Coffee Rolls

If you’re looking for a delightful way to start your day or to impress guests at your next brunch, these Coffee Rolls are just the ticket! Imagine biting into a soft, fluffy roll infused with rich coffee flavor and topped with a creamy coffee frosting. It’s like having your favorite cup of coffee in dessert form! These rolls are perfect for busy weeknights when you want something comforting or for family gatherings where everyone can indulge together.

What makes this recipe extra special is not just its wonderful taste. It’s also incredibly easy to follow! Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, you’ll find joy in the process of making these delicious treats. Trust me; they will become a favorite in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of coffee and cinnamon creates an irresistible aroma and taste that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and readily available ingredients, you can whip these up without any fuss!
• Great for Any Occasion: These Coffee Rolls are perfect for breakfast, dessert, or even as a sweet treat during coffee breaks.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the dough ahead of time and bake them fresh when you’re ready to serve.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves a warm cinnamon roll! These are sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients that will make these Coffee Rolls truly special! Each component plays a vital role in creating those light and fluffy rolls we all adore.

Ingredients:
– ¼ cup all-purpose flour
– ¾ cup water
– 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour (see notes for measuring below)
– ⅓ cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoon instant yeast
– ¾ teaspoon fine sea salt
– ½ cup whole milk (slightly warmed)
– 1 tsp instant coffee granules
– 1 large egg (room temperature)
– 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
– Tangzhong (from recipe above)
– 4 tablespoon unsalted butter (room temperature)
– 5 tbsp unsalted butter (room temperature)
– 2/3 cup dark brown sugar (or light brown sugar)
– 2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1 ½ tsp instant coffee granules
– 2 oz cream cheese (softened)
– 4 tbsp unsalted butter (softened)
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 4 tbsp heavy cream
– ¾ tsp instant coffee granules

Variations

This recipe is quite flexible, allowing you to customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Add Nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans can be sprinkled in the filling for added crunch and flavor.
• Experiment with Spices: Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the filling for an exotic twist.
• Fruity Touch: Incorporate some finely chopped dried fruits like cranberries or raisins into the filling for a fruity surprise.
• Swap the Frosting: Instead of cream cheese frosting, try a vanilla glaze or even a chocolate drizzle for variety.

How to Make Coffee Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Tangzhong

In a small saucepan, whisk together the water and all-purpose flour. Cooking this mixture over medium heat until it becomes a paste-like slurry is crucial. This technique helps keep our rolls moist and fluffy by creating a roux that retains moisture. Set it aside once done.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In your stand mixing bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, sugar, yeast, and salt until well combined. This step ensures even distribution of flavors throughout the dough.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Slightly warm the milk and stir in the instant coffee until dissolved. Then add this mixture along with the egg, vanilla extract, and prepared tangzhong into the dry ingredients. Kneading on low speed will help bring everything together into one lovely shaggy dough ball.

Step 4: Incorporate Butter

With your mixer running on low speed, add the softened butter one tablespoon at a time. Allow each piece to fully incorporate before adding more. This gradual addition helps create that tender texture we crave in our rolls.

Step 5: Knead until Smooth

Continue kneading the dough for about another 8–10 minutes until it looks smooth and elastic. A smooth dough is essential for rolls that rise beautifully! If it’s sticking too much to the sides of the bowl, sprinkle in some extra flour—just don’t go overboard!

Step 6: First Rise

Shape your dough into a smooth round ball with lightly buttered hands and place it seam side down into a buttered bowl. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm spot until it’s doubled in size—about 45–60 minutes. This rising time is important as it develops flavor and texture.

Step 7: Make Filling

While waiting for your dough to rise, combine softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and instant coffee in a bowl until smooth. This fragrant mixture will be spread onto your rolled-out dough later!

Step 8: Roll Out Dough

Once risen, roll out your dough on a lightly floured surface into a large rectangle. Spread that delicious coffee cinnamon filling all over while leaving an edge at one end clean—it makes rolling easier!

Step 9: Cut & Shape Rolls

Cut your rolled dough into twelve strips and roll each strip away from you while pinching the edge closed. Arrange them in your prepared baking pan before covering them again with plastic wrap to rise once more—this second rise builds up those fluffy layers we love!

Step 10: Bake

Preheat your oven while waiting for them to rise again; then bake those beauties until golden brown—20–23 minutes should do it! Once baked, let them cool slightly on wire racks while preparing that dreamy frosting.

Step 11: Make Frosting

In another bowl, combine softened cream cheese and butter before mixing in powdered sugar. Whisk in heavy cream along with instant coffee until everything is smooth—this step adds an extra layer of indulgence!

Step 12: Frost & Enjoy!

Spread that luscious frosting over each warm roll before digging in! Savor every bite of these delightful Coffee Rolls—they’re simply irresistible!

Pro Tips for Making Coffee Rolls

Baking can sometimes feel intimidating, but with these simple tips, you’ll be a coffee roll pro in no time!

• Measure Flour Accurately: Using the right amount of flour is crucial for the perfect dough. Spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife instead of scooping directly from the bag, which can lead to overpacking.
• Warm Ingredients: Ensure your milk and egg are at room temperature before mixing. This helps the dough rise better and creates a fluffier texture in your coffee rolls.
• Knead Thoroughly: Kneading the dough until it’s smooth and elastic develops gluten, giving your rolls that delightful fluffy texture. Don’t rush this step!
• Proper Rising Conditions: Let the dough rise in a warm area free from drafts. If your kitchen is cool, consider turning on your oven to its lowest setting for a few minutes, then turning it off and placing the dough inside to rise.
• Don’t Skip the Frosting: The coffee cream cheese frosting is what makes these rolls stand out! Make sure to spread it generously over the cooled rolls for that delightful finishing touch.

How to Serve Coffee Rolls

Serving your coffee rolls creatively can make them even more enjoyable! Whether you’re hosting brunch or enjoying a cozy morning at home, here are some presentation ideas.

Garnishes

• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle some finely chopped walnuts or pecans on top of the frosting for added crunch and flavor.
• Chocolate Shavings: A light dusting of dark chocolate shavings adds a rich touch that pairs beautifully with coffee flavors.

Side Dishes

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits like berries, melons, and citrus provides a refreshing contrast to the sweet rolls.
• Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with granola and fruit for a healthy side that balances out the sweetness.
• Scrambled Eggs: Lightly seasoned scrambled eggs add protein to your breakfast spread and complement the sweetness of the rolls beautifully.
• Herbal Tea or Iced Coffee: Pair these delightful coffee rolls with a warm cup of herbal tea or a chilled glass of iced coffee for an indulgent treat.

Enjoy making these delicious coffee rolls, and don’t forget to share them with friends and family!

Make Ahead and Storage

These delightful coffee rolls are perfect for meal prep! You can whip them up in advance, making mornings a breeze. Here’s how to store and preserve their freshness.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the coffee rolls to cool completely.
• Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Before frosting, wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place the wrapped rolls in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen coffee rolls overnight in the refrigerator.
• Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• If reheating from frozen, add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

FAQs

Got questions? Here are some common ones about these delicious coffee rolls!

Can I make coffee rolls without dairy?

Absolutely! You can substitute whole milk with any plant-based milk like almond or oat milk. Just ensure that your butter is also dairy-free.

How do I enhance the coffee flavor in my coffee rolls?

To amp up the coffee flavor, you can increase the amount of instant coffee granules or even add brewed espresso to the dough. It’s a great way to customize your coffee rolls!

Can I prepare coffee rolls ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and filling ahead of time. Just keep them stored as directed above and bake when you’re ready for fresh, warm rolls.

What are some variations I can try with these coffee rolls?

Feel free to mix things up by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or even caramel drizzle on top of your frosting for a twist on these classic coffee rolls!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in baking these delightful coffee rolls! Their fluffy texture and rich flavor make them truly special. Whether it’s a cozy breakfast or a sweet treat after dinner, these rolls are sure to impress anyone who tries them. Enjoy every moment of making this recipe, and don’t hesitate to share your creations with family and friends!