Imagine a cozy weekend morning where the aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls fills your kitchen, blending with the warm, comforting scent of coffee and vanilla. These Soft & Flavorful Tiramisu Cinnamon Rolls take that classic comfort food to a whole new level, inspired by the beloved Italian dessert, tiramisu. Soft layers of dough are swirled with a delicate coffee and cinnamon filling, baked to golden perfection, and topped with a luscious mascarpone frosting that melts in your mouth with every bite.
This recipe was born from a desire to combine two favorites—traditional cinnamon rolls and tiramisu—into a single indulgent treat perfect for brunch, a festive holiday morning, or a special weekend gathering. Every bite carries a subtle coffee flavor, a hint of vanilla, and the creamy sweetness of mascarpone frosting, making it impossible to resist. Whether you’re serving them to family, friends, or enjoying a quiet morning to yourself, these rolls promise a comforting and memorable experience.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
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1 cup warm milk (110°F / 43°C)
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2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
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½ cup granulated sugar
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⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
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2 large eggs
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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4 cups all-purpose flour
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½ teaspoon salt
For the Filling:
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¾ cup brown sugar, packed
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2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
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¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
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2 tablespoons instant coffee granules
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2 tablespoons milk
For the Mascarpone Frosting:
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8 oz mascarpone cheese, softened
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½ cup unsalted butter, softened
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1 ½ cups powdered sugar
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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2 tablespoons milk, as needed
Directions
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Prepare the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy. This step ensures your dough will rise perfectly, giving you those soft, fluffy cinnamon rolls.
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Make the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Gradually add the yeast mixture. Slowly incorporate the flour and salt until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms.
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Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, use the dough hook attachment on medium speed for 6–8 minutes.
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First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1–2 hours, or until doubled in size. This allows the dough to develop a light, airy texture.
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Prepare the Filling: In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, softened butter, instant coffee granules, and milk until well combined. The coffee enhances the tiramisu flavor without overpowering the sweetness.
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Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface into a 16×12-inch rectangle. Spread the filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
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Shape the Rolls: Starting from the long edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Pinch the seam to seal. Using a sharp knife, cut the log into 12 even rolls. Place the rolls in a greased 9×13-inch baking pan, leaving a little space between them.
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Second Rise: Cover the rolls loosely with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30–45 minutes, or until puffy. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) during this time.
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Bake the Rolls: Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked in the center. If the tops brown too quickly, tent the pan loosely with aluminum foil.
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Prepare the Frosting: While the rolls are baking, beat together mascarpone cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Add milk one tablespoon at a time to reach your desired consistency.
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Frost the Rolls: Once baked, allow the rolls to cool for 10–15 minutes. Generously spread the mascarpone frosting over the warm rolls, allowing it to slightly melt and seep into every crevice for that classic tiramisu indulgence.
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Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately for the softest texture, or let them cool completely and store in an airtight container. These rolls are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet treat alongside a cup of coffee.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
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Prep Time: 30 minutes
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Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
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Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes (including rising time)
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Yield: 12 cinnamon rolls
Tips and Notes
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Milk Temperature: Make sure the milk is warm, not hot, to activate the yeast without killing it. 110°F (43°C) is ideal.
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Dough Consistency: The dough should be soft but slightly sticky. Add small amounts of flour if too sticky, one tablespoon at a time.
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Instant Coffee: Adjust the amount of coffee to your preference. You can also use decaf for a milder flavor.
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Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat slightly before serving.
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Freezing: Unbaked rolls can be frozen after shaping. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake as directed.
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Mascarpone Alternative: If mascarpone is unavailable, use cream cheese with a little heavy cream for a similar texture and flavor.
Why These Tiramisu Cinnamon Rolls Are Special
These cinnamon rolls are not your ordinary sweet breakfast treat. The combination of coffee-infused cinnamon and creamy mascarpone frosting creates a flavor profile reminiscent of classic tiramisu but in a soft, fluffy roll that everyone can enjoy. They are elegant enough for brunch gatherings yet comforting for a quiet morning at home.
The technique is simple enough for beginners but produces bakery-quality results, making it a versatile recipe for both casual bakers and experienced home chefs. The layers of soft dough, coffee-scented cinnamon filling, and rich frosting make every bite decadent but not overly sweet.
Variations to Try
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Chocolate Tiramisu Rolls: Sprinkle cocoa powder into the filling for a chocolate twist on the classic coffee flavor.
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Nutty Delight: Add finely chopped hazelnuts or almonds to the filling for a crunchy texture.
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Caramel Drizzle: Top with a light caramel drizzle after frosting for an extra layer of sweetness.
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Fruit Infusion: Add a layer of raspberry or strawberry preserves inside the rolls for a fruity contrast that pairs beautifully with the coffee flavor.
Serving Suggestions
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Pair with a cup of coffee or a latte for a breakfast experience that rivals your favorite café.
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Serve as a dessert for brunch gatherings or holiday mornings, accompanied by fresh berries or whipped cream.
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Cut into individual portions and serve on a decorative platter for parties or celebrations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these cinnamon rolls ahead of time?
Absolutely! One of the best features of this Tiramisu Cinnamon Rolls recipe is that it’s very adaptable to advance preparation, making it ideal for busy mornings or special occasions. You can prepare the dough the night before, complete with the first rise, and store it in the refrigerator. Chilling the dough overnight not only makes the morning process easier but also allows the flavors to develop more deeply, resulting in even tastier rolls. In the morning, simply roll out the dough, spread the coffee-cinnamon filling, shape the rolls, and let them rise for the second time before baking. You can also make the frosting ahead of time; store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and bring it to room temperature while the rolls bake. This approach saves time, reduces stress, and ensures you can enjoy fresh, warm rolls with minimal effort.
How do I get the rolls soft and fluffy?
Achieving soft, fluffy cinnamon rolls is all about proper technique and attention to detail. First, make sure your yeast is active; the milk should be warm (around 110°F / 43°C) so it activates the yeast without killing it. Proper proofing is essential: allow the dough to rise until it has doubled in size, both during the first and second rises. Avoid adding too much flour, as over-flouring can make the rolls dense and dry. Additionally, don’t rush the second rise; the dough needs time to relax and puff up before baking. Finally, baking at the correct temperature ensures the exterior is lightly golden while keeping the interior soft and tender. Following these steps carefully will give you bakery-quality rolls that practically melt in your mouth.
Can I make these without mascarpone cheese?
Yes! While mascarpone is traditional for tiramisu-inspired desserts, it can be substituted with cream cheese mixed with a small amount of heavy cream. This combination mimics the creamy, smooth texture of mascarpone while maintaining the rich flavor that complements the coffee-cinnamon filling. Keep in mind that the flavor may be slightly different—cream cheese has a tangier profile—but it still creates a luscious frosting that pairs beautifully with the rolls. For an even lighter version, you can blend in a bit of Greek yogurt to add creaminess without overwhelming sweetness. This makes the recipe flexible for whatever ingredients you have on hand.
Can I freeze these rolls?
Definitely! Freezing cinnamon rolls is a fantastic way to make them ahead of time or preserve leftovers. You can freeze the unbaked rolls after shaping them; wrap tightly in plastic wrap or place in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and allow the rolls to rise slightly before baking as usual. You can also freeze fully baked rolls. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving for warm, freshly baked rolls any time. This method keeps the rolls soft, fluffy, and delicious, just like when they were freshly baked.
These Soft & Flavorful Tiramisu Cinnamon Rolls are a perfect example of comfort food elevated with a touch of elegance. The subtle coffee flavor, the soft, fluffy dough, and the creamy mascarpone frosting make them irresistible for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Whether it’s a weekend treat, a holiday gathering, or a cozy evening indulgence, this recipe promises to delight both family and friends. Take a few hours to prepare them, and the reward will be a batch of cinnamon rolls that taste like they came straight from an Italian café—rich, comforting, and utterly unforgettable.
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Soft & Flavorful Tiramisu Cinnamon Rolls
- Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 cinnamon rolls 1x
Description
Start your morning with the cozy aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls with a twist—these Soft & Flavorful Tiramisu Cinnamon Rolls are inspired by the classic Italian dessert. Soft, fluffy layers of dough are swirled with a coffee-cinnamon filling and topped with creamy mascarpone frosting. Perfect for brunch, a special weekend treat, or a holiday morning, these rolls combine comfort and indulgence in every bite.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
-
1 cup warm milk (110°F / 43°C)
-
2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
-
½ cup granulated sugar
-
⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
-
2 large eggs
-
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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4 cups all-purpose flour
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½ teaspoon salt
For the Filling:
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¾ cup brown sugar, packed
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2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
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¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
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2 tablespoons instant coffee granules
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2 tablespoons milk
For the Mascarpone Frosting:
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8 oz mascarpone cheese, softened
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½ cup unsalted butter, softened
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1 ½ cups powdered sugar
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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2 tablespoons milk, as needed
Instructions
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In a small bowl, combine warm milk and yeast; let sit 5–10 minutes until frothy.
-
In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Gradually add the yeast mixture. Slowly incorporate flour and salt until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms.
-
Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
-
Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1–2 hours or until doubled in size.
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In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, softened butter, instant coffee granules, and milk until well combined.
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Roll the dough into a 16×12-inch rectangle on a floured surface. Spread the filling evenly over the dough, leaving a small border.
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Starting from the long edge, roll the dough into a log and pinch the seam to seal. Cut into 12 even rolls and place in a greased 9×13-inch baking pan.
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Cover the rolls and let rise for 30–45 minutes until puffy. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Bake rolls for 25–30 minutes until golden brown. Tent with foil if tops brown too quickly.
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Beat mascarpone cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add milk as needed for desired consistency.
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Allow rolls to cool for 10–15 minutes, then spread frosting generously over warm rolls.
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Serve immediately or store in an airtight container.
Notes
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Ensure milk is warm, not hot, to activate yeast properly.
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Dough should be soft but slightly sticky; add flour sparingly if needed.
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Frosting can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
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Unbaked rolls can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before baking.
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Substitute cream cheese and a bit of heavy cream if mascarpone is unavailable.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
