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: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 teaspoons active dry yeast; 1 cup warm milk (110°F); 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; 1/2 cup cranberries, chopped; 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips; 1 tablespoon butter, melted; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Highlighted under: Homemade Sweets Recipes

I absolutely love making these Melting Chocolate-Cranberry Rolls for any gathering. The combination of sweet chocolate and tart cranberries creates a delightful burst of flavors that my family adores. Each roll is soft and gooey, making them a perfect sweet treat to enjoy with coffee or tea. I find that the key to making them melt-in-your-mouth perfect is to let the dough rise well, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Trust me, you won’t want to stop at just one!

Created by

Anna Johnson

Last updated on 2026-01-16T14:01:28.130Z

I remember the first time I made these Melting Chocolate-Cranberry Rolls; they were a hit right out of the oven! I experimented with different fruit and chocolate combinations, but the tartness of cranberries perfectly complements the rich chocolate. The result was a soft, mouthwatering roll that left everyone wanting more.

One tip I learned along the way is to use fresh cranberries, as they give the rolls a vibrant flavor. Mixing the chocolate and cranberries in the dough rather than just on top results in a gooey, decadent treat that’s sure to impress anyone who tries them!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with tangy cranberries
Soft, gooey texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy brunches

      

Tips for Perfect Rising

The rising time for your dough is crucial in achieving those soft and gooey rolls. A warm, draft-free environment is essential for the yeast to work effectively. I recommend placing your bowl in an oven that’s been preheated to the lowest setting and then turned off, which creates just the right temperature. Make sure to check after 30 minutes; the dough should be doubled in size and feel slightly puffy. If not, give it an extra 10-15 minutes.

Keep in mind that humidity can affect the dough's rising. If you’re in a particularly humid area, your dough may rise more quickly or could even need a little more flour. Always observe the texture and size of your dough rather than strictly adhering to a timer. It should feel smooth and slightly tacky, but not overly sticky.

Ingredient Insights

Choosing the right chocolate is essential for flavor balance in these rolls. Semisweet chocolate chips work perfectly, as they offer just the right amount of sweetness to contrast with the tartness of the cranberries. If you prefer a darker flavor, feel free to substitute with bittersweet chocolate – just cut back on sugar slightly to maintain the right sweetness level.

Fresh cranberries add a bright tartness, but if they're out of season, you can use dried cranberries instead. However, consider soaking them in warm water for about 10-15 minutes to plump them up. This helps to rehydrate them and ensures they mix well into the dough, preventing them from absorbing moisture from the rolls during baking.

Ingredients

For the Rolls

2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons active dry yeast
1 cup warm milk (110°F)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1/2 cup cranberries, chopped
1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips

For the Topping

1 tablespoon butter, melted
1 tablespoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Make sure to use fresh cranberries for the best flavor.

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine the warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast on top and let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Stir in the melted butter and salt, then gradually add the flour.

Knead until the dough is smooth, about 5-7 minutes.

Incorporate Cranberries and Chocolate

Fold in the chopped cranberries and chocolate chips until evenly distributed. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes, or until doubled in size.

Shape the Rolls

After the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll it out into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Cut into squares and roll each square tightly to form a roll.

Bake the Rolls

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with sugar and cinnamon.

Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Serve and Enjoy

Allow the rolls to cool slightly before serving warm. Enjoy these delightful treats with a cup of tea or coffee!

These rolls are best served warm straight from the oven!

Pro Tips

Try adding a drizzle of chocolate ganache on top for an extra indulgent touch.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Be sure to keep them away from direct sunlight, which can dry them out. To keep them fresh for a longer period, wrap the rolls individually in plastic wrap and freeze them. They can last for up to three months in the freezer.

When you're ready to enjoy your frozen rolls, simply remove them from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about an hour before reheating. For best results, warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until they're heated through, which will help regain some of their original softness.

Serving Suggestions

These Melting Chocolate-Cranberry Rolls are delightful on their own, but you can elevate your presentation by drizzling a simple glaze over them. Mix powdered sugar with a bit of milk or orange juice until you reach your desired consistency, then drizzle it over the warm rolls for a sweet touch that ties the flavors together beautifully.

For a festive gathering, consider pairing these rolls with a light fruit salad or a selection of jams. A side of whipped cream or mascarpone can also add a rich creaminess that complements the chocolate and cranberries nicely. They make great breakfast additions or serve them as a sweet finish to a cozy brunch.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen cranberries instead?

Yes, you can use frozen cranberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them before using to prevent excess moisture.

→ How do I store leftover rolls?

Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day in advance and refrigerate it overnight. Just let it come to room temperature before shaping.

→ What can I substitute for the chocolate chips?

You can use white chocolate chips or even chopped nuts for a different flavor profile.