What makes the perfect sweet treat? A rich chocolate roll filled with colorful M and Ms and topped with crunchy candy, of course. This easy homemade dessert is a family favorite, requiring just a few quick steps to assemble. Save this idea for your next weeknight dinner dessert or special occasion treat to impress your loved ones. Try it soon and enjoy the delightful combination of chocolate and candy in every bite. Pin for later

a chocolate roll with m & m’s in the middle and candy on top

Introduction

Imagine a sweet treat that combines the richness of chocolate, the crunch of candy, and the burst of colorful M&M’s, all wrapped up in a delicious roll. This chocolate roll with M&M’s in the middle and candy on top is a dream come true for anyone with a sweet tooth. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal effort, making it perfect for a quick dessert or a fun baking project with the kids. Using everyday ingredients, you can create a masterpiece that’s both flavorful and visually stunning.

Why This Works

Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of chocolate, M&M’s, and candy creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures that is hard to resist. Plus, all the ingredients are easily accessible in most grocery stores.
Ease of preparation: This recipe is a breeze to prepare, requiring minimal cooking and straightforward assembly. It’s perfect for beginners or those short on time.
Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite its simplicity, the end result is impressive and sure to wow anyone who tries it. The presentation is colorful and inviting, making it a great option for parties or special occasions.

Key Ingredients

The main ingredients for this chocolate roll include a package of puff pastry, thawed; 1 cup of semisweet chocolate chips; 1 cup of M&M’s; and 1 cup of assorted candy pieces (such as sprinkles, chopped peanut butter cups, or chopped candy bars). You’ll also need some powdered sugar for dusting. For the chocolate, you can use any type you prefer, but semisweet provides a nice balance between sweet and bitter. If you’re looking for substitutions, you could use milk chocolate or a combination of chocolate types for a unique flavor profile.

Instructions

Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface to a large rectangle, about 1/4-inch thick. Make sure to keep the pastry cold, as this will help it hold its shape and bake properly.
Step 2: Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth. Spread the melted chocolate evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border on either side. This will be the base of your chocolate roll.
Step 3: Sprinkle the M&M’s over the chocolate, making sure to stay within the borders. This adds a fun pop of color and flavor to the roll. Next, sprinkle the assorted candy pieces over the M&M’s for extra texture and sweetness.
Step 4: Brush the edges of the pastry with a little bit of water. Fold one long side of the pastry over the filling, then fold in the two short sides and finally fold over the other long side to form a tight roll. Place the roll on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, seam-side down. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown. Allow the roll to cool before slicing and serving. Dust with powdered sugar for an extra-special touch.

Handy Tips

Make sure to keep your puff pastry cold, as this will help it bake up flaky and prevent it from becoming too soggy or flat. If you find that your pastry is getting too warm, you can refrigerate it for about 10 minutes to firm it up before continuing.
Don’t overfill the pastry with M&M’s and candy, as this can make the roll difficult to seal and may cause it to burst open during baking. Leave a little room for the filling to expand and for the pastry to seal properly.
Experiment with different types of candy and chocolate for unique flavor combinations. This recipe is highly adaptable, so don’t be afraid to get creative and make it your own!

Heat Control

For this recipe, it’s crucial to maintain the right oven temperature to ensure the pastry bakes evenly and doesn’t burn. Keep an eye on the roll after 20 minutes of baking, as the pastry can go from perfectly golden to overly browned quickly. If you’re unsure, it’s always better to err on the side of underbaking slightly, as the roll will continue to cook a bit after it’s removed from the oven.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in this dessert comes from the candy pieces and the M&M’s, which add a delightful texture contrast to the soft, flaky pastry and smooth chocolate. To enhance the crunch, make sure not to overbake the pastry, as this can cause it to become too crispy or hard. A light golden brown color is ideal, indicating that the pastry is cooked through but still retains some of its delicate texture.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

Use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor. While it might be tempting to use cheaper alternatives, the difference in taste is noticeable, and high-quality chocolate will elevate your dessert to the next level.
Don’t overwork the puff pastry. The less you handle it, the flakier and more tender it will be. This means rolling it out gently, avoiding stretching or pulling it, and keeping it cold to prevent the butter from melting and the pastry from becoming tough.
For an extra-glossy finish, brush the top of the roll with a little bit of egg wash (beaten egg mixed with a splash of water) before baking. This will give the pastry a beautiful sheen and help it brown more evenly.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you won’t be serving the roll within this time frame, consider freezing it. Wrap the roll tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe! bag. Frozen, it will keep for up to 2 months.
To reheat, simply thaw the roll overnight in the refrigerator, then let it come to room temperature before serving. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the microwave in short increments, checking until it’s warmed through.
When storing or reheating, be mindful of the candy and M&M’s, as they can become sticky or soft if exposed to heat or moisture. If this happens, the roll is still edible, but it might not look as appealing. To minimize this risk, store the roll in a cool, dry place and avoid exposing it to direct sunlight or high temperatures.

Gift Packaging Ideas

This chocolate roll makes a wonderful gift, especially during holidays or special occasions. Consider packaging it in a decorative tin or box, wrapped in colorful paper or cellophane, and tied with a ribbon. You could also include a personalized note or card for an extra-touch. For a more rustic look, wrap the roll in parchment paper or a paper bag and tie it with twine. Whatever packaging you choose, the recipient is sure to be delighted by the thoughtful and delicious gift.

Flavor Variations

Different spices: Add a pinch of salt, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or a few grinds of nutmeg to the chocolate for a unique twist. You could also infuse the chocolate with espresso powder for a mocha flavor or use mint extract for a refreshing twist.
Creative toppings: Experiment with different types of candy, nuts, or even dried fruits to change up the texture and flavor. Some ideas include chopped peanut butter cups, sprinkles, chopped candy bars, or even shredded coconut.
Ingredient swaps: Use different types of chocolate or substitute the puff pastry with another type of dough, like croissant or biscuit dough, for a varied texture and flavor profile.

Troubleshooting

Texture problems: If the pastry is too soggy, it may be due to overfilling or underbaking. Try baking it for a few more minutes or reducing the amount of filling. If the pastry is too crispy, it might be overbaked, so check the oven temperature and baking time.
Ingredient replacements: If you can’t find puff pastry, you could use a different type of pastry dough or even make your own. For the chocolate, use any type you like, but keep in mind that different chocolates have different melting points and flavors.
Over/undercooking signs: Keep an eye on the roll while it’s baking, and check for doneness by looking for a light golden brown color. If it’s underbaked, the pastry might be pale and soft; if it’s overbaked, it will be dark brown and hard. Adjust the baking time as needed to achieve the perfect texture and color.

FAQs

Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze the chocolate roll for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to serve, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature.
Is it gluten-free? The puff pastry typically contains gluten, so this recipe is not suitable for those with gluten intolerance or sensitivity. However, you could experiment with gluten-free pastry dough or look for gluten-free puff pastry alternatives.
Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double or even triple this recipe if you need to serve a larger crowd. Just keep in mind that you’ll need to adjust the baking time slightly, as a larger roll may take a bit longer to cook through.

Conclusion

This chocolate roll with M&M’s in the middle and candy on top is a delightful dessert that’s sure to bring a smile to anyone’s face. With its easy preparation, impressive presentation, and adaptable flavor profile, it’s perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to special celebrations. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own, and enjoy the process of creating something truly special. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to become a favorite, and the joy of sharing it with others is just the icing on the cake – or should we say, the sprinkles on the roll!

Chocolate Roll Candy Top