Ingredients
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk, warmed
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon red food coloring
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– 1 tablespoon cinnamon
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– For the cream cheese icing:
– 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup butter, softened
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Equipment Needed
– Mixing bowls
– Whisk
– Rolling pin
– Baking dish
– Rubber spatula
– Measuring cups and spoons
– Plastic wrap
– Electric mixer (optional, for the icing)
Step-by-Step Instructions
First, in a large bowl, I combine the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, yeast, and salt. It’s important to mix these dry ingredients well to ensure the yeast is evenly distributed. Next, in another bowl, I warm the milk until it’s slightly hot but not boiling. I mix in the melted butter, egg, red food coloring, and vanilla extract before pouring everything into the bowl with the dry mix. Then, I stir everything together until a soft dough forms, which I then knead for about 5 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. The scent of chocolate wafts through my kitchen, and I can hardly wait for the next step! (See the next page below to continue steps…)