Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the smell of warm cinnamon wafts through the kitchen, I find myself transported to cherished breakfast scenes from my childhood—a time when the world felt simpler, and the perfect pastry could remedy almost any problem. Today, I’m thrilled to share my recipe for Cinnamon Knots with Coffee Icing, a delightful treat that combines fluffy, twisted dough with an indulgent coffee glaze. Not only are these knots a breeze to make, but they’re also a wonderful way to bring the family together over a warm batch, perfect for busy mornings or leisurely afternoons. The combination of spices and coffee elevates these homemade pastries, making them a comforting indulgence that feels just right any day of the week. Ready to sprinkle a bit of joy into your routine? Let’s dive into the recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds! Why Are These Knots so Irresistible? Comforting Warmth: The aroma of freshly baked cinnamon knots fills your kitchen, instantly uplifting your spirits. Flexible Ingredients: You can easily customize the recipe using whole wheat flour or dairy-free alternatives, ensuring it fits your dietary needs! Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time and simple steps, this recipe is perfect for any home cook, even during busy mornings. Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Loved by family and friends alike, these knots are perfect for sharing at brunches or cozy gatherings. If you’re looking for more options to impress your guests, try these Cinnamon Swirl Bundt or Butter Salmon Spinach recipes! Decadent Icing: The rich coffee icing takes these knots to another level, creating a sweet finish that’s hard to resist. Whether paired with a cup of coffee or tea, each bite is pure bliss! Cinnamon Knots with Coffee Icing Ingredients For the Dough All-purpose flour – Provides structure to the knots; feel free to substitute with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor. Granulated sugar – Sweetens the dough and filling; opt for dark brown sugar for a richer taste. Salt – Balances the sweetness, ensuring a well-rounded flavor. Yeast – Leavens the dough, giving it that delightful fluffy texture; always check for freshness to achieve the best results. Warm milk – Activates the yeast and contributes to the perfect dough consistency; any milk alternative works great for a dairy-free option. Butter – Adds richness to the dough; margarine can be used as a substitute for a dairy-free recipe. Egg – Binds ingredients and enriches the dough; for a vegan alternative, a flax egg or applesauce can work beautifully. For the Filling Ground cinnamon – The star of the show, providing that quintessential cinnamon flavor in every bite. Brown sugar – Creates a sweet filling layer, enhancing the overall cinnamon flavor. For the Icing Powdered sugar – Sweetens the icing and gives it a lovely smooth texture; sugar alternatives can help reduce sugar content. Brewed coffee – Infuses a rich flavor into the icing; for a different taste, feel free to substitute with milk or vanilla almond milk. Vanilla extract – Elevates the icing’s flavor, making it even more irresistible. Get ready to indulge in these delightful Cinnamon Knots with Coffee Icing—your mornings will thank you! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Knots with Coffee Icing Step 1: Activate Yeast In a small bowl, combine 1 cup of warm milk (110°F), 2 ¼ teaspoons of yeast, and 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar. Allow the mixture to sit for 5 to 10 minutes until it froths and bubbles, indicating that the yeast is active. This step is crucial for ensuring that your dough will rise beautifully when making your Cinnamon Knots with Coffee Icing. Step 2: Mix Dough In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 4 cups of all-purpose flour, ½ cup of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Pour in the activated yeast mixture along with ¼ cup of melted butter and 1 beaten egg. Stir until it forms a shaggy dough. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable; this is the base for your fragrant cinnamon knots. Step 3: Knead Dough Transfer the shaggy dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for 8 to 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer with a dough hook, knead for about 5 to 7 minutes. When the dough is ready, it should bounce back when gently pressed; this elasticity ensures fluffy Cinnamon Knots. Step 4: First Rise Lightly grease a large bowl with cooking spray or butter, then place your kneaded dough inside. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size. The dough will be fluffy and soft, ready to take shape into delectable knots. Step 5: Prepare Filling While the dough rises, mix together ¼ cup of softened butter, ⅓ cup of brown sugar, and 2 tablespoons of ground cinnamon into a smooth paste. This filling will add a delightful sweetness and flavor to the knots. Prepare to spread this luscious mixture over the rolled-out dough once it’s ready. Step 6: Shape Knots After the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release air, then roll it out into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick on a floured surface. Spread the filling evenly over the dough, then fold it in half lengthwise. Slice the folded dough into strips and twist each strip into a knot shape. Place the knots on a parchment-lined baking sheet and allow them to rise for another 30 to 40 minutes. Step 7: Bake Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the knots have risen, bake them in the preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes, or until they are golden brown and puffed up. Keep an eye on them as they bake, and enjoy the mouth-watering aroma of fresh cinnamon knots wafting through your kitchen! Step 8: Make Icing While the knots are baking, prepare the coffee icing by whisking together 1 cup of powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of brewed coffee, and ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract until you achieve a smooth, pourable consistency. Adjust the thickness by adding more sugar or coffee as needed; this icing will perfectly complement your warm knots. Step 9: Drizzle Icing Once the cinnamon knots are done baking and have cooled slightly, generously drizzle the coffee icing over them. This sweet addition elevates the flavor profile of your Cinnamon Knots with Coffee Icing, making them even more irresistible. Serve them warm and share the joy of this delicious treat with family and friends! Make Ahead Options These Cinnamon Knots with Coffee Icing are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic mornings! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance—after mixing and kneading, simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to bake, take the dough out and let it come to room temperature before shaping the knots, allowing for a perfect rise. Additionally, the filled knots can be shaped and placed directly on the baking sheet, then covered and refrigerated for up to 3 days. Just let them rise briefly before baking. With these make-ahead tips, you can enjoy warm, delicious cinnamon knots during your busy week without the hassle of starting from scratch! What to Serve with Fluffy Cinnamon Knots with Rich Coffee Icing There’s nothing like savoring these delightful treats alongside comforting additions that perfectly complement their warm, sweet flavors. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The smooth, buttery texture enhances the richness of the coffee icing, creating a delightful contrast. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of bright, juicy fruits like berries and citrus provides a refreshing balance to the sweet cinnamon knots. Classic Bacon: The savory, crispy goodness of bacon pairs well with the sweetness of cinnamon knots, making each bite a delicious contrast. Herbed Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy eggs infused with fresh herbs add a savory component that balances the sweetness of the knots beautifully. Spiced Chai Latte: The warm, spiced notes in the chai enhance the flavors of the coffee icing, creating a cozy breakfast experience. Nutty Granola: Crunchy granola adds texture and a touch of nuttiness, perfectly complementing the fluffy softness of your cinnamon knots. Mimosa: For a touch of celebration, a refreshing mimosa pairs wonderfully with sweet pastries, making any gathering feel special. Chocolate Covered Strawberries: These sweet treats provide a romantic flair and are a fun, indulgent way to end brunch. Apple Cider: A warm cup of spiced apple cider to sip on brings a cozy autumn feeling that pairs perfectly with the spices in the knots. How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Knots with Coffee Icing Fridge: Store leftover cinnamon knots in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds or in the oven to bring back their fluffy texture. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unbaked knots on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. Icing Storage: If you have leftover coffee icing, store it in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 1 week. Stir before using to restore its smooth consistency. Reheating: Before serving, gently warm the cinnamon knots in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-8 minutes for a freshly baked taste, enhancing the enjoyment of your cinnamon knots with coffee icing! Expert Tips for Cinnamon Knots with Coffee Icing Perfect Yeast Activation: Use milk at 110°F to ensure yeast foams up properly. If it doesn’t froth, the yeast may be expired, affecting the rise. Knead to Perfection: Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic, which is essential for achieving that fluffy texture in your cinnamon knots. Don’t Skip the Rise: Allow the dough the full rising time to develop flavor and texture. Rushing this step could lead to dense knots. Freeze for Later: Unbaked knots can be frozen! Shape them and then freeze, allowing them to rise again before baking for fresh treats anytime. Adjust Icing Sweetness: Feel free to modify the sweetness of the coffee icing to match your taste; less sugar will give a richer coffee flavor that complements the cinnamon. Cinnamon Knots with Coffee Icing Variations Feel free to get creative with these delightful cinnamon knots and explore a world of flavors and textures! Nutty Delight: Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the filling for a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the soft dough. This twist not only elevates the flavor but also adds nutritional benefits! Fruit Fusion: Incorporate dried fruits such as raisins or cranberries in the filling for a sweet burst of flavor. The sweetness of the fruit complements the warmth of cinnamon, enhancing the overall experience. Spice It Up: A pinch of nutmeg or cardamom can add deeper, aromatic flavors to the cinnamon mixture. This subtle addition will surprise your taste buds and give a cozy feel to your knots. Chocolate Lovers: For an indulgent treat, replace half the filling with chocolate chips or spread Nutella instead. The rich chocolate creates a decadent pairing with the cinnamon—perfect for those with a sweet tooth! Dairy-Free: Use almond milk and coconut oil in place of milk and butter. This simple swap ensures everyone can enjoy this cinnamon treat without sacrificing flavor or texture. Lower Sugar: Substitute the powdered sugar in the icing with a sugar alternatives like stevia or monk fruit sweetener, perfect for those cutting back on sugar while still wanting a sweet treat. Cinnamon Roll Twist: Roll the dough with more cinnamon and sugar for an even sweeter filling! This classic approach ensures each twist is bursting with that familiar, cozy cinnamon flavor. Enjoy these Cinnamon Knots with Coffee Icing warm, perhaps paired with a comforting cup of your favorite brew. If you’re looking for more sweet recipes to complement these knots, don’t miss out on a refreshing Lemonade Twist Drink for a delightful summer sip! Cinnamon Knots with Coffee Icing Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best ingredients for my Cinnamon Knots? Absolutely! When selecting your ingredients, opt for all-purpose flour that is fresh and has not expired, as this will contribute to the right dough structure. For the milk, make sure it’s warm—around 110°F—to activate the yeast effectively. Fresh yeast is vital, too; if it doesn’t foam up after 5-10 minutes of mixing with warm milk and sugar, it may be expired. How should I store leftover Cinnamon Knots? Very! Place any leftover cinnamon knots in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For the best results, I recommend briefly reheating them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-8 minutes to revive their delicious fluffiness. Can I freeze unbaked Cinnamon Knots? Yes, indeed! Freezing unbaked knots is an excellent way to prepare for fresh-baked treats later. Shape your knots and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze them until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, let them rise at room temperature for 1 to 2 hours before baking as instructed. What should I do if my dough doesn’t rise? Don’t worry, it happens! Ensure that your yeast is fresh and activated by checking that it froths in warm milk with sugar. If your dough isn’t rising after the first hour, try placing it in a warmer area or near a window where it isn’t drafty. You may also need to give it more time, sometimes an extra 30 minutes can make a significant difference. Is this recipe suitable for people with allergies? Great question! This recipe can be adjusted to be more allergen-friendly. You can substitute the egg with a flax egg or applesauce for those avoiding eggs and use dairy-free alternatives for milk and butter. Always double-check ingredient labels to ensure they meet your dietary needs. Enjoy the comfort of these Cinnamon Knots with Coffee Icing while accommodating everyone at your gathering! Heavenly Cinnamon Knots with Coffee Icing for Cozy Mornings Cinnamon Knots with Coffee Icing are a delightful treat perfect for cozy mornings, combining fluffy, twisted dough with a rich coffee glaze. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 18 minutes minsRising Time 1 hour hrTotal Time 1 hour hr 48 minutes mins Servings: 12 knotsCourse: BreakfastCuisine: AmericanCalories: 210 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? Dough Ingredients4 cups all-purpose flour or whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor1/2 cup granulated sugar or dark brown sugar for richer taste1 teaspoon salt2 1/4 teaspoons yeast check for freshness1 cup warm milk at 110°F; any milk alternative works for dairy-free1/4 cup butter melted; margarine for dairy-free1 large egg or flax egg/applesauce for veganFilling Ingredients2 tablespoons ground cinnamon1/3 cup brown sugarIcing Ingredients1 cup powdered sugar sugar alternatives can reduce sugar content2 tablespoons brewed coffee or milk/vanilla almond milk for a different taste1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract Equipment large mixing bowlsmall bowlwhiskRolling Pinparchment paperOven Method Cinnamon Knots PreparationCombine warm milk, yeast, and sugar in a small bowl. Let sit for 5 to 10 minutes until frothy.In a large bowl, whisk flour, sugar, and salt. Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and egg. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.Knead the dough for 8 to 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.Grease a bowl, place dough inside, and let it rise for about 1 hour until doubled in size.Mix butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon for the filling. Spread this mixture over the rolled-out dough.Roll dough into a rectangle, slice into strips, twist into knots, and let rise for another 30 to 40 minutes.Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the knots for 15 to 18 minutes until golden brown.Prepare the icing by whisking powdered sugar, coffee, and vanilla until smooth. Adjust thickness as needed.Drizzle icing over the warm cinnamon knots and serve. Nutrition Serving: 1knotCalories: 210kcalCarbohydrates: 36gProtein: 3gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 160mgPotassium: 100mgFiber: 1gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 250IUCalcium: 30mgIron: 1mg NotesThese knots are best enjoyed warm and can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen and baked for indulgent treats anytime. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
