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Iced Coffee Cinnamon Swirl Buns

moka coffee pot
Soft, fluffy, and infused with bold coffee flavor, these cinnamon swirl buns are topped with a rich, creamy icing.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Servings 12 buns
Calories 280 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Dough:

  • 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 ¼ tsp instant yeast
  • ½ cup warm brewed coffee strong enough to wake the dead
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 large egg
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter melted

For the Cinnamon Filling:

  • ⅔ cup brown sugar packed
  • 1 ½ tbsp cinnamon
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter softened
  • 1 tsp espresso powder optional, but highly recommended

For the Icing:

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tbsp brewed coffee
  • ½ tsp vanilla extract

Instructions
 

  • Activate the Yeast – Combine warm coffee, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit until it gets foamy (if it doesn’t, start over).
  • Mix the Dough – Toss in flour, salt, egg, and melted butter. Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and slightly tacky.
  • Let it Rise – Cover and let it double in size (about an hour). Maybe make more coffee while you wait.
  • Prepare the Filling – Mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and espresso powder. Smear softened butter on rolled-out dough, then sprinkle the sugar mixture.
  • Roll and Cut – Roll tightly into a log and slice into 12 even pieces (or don’t, and have oversized buns—no judgment).
  • Bake – Arrange in a greased dish, cover, and let rise again (30 minutes). Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes.
  • Make the Icing – Whisk powdered sugar, coffee, and vanilla until smooth.
  • Drizzle & Devour – Pour icing over warm buns and attempt to share.

Notes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 280
  • Total Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 5g

Vitamins & Minerals (Per Serving)

  • Calcium: 4%
  • Iron: 8%
  • Potassium: 5%
  • Vitamin B12: 2%
  • Magnesium: 3%

Pro Tips for Maximum Flavor

  • Use cold butter for the filling—it stays in distinct layers, making the swirls extra gooey.
  • Let the icing melt naturally on the warm buns before digging in. It’s worth the patience.
  • Swap out the icing for a cream cheese glaze if you're feeling extra indulgent.
  • Add a pinch of cardamom for an unexpected but ridiculously good twist.
Enjoy responsibly—these buns have a way of disappearing faster than your morning coffee.