Coffee Rolls

These delicious Coffee Rolls are a delightful indulgence for coffee lovers. With a rich coffee flavor and creamy frosting, they make for a perfect breakfast treat or dessert. These rolls are easy to prepare and can be enjoyed on various occasions, from weekend brunches to cozy gatherings. The unique twist on a classic recipe is sure to impress your family and friends!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of coffee and cinnamon creates a warm, comforting taste that everyone will enjoy.
• Soft and Fluffy Texture: Thanks to the tangzhong method, these rolls come out light and airy.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert; they fit any occasion!
• Simple Ingredients: Common pantry items make this recipe accessible for all home bakers.
• Decadent Frosting: Topped with a luscious coffee cream cheese frosting that takes these rolls to the next level.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Coffee Rolls, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything on hand will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Rolling pin
• Baking pan
• Plastic wrap

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Makes kneading dough effortless, ensuring a smooth texture without tiring your arms.
• Rolling pin: Helps roll out the dough evenly for perfectly shaped coffee rolls.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients efficiently.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

These light and fluffy coffee cinnamon rolls are a coffee-flavored twist on the classic recipe. With a bold coffee flavor and coffee cream cheese frosting, they are every coffee lover’s dream!

For the Dough:

• 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)
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
• Tangzhong (from recipe above)
• 4 tablespoon unsalted butter (room temperature)

For the Filling:

• 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

For the Frosting:

• 2 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 4 tbsp heavy cream
• ¾ tsp instant coffee granules

How to Make Coffee Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Tangzhong

In a small saucepan, whisk together the water and all-purpose flour. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly for 4-5 minutes until the mixture thickens into a paste-like slurry. Scrape it into a bowl and set it aside until ready to use.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a stand mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, yeast, and salt until well mixed.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

Slightly warm the milk in a microwave or saucepan. Stir in the instant coffee until it’s fully dissolved.

Step 4: Incorporate All Ingredients

Add the egg, milk mixture, vanilla extract, and prepared tangzhong into the dry ingredients. Knead on low speed using a dough hook for about 2 minutes until you form a shaggy dough ball.

Step 5: Add Butter Gradually

While mixing on low speed, add softened butter one tablespoon at a time. Allow each piece to fully incorporate before adding more.

Step 6: Knead Until Smooth

Continue kneading for another 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. It should stick slightly to the bottom of the bowl but not to the sides. If too wet, add flour gradually; if too dry, add milk in small increments.

Step 7: Let Dough Rise

With lightly buttered hands, shape the dough into a round ball by pulling down its sides into the center. Place it seam side down in a buttered bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm spot until doubled in size (about 45-60 minutes).

Step 8: Make Filling

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

Step 9: Roll Out Dough

On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a rectangle measuring approximately 14×18 inches with the long side facing you. Spread the filling evenly over the dough edges while leaving about ¼ inch at the top clean.

Step 10: Cut Into Strips

Cut the rolled-out dough into twelve strips measuring about 1½ inches each. Roll each strip away from you while pinching at the clean edge to seal it. Place them in a prepared baking pan and cover with plastic wrap to rise again until doubled (about another 45-60 minutes). Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).

Step 11: Bake Rolls

Bake in your preheated oven for about 20-23 minutes or until golden brown on top. Remove from oven and let cool on wire racks while preparing frosting.

Step 12: Make Frosting

Combine softened cream cheese with butter until smooth; then mix in powdered sugar. Whisk in heavy cream and instant coffee until everything is blended well.

Step 13: Frost & Serve

Spread frosting over cooled Coffee Rolls generously before serving warm or at room temperature. Enjoy your delightful creation!

How to Serve Coffee Rolls

These delightful coffee rolls are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual breakfast or a festive gathering. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your coffee rolls experience.

Pair with Fresh Fruit

• Serve your coffee rolls with a side of fresh fruit like berries or sliced oranges for a refreshing contrast.

Enjoy with Whipped Cream

• Top your coffee rolls with a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat that complements the coffee flavor.

Accompany with Hot Beverages

• Pair these rolls with your favorite hot beverage, such as coffee, tea, or hot chocolate, to enhance the rich flavors.

Add a Scoop of Ice Cream

• For a decadent dessert option, serve warm coffee rolls with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.

Garnish with Nuts

• Sprinkle chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds over the frosting for added crunch and flavor.

How to Perfect Coffee Rolls

Creating the perfect coffee rolls requires attention to detail and some helpful tips. Follow these guidelines for the best results.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, especially butter and egg, are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Knead Properly: Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic; this helps develop gluten, giving your rolls their fluffy texture.
• Let Dough Rise Fully: Allowing the dough to rise until doubled in size ensures light and airy rolls.
• Avoid Overbaking: Keep an eye on your rolls while baking; they should be golden brown but not too dark for optimal taste and texture.
• Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to add different spices or nuts to the filling mix for a unique twist on flavor.
• Cool Before Frosting: Let the rolls cool completely before adding frosting to prevent it from melting away.

Best Side Dishes for Coffee Rolls

Coffee rolls pair wonderfully with various side dishes that enhance their flavors. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Fruit Salad
   A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the rolls.

2. Yogurt Parfait
   Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a creamy and crunchy contrast that complements the soft rolls.

3. Savory Quiche
   A slice of quiche provides a savory element that pairs beautifully with sweet coffee rolls.

4. Cheese Platter
   Offer a selection of cheeses alongside your coffee rolls for a sophisticated touch that balances sweet and savory flavors.

5. Granola Bars
   Homemade granola bars add crunch and make for an easy grab-and-go option alongside your coffee treats.

6. Smoothie Bowl
   A refreshing smoothie bowl topped with nuts and seeds is a vibrant addition that offers nutrients alongside your sweet indulgence.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making coffee rolls can be a delightful experience, but it’s easy to slip up. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of.

• Boldly skip the tangzhong: Forgetting this step can lead to dense rolls. Ensure you prepare the tangzhong as it adds moisture and fluffiness to your coffee rolls.
• Overworking the dough: Kneading too much can make the rolls tough. Stop kneading once the dough is smooth and elastic for soft, fluffy results.
• Ignoring the rise times: If you rush the rising process, your rolls may not puff up. Allow adequate time for each rise; patience is key!
• Using cold ingredients: Cold milk or eggs can hinder yeast activation. Always use room temperature ingredients for optimal dough development.
• Not measuring accurately: Improper measurements can ruin your coffee rolls. Use a kitchen scale for precision, especially with flour and sugar.
• Skipping the frosting: The cream cheese frosting enhances flavor and moisture. Don’t omit it; it’s part of what makes these coffee rolls irresistible!

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store coffee rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing Coffee Rolls

• Freeze coffee rolls before baking by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 2 months.
• You can also freeze baked rolls; just ensure they cool completely first.

Reheating Coffee Rolls

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual rolls on a microwave-safe plate for 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Warm in a pan over low heat, covering with a lid for a few minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about coffee rolls, here are some frequently asked questions.

How do I achieve fluffy Coffee Rolls?

To ensure fluffy coffee rolls, focus on proper kneading and allowing enough time for the dough to rise fully. This helps develop gluten structure.

Can I customize my Coffee Rolls?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or even swap out spices based on your preferences. Get creative with fillings!

What if my Coffee Rolls don’t rise?

If your dough doesn’t rise, check if your yeast is active. Using warm ingredients and maintaining a warm environment helps activate the yeast properly.

How do I store leftover Coffee Rolls?

Store any leftover coffee rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

These coffee rolls are a delightful treat perfect for breakfast or dessert. Their soft texture paired with rich coffee flavor makes them irresistible. Feel free to customize them with different fillings or toppings based on your taste preferences!