconds if you’re short on time.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about these delightful sweet rolls!

Can I use different types of flour for chocolate peanut butter sweet rolls?

Yes! While this recipe uses white flour, you can experiment with whole wheat or gluten-free flour blends as well. Just keep an eye on the dough’s texture and adjust liquid as necessary.

How do I make my chocolate peanut butter sweet rolls fluffier?

To achieve a fluffier texture, ensure that your yeast is fresh and active. Allowing enough time for both rises is also crucial. Don’t rush the process!

Can I make chocolate peanut butter sweet rolls without dairy?

Absolutely! This recipe is flexible—simply substitute dairy milk with your favorite non-dairy milk alternative, like almond or oat milk.

How long does it take to prepare chocolate peanut butter sweet rolls?

The total time from prep to bake is around 380 minutes, but a significant portion of that is hands-off rising time. It’s worth every minute when you taste the final product!

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to bake these chocolate peanut butter sweet rolls! They truly are a delightful treat that brings comfort and joy with every bite. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a cozy day at home, these rolls are sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy making this recipe, and don’t forget to share your delicious results!