There’s something wonderfully comforting about a warm cinnamon roll fresh from the oven, and this Coffee Cinnamon Rolls Recipe takes that cozy classic to a whole new level by infusing it with rich, aromatic coffee flavors. Imagine biting into soft, pillowy dough swirled with a cinnamon, brown sugar, and coffee filling, all topped with a luscious coffee glaze that perfectly balances sweetness and a subtle caffeine kick. Whether you’re a coffee lover looking for a decadent breakfast treat or someone seeking an irresistible twist on cinnamon rolls, this recipe promises to be a delightful addition to your baking repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make these irresistibly fragrant Coffee Cinnamon Rolls, you’ll use a handful of simple but essential ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in delivering that soft texture, the perfect cinnamon-coffee flavor, and a golden, tender crumb that melts in your mouth.
- All-purpose flour (3 1/2 cups): The base of the dough that provides structure and a soft crumb.
- Granulated sugar (1/4 cup): Adds subtle sweetness to the dough.
- Active dry yeast (1 packet): Responsible for that fluffy, airy rise.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances the flavors and enhances sweetness.
- Warm milk (3/4 cup): Activates the yeast and hydrates the flour for tenderness.
- Brewed coffee (1/4 cup): Infuses the dough and glaze with a rich coffee aroma and flavor.
- Unsalted butter, melted (1/4 cup): Helps keep the dough moist and adds delicious richness.
- Large egg (1): Adds structure and richness to the dough.
- Vanilla extract (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances the overall flavor with a sweet, warm note.
- Brown sugar (1/2 cup): For the filling; adds depth and caramel notes.
- Ground cinnamon (1 tablespoon): The star spice for that classic cinnamon roll flavor.
- Instant coffee granules (2 tablespoons): Intensifies the coffee taste in the filling.
- Unsalted butter, softened (1/4 cup): Creates a luscious, buttery layer in the filling.
- Powdered sugar (1 cup): For the glaze; adds sweetness and a smooth finish.
- Brewed coffee (2 tablespoons): Mixed into the glaze to carry the coffee theme through.
- Milk (1 tablespoon): Helps thin the glaze to the perfect drizzle consistency.
How to Make Coffee Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by combining 2 cups of flour, granulated sugar, active dry yeast, and salt in a large mixing bowl. Then add the warm milk, brewed coffee, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract, stirring gently to mix everything. Gradually incorporate the remaining flour until you form a soft, slightly sticky dough. Knead it on a floured surface for 6 to 8 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place your dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm spot until it doubles in size, roughly 1 hour. This rise is key to those fluffy rolls you’re dreaming of!
Step 2: Make the Filling and Assemble
While your dough is rising, mix the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and instant coffee granules in a small bowl for the filling. Once the dough has risen, give it a gentle punch to release the air and roll it out on a floured surface into a 16 by 12-inch rectangle. Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough, then sprinkle your cinnamon-coffee sugar mixture on top. Roll the dough carefully from the long edge into a tight log. Using a sharp knife, slice the log into 12 even pieces and place them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover again and let these rolls rise for another 30 to 40 minutes to ensure they’re perfectly light and fluffy.
Step 3: Bake Your Rolls
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Bake the rolls for 20 to 25 minutes until they turn a beautiful golden brown on top. This visual cue means they’re ready and your kitchen will fill with that incredible aroma that’s impossible to resist.
Step 4: Prepare and Drizzle the Glaze
Mix the powdered sugar, brewed coffee, milk, and vanilla extract in a bowl until smooth and pourable. Once the rolls are baked and still warm, drizzle them generously with this coffee glaze. The glaze adds a shiny, sweet finish with just the right touch of coffee flavor to brighten every bite.
How to Serve Coffee Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
To make your Coffee Cinnamon Rolls even more tempting, consider sprinkling a pinch of cinnamon on top after glazing. Freshly ground nutmeg or finely chopped toasted pecans also add a lovely touch of texture and warmth that complements the spices perfectly.
Side Dishes
These rolls are a treat all on their own but pair beautifully with a steaming mug of black coffee or a creamy latte to double down on those coffee notes. For an added indulgence, a side of fresh fruit like sliced strawberries or orange segments can provide a refreshing contrast that balances the rich sweetness of the rolls.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re making these rolls for a brunch, serve them on a rustic wooden board with a small pot of extra coffee glaze for dipping or drizzling. You can also warm them slightly and serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert twist that your guests won’t stop talking about.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Coffee Cinnamon Rolls keep beautifully when stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This way, they stay soft and are ready for a quick breakfast or snack without requiring reheating.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy these rolls later, freeze them either before or after baking. Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer safe bag or container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator for a fresh-baked taste with minimal effort.
Reheating
To reheat, place the rolls in a microwave for 20 to 30 seconds or warm them in an oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes, covering them lightly with foil to keep moisture locked in. After reheating, you can reapply a drizzle of fresh glaze for that just-baked glow!
FAQs
Can I use espresso powder instead of instant coffee granules?
Absolutely! Using espresso powder will give your Coffee Cinnamon Rolls an even stronger, richer coffee flavor that coffee aficionados will adore. Just swap it in the same quantity for a bold twist.
Do I need to use brewed coffee in the dough and glaze?
Yes, brewed coffee adds moisture and a subtle aromatic flavor that complements the cinnamon perfectly. Avoid using flavored coffees here, as they may alter the intended taste.
Can I make these rolls vegan?
To make the recipe vegan, substitute the milk with plant-based milk, use a flax egg or commercially available egg replacer, and replace butter with vegan butter alternatives. This will change the texture slightly but still result in delicious rolls.
How do I know when the rolls have risen enough?
The dough should double in size during the rise. When lightly pressed with a finger, the indentation should remain and not immediately spring back, indicating a perfect rise ready for baking.
Can I prepare the rolls the night before?
Yes, you can prepare the rolls through the assembly stage, then cover and refrigerate overnight. The next morning, allow them to come to room temperature, let them rise a little more if needed, then bake fresh for the best flavor and texture.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a heavenly brunch treat or a cozy weekend project in the kitchen, this Coffee Cinnamon Rolls Recipe is sure to delight. Each step brings you closer to that wonderful moment when you pull warm, fragrant rolls from the oven and enjoy that first melt-in-your-mouth bite infused with coffee and cinnamon goodness. Give it a try—you’ll quickly see why this has become one of my go-to recipes for any special morning!
Print
Coffee Cinnamon Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 rolls
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these homemade Coffee Cinnamon Rolls, perfectly combining rich coffee flavors with classic cinnamon and brown sugar. Soft, fluffy rolls are filled with a cinnamon-coffee mixture and topped with a sweet coffee glaze, making them an irresistible breakfast treat or brunch centerpiece.
Ingredients
Dough
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
- 1/4 cup brewed coffee (strong)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Filling
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons instant coffee granules
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons brewed coffee
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of flour, granulated sugar, yeast, and salt. Stir in the warm milk, brewed coffee, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract until combined. Gradually add the remaining flour until a soft dough forms. Transfer to a floured surface and knead for 6–8 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Make the filling and shape the rolls: In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and instant coffee granules. Punch down the risen dough and roll it out into a 16×12 inch rectangle. Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough, then sprinkle the filling mixture on top. Roll the dough tightly from the long edge into a log. Slice the log into 12 equal rolls and place them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover and let rise for another 30–40 minutes.
- Bake the rolls: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20–25 minutes until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- Prepare the glaze: While the rolls bake, whisk together powdered sugar, brewed coffee, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Once the rolls are out of the oven and still warm, drizzle the glaze over the top before serving.
Notes
- For a stronger coffee flavor, substitute espresso powder for instant coffee in the filling.
- These rolls can be made ahead and refrigerated overnight before baking for convenience.
- If you prefer a less sweet glaze, reduce the powdered sugar quantity slightly.
- Ensure the milk and coffee used for the dough are warm, not hot, to prevent killing the yeast.
