Activate the yeast: Combine the warm milk and sugar in a small bowl, then sprinkle the yeast on top. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes, allowing it to bubble and activate before using.

Mix the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. This helps evenly distribute the salt throughout the dough.

Combine wet and dry ingredients: Make a well in the middle of the flour mixture and add the egg, softened butter, and the yeast mixture. Stir until a sticky dough forms.

Knead the dough: Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead it with your hands for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s smooth, soft, and elastic. If it’s too sticky, dust it lightly with more flour, but be careful not to overdo it—this will keep your rolls light and fluffy.

Rest the dough: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1 hour, until it doubles in size. This is when the magic happens—your dough will become soft and airy!

Mix the filling ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the chocolate chips (or chopped chocolate), cocoa powder, and brown sugar. This mixture will form a rich, gooey filling for the rolls.

Roll out the dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release any air bubbles. Transfer it to a floured surface and roll it out into a rectangle about 12 inches by 18 inches. The dough doesn’t have to be perfect—just large enough to hold all that yummy chocolate filling.

Spread the filling: Brush the rolled-out dough with melted butter, then evenly sprinkle the chocolate mixture on top. Make sure every inch is covered for that deliciously sweet chocolate filling in every bite.

Shape the rolls: Starting at one edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log, enclosing the chocolate filling inside.

Cut the rolls: Using a sharp knife or dental floss, slice the dough into 10-12 equal pieces. These will be your individual chocolate rolls, ready to bake.

Prepare the baking pan: Arrange the rolls in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, placing them closely together. This will help them rise while baking, creating those soft, fluffy rolls everyone loves.

Let them rise: Cover the rolls with a towel and let them rest for 30 minutes while the oven preheats to 350°F (175°C). The dough will rise a little more during this time.

Bake: Pop the rolls into the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and puffed up. You’ll know they’re ready when your kitchen is filled with the heavenly scent of chocolate and fresh dough!

Let them cool: Allow the rolls to cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps the chocolate filling set just enough so you can enjoy them without the mess!

Optional glaze: For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle a little chocolate glaze over the rolls once they’ve cooled slightly. It’s the perfect finishing touch for these indulgent treats!