As the aroma of warm cinnamon wafts through your kitchen, it’s hard not to feel a sense of joy wash over you. I recently found myself craving a cozy breakfast, and that’s when I decided to whip up these delightful Cinnamon Knots with Coffee Icing. They’re a fantastic way to kickstart your day or treat yourself at any time. Not only are they incredibly quick to make, but they also combine the rich comfort of cinnamon with a luscious coffee glaze that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re entertaining friends or just looking for a little indulgence for yourself, these fluffy knots promise smiles and satisfaction. Are you ready to embark on a baking adventure that will make your kitchen the happiest place in your home? Let’s dive in!
Why are Cinnamon Knots a Must-Try?
Simplicity at its Best: This recipe for cinnamon knots requires minimal effort, making it perfect for bakers of all levels.
Delectable Flavor: The warm spices of cinnamon harmonize beautifully with the rich coffee icing, creating a flavor combination that’s sure to impress.
Quick Breakfast Solution: In just over an hour, you can whip up these delicious treats, leaving you plenty of time to savor them alongside your morning coffee.
Versatile Indulgence: Whether enjoyed as breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack, these fluffy knots are a treat in any setting.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for gatherings or brunches, they’re guaranteed to bring smiles to the faces of your friends and family.
Enjoy these cinnamon knots with a cup of coffee or tea, and for more delightful breakfast ideas, check out my Breakfast Recipe Collection.
Cinnamon Knots with Coffee Icing Ingredients
For the Dough
- All-purpose Flour – Creates the structure of the knots; for a chewier texture, use bread flour.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the dough and filling; dark brown sugar enhances the depth of flavor.
- Yeast – Serves as the leavening agent for a light, airy texture; ensure it’s fresh for the best rise.
- Salt – Enhances flavor and balances sweetness.
- Milk – Hydrates the dough and activates the yeast; use whole milk for richness or non-dairy alternatives if desired.
- Egg – Adds richness and helps bind the dough; substitute with a flax egg for a vegan option.
- Butter – Provides moisture and richness; can replace with margarine for a dairy-free version.
For the Filling
- Ground Cinnamon – Infuses warmth and a spiced flavor into the filling.
- Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness with caramel notes; a perfect match for the cinnamon.
For the Coffee Icing
- Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the icing; use less for a milder drizzle.
- Brewed Coffee – Flavors the icing; can substitute with milk or almond milk for a non-coffee option.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor of the icing; always opt for pure extract for the best results.
These delightful Cinnamon Knots with Coffee Icing are sure to become a beloved treat in your home!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Knots with Coffee Icing
Step 1: Activate Yeast
In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup of warm milk (about 110°F) with 1 packet of yeast and 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes frothy. This step ensures your yeast is active, setting the stage for delightful, fluffy cinnamon knots.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Ensure that the dry ingredients are well combined to create a balanced flavor in your dough. This preparation is crucial for the rise and texture of your cinnamon knots.
Step 3: Form Dough
Once the yeast is frothy, add it to the bowl of dry ingredients along with 1/4 cup of melted butter and 1 beaten egg. Stir with a wooden spoon until a soft and shaggy dough forms. It should be slightly sticky but manageable, creating a wonderful foundation for your cinnamon knots with coffee icing.
Step 4: Knead
Turn the dough out onto a well-floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Alternatively, use a stand mixer with a dough hook for about 5-7 minutes. Kneading develops the gluten, ensuring your knots will be fluffy and tender.
Step 5: First Rise
Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size. During this time, the dough will attract air and become light, leading to those airy cinnamon knots everyone loves.
Step 6: Prepare Filling
While the dough is rising, prepare the filling by mixing 1/4 cup of softened butter, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, and 2 tablespoons of ground cinnamon in a small bowl. Ensure it reaches a paste-like consistency, as this will spread easily onto your dough in the next step, contributing fabulous flavor to your cinnamon knots.
Step 7: Roll Dough
After the first rise, punch down the dough to release the air. On a floured surface, roll it into a large rectangle measuring approximately 12×16 inches. Spread the prepared cinnamon filling evenly over the surface of the dough, allowing the warm, inviting flavors to envelop every inch of your cinnamon knots.
Step 8: Cut and Twist
Fold the rolled dough in half lengthwise and cut it into 12 strips using a sharp knife. Carefully twist each strip several times to form knots, ensuring the delicious filling is visible on the outside. The twists create beautiful shapes that will be both delightful to look at and eat.
Step 9: Second Rise
Arrange the twisted knots on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between them. Cover with a kitchen towel and let them rise for an additional 30-40 minutes until puffed up and fluffy. This step is essential for achieving the perfect light texture of your cinnamon knots.
Step 10: Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once preheated, bake the cinnamon knots for 15-18 minutes until they turn golden brown and your kitchen fills with a heavenly aroma. Keep an eye on them, as the perfect finish will indicate they’re ready to be drizzled with coffee icing.
Step 11: Make Icing
While the cinnamon knots are baking, whip up the coffee icing. In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of powdered sugar with 1/4 cup of brewed coffee and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth—add more coffee or powdered sugar to adjust the consistency to your liking for a delectable drizzle.
Step 12: Drizzle and Serve
Once the cinnamon knots have cooled slightly, drizzle the coffee icing over the warm knots using a spoon or piping bag. The icing will melt into the crevices, adding a luscious finish to your delightful cinnamon knots. Serve warm and enjoy the blissful combination of flavors and textures!
Expert Tips for Cinnamon Knots with Coffee Icing
- Choose Fresh Yeast: Always ensure your yeast is fresh for maximum rise; expired yeast can lead to dense knots.
- Don’t Rush the Rises: Giving the dough adequate time to rise is crucial; skipping this step can result in heavy, undercooked cinnamon knots.
- Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on your knots as they bake, as ovens can vary. The perfect golden brown indicates they’re ready to be drizzled with coffee icing.
- Warm Icing is Best: Drizzle the icing over the knots while they are still warm for a delightful fusion of flavors; cold knots won’t absorb the icing as well.
- Feel Free to Experiment: Personalize your cinnamon knots with spices or fillings of your choice to create your unique twist on this classic with coffee icing.
Make Ahead Options
These Cinnamon Knots with Coffee Icing are perfect for busy schedules and can help streamline your morning routine! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply shape it into knots and place them on a baking sheet after the second rise, then refrigerate overnight. To keep them fresh, cover the baking sheet tightly with plastic wrap. When you’re ready to bake, take them out and allow them to come to room temperature (about 30 minutes) before popping them in the oven. The end result will be just as delicious, giving you the joy of fresh-baked cinnamon knots with minimal morning effort!
How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Knots with Coffee Icing
Room Temperature: Store baked cinnamon knots in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep them fresh and soft.
Fridge: If you need to store them longer, place knots in the fridge for up to a week; just be sure to reheat them to restore softness.
Freezer: Unbaked cinnamon knots can be frozen once shaped. Freeze them on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat, place the cinnamon knots in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, ensuring they are warm and delicious before serving. Enjoy your delightful cinnamon knots with coffee icing!
Cinnamon Knots with Coffee Icing Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine as you play with these variations that cater to different tastes and preferences!
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Nutty Twist: Add chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, to the filling for a delightful crunch and richness. The nutty flavor pairs beautifully with cinnamon and coffee icing.
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Raisin Surprise: Toss in some raisins or currants into the filling for a sweet, chewy texture that complements the warmth of the knots.
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Spiced Chai: Swap the ground cinnamon for a chai spice blend for a fragrant twist. This adds layers of flavor that will warm your soul.
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Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute the butter and milk with coconut oil and almond milk for a luscious dairy-free version. This keeps the knots moist while adding a unique flavor.
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Chocolate Drizzle: Add chocolate chips to the filling for a sweet surprise that pairs perfectly with the coffee icing. You could even drizzle melted chocolate over the top for extra indulgence!
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Maple Icing: Replace the coffee in the icing with maple syrup for a sweet, autumn-inspired drizzle. This adds a delightful twist that’s simply irresistible.
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Lemon Zest: Incorporate a teaspoon of lemon zest into the dough for a fresh, citrusy pop that enhances the sweetness of the cinnamon knots.
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Heat it Up: For a spicy twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the icing. This unexpected kick elevates the flavor profile and adds depth!
Dive into these variations and let your imagination run wild, and if you’re looking for more breakfast inspiration, check out my Breakfast Recipe Collection!
What to Serve with Fluffy Cinnamon Knots with Rich Coffee Icing
Indulging in these cinnamon knots creates the perfect opportunity to complement them with other delightful dishes and treats.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: Light and refreshing, a medley of juicy fruits enhances the warmth of cinnamon knots, adding a vibrant contrast to your breakfast table.
- Creamy Yogurt Parfait: Layered with granola and berries, yogurt provides a creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the sweet, spiced knots, making every bite a treat.
- Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy, cheesy scrambled eggs offer a savory note that balances the sweet richness of the coffee glaze, creating a satisfying breakfast spread.
- Spicy Chai Latte: The aromatic spices in chai elevate the flavors of cinnamon knots, while the creaminess of the milk adds comforting warmth, perfect for relaxation.
- Maple-Glazed Bacon: The smoky sweetness of bacon contrasts richly with the icing, creating a delightful savory-sweet experience for brunch gatherings.
- Cinnamon Tea: This warm beverage mirrors the flavor profile of the knots and can cleanse the palate, making for a harmonious breakfast or snack experience.
- Nutty Granola Bars: For a quick snack option throughout the day, these chewy bars provide crunch and nuttiness that complements the soft cinnamon knots beautifully.
These pairing options will enhance your experience, making every bite of the cinnamon knots even more memorable!
Cinnamon Knots with Coffee Icing Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe ingredients for my cinnamon knots?
Absolutely! When selecting ingredients, particularly for the dough, make sure your milk is warm (about 110°F) but not hot, as overheating can kill the yeast. Fresh yeast is essential for helping the knots rise properly, so always check the expiration date. Also, opt for soft butter at room temperature to make mixing easier.
What is the best way to store leftover cinnamon knots?
Very good question! Store baked cinnamon knots in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you find you can’t finish them that quickly, they can be kept in the fridge for up to a week; just remember to reheat them gently to keep them soft and fluffy.
Can I freeze cinnamon knots, and how do I do it?
Absolutely! To freeze unbaked cinnamon knots, simply shape them, then place them on a baking sheet to freeze until firm (about 1-2 hours). After that, transfer them to a freezer bag, where they can stay fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, take out the desired amount and let them rise again at room temperature for about 30-60 minutes before baking as usual.
What should I do if my yeast doesn’t froth?
If your yeast doesn’t froth after 5-10 minutes, it might be old or the milk was too hot or cold. This is crucial, as active yeast is key to the fluffy texture of your knots. I recommend starting over with a fresh packet of yeast and ensuring your milk is at the right temperature (warm, around 110°F). If it froths, you’re good to go!
Are these cinnamon knots safe for people with dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! This recipe is vegetarian-friendly, and there are easy substitutions available for various dietary needs. You can replace the egg with a flax egg to make it vegan, use dairy-free margarine instead of butter, and opt for non-dairy milk in both the dough and icing. Always check ingredient labels for allergens if you’re accommodating guests.
How can I tell when my cinnamon knots are perfectly baked?
The best way to determine if your cinnamon knots are ready is to look for a beautiful golden-brown color. Usually, they take about 15-18 minutes at 375°F (190°C). If you notice they are getting too dark too quickly, you can cover them gently with aluminum foil to prevent burning. Enjoy those delightful knots while they’re warm!
Fluffy Cinnamon Knots with Coffee Icing to Brighten Mornings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup of warm milk with 1 packet of yeast and 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon of salt.
- Add the yeast mixture to the dry ingredients along with 1/4 cup of melted butter and 1 beaten egg. Stir until a soft, shaggy dough forms.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, until doubled in size.
- Prepare the filling by mixing 1/4 cup of softened butter, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, and 2 tablespoons of ground cinnamon.
- Punch down the dough and roll it out into a 12x16 inch rectangle. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the surface.
- Fold the rolled dough in half lengthwise and cut into 12 strips. Twist each strip to form knots.
- Place the twisted knots on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover, and let them rise for another 30-40 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Bake the knots for 15-18 minutes until golden brown.
- While baking, make the icing by whisking together 1 cup of powdered sugar, 1/4 cup of brewed coffee, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
- Once the knots have cooled slightly, drizzle the coffee icing over them.
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