Coffee Cinnamon Rolls with Coffee Frosting Recipe

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Welcome the Flavors of Coffee Cinnamon Rolls with Coffee Frosting Recipe

I have to confess—there’s something irresistibly comforting about the smell of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through the kitchen. Now, imagine those golden crisp rolls infused with the rich, aromatic punch of coffee. That’s exactly what you get with this Coffee Cinnamon Rolls with Coffee Frosting Recipe. It’s a wonderful treat to start your weekend mornings or to surprise your loved ones with a homemade delight during a cozy brunch.

I love how the combination of the bubbly tangzhong dough and the fragrant coffee-cinnamon filling creates a sweet, soft texture that melts in your mouth. Plus, the coffee frosting is the star on top, smooth and creamy with just the right hint of that signature espresso flavor. You’ll enjoy these rolls anytime you crave a little pick-me-up with a comforting hug!

Market Basket & Pantry Picks

Choosing the right ingredients is a game-changer in this Coffee Cinnamon Rolls with Coffee Frosting Recipe. For the best results, always use fresh yeast if you can, and measure your flour properly to avoid a dough that’s too dry or sticky. Whole milk gives the dough a rich texture, but if you prefer, you can substitute with 2% milk—just don’t go too low fat, since that affects softness.

• All-purpose flour: Make sure to spoon and level when measuring to get just the right dough consistency.
• Instant coffee granules: The secret for deep coffee flavor in dough, filling, and frosting.
• Unsalted butter: Room temperature butter incorporates better—don’t melt it!
• Baking essentials: Instant yeast gives a reliable rise; fresh yeast might work but adjust amounts.
• Cream cheese: Use softened to avoid lumps in your frosting and get that velvety finish.
• Dark brown sugar: Adds a hint of molasses flavor that plays well with cinnamon and coffee.

Cook Coffee Cinnamon Rolls with Coffee Frosting Recipe Step by Step

Baking these Coffee Cinnamon Rolls with Coffee Frosting Recipe is a rewarding journey—each step builds layers of flavor and texture that will wow your friends and family. Let’s break it down so you’ll have pleasingly soft, fragrant rolls and a frosting that glides like a coffee-kissed dream.

1. Make the Tangzhong: Whisk the flour and water in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly. After about 4-5 minutes, it thickens into a smooth paste. Set it aside to cool—it’s the secret to soft, fluffy rolls that stay fresh.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In your mixing bowl, blend flour, sugar, instant yeast, and salt. This dry mix ensures even rising and sweetness.
3. Warm Milk and Coffee: Heat milk until just warm and dissolve the instant coffee granules in it. This adds coffee’s robust undertone right into the dough.
4. Mix Wet Ingredients: Add the egg, vanilla extract, milk-coffee mix, and tangzhong to the dry ingredients. Knead for about 2 minutes on low speed until you get a rough dough ball.
5. Incorporate Butter: While mixing on low, add softened butter tablespoon by tablespoon. This slow addition lets the dough absorb the fats evenly, resulting in tender crumb.
6. Knead Till Smooth: Continue kneading for 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic, slightly sticky to the touch, but pulling away from the bowl’s sides. Adjust with flour or milk if needed.
7. First Rise: Shape the dough into a smooth ball, place it seam-side down in a greased bowl, and cover. Let it rise somewhere warm for about 45-60 minutes until doubled in size and bubbly.
8. Prepare the Filling: Mix together softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and instant coffee granules into a luscious spread. The mixture should look glossy and smell intense.
9. Roll and Fill Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a 14×18-inch rectangle. Spread the coffee cinnamon filling evenly, avoiding a 1/4-inch edge on the top to seal the rolls neat.
10. Shape Rolls: Cut the dough into twelve 1 1/2-inch strips. Carefully roll each strip away from you, pinching the ends tightly. Place the rolls in a buttered baking pan close but not overlapping.
11. Second Rise: Cover the pan and let the rolls rise for another 45-60 minutes until puffy and nearly doubled.
12. Bake: Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Bake rolls for 20-23 minutes until tops are golden brown and slightly crisp. Cool on a wire rack before frosting.
13. Make Coffee Frosting: Beat softened cream cheese and butter together. Gradually add powdered sugar, then whisk in heavy cream and instant coffee powder until the frosting is glossy and spreadable.
14. Frost and Serve: Slather the luscious coffee frosting over warm rolls and watch them transform into a crowd favorite instantly!

Serving the Dish with Flair

Nothing beats sharing warm, bubbling coffee cinnamon rolls fresh from the oven. I love serving them with a tall cup of milk or a rich latte to enhance that cozy, coffee-spiced vibe. You’ll enjoy watching your family light up with every bite—it’s one of those recipes that brings people together around the table.

Fun Variations with Coffee Cinnamon Rolls with Coffee Frosting Recipe

• Swap instant coffee with espresso powder for a richer, deeper coffee flavor.
• Add chopped toasted pecans or walnuts to the filling for a delightful crunch contrast.
• Stir a tablespoon of maple syrup into the frosting for a sweet, caramel note.
• Top finished rolls with a sprinkle of cocoa powder or coffee beans for a pretty presentation.
• Try swapping cream cheese frosting with a simple coffee glaze made from powdered sugar and strong coffee.
• For a vegan twist, substitute dairy with plant-based butter and cream cheese alternatives.

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

• Refrigerate: After baking and cooling, keep rolls covered in the fridge up to 3 days; bring to room temperature before frosting.
• Freeze: Freeze unbaked, shaped rolls in the pan wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 1 month—thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
• Reheat: Warm refrigerated rolls in a low oven (300°F) for 10 minutes or microwave individually for 15-20 seconds for that fresh-baked feel.
• Frost on Demand: Keep frosting ready in the fridge and apply freshly warmed rolls to keep that gooey vibe.

Coffee Cinnamon Rolls with Coffee Frosting Recipe FAQs

• Can I use regular brewed coffee instead of instant coffee granules? Instant coffee granules dissolve better and keep the dough texture smooth. Brewed coffee adds too much liquid and can alter dough consistency.
• Do I have to make tangzhong? While tangzhong adds extra softness and shelf life, you can skip it if short on time—expect slightly less tender rolls.
• How do I know when the rolls are perfectly baked? Look for golden brown tops and a firm but soft touch. Underbaked rolls feel doughy inside and won’t hold the swirl shape.
• Can I make the dough in a bread machine? Yes! Add ingredients in order recommended by your machine, but make sure to incorporate the softened butter gradually.
• What’s the best way to store leftovers? Store in an airtight container at room temperature for two days or frozen for longer. Warm before serving for a fresh-baked sensation.

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