Coffee Cinnamon Rolls: The Ultimate Guide to Baking Perfection

Coffee Cinnamon Rolls: Is there anything that screams “weekend brunch” quite like the aroma of warm, gooey cinnamon rolls, infused with the rich, comforting flavor of coffee? I think not! Imagine biting into a soft, pillowy roll, the sweet cinnamon swirling with a subtle coffee bitterness that perfectly balances the sweetness. It’s a flavor explosion that will have you reaching for seconds (and maybe thirds!).

Cinnamon rolls themselves have a long and delicious history, tracing back to Scandinavia, where they’re known as “kanelbullar” in Sweden and “kanelsnegle” in Denmark. While the addition of coffee might be a more modern twist, it elevates this classic treat to a whole new level of indulgence. The combination is simply irresistible.

People adore cinnamon rolls for their comforting warmth, their satisfyingly sweet taste, and their delightful, slightly sticky texture. Adding coffee enhances all of these qualities. The coffee not only adds a depth of flavor but also complements the cinnamon beautifully. Plus, let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a little caffeine boost with their sweet treat? These Coffee Cinnamon Rolls are perfect for a special occasion, a cozy weekend breakfast, or simply a well-deserved treat any day of the week. Get ready to experience cinnamon rolls like never before!

Ingredients:

• For the Dough:
• 3 ½ cups (420g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
• ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
• ¾ cup (180ml) whole milk, warmed to 110-115°F (43-46°C)
• ¼ cup (60ml) strong brewed coffee, cooled slightly
• ¼ cup (57g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• For the Filling:
• ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup (150g) packed light brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon instant espresso powder (optional, but highly recommended!)
• For the Coffee Cream Cheese Frosting:
• 4 ounces (113g) cream cheese, softened
• ¼ cup (57g) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups (240g) powdered sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons strong brewed coffee, cooled
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Preparing the Dough:

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt. In a separate small bowl, sprinkle the yeast over the warm milk and coffee mixture. Let it stand for 5-10 minutes, or until foamy. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to go. If it doesn’t foam, your yeast might be old, and you’ll need to start over with fresh yeast.
2. Add Wet Ingredients: Pour the yeast mixture, melted butter, and beaten egg into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Using a wooden spoon or a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 6-8 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic. Alternatively, if using a stand mixer, knead with the dough hook for 5-7 minutes on medium speed. The dough should be slightly tacky but not sticky. If it’s too sticky, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until it reaches the right consistency.
4. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, turning to coat all sides. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size. This is crucial for developing the flavor and texture of the rolls, so be patient! A warm environment helps the yeast do its job.

Preparing the Filling:

1. Combine Filling Ingredients: While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. In a medium bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and instant espresso powder (if using) until well combined and smooth. The mixture should be spreadable like a paste.

Assembling and Baking the Rolls:

1. Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has doubled in size, gently punch it down to release the air. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and roll it into a large rectangle, about 12×18 inches.
2. Spread the Filling: Spread the prepared filling evenly over the entire surface of the dough, leaving a small border along one of the long edges. This will help seal the rolls.
3. Roll Up the Dough: Starting from the long edge opposite the border, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal it closed.
4. Cut the Rolls: Using a sharp serrated knife or unflavored dental floss, cut the log into 12 equal slices. I find that dental floss creates cleaner cuts without squishing the rolls. To use floss, slide a piece of floss under the log, cross the ends over the top, and pull to cut.
5. Second Rise: Arrange the rolls in a lightly greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Cover loosely with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let them rise again for 30-45 minutes, or until they are puffy and almost doubled in size. This second rise is important for achieving a light and airy texture.
6. Preheat Oven: While the rolls are rising for the second time, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
7. Bake the Rolls: Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. A toothpick inserted into the center of a roll should come out clean. If the tops are browning too quickly, you can loosely tent them with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.
8. Cool Slightly: Let the rolls cool in the baking dish for about 10-15 minutes before frosting. This allows them to set slightly and prevents the frosting from melting completely.

Preparing the Coffee Cream Cheese Frosting:

1. Cream Butter and Cream Cheese: While the rolls are baking, prepare the frosting. In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. It’s important that both are at room temperature to avoid lumps.
2. Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating on low speed until combined. Be careful not to add it all at once, or you’ll end up with a cloud of powdered sugar!
3. Add Coffee, Vanilla, and Salt: Add the cooled strong brewed coffee, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat until smooth and creamy. Adjust the amount of coffee to reach your desired consistency. If the frosting is too thick, add a little more coffee. If it’s too thin, add a little more powdered sugar.

Frosting and Serving:

1. Frost the Rolls: Generously spread the coffee cream cheese frosting over the warm cinnamon rolls.
2. Serve Immediately: Serve the coffee cinnamon rolls warm and enjoy! They are best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or oven before serving.

Conclusion:

And there you have it! These Coffee Cinnamon Rolls are more than just a breakfast treat; they’re an experience. From the intoxicating aroma that fills your kitchen to the first warm, gooey bite, this recipe is guaranteed to become a new favorite. I truly believe that once you try these, you’ll be adding them to your regular baking rotation.

Why is this recipe a must-try? Well, beyond the obvious deliciousness, it’s the perfect balance of flavors. The rich, robust coffee perfectly complements the warm, comforting cinnamon, creating a symphony of taste that will tantalize your taste buds. The dough is surprisingly easy to work with, resulting in rolls that are incredibly soft and fluffy. And let’s not forget the irresistible cream cheese frosting, which adds the perfect touch of sweetness and tang. It’s a crowd-pleaser, a comfort food champion, and a guaranteed way to start your day (or end it!) on a high note.

But the fun doesn’t stop there! Feel free to get creative with your serving suggestions and variations. For a truly decadent experience, try serving these warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The contrast between the warm rolls and the cold ice cream is simply divine. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, drizzle them with a coffee-infused caramel sauce. You can make this easily by simmering some caramel with a shot of espresso until it thickens slightly.

Looking for variations? Consider adding chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling for a delightful crunch. A sprinkle of sea salt on top of the frosting can also elevate the flavors and add a touch of sophistication. For a chocolatey twist, swirl in some Nutella or chocolate ganache along with the cinnamon sugar. And if you’re a fan of cardamom, a pinch of ground cardamom in the dough or filling will add a warm, aromatic note. You could even try using a different type of coffee, like a dark roast for a bolder flavor or a flavored coffee for a unique twist. The possibilities are endless!

These Coffee Cinnamon Rolls are also perfect for special occasions. Imagine serving them at a brunch with friends, a holiday gathering, or even just a cozy weekend breakfast with your family. They’re sure to impress and create lasting memories. They also make a thoughtful and delicious gift for friends, neighbors, or anyone who deserves a little treat.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the magic of these Coffee Cinnamon Rolls for yourself. I’ve poured my heart into creating a recipe that is both delicious and easy to follow, and I truly believe you’ll love it.

So, what are you waiting for? Preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to bake up a batch of these irresistible rolls. And most importantly, don’t forget to share your experience! I’d love to hear your feedback, see your photos, and learn about any variations you try. Tag me in your photos on social media and let me know what you think. Happy baking! I can’t wait to see your creations! Let me know if you have any questions, and enjoy every single bite!

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