Coffee Rolls

These delightful Coffee Rolls offer a unique twist on traditional cinnamon rolls, perfect for coffee lovers. With their fluffy texture and rich coffee flavor, they are ideal for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert. The addition of creamy coffee frosting elevates these rolls, making them a standout treat at any gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of coffee and cinnamon creates a bold taste that coffee enthusiasts will adore.
• Fluffy Texture: These rolls are light and airy, ensuring a melt-in-your-mouth experience with every bite.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack; these rolls suit any occasion.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you can whip up a batch without breaking a sweat.
• Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different fillings or toppings to make them your own!

Tools and Preparation

To create the best Coffee Rolls, having the right tools on hand is essential. These tools will help you achieve the perfect dough consistency and bake evenly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: This tool helps knead the dough efficiently, saving time and effort.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple sizes allows you to prepare ingredients separately and mix them as needed.
• Rolling pin: This tool ensures an even thickness when rolling out the dough for filling.

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 about 4–5 minutes until the mixture becomes a paste-like slurry. Scrape it into a bowl and set aside until ready to use.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Step 3: Prepare Wet Ingredients

Slightly warm the whole milk in a separate container. Stir in the instant coffee granules until fully dissolved.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add the egg, warmed milk mixture, vanilla extract, and tangzhong to the dry ingredients in the mixing bowl. Knead on low speed with the dough hook for about two minutes until you form a shaggy ball of dough.

Step 5: Add Butter Gradually

With the mixer running on low speed, add softened unsalted butter one tablespoon at a time. Allow each piece to fully incorporate before adding more.

Step 6: Knead Dough Until Smooth

Continue kneading for an additional eight to ten minutes until smooth and elastic. The dough should stick slightly to the bottom of the bowl but not be overly wet. Adjust with additional flour or milk as necessary.

Step 7: Let Dough Rise

Create a smooth ball with lightly buttered hands by pulling down from the sides into the center. Place seam side down in a buttered bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm area until doubled in size—about forty-five to sixty minutes.

Step 8: Make Filling

In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, dark brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and instant coffee until smooth.

Step 9: Roll Out Dough

On a lightly floured surface, roll out your dough into a rectangle measuring approximately fourteen by eighteen inches. Spread your coffee cinnamon filling over it evenly while leaving about a quarter-inch edge clean at the top.

Step 10: Cut and Shape Rolls

Cut into twelve strips measuring one-and-a-half inches wide each. Roll each strip away from you while pinching the clean end to secure it closed. Transfer rolls to your prepared baking pan and cover them with plastic wrap again. Allow them to rise in warmth until doubled—another forty-five to sixty minutes.

Step 11: Bake Rolls

Preheat your oven to three hundred twenty-five degrees Fahrenheit (163°C). Bake rolls for twenty to twenty-three minutes or until tops are golden brown. Once baked, cool on wire racks while preparing frosting.

Step 12: Make Frosting

In another mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese and remaining unsalted butter. Mix in powdered sugar before whisking in heavy cream and instant coffee until everything is smooth.

Step 13: Frost Coffee Rolls

Spread your creamy frosting generously over cooled rolls before serving!

Enjoy every bite of your homemade Coffee Rolls!

How to Serve Coffee Rolls

Serving coffee rolls is a delightful experience that can elevate your breakfast or dessert table. These fluffy treats pair beautifully with various accompaniments, enhancing their coffee flavor and overall enjoyment.

Pair with Fresh Fruit

• Berries: A mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries adds a refreshing contrast to the sweet rolls.
• Bananas: Sliced bananas offer a creamy texture that complements the bold coffee flavor of the rolls.

Enjoy with a Side of Whipped Cream

• Homemade Whipped Cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream can be dolloped on top or served on the side for an indulgent touch.

Serve with a Hot Beverage

• Coffee: A cup of freshly brewed coffee enhances the coffee flavor in the rolls and provides a perfect pairing.
• Herbal Tea: A soothing herbal tea can balance the sweetness and offer a relaxing complement to your meal.

Create a Breakfast Platter

• Cheese Selection: Include a variety of cheeses like cream cheese or brie to provide richness alongside the sweet rolls.
• Nuts: A selection of nuts can add crunch and a savory element that contrasts nicely with the soft texture of the coffee rolls.

How to Perfect Coffee Rolls

Perfecting your coffee rolls ensures they turn out light, fluffy, and full of flavor every time. Here are some tips to help you achieve bakery-quality results.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh yeast and high-quality ingredients to ensure optimal rise and flavor in your dough.
• Control Dough Temperature: Keep your dough slightly warm during rising. This helps activate the yeast and promotes better fermentation.
• Knead Properly: Make sure to knead your dough until it becomes smooth and elastic. This develops gluten, contributing to the fluffy texture.
• Don’t Skip Tangzhong: Incorporating tangzhong (a flour-water paste) into your recipe keeps the rolls moist and extends their freshness.
• Allow Proper Rising Time: Be patient with rising times as they allow flavors to develop. Look for dough that has doubled in size for best results.
• Cool Before Frosting: Allow your rolls to cool on a wire rack before adding frosting. This prevents it from melting away and ensures a beautiful presentation.

Best Side Dishes for Coffee Rolls

Coffee rolls shine even brighter when paired with complementary side dishes. Here are some delicious options to serve alongside them.

1. Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and color, balancing the sweetness of the rolls.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layers of yogurt, granola, and fruit create a satisfying contrast in texture while being nutritious.
3. Oven-Baked Eggs: Savory baked eggs seasoned with herbs provide protein that pairs well with sweet pastries.
4. Granola Bars: Homemade granola bars can be prepped ahead for an easy grab-and-go option alongside your coffee rolls.
5. Smoothies: Whip up smoothies using spinach, banana, and almond milk for a refreshing drink that complements breakfast nicely.
6. Oatmeal: A warm bowl of oatmeal topped with nuts or fruit offers heartiness that pairs beautifully with coffee-flavored treats.
7. Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado spread on whole-grain bread introduces healthy fats while contrasting sweet flavors effectively.
8. Chia Seed Pudding: A creamy chia seed pudding made with almond milk can serve as a light dessert alongside your coffee rolls.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making coffee rolls can be a delightful experience, but there are some common pitfalls that can lead to less-than-perfect results.

• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Precision is key in baking. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups properly to ensure the right ratios.
• Skipping the tangzhong step: This method adds moisture and improves texture. Don’t skip it; it’s essential for achieving fluffy coffee rolls.
• Over-kneading the dough: Knead until smooth and elastic, but avoid excessive kneading, which can make the rolls tough.
• Insufficient rising time: Letting the dough rise properly is crucial. Be patient and allow it to double in size for optimal fluffiness.
• Baking at the wrong temperature: Always preheat your oven. Baking at an incorrect temperature can lead to uneven cooking or burnt tops.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store coffee rolls in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Coffee Rolls

• Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Coffee Rolls

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 15-20 seconds. Check to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place in a covered skillet over low heat for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about coffee rolls that may help enhance your baking experience.

What are Coffee Rolls?

Coffee rolls are sweet, fluffy pastries flavored with coffee and often filled with cinnamon sugar. They make a perfect breakfast or dessert treat!

How do I achieve fluffy Coffee Rolls?

Using tangzhong and allowing enough time for rising are key to achieving that light and fluffy texture. Don’t rush the process!

Can I customize my Coffee Rolls?

Definitely! You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or even different spices to personalize your coffee rolls according to your taste preferences.

How long do Coffee Rolls last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, coffee rolls will remain fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature or up to 2 months if frozen.

Can I make Coffee Rolls ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough ahead of time, shape the rolls, and let them rise overnight in the fridge before baking them fresh in the morning.

Final Thoughts

These coffee rolls bring together a delightful blend of flavors that will please any coffee lover. Their versatility allows you to experiment with various fillings or toppings. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; it’s sure to become a favorite!