Chocolate Espresso Buns

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These Chocolate Espresso Buns are a delightful fusion of rich chocolate and bold espresso flavor, perfect for breakfast or a mid-afternoon snack. The soft, fluffy dough pairs perfectly with the bittersweet chocolate filling, and the hint of espresso elevates these buns to a new level of indulgence.

 

ingredients:

For the Dough:

  • 2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
  • ¾ cup warm milk (110°F)
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

For the Filling:

  • 1 cup dark chocolate, finely chopped or chocolate chips
  • 2 tbsp instant espresso powder
  • ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened

For the Glaze (optional):

  • ½ cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tbsp brewed espresso
  • 1 tbsp cocoa powder

Instructions:

  1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
  2. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and remaining sugar. Add the activated yeast mixture, eggs, and melted butter. Stir to combine until a dough forms.
  3. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
  4. Prepare the Filling: In a small bowl, mix the chopped chocolate, espresso powder, cocoa powder, sugar, and softened butter to form a paste.
  5. Shape the Buns: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a rectangle (about ¼ inch thick). Spread the chocolate-espresso filling evenly over the dough. Roll the dough tightly from the long side to form a log. Cut the log into 12 even slices.
  6. Second Rise: Place the slices into a greased baking dish, leaving space between them. Cover and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
  7. Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the buns for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
  8. Optional Glaze: While the buns cool slightly, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, brewed espresso, and cocoa powder. Drizzle over the warm buns.

Enjoy your warm, chocolatey, and espresso-infused buns with a cup of coffee or milk!

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