Delicious Homemade Schokobrötchen (Chocolate Rolls) Recipe

Ingredients

  • 500g all-purpose flour
  • 1 package (7g) dry yeast
  • 80g sugar
  • 250ml warm milk
  • 1 large egg
  • 80g unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 200g milk chocolate chips
  • 1 egg yolk for egg wash
  • 1 tablespoon water for egg wash

Steps and instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, dry yeast, and sugar.
  2. Warm the milk and add it to the flour mixture, stirring until a dough begins to form.
  3. Add the egg, softened butter, and salt to the dough, kneading well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated. You can use a stand mixer with a dough hook for this step, or knead by hand.
  4. Gradually add in the milk chocolate chips, ensuring they're evenly distributed throughout the dough.
  5. Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place for about 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
  6. After the dough has risen, divide it into 12 equal pieces and shape each one into a roll.
  7. Place the rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they're spaced apart to allow for expansion during baking.
  8. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
  9. In a small bowl, beat the egg yolk with 1 tablespoon of water to create an egg wash. Brush this over the tops of the rolls.
  10. Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until they're golden brown.
  11. Allow the Schokobrötchen to cool on a wire rack before serving.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a healthier option
  • Adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the dough for extra flavor
  • Replacing the milk chocolate chips with dark chocolate or white chocolate chips
  • Incorporating nuts or dried fruits into the dough for added texture and taste
  • Adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a spiced twist
  • Making a savory version by omitting the sugar and chocolate, and instead adding cheese, herbs, or spices to the dough
  • Creating a sticky caramelized topping by sprinkling brown sugar on top of the rolls before baking
  • Adding a glaze or drizzle of melted chocolate on top of the baked rolls
  • Making mini Schokobrötchen by dividing the dough into smaller portions and adjusting the baking time accordingly
  • Using plant-based alternatives such as almond milk, vegan butter, or egg substitutes for a vegan version

Recipe overview

Discover the deliciousness of Schokobrötchen, a beloved German treat that will bring a touch of European bakery charm to your kitchen. Though its name might sound complex, Schokobrötchen simply means "chocolate rolls". These fluffy, sweet rolls are generously studded with milk chocolate chips, offering a delightful surprise with every bite. The process of making Schokobrötchen involves creating a yeast-based dough, allowing it to rise, and baking the rolls until golden brown. The recipe isn't overly complicated, making it a great choice for bakers of various skill levels. The result is a batch of 12 soft, sweet, and slightly chewy rolls that are perfect for breakfast, a snack, or dessert. They're best enjoyed fresh from the oven while the chocolate is still melty, but you can also store them for a few days to enjoy later. From start to finish, expect to spend about 2.5 hours creating your Schokobrötchen, including the dough rising time. With a little bit of patience and effort, you'll be rewarded with a delightful treat that's sure to impress.

Common questions

  1. Can I use instant yeast instead of dry yeast? Yes, you can use instant yeast as a substitute for dry yeast. However, you may need to adjust the rising time as instant yeast usually has a faster activation time.
  2. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour? While you can use whole wheat flour, it will result in a denser texture compared to using all-purpose flour. You may need to adjust the amount of liquid used as well.
  3. Can I use a different type of chocolate? Yes, you can experiment with different types of chocolate chips or even chopped chocolate. Just make sure to choose a chocolate that can withstand baking.
  4. Can I freeze the Schokobrötchen? Yes, you can freeze the baked Schokobrötchen. Once they have cooled completely, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To thaw, simply leave them at room temperature or warm them briefly in the oven.
  5. Can I add nuts or other ingredients to the dough? Certainly! You can customize the recipe by adding chopped nuts, raisins, or even dried fruits to the dough. Just make sure to incorporate them evenly so that they don't affect the rising of the dough.
  6. Can I make smaller or larger Schokobrötchen? Yes, you can adjust the size of the Schokobrötchen to your preference. For smaller rolls, divide the dough into more portions, and for larger rolls, divide it into fewer portions. Just remember that the baking time may vary depending on the size.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Baking sheet - Used to place the Schokobrötchen rolls for baking.
  • Parchment paper - Lined on the baking sheet to prevent the rolls from sticking.
  • Large bowl - Used to mix and knead the dough.
  • Stand mixer with dough hook (optional) - Can be used for kneading the dough instead of kneading by hand.
  • Wire rack - Used for cooling the Schokobrötchen after baking.
  • Pastry brush - Used to brush the egg wash onto the rolls before baking.

Origin stories

Schokobrötchen, the delightful chocolate chip roll, is a popular treat in Germany, especially among children. Its softer cousin to the beloved German pretzel, these rolls are a staple in German bakeries and households alike. They are commonly enjoyed for breakfast, as a snack, or even as an indulgent treat. They're like the everyday version of pain au chocolat, but instead of being a fancy, flaky pastry, it's a down-to-earth bun you can warm in the oven on a lazy Sunday morning. Its name literally translates to "chocolate roll," a fitting title for a roll filled with sweet chocolate chips. Though the exact origins of the roll are unclear, their popularity is undeniable. In fact, it's not uncommon to see children rushing to their local bakery after school just to get a warm Schokobrötchen right out of the oven—a clear testament to their status as a beloved staple in German food culture.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.