Indulge in Soft and Sweet Coffee Rolls with Creamy Frosting

Coffee Rolls are a delectable treat that combine the rich aroma of coffee with the soft, pillowy texture of freshly baked rolls. These irresistible pastries are a beloved indulgence, blending the comforting flavors of coffee and the sweetness of a cinnamon-sugar filling. Whether enjoyed for breakfast, brunch, or as an afternoon pick-me-up, Coffee Rolls are sure to delight your senses and leave you craving more.

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Unlocking the Secrets of Tangzhong: The Key to Soft, Fluffy Coffee Rolls

The secret to achieving the perfect texture in these Coffee Rolls lies in the use of the Tangzhong method. Tangzhong is a simple technique that involves cooking a small portion of the flour and liquid ingredients into a thick, gelatinous paste before incorporating it into the dough. This process helps to strengthen the gluten structure, resulting in a soft, tender crumb that stays fresh for longer.

To make the Tangzhong, you’ll need just two ingredients: all-purpose flour and water. Whisk them together in a small saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens into a paste. Allow it to cool slightly before adding it to the rest of the dough ingredients.

Ingredients for the Perfect Coffee Rolls

The ingredients for these delightful Coffee Rolls are simple, yet they come together to create a truly irresistible treat. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need:

For the Tangzhong:

• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup water

For the Dough:

• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 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 the recipe above
• 4 tablespoon unsalted butter, room temperature

For the Filling:

• 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

For the Frosting:

• 2 oz cream cheese, softened
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 4 tbsp heavy cream
• ¾ tsp instant coffee granules

Step-by-Step Instructions for Baking Coffee Rolls

Ready to dive into the process of creating these delightful Coffee Rolls? Follow these easy-to-follow steps, and you’ll be enjoying the warm, fragrant treats in no time!

1. Make the Tangzhong: In a small saucepan, whisk together the flour and water. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until thickened into a paste. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
2. Make the Dough: In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Add the warm milk, instant coffee granules, egg, vanilla extract, and the prepared Tangzhong. Mix until combined, then add the butter one tablespoon at a time until incorporated. Knead with a dough hook for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1–1.5 hours.
4. Prepare the Filling: In a small bowl, mix together the butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and coffee granules until smooth and spreadable.
5. Shape the Rolls: Punch down the dough and roll it into a rectangle (about 14×18 inches). Spread the filling evenly over the dough. Roll the dough tightly into a log and cut into 12 equal rolls. Place the rolls in a greased 9×13 baking dish.
6. Second Rise: Cover the rolls and let them rise again until puffy, about 45 minutes.
7. Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. Make the Frosting: Beat together the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add the powdered sugar, heavy cream, and instant coffee, and mix until creamy.
9. Serve: Spread the frosting over the warm rolls and enjoy!

Tips for Perfecting Your Coffee Rolls

To ensure your Coffee Rolls turn out beautifully, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Adjust the Coffee Flavor: If you prefer a stronger coffee flavor, feel free to increase the amount of instant coffee granules in both the filling and the frosting. Conversely, if you’d like a milder coffee taste, reduce the amount.
• Prevent Overbrowning: Keep a close eye on the rolls during the baking process, and if they start to brown too quickly, cover them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent further browning.
• Storing Leftover Rolls: Store any leftover Coffee Rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the rolls for up to 2 months, thawing them at room temperature before serving.
• Variations: Try adding chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, to the filling for a crunchy texture. You can also experiment with different types of chocolate or drizzle the rolls with a coffee-flavored glaze.

Pairing Suggestions for Coffee Rolls

Coffee Rolls are a delightful treat that pair perfectly with a variety of beverages. For a classic pairing, enjoy them with a freshly brewed cup of coffee, whether it’s a bold roast or a smooth, creamy latte. Tea lovers can also indulge in these rolls alongside a fragrant cup of black tea, Earl Grey, or even a spiced chai latte.

Coffee Rolls make an excellent addition to any breakfast or brunch spread, complementing savory dishes like scrambled eggs, bacon, or sausage. They also shine as a satisfying afternoon snack or a decadent dessert, especially when served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use instant coffee or brewed coffee in the recipe?

Yes, you can use either instant coffee granules or brewed coffee in this recipe. If using brewed coffee, reduce the amount of milk in the dough to maintain the right consistency. Start with 1/4 cup of brewed coffee and adjust the milk accordingly.

Can these rolls be prepared ahead of time and baked later?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and shape the rolls a day in advance. Place the shaped rolls in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate overnight. When ready to bake, let the rolls come to room temperature and rise for the second rise before baking as directed.

How should I store leftover coffee rolls to keep them fresh?

Store any leftover Coffee Rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the rolls for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply place the rolls in a 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes until warm and fragrant.

Can I add a glaze or icing for extra sweetness?

Yes, you can definitely add a glaze or icing to these Coffee Rolls for an extra touch of sweetness. The cream cheese frosting provided in the recipe is a delicious option, but you can also try a simple powdered sugar glaze or a coffee-flavored icing.

Indulge in the Irresistible Aroma of Coffee Rolls

Baking up a batch of these decadent Coffee Rolls is a true labor of love, but the result is well worth the effort. The soft, pillowy texture, the irresistible coffee-infused filling, and the creamy frosting come together to create a treat that will leave you craving more. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your oven, and get ready to experience the pure bliss of homemade Coffee Rolls. Bon appétit!

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• Crockpot Garlic Butter Beef Bites
• Crockpot Honey Mustard Chicken
• Crockpot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
• Crockpot Chicken Tortellini

Looking for more tasty ideas? Visit Elena’s Fast & Flavorful Recipes on Pinterest for a treasure trove of easy meals, comforting bakes, and fun kitchen inspiration!

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