Name: Peppermint Mocha Sweet Rolls Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 2 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup warm milk; 1/4 cup sugar; 1/2 tablespoon instant yeast (Red Star platinum yeast preferred); 1 teaspoon espresso powder; 1/4 cup salted butter (well softened, not melted); 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 large egg; 1 2/3 cups bread flour; 1/4 cup cocoa powder; 4 tablespoons butter; 2 teaspoons espresso powder; 2/3 cup chocolate chips; 2/3 cup peppermint baking chips; 1/2 cup heavy cream (slightly warmed); 1/2 cup salted butter (softened); 1 teaspoon peppermint extract; 2 cups powdered sugar; 3-4 tablespoons heavy cream or milk; 1 teaspoon peppermint extract; 1/2 cup butter (softened); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 30 reviews

If you’re craving a cozy, festive treat that perfectly blends rich chocolate, bold espresso, and refreshing peppermint, you absolutely need to try this Peppermint Mocha Sweet Rolls Recipe. These rolls are soft, tender, and filled with luscious chocolate and peppermint chips, all wrapped in a cocoa-infused dough. Topped with a dreamy peppermint buttercream frosting, this recipe brings holiday magic to your kitchen no matter the season. Trust me, once you bake these sweet rolls, they’ll become your go-to indulgence for brunches, winter mornings, or any time you want a little bit of joy in your day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a row of six brown dough pieces dusted lightly with white flour, placed horizontally on a white marbled surface with red circular lines underneath. Three of the dough pieces are whole, and three are sliced to show the inside filled with dark chocolate chunks and small white and red candy pieces, arranged in swirls. The dough looks soft and slightly shiny. One dough slice on the left is irregularly shaped, the two on the right are more round, all showing textured fillings. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Peppermint Mocha Sweet Rolls Recipe uses simple but wonderful ingredients that each play a special role – from the soft, rich texture of the dough to the dynamic layers of flavor inside and on top. Every single element, from the espresso powder to the peppermint baking chips, works together to elevate this classic sweet roll to a delightful treat.

Warm milk: Activates the yeast and creates a tender dough base.
Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps feed the yeast for that perfect rise.
Instant yeast: The magic behind fluffy and airy rolls.
Espresso powder: Packs a subtle mocha kick that complements the chocolate beautifully.
Salted butter: Adds richness and tenderness to the dough and filling.
Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavors.
Large egg: Provides structure and richness in the dough.
Bread flour: Gives the rolls that perfect chewy texture.
Cocoa powder: Creates a beautiful chocolate-colored dough with deep flavor.
Chocolate chips: Melts into gooey pockets of chocolate sweet surprise inside each roll.
Peppermint baking chips: Burst of cool peppermint flavor in every bite.
Heavy cream: Used in the filling and frosting for a creamy, luscious texture.
Peppermint extract: Heightens the refreshing peppermint taste in the frosting.
Powdered sugar: The base for a silky smooth frosting to drizzle on top.

How to Make Peppermint Mocha Sweet Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Make the Dough

Start by pouring warm milk into your mixer bowl and sprinkle the instant yeast over it. The warmth wakes up the yeast so it can work its magic. Then add in your eggs, butter, salt, and sugar for richness, flavor, and tenderness. Mix in the bread flour and cocoa powder just until combined — this creates your soft, mocha-hued dough foundation.

Step 2: Knead the Dough to Perfection

Switch to the dough hook and knead on medium speed for about 5 to 7 minutes. You’re aiming for an elastic, smooth dough that’s only slightly sticky — that’s the sign it’s hydrated just right. If it’s too wet, add flour gradually, but resist the urge to add too much or the rolls will turn out dry.

Step 3: First Rise

Place your dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and set it somewhere warm to nearly double in size. I love to use my oven’s lowest setting for a minute or two to create a cozy spot, then turn it off and let the dough rise inside. This usually takes 30 to 60 minutes depending on your environment.

Step 4: Assemble the Rolls

Once risen, turn the dough onto a floured surface and roll it out to about a 12 by 8 inch rectangle. Spread softened butter all over, then sprinkle espresso powder, chocolate chips, and peppermint baking chips over the top. Roll the dough tightly like a jelly roll from the long end, then slice into 8 pieces and place them snugly in a greased pie plate.

Step 5: Second Rise

Cover the pan with a towel or wax paper and let the rolls rise for another 30 minutes. They should puff up and get ready to bake into soft, fluffy, irresistible rolls with pockets of melty chocolate and peppermint.

Step 6: Bake the Rolls

Before baking, pour warmed heavy cream (or peppermint mocha creamer if you have it) over the rolls — this keeps them moist and adds a touch of extra flavor. Bake at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for about 25 minutes. Keep an eye on them so they don’t overbrown; tent foil over the top if needed. You’ll know they’re done when the center roll looks cooked through and pulls apart easily.

Step 7: Make the Peppermint Buttercream Frosting

While the rolls cool, whip softened butter until almost white and fluffy. Slowly add powdered sugar, peppermint extract, and heavy cream, beating until you reach a smooth, spreadable buttercream. Pipe or spread this luscious frosting over the warm rolls for that iconic, irresistible finish.

How to Serve Peppermint Mocha Sweet Rolls Recipe

The image shows a close-up of a rich chocolate dessert broken open to reveal soft, smooth, dark brown chocolate inside. On top, there is a thick layer of white whipped cream with small red candy pieces sprinkled over it. The dessert sits on light brown parchment paper with scattered chocolate chips and more red candy bits around it. A silver fork rests beside the dessert, partly in view. The background is a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To enhance the festive flare, sprinkle crushed peppermint candies or extra peppermint baking chips on top of the frosting. A dusting of cocoa powder or finely grated dark chocolate adds an elegant touch that pairs beautifully with the mocha notes.

Side Dishes

These sweet rolls are wonderful on their own but make a fantastic accompaniment to hot coffee, a rich latte, or even a creamy hot chocolate. A side of fresh fruit or a light green salad offers a fresh contrast to the indulgent rolls for brunch-style gatherings.

Creative Ways to Present

Try arranging your peppermint mocha sweet rolls in a festive holiday bundt pan for a stunning centerpiece. Or serve them in mini muffin tins for bite-sized delights perfect for parties. Wrapping each roll in parchment paper tied with a red ribbon makes an adorable and thoughtful edible gift!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store any leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them soft and fresh for up to 2 days. Avoid refrigerating as it can dry them out quickly.

Freezing

You can freeze these rolls before or after baking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen rolls will keep well for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture.

Reheating

Warm leftover rolls in a microwave for 20-30 seconds or in a 300°F oven covered loosely with foil for 10 minutes. Add a dab of butter or brush with warm cream to refresh the softness and flavor before serving.

FAQs

Can I use regular chocolate chips instead of peppermint baking chips?

Absolutely! You can replace peppermint baking chips with your favorite chocolate chips or even chopped peppermint candies for a similar festive flavor.

Is instant yeast necessary for this recipe?

Instant yeast is preferred because it activates quickly and reliably, but you can use active dry yeast by proofing it in warm milk before mixing with other ingredients.

Can I make these rolls vegan?

To make a vegan version, substitute butter with a plant-based alternative, use a flax or chia egg instead of a chicken egg, and swap dairy milk and cream with almond or oat milk and coconut cream.

How do I know when the rolls are fully baked?

Check the center roll by gently pulling up on the edge; it should look cooked without raw dough and be slightly golden. The aroma and slight firmness on top also indicate doneness.

Can I prepare the dough the night before?

Yes, you can refrigerate the dough after the first rise and let it slowly rise overnight. Bring it back to room temperature before rolling out and assembling the rolls.

Final Thoughts

This Peppermint Mocha Sweet Rolls Recipe is a mouthwatering way to bring warmth, joy, and that perfect blend of minty mocha magic into your home. Whether you’re baking for the holidays or just because, these sweet rolls will wow friends and family alike. Give this recipe a try—you deserve a little delicious indulgence!