If you’re anything like me and adore waking up to sweet, comforting treats, then this Coffee Cinnamon Rolls Recipe is about to become your new best friend. Imagine a soft, fluffy roll infused with the rich aroma of cinnamon and a subtle coffee kick that wakes up your taste buds in the sweetest way possible. This recipe combines classic cinnamon roll goodness with a delightful coffee twist, making it perfect for leisurely weekend mornings or impressing friends over brunch. Let me take you through each step, so you can bring this heavenly blend of flavors right into your kitchen.

Coffee Cinnamon Rolls Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Coffee Cinnamon Rolls Recipe lies in its simple, but thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role — from the soft dough to the aromatic filling and the sweet glaze that sends the whole experience soaring.

4 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the perfect structure and softness to our rolls.
1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) instant yeast: Helps the dough rise beautifully for that fluffy texture.
½ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough just right without overpowering.
1 tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
1 cup warm milk (110°F): Activates the yeast and keeps the dough tender.
¼ cup melted butter: Adds richness and softness to the dough.
2 tbsp ground cinnamon: The star spice that brings warmth and depth.
2 tbsp instant coffee granules: Infuses a mild coffee flavor that pairs amazingly with cinnamon.
½ cup brown sugar: Gives the filling a deep caramel sweetness.
1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze): For a smooth, sweet finish on top.
1 tsp vanilla extract (for glaze): Adds a lovely fragrant note to the glaze.
Enough milk to achieve drizzling consistency (for glaze): The perfect texture to drizzle over warm rolls.

How to Make Coffee Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by warming your milk until it’s hot but not boiling — around 110°F is just right to wake up the yeast without killing it. In a large bowl, combine your flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast. Pour in the warm milk and melted butter, then stir everything together until you get a rough, shaggy dough. This is the foundation of your rolls, so don’t worry if it looks a bit messy right now.

Step 2: Knead and Let Rise

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 5 to 7 minutes until it feels smooth and elastic. This kneading step is crucial to develop the gluten that makes your rolls soft and chewy. After kneading, place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and set it in a warm spot. Let it rise until it doubles in size—about an hour. This rising stage is where the magic of lightness happens.

Step 3: Mix Filling and Prepare for Rolling

While the dough is rising, mix together your brown sugar, cinnamon, and instant coffee granules in a separate bowl. Once the dough has doubled, roll it out into a large rectangle on a floured surface. Spread softened butter evenly over the dough, then sprinkle your coffee-cinnamon mixture generously on top. This filling is what brings that signature cozy flavor to life.

Step 4: Roll and Slice the Dough

Starting from one long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Make sure to tuck the edge under so it doesn’t unravel. Next, grab a sharp knife and slice the log into about 12 even rolls. Place these cut-side up in a generously greased baking dish, leaving a little space between them so they can expand as they bake.

Step 5: Second Rise and Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, cover your rolls and let them have a second rise for about 30 minutes to puff up beautifully. Afterward, pop them into the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until they are beautifully golden brown on top. Your kitchen will start to smell like heaven itself at this point.

Step 6: Make and Drizzle the Glaze

While the rolls are baking, whisk together powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and just enough milk to create a smooth, drizzling glaze. Once your rolls come out of the oven and are still warm, drizzle this glaze over the top for that irresistible sweet finish that melts into every crevice.

How to Serve Coffee Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Garnishes

For an extra-special touch, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon on top of the glaze or add a few dark chocolate shavings to amp up the indulgence. Chopped toasted pecans or walnuts add a lovely crunch and nutty contrast that’s simply divine.

Side Dishes

Coffee Cinnamon Rolls Recipe shines best with a hot cup of your favorite coffee or tea — the flavors complement each other perfectly. If you’re serving brunch, try simple fruit salad or a creamy yogurt parfait on the side to balance the sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to wow your guests? Serve the rolls in a rustic wooden tray lined with a cozy kitchen towel for a warm, inviting look. Alternatively, stack a couple on small dessert plates and drizzle extra glaze right before serving for a bakery-style experience at home.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. They’ll stay soft and moist, ready for a quick snack or breakfast the next day.

Freezing

To keep these rolls fresh longer, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. When you want to enjoy them, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently before serving — it’s almost like they’re freshly baked!

Reheating

The best way to reheat your rolls is in the microwave for about 20 seconds or in a warm oven at 300°F for 10 minutes. This will revive that freshly-baked softness and help the glaze melt perfectly again.

FAQs

Can I use regular brewed coffee instead of instant coffee granules?

While brewed coffee has great flavor, it adds liquid to your filling, which could affect the dough’s texture. Instant coffee granules offer concentrated flavor without extra moisture, so they’re the perfect choice for this recipe.

What can I substitute for all-purpose flour?

All-purpose flour provides the best balance of protein for structure and tenderness. You could try bread flour for a chewier roll or a gluten-free blend, but results might vary slightly.

Is it necessary to let the dough rise twice?

Yes! The first rise allows the dough to develop flavor and texture, while the second rise, after shaping, ensures your rolls are airy and soft before baking.

Can I make these rolls ahead and bake later?

Absolutely. You can prepare the rolls, let them rise once, cover them tightly, and refrigerate overnight. The next day, let them warm and rise again before baking.

How sweet are these rolls?

These Coffee Cinnamon Rolls strike a pleasing balance—the filling is sweet but not overpowering, complemented by a lightly sweet glaze. If you prefer extra sweetness, feel free to add more glaze or a dusting of powdered sugar.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about sharing warm, homemade Coffee Cinnamon Rolls with friends and family. This recipe brings together the comforting scent of cinnamon and the bold touch of coffee in a cozy, soft roll that’s guaranteed to start your day on a delicious note. I can’t recommend enough giving this Coffee Cinnamon Rolls Recipe a try — it’s a dazzling crowd-pleaser and a joyful way to add some sweetness to any morning.

Coffee Cinnamon Rolls Recipe