Coffee Rolls

These delightful Coffee Rolls are the perfect treat for any coffee lover. Infused with rich coffee flavor and topped with a creamy frosting, they make a great addition to breakfasts, brunches, or even as a sweet snack. The unique twist on traditional cinnamon rolls will surely impress your guests and family alike. Enjoy them warm, fresh from the oven, or saved for later to pair with your favorite cup of coffee.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The rich coffee flavor in both the rolls and frosting makes these a standout treat.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for breakfast gatherings, brunch, or dessert.
• Fluffy Texture: Light and fluffy, these rolls are sure to be a hit with everyone.
• Easy to Follow: Simple steps ensure you can create these delicious rolls without stress.
• Customizable: Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips for an extra special touch!

Tools and Preparation

To make your Coffee Rolls, you’ll need a few essential tools in your kitchen. Having the right equipment ensures that your baking process is smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rolling pin
• Baking pan

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Makes kneading the dough easier and more efficient compared to hand mixing.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without spilling; multiple bowls can help organize your workspace.
• Rolling pin: Helps you roll out the dough evenly, ensuring uniformity in thickness for perfect baking.

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!

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

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 is 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, mix together the all-purpose flour, sugar, yeast, and salt until combined.

Step 3: Dissolve Coffee in Milk

Slightly warm the milk, then stir in the instant coffee until dissolved.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add the egg, milk, vanilla extract, and tangzhong to the bowl. Knead on low speed with the dough hook for 2 minutes until it starts to form a shaggy dough ball.

Step 5: Incorporate Butter

With the mixer running on low, add the softened butter one tablespoon at a time, letting it fully incorporate into the dough before adding more.

Step 6: Knead Dough

Once all the butter is added, continue kneading the dough for another 8–10 minutes or until it looks smooth and elastic. The dough should be sticking to the bottom of the bowl. If it’s too wet and sticking to the sides of the bowl, add flour one tablespoon at a time. If it’s dry, add half a tablespoon of milk at a time.

Step 7: Let Dough Rise

With lightly buttered hands, pull the sides of the dough down into the bottom center to create a smooth round ball. Place it seam side down into a buttered bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size (about 45–60 minutes).

Step 8: Prepare Filling

In a small bowl, combine softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and instant coffee until smooth.

Step 9: Roll Out Dough

Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface into a 14×18 rectangle with the long side closest to you. Spread the coffee cinnamon filling over it all the way to edges leaving a clean edge of about 1/4 inch at top.

Step 10: Cut & Roll Strips

Cut dough into twelve strips about 1 ½ inches wide. Roll each strip away from you while pinching the clean end closed. Transfer them to your prepared baking pan and cover with plastic wrap. Let rise in warm spot until doubled (about another 45–60 minutes). Meanwhile, preheat oven to 325 F (163 C).

Step 11: Bake Rolls

Bake for about 20–23 minutes or until tops are golden brown. Remove from pan and let cool on wire rack while preparing frosting.

Step 12: Make Frosting

Combine softened cream cheese and butter in a mixing bowl. Mix in powdered sugar next. Once combined well, whisk in cream and instant coffee until smooth.

Step 13: Frost & Serve

Spread frosting over cooled coffee rolls generously before serving. Enjoy!

How to Serve Coffee Rolls

These delightful coffee rolls can be enjoyed in various ways, making them perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your coffee rolls experience.

Pair with Fresh Fruit

• Berries: Serve alongside a mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a refreshing contrast.
• Sliced Bananas: Add sliced bananas for natural sweetness that complements the coffee flavor.

Enjoy with Whipped Cream

• Simple Whipped Cream: Top your coffee rolls with a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream for added richness.
• Flavored Whipped Cream: Try adding a hint of vanilla or cinnamon to your whipped cream for an extra kick.

Complement with Coffee

• Espresso: Pair your coffee rolls with a shot of espresso for an intense coffee experience.
• Cold Brew: Enjoy with cold brew coffee on warmer days to keep things refreshing.

Serve with Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream can make these rolls a decadent dessert.
• Coffee-Flavored Ice Cream: For true coffee lovers, pair them with coffee-flavored ice cream.

How to Perfect Coffee Rolls

Achieving the perfect coffee rolls involves attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to ensure your rolls come out light and fluffy every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always check the expiration dates on your yeast and flour for optimal rise and flavor.
• Knead Properly: Ensure you knead the dough until it is smooth and elastic; this will help create a light texture.
• Control Temperature: Warm environments help yeast rise faster. If it’s too cold, consider placing the dough near a warm oven.
• Don’t Rush the Rise: Allow ample time for both rises; this develops flavor and texture in the rolls.
• Proper Measurement: Use precise measurements when adding flour and liquids; this ensures the right dough consistency.

Best Side Dishes for Coffee Rolls

Coffee rolls can be complemented by various side dishes that enhance their flavors. Consider these options when planning your meal.

1. Greek Yogurt: A bowl of tangy Greek yogurt adds protein and balances the sweetness of the rolls.
2. Fruit Salad: A vibrant fruit salad provides freshness and contrast, making it an ideal pairing.
3. Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs add richness and make for a satisfying breakfast spread.
4. Granola: A crunchy granola mix can add texture and flavor alongside the soft coffee rolls.
5. Cottage Cheese: Creamy cottage cheese offers a savory note that pairs well with sweet coffee flavors.
6. Chia Seed Pudding: This nutritious option adds a unique texture while being lightly sweetened to complement the rolls.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making coffee rolls can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Bold dough: Using too much flour can lead to dry rolls. Measure flour correctly by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off.
• Bold yeast: Forgetting to activate the yeast can result in dense rolls. Always ensure your yeast is fresh and follow the activation instructions.
• Bold temperature: Not warming the milk properly can hinder dough rising. Aim for lukewarm milk, as hot milk may kill the yeast.
• Bold rolling technique: Rolling the dough too thin can make it difficult to rise and may affect the texture. Roll it evenly to about 1/4 inch thick for optimal fluffiness.
• Bold baking time: Overbaking will dry out your coffee rolls. Keep an eye on them and remove them from the oven when they are golden brown.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Coffee rolls remain fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Coffee Rolls

• Wrap each roll in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Coffee Rolls

• Bold Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Bold Microwave: Heat individual rolls on medium power for about 20-30 seconds.
• Bold Stovetop: Place a roll in a skillet with a lid over low heat for about 5 minutes, checking frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common inquiries regarding coffee rolls that might help you bake them perfectly!

What makes these Coffee Rolls fluffy?

The combination of tangzhong and proper kneading creates a soft, airy texture that makes these rolls irresistible.

Can I use decaf coffee in these Coffee Rolls?

Absolutely! You can substitute decaf coffee granules if you prefer a caffeine-free option without sacrificing flavor.

How do I customize my Coffee Rolls?

Feel free to add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits to your filling for added flavor and texture variations!

Can I make these Coffee Rolls vegan?

You can substitute whole milk with plant-based milk and replace butter with vegan alternatives while ensuring other ingredients remain plant-based.

Final Thoughts

These coffee rolls are not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. You can easily customize them with different fillings or toppings. We encourage you to try making these delightful treats at home!