Activate the Yeast

• Pour the warm milk into a small bowl and stir in the yeast and 1 tablespoon of the granulated sugar.
• Let the mixture sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. If it does not foam, the yeast may no longer be active.

Make the Dough

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, remaining sugar, and salt.
• Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg.
• Mix until a soft dough forms. Knead by hand for 8–10 minutes or with a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook for 5–7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
• If the dough is very sticky, add flour 1 tablespoon at a time, using only as much as necessary.

Let the Dough Rise

• Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl and turn it once to coat.
• Cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap.
• Let rise in a warm place for about 1–1½ hours, or until doubled in size.

Prepare the Chocolate Espresso Filling

• In a bowl, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, cocoa powder, espresso powder, and vanilla extract until smooth and spreadable.
• Stir in the chopped chocolate chips.
• Add a little milk if the mixture is too thick to spread.

Shape the Rolls

• Lightly flour your work surface and roll the dough into a rectangle approximately 16 × 12 inches.
• Spread the chocolate espresso filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border along one long edge.
• Roll the dough tightly from the opposite long edge into a log.
• Cut into 12 equal rolls using a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss.

Second Rise

• Arrange the rolls in a greased 9 × 13-inch baking dish, leaving a little space between them.
• Cover and let rise for 30–45 minutes, until puffy.

Bake

• Preheat the oven to350°F (175°C).
• Bake the rolls for 25–30 minutes, until lightly golden and cooked through in the center.
• Let them cool in the baking dish for about 10–15 minutes.

Make the Espresso Glaze

• Whisk the powdered sugar, milk, espresso powder, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth.
• Add a little extra milk if needed to reach a pourable consistency.
• Drizzle the glaze over the warm rolls and serve.