One of my earliest baking memories revolves around the sweet scent of coffee rolls wafting through my home. Imagine this: a lazy Sunday morning warmed by the sunlight streaming through the windows, and the promise of fluffy rolls bursting with rich coffee flavor. These coffee rolls are not just a delightful breakfast treat; they’re perfect for any occasion. Be it a casual brunch with friends or a cozy family gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. The combination of cinnamon, coffee, and a creamy frosting takes them to a whole new level, making each roll a tiny piece of heaven that is hard to resist!
Why You’ll Love This Dish
What sets these coffee rolls apart? For starters, they boast the perfect balance of sweetness and rich coffee flavor, making them an irresistible morning treat or dessert. The warming spices combined with the soft, pillowy texture create an atmosphere of comfort that makes every bite feel like a hug. Not only are these rolls a feast for the senses, but they’re also surprisingly easy to make at home. Baking them fills your kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma that even store-bought pastries can’t compete with!
When it comes to occasions, these rolls are versatile enough to fit any gathering. They’re perfect to serve at brunches, an inviting coffee break during work, or even at holiday celebrations. And let’s not forget about leftovers! They’re equally delightful toasted with a pat of butter.
“These coffee rolls are now a staple in our house! Soft, flavorful, and that icing—oh my goodness!” – Sarah, satisfied home baker.
Step-by-Step Overview
Before diving into the ingredients, let’s break down how this deliciousness comes together. You’ll start by preparing a tangzhong, which is a simple flour-water mixture cooked to create a soft and fluffy texture in the rolls. Then, you’ll mix your dough ingredients and knead them until they reach the right consistency. The next step involves letting the dough rise to double its size before rolling it out, spreading the delightful coffee cinnamon filling, and cutting it into rolls. After a second rise, you’ll bake these rolls to golden perfection before slathering on a creamy frosting.
Now, let’s gather the ingredients.
What You’ll Need
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup water
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour (see notes for measuring below)
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast
- ¾ teaspoon fine sea salt
- ½ cup whole milk (slightly warmed)
- 1 tsp instant coffee granules
- 1 large egg (room temperature)
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- Tangzhong (from recipe above)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 2/3 cup dark brown sugar (or light brown sugar)
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 ½ teaspoons instant coffee granules
- 2 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 4 tablespoons heavy cream
- ¾ teaspoon instant coffee granules
Feel free to substitute ingredients based on availability or preferences, such as using almond milk instead of whole milk or opting for a dairy-free cream cheese alternative.
Directions to Follow
In a small saucepan, whisk together the water and ¼ cup of all-purpose flour. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly for about 4-5 minutes until the mixture is a paste-like slurry. Transfer it to a bowl and set aside to cool.
In a stand mixer bowl, combine the remaining 3 ½ cups flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Stir until everything is evenly mixed.
Slightly warm your milk and dissolve the instant coffee into it. Then, add this mixture to the dry ingredients along with the egg, vanilla extract, and tangzhong.
Using the dough hook, knead on low speed for 2 minutes until the dough starts to come together into a shaggy ball.
While mixing, gradually add the 4 tablespoons of softened butter one tablespoon at a time, allowing each piece to fully incorporate before adding the next.
Continue kneading for another 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. If it sticks to the sides, add flour a tablespoon at a time. If it feels too dry, add milk half a tablespoon at a time.
Form the dough into a ball and place it seam side down in a buttered bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 45-60 minutes.
Meanwhile, prepare the filling by mixing the 5 tablespoons of softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and instant coffee until smooth.
Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a 14×18 rectangle, keeping the long edge closest to you. Spread the coffee cinnamon filling all over the dough, leaving a ¼-inch edge at the top.
Cut the dough into twelve 1 ½-inch strips and roll each strip away from you, pinching the edges to hold them together. Place them in a greased baking pan and cover with plastic wrap. Let them rise again until doubled, about 45-60 minutes. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
Bake the rolls for 20-23 minutes until golden brown, then remove from the oven and allow to cool on a wire rack.
For the frosting, mix softened cream cheese and butter, then beat in the powdered sugar. Add the heavy cream and instant coffee, mixing until smooth.
Spread the frosting generously over the cooled rolls, and then enjoy every delightful bite!
Best Ways to Enjoy It
These heavenly coffee rolls are sublime on their own, but you can elevate your serving game with a few creative ideas. Pair them with a rich cup of freshly brewed coffee or an espresso for an indulgent treat. If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch. They also go wonderfully with a fresh fruit salad or a side of yogurt for a complete breakfast experience.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
To store these delicious rolls, let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. They will last at room temperature for about 2 days. If you’d like to keep them longer, they can be frozen. Just wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer bag. They will maintain their quality for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw and warm them in the oven or microwave!
Helpful Cooking Tips
- Don’t rush the rising times: Give your dough the time it needs to rise fully for the best texture.
- Temperature matters: Ensure your milk is just warm to the touch, as hot liquids can kill the yeast.
- Use a stand mixer: If you have one, it will make the kneading process significantly easier and more efficient.
- Greased hands: Lightly greasing your hands while shaping the rolls can help prevent sticking and make handling the dough easier.
Creative Twists
Looking to add your own flair? Consider using flavored coffee granules, like hazelnut or mocha, in your dough for an extra flavor kick. You could also try adding chocolate chips to the filling or tossing in some dried cherries for a fruity variation. For a twist on the frosting, experiment with flavored extracts such as almond or hazelnut to complement the rolls beautifully.
Your Questions Answered
Q: How long does it take to make these coffee rolls?
A: From start to finish, including rising times, it takes about 3 hours. However, the active preparation time is roughly 30-40 minutes.
Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and place it in the refrigerator overnight for the first rise. Just ensure to let it come to room temperature before baking.
Q: What can I use if I don’t have the instant coffee granules?
A: You can brew a strong cup of coffee and use it in place of water or use brewed espresso for a richer flavor instead.
Q: How can I tell when the rolls are done baking?
A: They should be golden brown on top and sound hollow when you gently tap the bottom. Always check their internal temperature; it should be around 190°F (88°C).
With this recipe, transforming your kitchen into a coffee-scented paradise is just a few steps away. Enjoy baking, and even more, enjoy indulging in these delectable coffee rolls!
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Heavenly Coffee Rolls
- Total Time: 180 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightful coffee rolls bursting with rich coffee flavor, perfect for breakfast or any occasion.
Ingredients
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup water
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast
- ¾ teaspoon fine sea salt
- ½ cup whole milk (slightly warmed)
- 1 teaspoon instant coffee granules
- 1 large egg (room temperature)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Tangzhong (from recipe above)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 2/3 cup dark brown sugar (or light brown sugar)
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 ½ teaspoons instant coffee granules
- 2 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 4 tablespoons heavy cream
- ¾ teaspoon instant coffee granules
Instructions
- In a small saucepan, whisk together the water and ¼ cup of all-purpose flour. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly for about 4-5 minutes until the mixture is a paste-like slurry. Transfer to a bowl and set aside to cool.
- In a stand mixer bowl, combine the remaining 3 ½ cups flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Stir until evenly mixed.
- Slightly warm the milk and dissolve the instant coffee into it. Add this mixture to the dry ingredients along with the egg, vanilla extract, and tangzhong.
- Using the dough hook, knead on low speed for 2 minutes until the dough starts to come together.
- Gradually add the 4 tablespoons of softened butter one tablespoon at a time, allowing each piece to incorporate before adding the next.
- Knead for another 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic, adding flour or milk as needed.
- Form the dough into a ball and place it seam side down in a buttered bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise until doubled, about 45-60 minutes.
- Meanwhile, prepare the filling by mixing the 5 tablespoons of softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and instant coffee until smooth.
- Once the dough has risen, roll it out into a 14×18 rectangle. Spread the coffee cinnamon filling all over the dough.
- Cut the dough into twelve 1 ½-inch strips and roll each strip away from you. Place in a greased baking pan and cover. Let rise until doubled, about 45-60 minutes. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Bake the rolls for 20-23 minutes until golden brown. Allow to cool on a wire rack.
- For the frosting, mix softened cream cheese and butter, then beat in the powdered sugar. Add heavy cream and instant coffee, mixing until smooth.
- Spread the frosting generously over the cooled rolls and enjoy!
Notes
For a twist, try using flavored coffee granules or adding chocolate chips to the filling.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 23 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American