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Cinnamon Knots with Coffee Icing Recipe

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4.5 from 107 reviews

Delightful homemade Cinnamon Knots topped with a rich, smooth coffee icing. These soft, cinnamon-spiced knots are perfect for breakfast or a cozy afternoon treat, featuring a fluffy yeast dough hand-tied into charming knots and baked to golden perfection, then drizzled with a sweet coffee glaze that adds a subtle, aromatic kick.

Ingredients

For the Cinnamon Knots:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup milk (whole or plant-based)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Coffee Icing:

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons brewed coffee
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough: Warm the milk until lukewarm, then stir in the active dry yeast and let it sit for 5 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is activated. In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and ground cinnamon. Add the melted butter, the egg, vanilla extract, and the yeast mixture, stirring until a dough begins to form.
  2. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it for 5-7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise for 45 minutes or until it has doubled in size.
  3. Shape the Knots: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Punch down the risen dough to release the air, then roll the dough into a rectangle. Cut the rectangle into strips and carefully tie each strip into a knot. Place the knots on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spaced apart.
  4. Bake the Knots: Allow the shaped knots to rise for an additional 15 minutes to achieve a light, airy texture. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the knots turn golden brown on top.
  5. Prepare the Coffee Icing: While the knots bake, whisk together the powdered sugar, brewed coffee, and optional vanilla extract until the icing is smooth and pourable.
  6. Glaze the Knots: Once the knots are baked and still warm, drizzle the coffee icing generously over the top. Serve warm for the best flavor and texture experience.

Notes

  • Milk can be substituted with any plant-based milk to make it dairy-free.
  • Ensure the milk is lukewarm, not hot, to properly activate the yeast without killing it.
  • The coffee icing can be adjusted in consistency by adding more powdered sugar for a thicker glaze or more coffee for a thinner drizzle.
  • For extra cinnamon flavor, sprinkle a little cinnamon sugar on top before baking.
  • Store leftover cinnamon knots in an airtight container and reheat before serving for best texture.