Soft, fluffy cinnamon rolls infused with rich coffee flavor and finished with a smooth coffee icing. These rolls are perfect for slow mornings, special breakfasts, or anytime you want a cozy, bakery-style treat at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These coffee cinnamon rolls combine the warmth of cinnamon with the deep aroma of coffee, creating a balanced sweetness that isn’t overpowering. The dough bakes up tender and light, while the coffee icing melts into every swirl for extra indulgence. They’re made with simple pantry ingredients and are ideal for preparing ahead of time.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the dough

• 360 g all-purpose flour
• 50 g granulated sugar
• 7 g instant yeast
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 180 ml warm milk
• 60 g unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg

For the coffee cinnamon filling

• 100 g light brown sugar
• 60 g unsalted butter, softened
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon instant coffee granules

For the coffee icing

• 180 g powdered sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons instant coffee granules
• 2 to 3 tablespoons warm milk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Add the warm milk, melted butter, and egg, then mix until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough by hand or with a mixer for about 8 minutes, until smooth and elastic.

Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 60 to 90 minutes, or until doubled in size.

While the dough rises, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and instant coffee granules until smooth and spreadable.

Roll the risen dough out on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle approximately 30 x 40 cm. Spread the coffee cinnamon filling evenly over the dough.

Roll the dough tightly from the long side into a log and cut into 9 equal rolls. Arrange them in a lightly greased baking dish, leaving a little space between each roll. Cover and let rise again for 30 to 40 minutes.

Preheat the oven to 180°C. Bake the rolls for 22 to 26 minutes, until lightly golden and cooked through.

To make the icing, dissolve the instant coffee granules in the warm milk, then whisk with the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle over the warm rolls before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 9 rolls
Preparation time: 25 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Baking time: 24 minutes
Total time: approximately 2 hours 35 minutes

Variations

You can add finely chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling for extra texture. For a milder coffee flavor, reduce the instant coffee in the filling to 2 teaspoons. If you prefer a thicker icing, use less milk; for a glaze-like finish, add a little more.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual rolls in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds until warm. For best texture, cover loosely to prevent drying out.

FAQs

Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the rolls up to the second rise, cover them tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Bake fresh the next morning.

Can I use brewed coffee instead of instant coffee?

Instant coffee works best for concentrated flavor, but you can use very strong brewed coffee in the icing if needed.

What type of yeast should I use?

Instant yeast is recommended, but active dry yeast can also be used if dissolved in the warm milk first.

How do I know when the dough is kneaded enough?

The dough should feel smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky but not sticky.

Can I freeze these cinnamon rolls?

Yes, baked rolls freeze well for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before reheating.

Why didn’t my rolls rise properly?

This can happen if the milk was too hot or the yeast was inactive. Always use warm, not hot, liquid.

Can I reduce the sugar?

You can slightly reduce the sugar in the filling or icing, but it may affect the overall texture and sweetness.

What pan size works best?

A square 23 cm baking dish or a similar-sized rectangular dish works well.

Can I make them without icing?

Yes, the rolls are still flavorful on their own, though the coffee icing adds moisture and richness.

How can I make the rolls extra soft?

Avoid adding too much flour and make sure not to overbake them.

Conclusion

These coffee cinnamon rolls with coffee icing are a comforting and flavorful twist on a classic favorite. With their soft texture, aromatic filling, and smooth glaze, they’re perfect for sharing or enjoying as a special homemade treat any time you crave something warm and satisfying.

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