Coffee Rolls

These delightful Coffee Rolls are a perfect blend of fluffy dough and rich coffee flavor. Ideal for breakfast or dessert, these rolls will satisfy your cravings while impressing your guests. The combination of coffee-infused dough and creamy frosting makes them an irresistible treat for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold Coffee Flavor: The instant coffee granules in the dough and frosting create a deliciously rich taste.
• Light and Fluffy Texture: The unique tangzhong method ensures these rolls are soft and airy.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for brunch, dessert, or even as a sweet snack with your afternoon coffee.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with everyday pantry staples, you can whip these up easily.
• Make Ahead Option: Prepare the dough in advance and bake when you’re ready to enjoy fresh rolls!

Tools and Preparation

To create these delicious Coffee Rolls, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure success in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Makes kneading the dough effortless and ensures a smooth texture.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients and allowing your dough to rise.
• Rolling pin: Helps roll out the dough evenly for perfect cinnamon roll shape.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make your Coffee Rolls:

• 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)
• 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 it forms a paste-like slurry. Scrape it into a bowl and set it aside to cool.

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: Incorporate Liquid Ingredients

Slightly warm the milk, then stir in the instant coffee until fully dissolved. Add this mixture along with the egg, vanilla extract, and prepared tangzhong to the dry ingredients.

Step 4: Knead the Dough

Knead on low speed using a dough hook for about two minutes until a shaggy dough ball forms. Gradually add softened butter one tablespoon at a time. Allow each addition to fully incorporate before adding more. Continue kneading for another 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 5: First Rise

With lightly buttered hands, form the dough into a smooth ball. Place seam side down in a buttered bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size, approximately 45–60 minutes.

Step 6: Prepare Filling

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

Step 7: Shape the Rolls

Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle measuring about 14×18 inches. Spread the coffee cinnamon filling evenly over the dough leaving about a quarter-inch edge at one end clean. Cut into twelve strips of approximately one-and-a-half inches wide.

Step 8: Second Rise

Roll each strip away from you while pinching at the clean end to seal. Place them into a prepared baking pan. Cover with plastic wrap again and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size, which should take another 45–60 minutes. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).

Step 9: Bake

Bake for about 20–23 minutes or until golden brown on top. Remove from oven and let cool on a wire rack while preparing frosting.

Step 10: Make Frosting

Combine softened cream cheese with softened butter in a bowl. Gradually mix in powdered sugar before whisking in heavy cream and instant coffee until smooth.

Step 11: Frost & Enjoy

Spread the frosting generously over warm coffee rolls and enjoy every bite!

How to Serve Coffee Rolls

These delightful coffee rolls are perfect for breakfast or as an afternoon treat. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

Pair with Fresh Fruit

• Include a side of fresh berries or sliced bananas for a refreshing contrast to the sweet rolls.

Enjoy with a Hot Beverage

• Serve alongside a cup of brewed coffee or tea to complement the coffee flavor in the rolls.

Add Whipped Cream

• A dollop of whipped cream can add a light and airy texture, making each bite even more indulgent.

Drizzle with Caramel Sauce

• For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle warm caramel sauce over the top just before serving.

Top with Toasted Nuts

• Sprinkling some toasted pecans or walnuts adds crunch and enhances the overall flavor profile.

How to Perfect Coffee Rolls

Perfecting your coffee rolls takes a few simple techniques. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Knead Well: Knead the dough until it is smooth and elastic. This ensures a fluffy texture in the final product.
• Use Tangzhong: Incorporating tangzhong helps retain moisture and keeps the rolls soft for longer.
• Check Dough Temperature: Make sure your dough is kept in a warm place during rising. This helps activate yeast effectively.
• Measure Flour Accurately: Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements to avoid dry or overly wet dough.
• Keep Butter Soft: Make sure that your butter is at room temperature for easy incorporation into the dough.

Best Side Dishes for Coffee Rolls

Coffee rolls pair beautifully with various side dishes that elevate your meal. Here are some great options.

1. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balance to your coffee rolls.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a creamy, crunchy addition that complements the sweetness.
3. Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein and create a satisfying meal when served alongside coffee rolls.
4. Oven-Baked Bacon: Crispy turkey bacon offers a savory contrast, enhancing the flavors of your sweet rolls.
5. Granola Bars: Homemade granola bars can be a nutritious side, perfect for those looking for something crunchy.
6. Chia Pudding: Creamy chia pudding is packed with nutrients and makes for an excellent pairing with coffee flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making coffee rolls can be a delightful experience, but certain mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Incorrect Flour Measurement: Using too much or too little flour can affect the texture. Always use the spoon-and-level method for measuring flour.
• Over or Under Kneading the Dough: Kneading too long can make the rolls tough, while not enough kneading will lead to dense rolls. Aim for a smooth, elastic dough.
• Skipping the Rise Time: Allowing the dough to rise properly is crucial for fluffy coffee rolls. Don’t rush this step; let it double in size.
• Not Preheating the Oven: Baking in a cold oven can spoil your coffee rolls. Always preheat your oven to ensure even baking from the start.
• Ignoring Room Temperature Ingredients: Cold ingredients can affect how well your dough rises and bakes. Make sure eggs and butter are at room temperature.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store coffee rolls in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Coffee Rolls

• Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They will keep well for up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating Coffee Rolls

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm rolls for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place a roll on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 15-20 seconds. Be cautious not to dry them out.
• Stovetop: Heat in a covered skillet over low heat for about 5 minutes, ensuring they stay moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about coffee rolls that might help you along your baking journey.

What are Coffee Rolls?

Coffee rolls are sweet, fluffy pastries infused with coffee flavor, often topped with cream cheese frosting.

Can I make Coffee Rolls without Yeast?

While traditional coffee rolls require yeast for that fluffy texture, you could experiment with baking powder as an alternative, though results may vary.

How do I customize my Coffee Rolls?

You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits into your filling to give your coffee rolls a unique twist.

How do I enhance the coffee flavor in my Coffee Rolls?

To boost the coffee flavor, consider using espresso powder or increasing the amount of instant coffee granules in both the dough and filling.

Can I use different types of milk in my Coffee Rolls?

Absolutely! You can substitute whole milk with almond milk, oat milk, or any other plant-based alternatives for different flavors.

Final Thoughts

These coffee rolls are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Their rich coffee flavor combined with sweet cream cheese frosting makes them irresistible. Feel free to customize them by adding your favorite ingredients or experimenting with different fillings. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a delightful treat!