Cinnamon Knots with Coffee Icing Recipe

If you love warm, comforting treats with a little twist, then you’re in for a real delight with these Cinnamon Knots with Coffee Icing. This irresistible recipe combines soft, tender knots bursting with cinnamon-sugar goodness and finishes them off with a smooth, rich coffee icing that adds a perfect hint of bold flavor. Every bite offers a cozy hug of sweetness and spice, making these knots an absolute must-bake for your next bakery-style craving!

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes Cinnamon Knots with Coffee Icing truly special is how simple ingredients come together to create an extraordinary flavor and texture. Each component plays a vital role—from the fluffy dough to the aromatic cinnamon filling, culminating in the luscious coffee glaze that ties it all together.

• 3 cups (375 g) all-purpose flour: Provides the perfect base for soft, chewy knots.
• 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough lightly to balance flavors.
• 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast: Gives the dough a light, airy rise.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances overall flavor and balances sweetness.
• 3/4 cup (180 ml) warm milk (110°F/45°C): Activates yeast and adds tenderness.
• 1/4 cup (60 g) unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and moisture to the dough.
• 1 large egg: Binds ingredients while contributing tenderness.
• 1/4 cup (60 g) unsalted butter, softened (for filling): Creates a creamy cinnamon filling that melts during baking.
• 1/3 cup (70 g) brown sugar: Adds warm sweetness and depth for the filling.
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: The star spice that delivers that iconic warm, sweet spice flavor.
• 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar (for icing): Forms the smooth base for the luscious coffee icing glaze.
• 2 tablespoons brewed coffee: Infuses the icing with a bold, aromatic kick.
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds subtle sweetness and rounds out the icing’s flavor.

How to Make Cinnamon Knots with Coffee Icing

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by waking up your yeast with warm milk, a tablespoon of sugar, and a little patience—let it sit until frothy and alive. Mixing the flour, remaining sugar, and salt in a big bowl creates a cozy bed for your dough. Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg, stirring until everything starts to come together. Knead this dough by hand on a floured surface for about 8 to 10 minutes, or pop it in a stand mixer with a dough hook for a quicker five to seven. You’re aiming for a smooth, elastic texture that bounces back when touched. Once ready, tuck the dough into a greased bowl, cover it gently, and let it rise in a warm spot for about an hour until it doubles in size. This rising step ensures those cinnamon knots bake up soft and airy.

Step 2: Make the Cinnamon Filling

While your dough is doing its magic, whip up the filling. Blend softened butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon into a deliciously spreadable paste. This mixture is what guarantees each knot has an irresistible swirl of warm cinnamon sweetness that melts into every bite.

Step 3: Shape the Knots

Once your dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air, then roll it out into a 12 by 16-inch rectangle. Spread your cinnamon filling evenly over this canvas, making sure every inch is covered. Fold the dough in half lengthwise, creating a long strip rich with cinnamon goodness inside. Then, cut the folded dough into 12 equal strips. Each strip will become a charming little knot — twist each gently and tie it into a knot shape, tucking the ends securely underneath. Place your cinnamon knots on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ready for their second rise.

Step 4: Let the Knots Rise Again

Cover those beautiful knots with a clean towel and let them puff up one more time for 30 to 40 minutes. This second rise guarantees that soft, fluffy texture that makes cinnamon knots so magical.

Step 5: Bake the Knots

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the knots for 15 to 18 minutes until they turn a gorgeous golden brown. Ah, the smell filling your kitchen now is pure happiness! Let the knots cool slightly right on the baking sheet—just enough so they’re warm but won’t melt your coffee icing when you drizzle it on.

Step 6: Prepare and Add the Coffee Icing

Mix up the heavenly coffee icing by whisking powdered sugar, brewed coffee, and vanilla extract until shiny and smooth. Adjust the thickness by adding more coffee for drizzle or more powdered sugar for a thicker glaze. Finally, generously drizzle this luscious coffee icing over your warm cinnamon knots. This is the finishing touch that transforms these treats into a next-level indulgence.

How to Serve Cinnamon Knots with Coffee Icing

Garnishes

If you want to add a bit of extra flair, consider sprinkling the cinnamon knots with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a pinch of finely chopped toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts. It adds a lovely textural contrast and a nutty aroma that pairs beautifully with the coffee icing.

Side Dishes

Cinnamon knots with Coffee Icing shine on their own, but if you want to turn them into a delightful brunch spread, serve alongside fresh fruit like sliced apples or juicy berries. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can also elevate this treat into a decadent dessert.

Creative Ways to Present

For a cozy gathering, arrange the cinnamon knots in a woven basket lined with a pretty cloth napkin or stack them on a rustic wooden board. Drizzle extra coffee icing over each knot tableside for a bit of interactive fun. You can also turn them into mini cinnamon knot sliders by adding a smear of cream cheese frosting in between for an indulgent surprise!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Cinnamon Knots with Coffee Icing can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To keep them fresh, avoid stacking them directly so the icing doesn’t stick and pull away from the knots.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy these treats later, freeze unglazed knots in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, warm slightly, and drizzle with fresh coffee icing.

Reheating

For that just-baked feeling, warm your cinnamon knots in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5 to 7 minutes. You can also microwave a knot for 15 to 20 seconds but be careful not to overheat or it might turn tough. Reapply coffee icing after warming for the best result.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight. This slow rise develops even more flavor. Just bring it back to room temperature before rolling and shaping the knots.

Is brewed coffee necessary for the icing?

Brewed coffee gives a lovely deep flavor that complements the cinnamon, but you can use espresso or instant coffee dissolved in a small amount of water for a stronger or quicker option.

Can I substitute the all-purpose flour with whole wheat?

While you can swap in whole wheat flour, keep in mind the texture will be denser and less tender. Try a half-and-half mix for a nice balance while preserving softness.

What if I don’t have a stand mixer for kneading?

No worries! Kneading by hand works just as well. It’s a bit more workout but you’ll get a great feel for the dough consistency as it becomes smooth and elastic.

How do I make sure my cinnamon knots remain soft?

Proper kneading, sufficient rising time, and storing the knots in an airtight container help maintain softness. Also, reheating gently before serving refreshes their tender texture perfectly.

Final Thoughts

Trust me, once you make these Cinnamon Knots with Coffee Icing, they’ll quickly become a staple in your baking rotation. The marriage of tender, cinnamon-packed dough and that irresistible coffee glaze creates a treat that’s perfect for cozy mornings, afternoon breaks, or anytime you crave a sweet moment of joy. So go ahead, gather your ingredients and get knotting—your taste buds will thank you!

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