Name: Cinnamon Knots with Coffee Icing Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 1/2 – 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting; 1 packet Fleischmann’s® RapidRise® Instant Yeast; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; 1 cup warm milk; 3 large eggs; 4 tablespoons salted butter, at room temperature; 1 cup brown sugar; 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon cinnamon (divided); 6 tablespoons salted butter, at room temperature; 4 tablespoons salted butter; 1/3 cup maple syrup; 3/4 – 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon instant coffee

Jump to Recipe

If you’re searching for a treat that perfectly balances sweetness, spice, and a delightful coffee twist, then these Cinnamon Knots with Coffee Icing are going to be your new obsession. Imagine soft, tender knots packed with cinnamon sugar, kissed with a buttery glaze, and topped off with a luscious coffee-infused icing that wakes up your taste buds in the best way. These warm, fragrant pastries make every morning feel like a special occasion, turning simple ingredients into a cozy, irresistible experience you’ll want to share time and time again.

Cinnamon Knots with Coffee Icing Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t let the list intimidate you! Each ingredient here plays an essential role in creating the perfect texture and flavor of Cinnamon Knots with Coffee Icing. From the fluffiness of the yeast dough to the aromatic punch of cinnamon and coffee, every element works together to delight your senses.

3 1/2 – 4 cups all-purpose flour: Forms the soft and supple dough that’s key to perfect cinnamon knots.
1 packet Fleischmann’s® RapidRise® Instant Yeast: Helps the dough rise quickly, lending lightness and airiness.
2 tablespoons brown sugar: Adds sweetness and moisture to the dough.
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt: Balances the sweetness and brings out the flavors.
1 cup warm milk: Activates the yeast and keeps the dough tender.
3 large eggs: Provide richness and structure.
4 tablespoons salted butter, room temperature: Adds buttery flavor and tenderness to the dough.
1 cup brown sugar: For the cinnamon sugar filling and clumps on top, packing sweet cinnamon goodness.
1 tablespoon, plus 1 teaspoon cinnamon: The star spice that makes these knots irresistible.
6 tablespoons salted butter, room temperature: Spread over the dough for that luscious cinnamon swirl.
4 tablespoons salted butter: Melted for the coffee icing glaze.
1/3 cup maple syrup: Brings natural sweetness and moisture to the icing.
3/4 – 1 cup powdered sugar: For a smooth, rich glaze to drizzle on top.
1 teaspoon instant coffee: Adds a subtle but sophisticated coffee flavor to the icing.

How to Make Cinnamon Knots with Coffee Icing

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Begin by combining 3 ½ cups of flour, the instant yeast, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, and salt in a mixing bowl. Then, add warm milk, eggs, and 4 tablespoons of butter. Mix everything together until the flour is fully incorporated. If the dough feels sticky, gradually add the remaining ½ cup flour until manageable. Cover the bowl and let the dough rest at room temperature for 10 minutes—this gives the yeast a head start and makes the dough easier to work with.

Step 2: Make the Cinnamon Sugar Filling and Preheat Oven

While the dough rests, mix 1/2 cup brown sugar with 1 tablespoon cinnamon in a small bowl. This fragrant blend will fill your knots with that classic cinnamon aroma. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Roll and Fill the Dough

Lightly flour your workspace and roll your dough into a rectangle approximately 16 by 14 inches and about 1/4 inch thick. Spread 5 tablespoons of the softened butter evenly across the dough, ensuring every bite is rich and buttery. Then sprinkle your cinnamon sugar mixture over the buttered surface, letting the sugar clump a little for extra sweet pockets.

Step 4: Fold, Cut, and Twist the Knots

Fold the dough in half over the cinnamon sugar, pressing lightly so the layers stick together. Cut the dough into 12 to 14 strips, then twist each strip into a loose, rustic knot—perfection isn’t the goal here; each knot should look delightfully homemade. Place them on the prepared baking sheet with a little space to expand while baking.

Step 5: Add More Cinnamon Sugar and Bake

Combine 1 tablespoon melted butter, 1/2 cup brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon cinnamon in a small bowl. Spoon clumps of this mixture over the knots to create pockets of caramelized sweetness after baking. Bake in your preheated oven for 20 minutes or until the knots turn golden and irresistible.

Step 6: Make the Coffee Icing and Glaze

While the knots bake, melt 4 tablespoons butter with 1/3 cup maple syrup over medium heat. Remove from heat and whisk in 3/4 to 1 cup powdered sugar along with 1 teaspoon instant coffee until smooth and glossy. Drizzle this luscious coffee icing over the warm knots for a finishing touch that elevates every bite.

How to Serve Cinnamon Knots with Coffee Icing

Garnishes

For a little extra flair, consider sprinkling your cinnamon knots with a dusting of powdered sugar or a pinch of cinnamon right after glazing. Toasted chopped pecans or walnuts can add a delightful crunch and nutty contrast that pairs beautifully with the rich coffee icing.

Side Dishes

These cinnamon knots shine on their own, but they pair wonderfully with a simple cup of black coffee or a creamy latte to echo the coffee notes in the icing. Fresh fruit such as sliced oranges or berries offers a bright, fresh balance to the richness of the knots.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your cinnamon knots stacked on a rustic wooden platter or nestled in a basket lined with a cozy linen towel for a warm, inviting vibe. For brunch parties, offer a build-your-own topping bar with whipped cream, chopped nuts, and extra coffee glaze so guests can customize their sweet treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover cinnamon knots in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. They’ll stay soft and delicious but are best enjoyed fresh to savor their tender crumb and flaky layers. If your kitchen is warm, refrigeration is okay, just know the texture might firm up a bit.

Freezing

Cinnamon Knots with Coffee Icing freeze beautifully! Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a zip-top bag or freezer container for up to two months. This way, you can enjoy a quick breakfast treat anytime with minimal effort.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature for a few hours. Warm the knots in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5-8 minutes to revive their softness and to slightly re-melt the coffee icing. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them a bit rubbery.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and let it rise slowly overnight in the refrigerator. This slow fermentation adds even more depth to the flavor. Just take it out an hour before shaping and baking so it comes to room temperature.

What type of instant coffee works best for the icing?

A mild, good-quality instant coffee or espresso powder works best, as it dissolves quickly and adds a subtle but pleasant coffee flavor without bitterness.

Can I substitute the maple syrup in the icing?

Absolutely! Honey or light corn syrup can be used as alternatives to maple syrup, but maple syrup adds a unique depth and slight smokiness that complements the cinnamon beautifully.

Are these cinnamon knots vegan-friendly?

This recipe includes butter, eggs, and milk, so it’s not vegan as written. However, you could experiment with plant-based butter, non-dairy milk, and flax eggs to create a vegan version, though the texture and flavor will differ slightly.

What’s the best way to prevent the knots from sticking to the baking sheet?

Using parchment paper is the easiest and most reliable method. If you don’t have parchment, generously butter or grease the baking sheet to keep those perfect cinnamon knots from sticking.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so wonderfully comforting and satisfying about Cinnamon Knots with Coffee Icing that makes every bite feel like a warm hug surrounded by your favorite cozy blanket. Whether it’s for a weekend brunch or a special treat anytime, I’m confident you’ll fall head over heels for this recipe. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and treat yourself to these irresistibly sweet and caffeinated knots—you’ll be so glad you did!

Cinnamon Knots with Coffee Icing Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 22 reviews

Author: Thomas
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 12–14 knots 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Deliciously soft and buttery cinnamon knots topped with a rich coffee-infused maple glaze. These homemade treats combine a tender yeast dough with a cinnamon sugar filling and a decadent coffee icing, perfect for breakfast or an indulgent snack alongside your favorite cup of coffee.

Instructions

Prepare the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 ½ cups of flour, instant yeast, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, and kosher salt. Add warm milk, eggs, and 4 tablespoons of softened butter. Mix until the flour is fully incorporated. If the dough feels sticky, gradually add the remaining ½ cup flour until manageable.
Rest the dough: Cover the bowl with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let it rest at room temperature for 10 minutes to slightly rise and allow gluten development.
Make the cinnamon filling: In a small bowl, mix 1/2 cup brown sugar with 1 tablespoon cinnamon. This will be used to fill the knots.
Roll and spread dough: On a floured surface, roll the dough into a 16×14 inch rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Spread 5 tablespoons of softened butter evenly over the dough’s surface, then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the butter.
Fold and cut dough: Fold the dough in half lengthwise over the cinnamon sugar filling, pressing down gently to seal. Cut the folded dough into 12-14 strips.
Shape the knots: Twist each strip into a loose knot shape and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them apart evenly.
Add topping sugar: In a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon melted butter, 1/2 cup brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon cinnamon. Spoon generous clumps of this mixture over each knot for an extra sweet crust.
Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the knots for approximately 20 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
Prepare coffee icing: While the knots bake, melt 4 tablespoons butter with 1/3 cup maple syrup in a small saucepan over medium heat. Remove from heat and whisk in 3/4 to 1 cup powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon instant coffee until smooth and well combined.
Glaze the knots: After baking, drizzle the warm coffee icing over the cinnamon knots. Serve warm for the best flavor experience.

Notes

Use warm milk (about 100-110°F) to activate the yeast properly but not kill it.
Add flour gradually to achieve a slightly sticky but manageable dough; overworking can produce dense knots.
Instant coffee adds subtle depth without overpowering the sweetness—adjust amount to taste.
For best results, serve cinnamon knots fresh and slightly warm.
Can be stored in an airtight container for 2-3 days; reheat before serving.
Feel free to substitute salted butter with unsalted butter but add a pinch of salt to the dough.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Breakfast, Snack
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American