Baked

Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake

Name: Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 60 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 2 1/4 cups (285g) all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon active dry yeast; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar; 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, lukewarm; 2 large eggs; 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon; 1/4 cup (55g) brown sugar; 1/2 cup (60g) chopped walnuts

By Amara Ironside · June 19, 2026 · Baked

Prep20 min

Cook25 min

Total60 min

Serves12

I still remember the first time I made cinnamon roll coffee cake for my family. It was a slow Sunday morning, and the aroma of sweet dough and cinnamon filled the entire house. My kids were excited to dig in, and my husband was impressed by the ease of the recipe. Since then, this coffee cake has become a staple in our household, perfect for lazy weekends and quick weekday breakfasts.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a few ingredients and some basic kitchen equipment, you can create a delicious and impressive breakfast dish that's sure to please even the pickiest eaters. In this article, I'll guide you through the process of making cinnamon roll coffee cake from scratch, sharing tips and tricks along the way to ensure your success.

Whether you're a seasoned baker or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is perfect for you. The dough is easy to work with, and the filling is made with just a few simple ingredients. The best part? This coffee cake is perfect for making ahead of time, so you can enjoy it all week long.

So why not give it a try? With this recipe, you'll be able to create a delicious and impressive cinnamon roll coffee cake that's sure to become a favorite in your household. And who knows - you might just find yourself making it every weekend, just like I do.

In the following sections, we'll dive into the details of the recipe, covering everything from the ingredients and equipment you'll need to the step-by-step process of making the coffee cake. We'll also discuss some common mistakes to avoid and provide tips for customizing the recipe to your taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal special equipment
The coffee cake is perfect for making ahead of time and can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days
The recipe is highly customizable, so you can add your favorite nuts, spices, or flavorings to the dough and filling
The coffee cake is perfect for a crowd, as it makes a large batch that can be cut into individual servings
The recipe is budget-friendly and uses common ingredients that you may already have on hand
The coffee cake is a great way to use up leftover ingredients, such as stale bread or leftover cream cheese
The recipe is perfect for a special occasion, such as a birthday or holiday breakfast

Why This Recipe Works

The key to a great cinnamon roll coffee cake is in the layers. By creating a rich, buttery dough and a sweet, cinnamon-spiced filling, you'll create a coffee cake that's both flavorful and textured. The dough is made with a combination of all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and unsalted butter, which provides a tender and flaky texture. The filling, on the other hand, is made with a mixture of granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and unsalted butter, which adds a sweet and spicy flavor to the coffee cake.

The other important factor in this recipe is the use of heat control. By baking the coffee cake at a moderate temperature, you'll be able to achieve a golden-brown crust without overcooking the interior. This is especially important when working with a yeast-based dough, as it can be prone to overproofing and collapsing.

Finally, the resting time is crucial in this recipe. By allowing the dough to rest and rise, you'll be able to create a light and airy texture that's perfect for a coffee cake. This step also helps to develop the flavors in the dough, making it even more delicious and complex.

Ingredients You’ll Need

When it comes to making cinnamon roll coffee cake, the ingredients are just as important as the technique. You'll need a combination of all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, unsalted butter, and yeast to create the dough, as well as a mixture of granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and unsalted butter for the filling. You'll also need some eggs, milk, and vanilla extract to add moisture and flavor to the coffee cake.

One of the most important things to keep in mind when shopping for ingredients is the quality of the ingredients themselves. Look for high-quality all-purpose flour that is fresh and has not been sitting on the shelf for too long. You'll also want to use high-quality granulated sugar and unsalted butter to get the best flavor and texture out of your coffee cake.

2 1/4 cups (285g) all-purpose flourAll-purpose flour is the foundation of this recipe, providing structure and texture to the coffee cake. Look for a high-quality flour that is fresh and has not been sitting on the shelf for too long.
1 teaspoon active dry yeastYeast is what gives this coffee cake its light and airy texture. Make sure to use active dry yeast, as it is the most reliable and easy to work with.
1 teaspoon saltSalt enhances the flavor of the coffee cake and helps to balance out the sweetness of the sugar and cinnamon. Use a high-quality salt, such as kosher or sea salt, for the best flavor.
1 cup (200g) granulated sugarGranulated sugar adds sweetness and flavor to the coffee cake. Look for a high-quality sugar that is fresh and has not been sitting on the shelf for too long.
1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softenedUnsalted butter adds moisture and flavor to the coffee cake. Make sure to use high-quality, softened butter for the best results.
1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, lukewarmWhole milk adds moisture and flavor to the coffee cake. Use lukewarm milk, as it will help the yeast to activate and the dough to rise.
2 large eggsEggs add moisture and richness to the coffee cake. Use high-quality, fresh eggs for the best flavor and texture.
2 teaspoons ground cinnamonGround cinnamon adds flavor and warmth to the coffee cake. Look for high-quality cinnamon that is fresh and has not been sitting on the shelf for too long.
1/4 cup (55g) brown sugarBrown sugar adds depth and richness to the coffee cake. Use high-quality brown sugar that is fresh and has not been sitting on the shelf for too long.
1/2 cup (60g) chopped walnutsChopped walnuts add texture and flavor to the coffee cake. Use high-quality walnuts that are fresh and have not been sitting on the shelf for too long.

Ingredients for Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake

Equipment You’ll Need

Large mixing bowlHand mixer or stand mixerWhiskRubber spatula9x13 inch baking dishInstant-read thermometer

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake

1
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, and salt. Whisk to combine and set aside.
2
In a separate bowl, combine the granulated sugar, unsalted butter, and lukewarm milk. Mix until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
3
Add the eggs to the sugar mixture and mix until well combined.
4
Add the flour mixture to the sugar mixture and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
5
Knead the dough for 10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
6
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
7
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
8
Punch down the dough and roll it out into a 9x13 inch rectangle.
9
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and chopped walnuts. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a 1 inch border around the edges.
10
Roll the dough into a tight log, starting from the long side. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces and place them in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
11
Bake the coffee cake for 25-30 minutes, or until it is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 190°F (88°C).
12
Let the coffee cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Expert Tips

Make sure to use high-quality ingredients, such as fresh flour and real butter, for the best flavor and texture.
Don't overmix the dough, as this can lead to a dense and tough coffee cake.
Let the dough rise for the full hour, as this will help it to develop a light and airy texture.
Don't overbake the coffee cake, as this can cause it to dry out and become crumbly.
Let the coffee cake cool completely before serving, as this will help it to set and become easier to slice.
Consider adding other ingredients, such as nuts or dried fruit, to the dough and filling for added flavor and texture.
Make sure to grease the baking dish well, as this will help the coffee cake to release easily and prevent it from sticking.
Consider making the coffee cake ahead of time and freezing it for up to 2 months. Simply thaw and bake as directed.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not letting the dough rise for the full hour, which can lead to a dense and flat coffee cake.
Overmixing the dough, which can lead to a tough and dense coffee cake.
Not greasing the baking dish well, which can cause the coffee cake to stick and become difficult to remove.
Overbaking the coffee cake, which can cause it to dry out and become crumbly.
Not letting the coffee cake cool completely before serving, which can cause it to be difficult to slice and serve.
Not using high-quality ingredients, such as fresh flour and real butter, which can lead to a coffee cake that is lacking in flavor and texture.

Variations and Substitutions

Add other ingredients, such as nuts or dried fruit, to the dough and filling for added flavor and texture.
Use different types of sugar, such as brown sugar or honey, for a unique flavor.
Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the top of the coffee cake before baking for added flavor and texture.
Use a different type of milk, such as almond or soy milk, for a non-dairy version of the coffee cake.
Add a layer of cream cheese frosting or glaze to the top of the coffee cake for added flavor and moisture.
Make individual coffee cakes in muffin tins for a fun and easy breakfast or snack.
Use a different type of flour, such as whole wheat or oat flour, for a unique flavor and texture.

What to Serve With Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake

This cinnamon roll coffee cake is perfect for serving at breakfast or brunch. Consider pairing it with a cup of coffee or tea, and a side of fresh fruit or yogurt. You could also serve it as a snack or dessert, topped with a scoop of ice cream or whipped cream.

Some other ideas for serving this coffee cake include:

Sliced and served with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon

Topped with a layer of cream cheese frosting and a sprinkle of chopped nuts

Served with a side of fresh fruit, such as strawberries or blueberries

Paired with a cup of hot coffee or tea, and a side of bacon or sausage

Serve with a cup of coffee or teaPair with a side of fresh fruit or yogurtTop with a scoop of ice cream or whipped creamServe as a snack or dessertMake individual coffee cakes in muffin tins for a fun and easy breakfast or snack

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

This cinnamon roll coffee cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to 2 months, and thawed and baked as directed.

To freeze the coffee cake, simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to bake it, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

It's also possible to make the coffee cake ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Simply bake it as directed, and then let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the fridge.

When reheating the coffee cake, simply wrap it in foil and bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until it's warmed through and fragrant.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of flour is best for this recipe?

All-purpose flour is the best type of flour to use for this recipe, as it provides a light and tender texture. You can also use bread flour or whole wheat flour for a slightly different flavor and texture.

Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?

Yes, you can use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast. Simply activate the yeast in the lukewarm milk before adding it to the dough.

How long does the dough need to rise?

The dough needs to rise for at least 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size. This will help the coffee cake to develop a light and airy texture.

Can I add other ingredients to the dough and filling?

Yes, you can add other ingredients to the dough and filling for added flavor and texture. Some ideas include nuts, dried fruit, or chocolate chips.

How do I store the coffee cake?

The coffee cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or frozen for up to 2 months. Simply thaw and bake as directed.

Can I make the coffee cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the coffee cake ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Simply bake it as directed, and then let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the fridge.

How do I reheat the coffee cake?

To reheat the coffee cake, simply wrap it in foil and bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until it's warmed through and fragrant.

Can I freeze the coffee cake?

Yes, you can freeze the coffee cake for up to 2 months. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to bake it, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

The Full Recipe

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