Cinnamon Knots With Coffee Icing Recipe

Irresistibly Gooey Cinnamon Knots with Coffee Icing Recipe

Soft, pillowy cinnamon knots dancing with rich coffee icing promise a morning revelation that’ll spark your senses.

Baker’s kitchens buzz with unexpected magic when these twisted delights emerge from warm ovens.

Sweet spirals intertwine delicate layers of spiced warmth and silky glaze.

Rich aromas drift through rooms, teasing taste buds with promises of delectable comfort.

Delicate dough knots curl like elegant ribbons, waiting to unravel delicious secrets.

Memories of cozy cafés and morning rituals blend seamlessly in each tender bite.

You’ll want to savor every crumb of this irresistible treat that transforms ordinary moments into delightful experiences.

How to Twist and Bake Cinnamon Knots

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Combine warm milk, yeast, and a splash of sugar in a small bowl. Let the mixture sit and become frothy, watching it bubble and come to life for about 5-10 minutes.

Step 2: Create the Dough Base

In a large mixing bowl, blend:
  • Flour
  • Remaining sugar
  • Salt

Add the bubbly yeast mixture, melted butter, and a fresh egg. Stir until a soft, shaggy dough forms.

Step 3: Knead the Dough to Perfection

Choose your kneading method:
  • By hand: Work the dough on a flour-dusted surface for 8-10 minutes
  • Stand mixer: Use a dough hook and knead for 5-7 minutes

The goal is a smooth, stretchy dough that springs back when touched.

Step 4: Let the Dough Rise

Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel. Place in a warm, draft-free spot and let it rise until it doubles in size, about 1 hour.

Step 5: Prepare the Cinnamon Filling

Mix together:
  • Brown sugar
  • Ground cinnamon
  • Soft butter

Set aside while preparing the dough for shaping.

Step 6: Roll and Shape the Knots

Punch down the risen dough and roll it into a large rectangle. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly. Cut into strips and twist each into a playful knot.

Step 7: Second Rise and Bake

Let the shaped knots rise again for 30 minutes. Bake in a preheated oven until golden brown and aromatic.

Step 8: Craft the Coffee Icing

Whisk together:
  • Powdered sugar
  • Strong brewed coffee
  • Vanilla extract

Drizzle generously over warm knots.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Place the glistening cinnamon knots on a serving platter. Watch as people’s eyes light up with the first bite of these decadent treats.

Tips for a Balanced Coffee Glaze

  • Activate Yeast Perfectly: Ensure milk is warm (not hot) around 110°F to activate yeast without killing it, creating a frothy mixture that guarantees soft, fluffy knots.
  • Knead with Confidence: Develop gluten by kneading thoroughly, which creates a smooth, elastic texture and helps knots hold their shape during baking.
  • Rise in Warmth: Choose a draft-free, warm spot like near a preheated oven or inside a turned-off oven with the light on to help dough rise evenly and quickly.
  • Customize Coffee Icing: Experiment with different coffee strengths or add a splash of vanilla extract to enhance the icing's flavor and create a personalized touch.
  • Prevent Sticking: Dust work surface and hands with flour to prevent dough from sticking, making it easier to roll and shape cinnamon knots without frustration.

Store and Reheat Cinnamon Knots Without Drying Out

  • Store leftover cinnamon knots in an airtight container and keep fresh for up to 3 days. Cool the knots completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
  • Wrap individual knots tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. Frozen knots maintain quality for 2-3 weeks. Label the bag with the date.
  • Warm knots at 300°F for 5-7 minutes to restore softness. Avoid overheating to prevent drying out the pastry.
  • Zap knots for 10-15 seconds to quickly revive their warmth. Add a small damp paper towel to maintain moisture and prevent toughness.

Sips to Pair with Coffee-Glazed Knots

  • The intense, rich coffee complements the sweet cinnamon knots perfectly, creating a harmonious balance between the pastry's warmth and the espresso's bold flavor profile.
  • Whip up a simple cream cheese drizzle to add extra decadence, cutting through the knots' sweetness with a tangy, smooth counterpoint that elevates the entire dessert experience.
  • Serve a scoop of creamy vanilla bean ice cream alongside the warm cinnamon knots, allowing the cold, smooth texture to contrast beautifully with the soft, spiced pastry.
  • Create a delightful combination by serving the cinnamon knots with a caramel macchiato, where the coffee's caramel notes and milky base complement the knots' warm, sweet cinnamon character.

Cinnamon Knot Variations to Try

  • Gluten-Free Cinnamon Knots: Replace wheat flour with a gluten-free blend, using xanthan gum to improve texture and elasticity.
  • Vegan Cinnamon Knots: Substitute dairy milk with almond milk, use coconut oil instead of butter, and replace egg with a flax egg or applesauce.
  • Low-Sugar Version: Reduce sugar content by using stevia or monk fruit sweetener in the dough and icing, and opt for a lighter cinnamon sprinkle.
  • Whole Wheat Wellness: Swap half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber and a nuttier flavor profile, keeping the coffee icing as a delicious complement.

Why Cinnamon Knots with Coffee Icing Are Worth Waking Up For

  • Effortlessly craft delightful cinnamon treats that impress everyone.
  • Simple steps make these knots perfect for baking together, allowing kids to help roll and shape dough.
  • Elevate your morning gathering with these gorgeous, bakery-worthy pastries that seem more complicated than they actually are.
  • Minimal ingredients and straightforward technique ensure success even for novice bakers, guaranteeing a confidence-boosting culinary experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need for These Cinnamon Pastries

Bread Base:
  • Flour: Provides structure and foundation for the knots, all-purpose flour works best.
  • Yeast: Essential for dough rising and creating soft, airy texture, fresh active dry yeast recommended.
  • Sugar: Helps activate yeast and adds subtle sweetness to the dough.
  • Salt: Enhances flavor and controls yeast growth.
Liquid Ingredients:
  • Milk (Warm): Activates yeast and adds moisture to the dough, whole milk preferred for richness.
  • Butter (Melted): Adds richness and tender texture to the knots, unsalted butter recommended.
  • Egg: Provides structure, richness, and helps bind ingredients together.
Cinnamon Coating and Icing:
  • Cinnamon: Provides warm, aromatic flavor to the knots, ground Ceylon cinnamon suggested.
  • Coffee: Creates a bold, complementary icing with deep flavor, freshly brewed espresso or strong coffee works best.
  • Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and thickens the icing, creating a smooth glaze consistency.
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Cinnamon Knots With Coffee Icing Recipe

Cinnamon Knots With Coffee Icing Recipe


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4.7 from 30 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Irresistible cinnamon knots dance with rich coffee icing, promising pure bakery-style bliss. Warm spices and sweet glaze invite comfort, beckoning you to savor each delectable, perfectly twisted bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 3 cups (375 g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
  • 1 large egg
  • ¾ cup (180 ml) warm milk (110F/45C)

Sweeteners and Sugars:

  • ¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar
  • ⅓ cup (70 g) brown sugar
  • 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar

Fats and Flavoring:

  • ¼ cup (60 g) unsalted butter, melted
  • ¼ cup (60 g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 2 tablespoons brewed coffee
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast by whisking warm milk, yeast, and a portion of sugar in a compact vessel. Allow the mixture to bloom and become foamy, releasing its signature fermentation aroma.
  2. Combine dry ingredients in a spacious mixing bowl, creating a pristine flour landscape seasoned with remaining sugar and salt. Integrate the frothy yeast concoction, along with melted butter and a single egg.
  3. Transform the loose ingredients into a cohesive dough through vigorous manual kneading on a flour-dusted surface. Alternatively, employ a stand mixer equipped with a dough hook to achieve a silky, responsive texture.
  4. Transfer the pliable dough into a lightly greased receptacle, enveloping it with a protective covering. Position in a draft-free,温暖 environment to encourage robust rising until the volume doubles.
  5. Punch down the inflated dough, releasing trapped gases and preparing it for shaping. Roll out on a floured workspace into a rectangular canvas.
  6. Create a delectable cinnamon filling by blending ground cinnamon with granulated sugar, ensuring even distribution of aromatic spices.
  7. Generously spread softened butter across the dough’s surface, then lavishly sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture, establishing a decadent flavor foundation.
  8. Slice the dough into precise strips, then twist each segment into elegant knots, showcasing intricate pastry craftsmanship.
  9. Arrange the formed knots on a parchment-lined baking sheet, allowing subtle separation for uniform expansion. Cover and permit a secondary rise for 30 minutes.
  10. Preheat the oven, creating an ideal thermal environment for transforming raw dough into golden, fragrant pastries.
  11. Bake until the knots achieve a rich, amber complexion, signaling perfect caramelization and internal doneness.
  12. Craft a luxurious coffee icing by whisking powdered sugar with robust espresso, creating a glossy, aromatic glaze.
  13. Once cooled, drizzle the knots with coffee icing, allowing it to cascade and set, completing the sensory experience.

Notes

  • Activate instant yeast by ensuring milk temperature is precisely between 100-110°F for optimal fermentation without killing the yeast.
  • Dust work surface generously with flour to prevent sticky dough from clinging and making kneading challenging during preparation.
  • Allow extended resting time in warm, draft-free area enables better gluten development and creates softer, more tender cinnamon knots with enhanced flavor complexity.
  • Consider dairy-free alternatives like almond milk or oat milk for lactose-intolerant individuals, maintaining similar liquid consistency and gentle warmth for yeast activation.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts, Drinks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 202
  • Sugar: 11 g
  • Sodium: 149 mg
  • Fat: 8 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 27 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Cholesterol: 25 mg
Daves Miller

Daves Miller

Contributing Chef & Culinary Educator

Expertise

  • American Southern cuisine with a modern twist.
  • Instruction in culinary fundamentals and advanced techniques.
  • Development of recipes that highlight seasonal and local produce.​
  • Mastery of artisanal bread and pastry techniques, from laminated doughs to decorative sugar artistry.

Education

Sullivan University, Louisville, Kentucky

  • Degree: Associate of Science Degree in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Specialized in cooking techniques and culinary sciences, hands‑on externships, professional kitchen lab training, and career preparation for restaurants, entrepreneurship, and global culinary opportunities.

White Mountains Community College, Berlin, New Hampshire

  • Program: Baking and Pastry Arts degree
  • Focus: Specialized in comprehensive baking and pastry arts, including bread making, artisan breads, cake decorating and design, chocolates, confections, and decorative centerpieces; product development and baking theory; and career preparation for baker and pastry chef roles in many places.

Daves is the friendly face guiding you through flavorful, fuss-free recipes at Picture Perfect Meals. 

He studied culinary arts at Sullivan University and embraced Baking and Pastry Arts at White Mountains Community College. Daves specializes in comforting meals with vibrant flavors, highlighting fresh, seasonal ingredients.

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