Cinnamon Knots with Coffee Icing Recipe

There’s something truly magical about freshly baked cinnamon knots glazed with a hint of coffee sweetness, and that’s exactly why this Cinnamon Knots with Coffee Icing Recipe holds a special place in my heart. The soft, tender knots bursting with warm cinnamon and then luxuriously finished with a maple-coffee icing create a flavor experience that’s both cozy and sophisticated. Whether you’re craving a special weekend treat or something to impress your morning coffee guests, these knots deliver every time.

I love this recipe because it’s straightforward enough for a leisurely afternoon baking session, yet impressive enough to serve at brunch or dessert. You’ll find that the coffee icing adds a subtle depth that balances perfectly with the cinnamon’s sweetness, making these cinnamon knots unforgettable. Trust me, once you try this Cinnamon Knots with Coffee Icing Recipe, it’ll become a go-to in your kitchen like it is in mine!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe brings together classic baking staples with a few delicious enhancements. Picking good-quality butter and fresh yeast really makes a difference in the texture and flavor of your cinnamon knots.

• All-purpose flour: The backbone of your dough, adding a little extra flour for dusting helps manage stickiness when rolling out.
• Fleischmann’s® RapidRise® Instant Yeast: Instant yeast is a lifesaver here, cutting down rise time and ensuring fluffy knots.
• Brown sugar: Both in the dough and filling, it gives warmth and caramel notes that play beautifully with cinnamon.
• Kosher salt: Just the right touch to balance sweetness and boost flavor.
• Warm milk: Helps activate the yeast and creates tender dough.
• Large eggs: Add richness and structure.
• Salted butter: Used in dough, filling, and icing—room temperature for easy mixing and great flavor.
• Cinnamon: The star spice, bringing aromatic warmth.
• Maple syrup: Sweetener in the coffee icing that adds depth and a smooth finish.
• Powdered sugar: For that perfect glaze texture.
• Instant coffee: Gives a gentle coffee flavor without bitterness or mess.

Variations

I love experimenting a little with this Cinnamon Knots with Coffee Icing Recipe to keep things fresh. You should feel free to explore your own twists too—whether that’s adding nuts, changing up spices, or tweaking the icing flavor.

• Nutty Addition: I once tossed some chopped pecans into the cinnamon filling and it added an incredible crunch that my family went crazy for.
• Spice Mix: Try adding a pinch of cardamom or nutmeg to the cinnamon sugar for a warm, cozy twist.
• Vegan Option: Replace butter with a plant-based alternative and milk with almond or oat milk to make it vegan-friendly.
• Chocolate Drizzle: If you’re feeling indulgent, a drizzle of dark chocolate over the coffee icing takes it to the next level.

How to Make Cinnamon Knots with Coffee Icing Recipe

Step 1: Mix and Knead the Dough

Start by whisking together the flour, instant yeast, brown sugar, and salt in a large mixing bowl. Then add the warm milk, eggs, and room-temperature butter. Mix everything until the flour disappears and you have a soft dough. If it feels sticky (and it usually will), sprinkle in the rest of the flour a bit at a time—don’t add it all at once! You want the dough to be pliable but not tough. I like to knead it by hand for about 8-10 minutes to develop that lovely elasticity.

Step 2: Let It Rest

Cover the dough and let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes. This brief rest helps the gluten relax, making it easier to roll out and shape later on. It also kickstarts the yeast, so your knots will be delightfully light after baking.

Step 3: Prepare the Cinnamon Filling and Oven

Mix the cinnamon and brown sugar for the filling in a small bowl—this cinnamon sugar combo is the heart of those irresistible knots. While you’re at it, preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will save you cleanup and keep your knots from sticking.

Step 4: Roll, Fill, and Twist Your Knots

Dust your countertop with flour and roll the dough into a sizable rectangle, about 16 by 14 inches and 1/4 inch thick. Don’t rush this part—adding a little flour here and there prevents sticking and helps you get an even thickness. Spread 5 tablespoons of softened butter evenly over the dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar on top. Now fold the dough in half lengthwise, sandwiching the cinnamon sugar inside. Press gently so it sticks, then cut the folded dough into 12 to 14 strips. Twist each strip into a loose knot, and place them spaced out on your baking sheet. Don’t worry about perfection—these knots have character!

Step 5: Add Extra Cinnamon Sugar and Bake

Combine a tablespoon of melted butter, half a cup of brown sugar, and a teaspoon of cinnamon in a small bowl. Spoon clumps of this mixture over the knots for extra gooey cinnamon goodness. Then pop them into the oven for about 20 minutes, until golden and smelling heavenly. At this point, your kitchen will already be filled with the most comforting aroma—it’s the best kind of baking reward.

Step 6: Whip Up the Coffee Icing and Glaze

While the knots bake, melt the butter and maple syrup together in a small pot over medium heat. Once melted, remove from heat and whisk in powdered sugar and instant coffee until smooth. You’ll notice the coffee adds a subtle richness that perfectly offsets the cinnamon’s sweetness. When your knots come out of the oven, drizzle this beautiful glaze over them while they’re still warm. It’s the finishing touch that turns these treats into something truly special.

How to Serve Cinnamon Knots with Coffee Icing Recipe

Garnishes

I like to finish these with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a tiny sprinkle of finely chopped toasted nuts for a bit of contrast and crunch. A few fresh mint leaves can also brighten them up if you’re feeling fancy.

Side Dishes

These cinnamon knots pair wonderfully with a steaming cup of coffee or chai tea. I sometimes serve them alongside fresh fruit or a simple yogurt parfait for a balanced breakfast or brunch spread.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party, arranging these knots on a wooden board in a spiral creates a stunning centerpiece. You can also stick toothpicks in them to serve as mini cinnamon knot bites—perfect for mingling guests or kids.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (and I hope you do!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps them soft and fresh without drying out. I usually warm them up before serving again, just to bring back that fresh-baked feel.

Freezing

I’ve frozen the unbaked knots after shaping them, placing them on a tray until firm, then transferring to freezer bags. When you’re ready, just thaw and bake as directed. This saves so much time when you want fresh cinnamon knots without the prep.

Reheating

To reheat, pop the knots in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes or microwave for about 20 seconds. Adding a little extra drizzle of warmed coffee icing afterward brings back that freshly glazed magic perfectly.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Cinnamon Knots with Coffee Icing Recipe isn’t just a treat—it’s a little ritual of comfort and creativity. I remember making it on a chilly weekend morning when a friend stopped by unexpectedly, and it turned into one of those warm, happy memories that stick with you. I hope you’ll try it soon and feel that same joy of pulling these sweet knots fresh from your oven, ready to share. Happy baking!

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