There is something irresistibly cozy about the aroma of a freshly baked treat, especially when it combines the best of two worlds: the gooey goodness of cinnamon rolls and the crumbly delight of coffee cake. This Soft Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake Recipe captures all those warm, comforting flavors in a tender, soft crumb that practically melts in your mouth. It’s the perfect combination of cinnamon-swirled dough, rich buttery layers, and a sweet crumb topping that promises to make your mornings (or any moment of the day) feel extra special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before diving into the deliciousness, it’s worth noting how straightforward and carefully chosen these ingredients are. Each one plays a pivotal role in balancing flavor, texture, and that inviting golden color that a great coffee cake boasts.
- 1 large egg (room temperature): Helps bind the dough and adds richness for a tender crumb.
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter (melted and cooled): Provides a velvety texture and rich flavor.
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) instant yeast: Essential for that soft, airy rise of the dough.
- 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The backbone of this recipe, giving structure and a perfect chew.
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with browning.
- 1 tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- 1 1/2 cups milk (warmed to 110°F): Activates the yeast and keeps the dough soft.
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon (freshly ground preferred): The star spice that delivers that classic cinnamon roll taste.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened): Used to spread the filling and create those gooey layers.
- 2/3 cup packed dark brown sugar: Brings a rich molasses flavor to the filling, deepening the sweetness.
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter (cold, cubed): For the crumb topping, adding lovely texture.
- 2/3 cup all-purpose flour: Also for the crumb topping, giving it structure and crunch.
- 1/3 cup packed light brown sugar: Provides a sweet, caramel note in the crumb topping.
- Pinch of salt: Enhances the flavor of the crumb topping.
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar: Sprinkled on top to add a little sparkle and crunch.
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon: For that final layer of warm spice in the crumb topping.
- 2 tsp milk: Helps bind the crumb topping ingredients together.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (sifted): For the glaze that adds sweetness and moisture.
- Splash of vanilla extract (prefer pure vanilla): Brings aromatic depth to the glaze.
- Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness of the glaze beautifully.
How to Make Soft Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Yeast Dough
Start by warming the milk to about 110°F, the perfect temperature to activate the instant yeast without killing it. In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, yeast, melted butter, sugar, egg, salt, and most of the flour. Stir everything together until a soft dough forms, then knead it gently on a floured surface until smooth and elastic. This step is crucial to achieve that irresistibly soft texture in the final cake.
Step 2: First Rise
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap. Let it rest in a warm spot for about an hour, or until it has doubled in size. This rise will give your Soft Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake Recipe its fluffy, tender crumb.
Step 3: Roll Out and Add the Filling
Once risen, roll the dough into a large rectangle on a floured surface. Spread the softened butter evenly over the surface, then sprinkle the cinnamon and dark brown sugar mixture generously on top. Roll the dough tightly from one long edge, creating those classic cinnamon roll layers inside your coffee cake.
Step 4: Prepare the Crumb Topping
Combine the cold, cubed butter, flour, light brown sugar, pinch of salt, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and milk in a bowl. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture becomes crumbly but with some larger clumps. This crumb topping will bake into a crunchy, buttery crown that’s the perfect contrast to the soft dough below.
Step 5: Assemble and Second Rise
Place the rolled dough into your prepared baking pan. Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over it, then cover once more. Let the dough rise for another 30-45 minutes until puffy. This second rise ensures a cake that is fluffy and satisfying with every bite.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Pop the cake into a 350°F oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the crumb topping is golden and the cake is cooked through. The smell at this point will make it impossible to wait! Once done, let it cool slightly before the final glaze.
Step 7: Add the Vanilla Glaze
Mix the sifted powdered sugar, vanilla extract, pinch of salt, and milk to create a smooth glaze. Drizzle generously over the warm cake for that mouthwatering, sweet finish that ties the whole Soft Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake Recipe together.
How to Serve Soft Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a few freshly toasted pecan halves can elevate the look and texture, adding subtle nutty crunch or a snowy appearance that makes it look just as delightful as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of bold coffee or creamy latte, balancing the sweetness with rich bitterness. For an afternoon treat, consider a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent twist.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your Soft Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake Recipe in a rustic wooden tray with a drizzle of extra glaze on each slice. For brunch, arrange slices alongside fresh berries or fruit preserves, adding bursts of color and fresh flavors to your table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to maintain moisture. It stays fresh at room temperature for up to 2 days, perfect for savoring over a couple of mornings.
Freezing
You can freeze slices wrapped individually in plastic and then foil for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or on the counter, then warm gently before serving to recapture that fresh-baked softness.
Reheating
Reheat slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes. This brings back the gooey, buttery magic that makes this particular coffee cake so unforgettable.
FAQs
Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?
Yes! Just make sure to dissolve the active dry yeast in the warm milk and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes before mixing it with the other ingredients to activate it properly.
What makes this a Soft Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake Recipe rather than a regular coffee cake?
The use of yeast dough and cinnamon roll-style layering sets this apart. Unlike traditional coffee cakes that use baking powder or soda, this cake boasts the tender, airy texture of a cinnamon roll with the crumbly top of coffee cake.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
With a few swaps like plant-based milk, vegan butter, and an egg substitute, you can adapt it, but keep in mind that the yeast dough’s texture might vary slightly.
Is it necessary to let the dough rise twice?
Absolutely, the two rises are key for that soft and fluffy texture. Skipping either can result in a denser cake that lacks the characteristic lightness.
How long can I keep the cake at room temperature?
It’s best enjoyed within 2 days when kept covered at room temperature. Beyond that, refrigeration is recommended to prevent spoilage, though it might dry out slightly.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a sweet, cinnamon-filled treat that offers a soft, delightful crumb and crumbly topping all in one, this Soft Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake Recipe is truly a must-try. It’s the perfect way to bring warmth and joy to your kitchen, whether you’re serving it as a special weekend breakfast or a cozy afternoon dessert. I promise once you taste it, it’ll become a beloved classic in your recipe box.
Print
Soft Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Soft Cinnamon Roll Coffee Cake recipe combines the flavors of classic cinnamon rolls with the ease of a coffee cake. With a tender, yeasted dough and a rich, cinnamon-sugar filling topped by a crumbly streusel and a smooth vanilla glaze, it’s perfect for breakfasts, brunches, or any time you crave a comforting sweet treat.
Ingredients
Dough
- 1 large egg (room temperature)
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter (melted and cooled)
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) instant yeast
- 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (King Arthur flour recommended)
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 1/2 cups milk (warmed to 110°F)
Filling
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon (freshly ground preferred)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 2/3 cup packed dark brown sugar
Streusel Topping
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter (cold, cubed)
- 2/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup packed light brown sugar
- Pinch of salt
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
Vanilla Glaze
- 2 tsp milk
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (sifted)
- Splash of vanilla extract (pure vanilla preferred)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk (at 110°F), instant yeast, and granulated sugar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active. Then, add the melted and cooled butter, the egg, salt, and gradually add the flour while mixing until a soft, elastic dough forms.
- First Rise: Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Prepare the Filling: In a separate bowl, mix the softened butter, cinnamon, and dark brown sugar until well combined into a spreadable paste.
- Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle approximately 16×12 inches.
- Spread the Filling: Evenly spread the cinnamon-sugar butter mixture over the dough, ensuring full coverage.
- Roll and Slice: Starting from a long edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Slice the log into equal pieces (amount depending on preferred thickness, typically around 8-12 slices).
- Second Rise: Place the slices in a greased or parchment-lined baking dish, spaced slightly apart, cover, and let rise for another 30-45 minutes until puffy.
- Make the Streusel Topping: Combine the cold cubed butter, flour, light brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Use a pastry cutter or fingers to mix until crumbly topping forms.
- Add the Streusel: Sprinkle the streusel evenly over the risen cinnamon rolls before baking.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the coffee cake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Prepare the Vanilla Glaze: While baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth and pourable.
- Glaze and Serve: Remove the coffee cake from the oven and let it cool for 10-15 minutes. Drizzle the vanilla glaze over the warm cake and serve.
Notes
- Use fresh yeast for best rise and soft texture.
- Ensure milk is warmed to about 110°F to properly activate the yeast without killing it.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute butter and milk with plant-based alternatives.
- Allow the cake to cool slightly before glazing to avoid melting the glaze completely.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
