Why Make This Recipe

Sourdough Chocolate Rolls are a delightful treat that combines the tangy flavor of sourdough with rich chocolate goodness. They make a perfect snack for any time of day, whether it’s breakfast, an afternoon treat, or dessert. The rolls are soft, fluffy, and decadent, appealing to both chocolate lovers and bread enthusiasts alike. Plus, using sourdough adds a unique flavor and makes these rolls easier to digest.

How to Make Sourdough Chocolate Rolls

Ingredients

200 g whole milk
100 g sourdough starter, active and bubbly
70 g cane sugar
1 large egg, room temperature
430 g bread flour
5 g sea salt
8 tbs unsalted butter, room temperature (113 g)
5 tbs unsalted butter, room temperature
1/2 cup cane sugar
2 tbs cocoa powder, unsweetened
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1/4 cup whole milk
1/4 cup cocoa powder, unsweetened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla

Directions

Mix the Dough: In a large bowl, combine whole milk, sourdough starter, cane sugar, egg, bread flour, and sea salt. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
Strengthen the Dough: Add in room temperature butter and knead the dough until it is smooth and elastic, about 10 minutes.
Bulk Fermentation: Cover the dough and let it rise at room temperature until it doubles in size, usually about 4 hours.
Roll Out and Fill the Dough: Once the dough has risen, roll it out into a rectangle. Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough. Mix together cane sugar and cocoa powder and sprinkle it over the butter. Finally, add the semi-sweet chocolate chips on top.
Roll and Cut: Roll the dough tightly into a log and cut it into equal pieces.
Second Rise: Place the cut rolls in a greased baking pan, cover, and allow them to rise until they are puffy, about 1-2 hours.
Bake and Frost: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the rolls for about 25-30 minutes until golden brown. For the frosting, mix together whole milk, cocoa powder, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle this over the warm rolls.

How to Serve Sourdough Chocolate Rolls

Sourdough Chocolate Rolls are best enjoyed warm from the oven. You can serve them plain or with a drizzle of frosting. They pair well with a cup of coffee or tea, making them a lovely choice for brunch or dessert. For extra indulgence, serve with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

How to Store Sourdough Chocolate Rolls

To store Sourdough Chocolate Rolls, let them cool completely. Place the rolls in an airtight container and keep them at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Wrap the rolls tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They should keep well for about a month. To reheat, simply place them in a warm oven for a few minutes.

Tips to Make Sourdough Chocolate Rolls

Ensure your sourdough starter is active and bubbly for the best flavor and rise.
Don’t skip the kneading step; this develops the gluten and gives the rolls their fluffy texture.
For an even richer flavor, you can add a pinch of cinnamon to the filling.
Letting the dough rise longer might enhance the flavor, so don’t rush this step.

Variation

You can easily customize these rolls. Consider adding nuts, such as chopped walnuts or hazelnuts, to the filling for added crunch. You can also experiment with different types of chocolate or add a layer of fruit preserves for a fruity twist.

FAQs

Q: Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?
A: Yes, you can use all-purpose flour, but the texture might be slightly different. Bread flour gives a chewier, more elastic roll.

Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the dough and place it in the fridge for an overnight rise. Just let it come to room temperature before rolling and shaping.

Q: What should I do if my sourdough starter isn’t bubbly?
A: If your starter isn’t bubbly, it may need more feeding or might be too cold. Try feeding it and keeping it in a warmer place for a few hours before using it in this recipe.