Coffee Cinnamon Rolls

Name: Coffee Cinnamon Rolls
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour; ¼ cup granulated sugar; 2 ¼ teaspoons instant yeast; ½ teaspoon salt; ¾ cup warm milk; ¼ cup unsalted butter (melted); 1 large egg; Filling: ½ cup unsalted butter (softened), 1 cup brown sugar, 2 tablespoons instant coffee granules, 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon; Glaze: 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons brewed coffee, ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Recipe By:

Natalia

Posted:

October 4, 2025

Updated:

October 4, 2025

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Coffee Cinnamon Rolls combine soft, fluffy dough with a rich cinnamon-coffee filling and a smooth coffee glaze. These delightful treats are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a special occasion. Their unique flavor profile brings together the comforting sweetness of cinnamon rolls with the bold kick of coffee, making them a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Irresistible Flavor: The combination of cinnamon and coffee creates a deliciously unique taste that will awaken your senses.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weekend brunch or a holiday gathering, these rolls fit right in.
Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and common ingredients, even novice bakers can enjoy success.
Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the rolls the night before and bake them fresh in the morning for convenience.
Customizable: Feel free to adjust the coffee strength or add nuts and chocolate chips for extra flavor!

Tools and Preparation

To make your Coffee Cinnamon Rolls, you will need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Stand mixer (optional)
Rolling pin
Mixing bowls
Baking dish (9×13-inch)
Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

Stand mixer: This tool helps knead the dough quickly, saving you time and effort.
Rolling pin: Ensures an even thickness when rolling out your dough, making it easier to spread the filling.
Baking dish: A 9×13-inch dish is perfect for holding all 12 rolls snugly during baking.

Ingredients

For this amazing recipe, gather the following ingredients:

For the Dough:

3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
¼ cup granulated sugar
2 ¼ teaspoons instant yeast (1 packet)
½ teaspoon salt
¾ cup warm milk (110°F)
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
1 large egg

For the Filling:

½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar, packed
2 tablespoons instant coffee granules (or espresso powder)
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

For the Coffee Glaze:

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons brewed coffee (cooled)
½ teaspoon vanilla extract

How to Make Coffee Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Make the Dough

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Stir in warm milk, melted butter, and egg until the dough comes together. Knead on a floured surface for 6–8 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let rise for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a small bowl, mix softened butter with brown sugar, coffee granules, and cinnamon until well combined.

Step 3: Shape the Rolls

Roll out the dough into a 12×16-inch rectangle. Spread the filling evenly over the surface of the dough. Roll up tightly from the long side and slice into 12 equal rolls. Place rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover them and let rise for another 30–40 minutes.

Step 4: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake rolls for 25–30 minutes until golden brown on top.

Step 5: Glaze and Serve

In a medium bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, brewed coffee, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle this glaze over warm rolls before serving.

Enjoy your freshly baked Coffee Cinnamon Rolls! They’re sure to be a hit at your breakfast table or any gathering!

How to Serve Coffee Cinnamon Rolls

Coffee Cinnamon Rolls are a delightful treat that can elevate any breakfast or brunch setting. Their sweet, coffee-infused flavor pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments, making them perfect for sharing with friends and family.

With Fresh Fruits

Berries: Strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries add a refreshing tartness that complements the sweetness of the rolls.
Sliced Bananas: Creamy bananas provide a mellow flavor that balances the spiciness of the cinnamon.

Alongside Beverages

Coffee: A hot cup of coffee enhances the coffee flavor in the rolls and keeps you energized.
Milk: Cold milk is a classic pairing that adds creaminess to each bite.

Topped with Whipped Cream

Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream on top adds richness and makes your rolls feel extra indulgent.

With Ice Cream

Vanilla Ice Cream: Serving warm Coffee Cinnamon Rolls with vanilla ice cream creates a delicious contrast between warm and cold.

How to Perfect Coffee Cinnamon Rolls

To achieve the ideal texture and flavor in your Coffee Cinnamon Rolls, follow these tips for success.

Bold yeast activation: Always ensure your yeast is fresh. Activate it in warm milk before mixing into the dough for better rise.
Knead thoroughly: Kneading helps develop gluten, giving your rolls their fluffy texture. Aim for 6–8 minutes on a floured surface.
Let dough rise properly: Allowing the dough to double in size is crucial for light and airy rolls. Be patient during this step!
Use room temperature ingredients: Make sure your butter and egg are at room temperature for better mixing and smoother dough.
Don’t skip the glaze: The coffee glaze adds an essential finishing touch. Drizzle it over warm rolls for maximum flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Coffee Cinnamon Rolls

Pairing side dishes with Coffee Cinnamon Rolls can enhance your breakfast experience. Here are some great options to consider:

Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein and balance out the sweetness of the rolls.
Bacon Strips: Crispy bacon adds a salty crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft rolls.
Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits offers a refreshing side that brightens up the meal.
Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and fruits makes for a nutritious complement.
Oatmeal: A warm bowl of oatmeal can be comforting when served alongside these sweet treats.
Smoothie Bowl: A creamy smoothie bowl packed with vitamins is perfect for those looking to stay healthy while enjoying their rolls.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Coffee Cinnamon Rolls can be a delightful experience, but certain mistakes can affect the outcome. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid.

Using cold ingredients: Starting with cold milk or butter can hinder the dough from rising properly. Always ensure your milk is warm and your butter is softened for the best results.
Not kneading enough: Failing to knead the dough for the full 6–8 minutes may result in dense rolls. Kneading develops gluten, which gives your rolls their fluffy texture.
Skipping the rise time: Rushing through the rising process can lead to underdeveloped flavors and textures. Be patient, allowing your dough to double in size for optimal results.
Overfilling the rolls: Adding too much filling can cause spills during baking and make rolling difficult. Use just enough filling to cover the dough evenly without overstuffing.
Not checking oven temperature: An inaccurate oven temperature can lead to uneven baking. Use an oven thermometer to ensure your rolls bake perfectly every time.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store Coffee Cinnamon Rolls in an airtight container.
They can last up to 3–5 days in the refrigerator.
Allow them to cool completely before storing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Coffee Cinnamon Rolls

Freeze rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet for 1-2 hours before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag.
They can be stored for up to 2–3 months in the freezer.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator when ready to enjoy.

Reheating Coffee Cinnamon Rolls

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap rolls in foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Place a roll on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat for 15-20 seconds, checking for warmth.
Stovetop: In a pan over low heat, cover with a lid and reheat rolls for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use instant coffee instead of espresso powder for Coffee Cinnamon Rolls?

Yes, instant coffee works well as a substitute. It will provide similar flavor and richness to your cinnamon rolls.

How do I know when my Coffee Cinnamon Rolls are done baking?

Your rolls should be golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped lightly on the bottom. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.

Can I make these Coffee Cinnamon Rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare them up to the point of shaping, then refrigerate overnight. Let them rise at room temperature before baking.

What if I want my Coffee Cinnamon Rolls sweeter?

Feel free to increase the amount of brown sugar in the filling or add more powdered sugar to your glaze for extra sweetness.

Can I customize my Coffee Cinnamon Rolls?

Definitely! You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or even dried fruits into the filling for unique flavor combinations that suit your taste.

Final Thoughts

These Coffee Cinnamon Rolls are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. With their fluffy texture and rich coffee flavor, they are perfect for breakfast or dessert. Feel free to customize with different fillings or glazes as you wish. Don’t hesitate; give this recipe a try and delight your family with these sweet treats!