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:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Prepare the Filling: In a small bowl, mix the chopped chocolate, espresso powder, cocoa powder, sugar, and softened butter to form a paste.
- 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.
- Second Rise: Place the slices into a greased baking dish, leaving space between them. Cover and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the buns for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
- 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!
