Introduction to Cinnamon Knots with Coffee Icing
Welcome to a delightful culinary adventure that’s bound to lift your spirits – Cinnamon Knots with Coffee Icing! If you’re like me, juggling college drop-offs, work deadlines, and dinner chaos, you know how precious baked goods can be. These fluffy, twisted cinnamon knots bring comfort and joy, making them perfect for busy mornings or sweet moments with loved ones. Imagine starting your day with a warm knot drizzled in rich coffee icing. It’s a quick and scrumptious way to show yourself some love – because you deserve it too!
Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Knots with Coffee Icing
These Cinnamon Knots with Coffee Icing are truly a game-changer in my kitchen. They’re easy to whip up, even on a busy Saturday morning when time feels fleeting. The taste? Oh, it’s like a warm hug in every bite! The combination of cinnamon and coffee icing elevates simple ingredients into something spectacular. Plus, they’re perfect for sharing, making breakfast feel like a special occasion without all the fuss.
Ingredients for Cinnamon Knots with Coffee Icing
Let’s gather our ingredients for these delightful Cinnamon Knots with Coffee Icing. Each component plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Here’s what you’ll need:
- All-purpose flour: This basic flour gives our knots structure and fluffiness.
- Granulated sugar: A little sweetness to balance the spice of cinnamon in the filling.
- Active dry yeast: This tiny powerhouse helps our knots rise, giving them that airy texture we love.
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances the flavors, making each bite more satisfying.
- Warm milk: Activates the yeast and adds moisture, contributing to a rich flavor.
- Unsalted butter: Both melted and softened, this provides richness and that perfect buttery taste.
- Egg: Acts as a binding agent, adding a beautiful richness to the dough.
- Brown sugar: For the filling, this adds a caramel-like sweetness that pairs perfectly with cinnamon.
- Ground cinnamon: The star of the show! It brings that warm, nostalgic flavor we crave in cinnamon rolls.
- Powdered sugar: Essential for the icing, it creates a smooth texture that’s easy to drizzle.
- Brewed coffee: Not only for the icing, but it also adds a depth of flavor that complements the cinnamon beautifully. Adjust to get your desired consistency!
- Vanilla extract: A hint of vanilla enhances the overall taste, making it even more irresistible.
For exact quantities, feel free to check the bottom of the article where they are available for printing. Want to switch things up? Consider using dark brown sugar for a richer flavor or experimenting with espresso powder in the icing for a coffee kick!
How to Make Cinnamon Knots with Coffee Icing
Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making these delightful Cinnamon Knots with Coffee Icing. Each step is simple and filled with love, leading to a sweet reward at the end. Grab your apron, and let’s get started!
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
First, we need to wake up that yeast! In a small bowl, mix warm milk (110°F) with the yeast and a tablespoon of sugar. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until it’s nice and frothy. This bubbly mixture means your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic!
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Pour in the frothy yeast mixture, melted butter, and one egg. Stir until a soft, shaggy dough forms. It’s okay if it looks a bit messy; that’s part of the charm!
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Time to get your hands a bit messy! On a floured surface, knead the dough for about 8 to 10 minutes. You want it smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, employ the dough hook and knead for 5 to 7 minutes. You’ll love how it transforms!
Step 4: Let the Dough Rise
Place your kneaded dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a clean towel. Find a warm spot and let it rise for about 1 hour. It should double in size, filling your kitchen with a sweet, yeasty aroma that signals homemade goodness!
Step 5: Make the Cinnamon Filling
In a small bowl, mix softened butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until it forms a spreadable paste. This filling will add layers of flavor, creating that delightful sweetness everyone will love.
Step 6: Roll Out the Dough
Once your dough has risen, punch it down gently. Roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a 12×16-inch rectangle. Even if it’s not perfect, don’t worry! This isn’t a cake competition; it’s home cooking.
Step 7: Shape the Knots
Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the rolled-out dough. Then, fold the dough in half lengthwise, creating a long rectangle. Cut this into 12 equal strips. Each strip will become a delightful knot!
Step 8: Second Rise
Take each strip and twist it gently, forming knots. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, tucking the ends underneath. Cover them with a towel and let them rise again for 30 to 40 minutes. They’ll puff up and look delightful!
Step 9: Bake the Knots
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pop those beautiful knots into the oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes, until they’re golden brown and fragrant. Your kitchen will smell heavenly, drawing everyone closer!
Step 10: Make the Coffee Icing
While the knots cool slightly, whisk together powdered sugar, brewed coffee, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth. You can adjust the consistency based on your preference – either thicker or thinner is perfect for drizzling.
Step 11: Drizzle and Serve
Finally, drizzle that delicious coffee icing over the warm cinnamon knots. Serve immediately for the ultimate experience. Trust me, the warmth and rich flavors will bring a smile to your face and make your day brighter!
Tips for Success
- Use fresh yeast for the best rise; expired yeast can lead to dense knots.
- Ensure your milk is warm, not hot, to activate the yeast effectively.
- Don’t skip the second rise; it makes for lighter, fluffier knots.
- For best texture, serve your cinnamon knots warm right after icing them.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container for freshness.
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls: A large bowl for the dough and a small one for the filling. Glass or stainless steel work great.
- Rolling pin: If you don’t have one, a wine bottle can do the trick!
- Cooking sheet: A baking sheet lined with parchment paper ensures easy clean-up.
- Kitchen towel: Perfect for covering the dough while it rises.
- Dough hook (optional): If you have a stand mixer, it makes kneading a breeze!
Variations
- Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans into the cinnamon filling for an extra crunch!
- Fruity Twist: Incorporate dried fruits like raisins or cranberries into the filling for a burst of flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend to make these knots suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
- Maple Icing: Swap brewed coffee with maple syrup for a unique, sweet icing variation.
- Spicy Kick: Introduce a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to your cinnamon for a spicier flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
- Fresh Fruit: Serve with sliced strawberries or bananas for a refreshing contrast.
- Warm Beverages: Pair with a steaming cup of coffee or herbal tea to enhance the experience.
- Presentation: Arrange on a decorative plate and dust with extra powdered sugar for a beautiful touch.
FAQs about Cinnamon Knots with Coffee Icing
I’m sure you have some burning questions about these Cinnamon Knots with Coffee Icing. Let’s address a few common queries to help you navigate your baking adventure with ease!
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough ahead and store it in the fridge overnight. Just let it come to room temperature before shaping your knots. This is a fantastic way to save time in the morning!
How do I store leftover cinnamon knots?
To store these delicious treats, place them in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for a few days. Just warm them slightly before serving for that fresh-baked taste!
Can I freeze the cinnamon knots?
Yes, you can freeze unbaked knots. Shape them, place them on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to enjoy, let them rise and bake as directed. It’s a great way to have goodies on demand!
What if I don’t have brewed coffee for the icing?
No worries! You can swap brewed coffee with milk or even a splash of vanilla almond milk for a delicious icing that complements the cinnamon flavor beautifully.
Can I adjust the sweetness of the icing?
Absolutely! Feel free to add more or less powdered sugar to your icing. You can also increase the fermented coffee for a stronger flavor, giving you control over how sweet or rich you’d like your icing to be.
Final Thoughts
Indulging in Cinnamon Knots with Coffee Icing is more than just savoring a sweet treat; it’s about creating precious memories in the kitchen. The warmth of these knots, baked with love, brings a cozy comfort that I deeply treasure. Whether enjoyed at breakfast or as an afternoon pick-me-up, each bite feels like a hug. With simple ingredients and a bit of time, you’re not just baking, you’re crafting joy! So, roll up your sleeves, pour a cup of coffee, and let these delightful knots bring smiles to your family. Trust me, they’ll adore you for it!
Print
Cinnamon Knots with Coffee Icing: Indulge in Delight!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 38 minutes
- Yield: 12 knots 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Deliciously twisted cinnamon knots topped with a rich coffee icing, perfect for breakfast or a sweet treat.
Ingredients
- 3 cups (375 g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup (180 ml) warm milk (110°F/45°C)
- 1/4 cup (60 g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup (60 g) unsalted butter, softened (filling)
- 1/3 cup (70 g) brown sugar (filling)
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (filling)
- 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar (icing)
- 2 tablespoons brewed coffee (adjust to desired consistency) (icing)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (icing)
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of the sugar. Let sit for 5–10 minutes, until frothy.
- In a large bowl, mix the flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg. Stir until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes, or in a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5–7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon into a spreadable paste.
- Punch down the dough and roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a 12×16-inch rectangle. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough.
- Fold the dough in half lengthwise to create a long rectangle. Cut into 12 equal strips.
- Take each strip, twist it gently, and tie it into a knot. Place the knots on a parchment-lined baking sheet, tucking the ends underneath.
- Cover the knots with a clean towel and let rise for 30–40 minutes, or until puffed.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the knots for 15–18 minutes, or until golden brown. Let cool slightly on the baking sheet.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, brewed coffee, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the consistency with more coffee or powdered sugar as needed.
- Drizzle the coffee icing over the warm cinnamon knots. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar.
- These knots are best served warm but can be stored in an airtight container for a few days.
- Experiment with the coffee icing by adding a pinch of espresso powder for a stronger coffee flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 knot
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 36 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
