Welcome to my culinary haven, dear food enthusiasts! Today, I have a delightful recipe to share with you that’s perfect for those quiet mornings or lazy afternoons when you yearn for a comforting and soul-soothing treat. I call it “Nun at the Cafe.” This heavenly creation combines the essence of a freshly brewed coffee and the sweetness of a classic cinnamon bun, all in one delectable bite. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is designed to delight your taste buds and fill your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of a cozy cafe.
Who Is This Recipe For?
“Nun at the Cafe” is for anyone who appreciates the simple pleasures of life. It’s for the coffee aficionado who craves a sweet, aromatic pastry to complement their brew. It’s for the home baker who wants to impress their family and friends with a homemade treat that rivals the offerings of a quaint cafe. And it’s for those moments when you want to treat yourself to a little indulgence, right in the comfort of your own home.
Why It’s Great
What makes “Nun at the Cafe” truly great is the fusion of flavors and textures that come together in perfect harmony. The robust, dark coffee flavor mingles with the warm, gooey cinnamon goodness, creating a symphony of tastes that will transport you to your favorite coffee shop. Plus, baking these buns at home means you can savor them fresh out of the oven, a luxury you won’t find at most cafes.
Recipe Highlights
- Perfect for coffee lovers
- Heavenly cinnamon aroma
- Freshly baked goodness at home
- Impressive treat for guests
- A delightful twist on classic cinnamon buns
Now, let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to recreate this divine experience in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm milk
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg
For the Filling:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
For the Coffee Glaze:
- 1/4 cup brewed coffee, cooled
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions
Making the Dough:
- In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- In a separate bowl, combine sugar, melted butter, salt, and the yeast mixture.
- Add the flour gradually and mix until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise for 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
Creating the Filling:
- Once the dough has risen, roll it out into a rectangle on a floured surface.
- Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough.
- Mix brown sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle this mixture generously over the buttered dough.
- Roll the dough tightly into a log and slice it into 12 equal pieces.
Baking the Buns:
- Place the slices in a greased baking dish and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the buns for 25-30 minutes until they turn golden brown.
- While the buns are baking, prepare the coffee glaze.
Making the Coffee Glaze:
- Whisk together brewed coffee, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Once the buns are out of the oven, drizzle the glaze generously over them while they’re still warm.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
To make “Nun at the Cafe,” you’ll need the following kitchen equipment:
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rolling pin
- Baking dish
- Whisk
- Greased bowl for dough rising
- Oven
Storing Leftovers
If, by some miracle, you have any leftovers of these delectable buns, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to a month. Just be sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to maintain their freshness.
Food and Drink Pairings
“Nun at the Cafe” pairs beautifully with a freshly brewed cup of coffee, of course! But if you want to elevate your experience, consider serving it with a cappuccino or a latte. The contrast between the rich, creamy coffee and the sweet, cinnamon-infused buns is nothing short of heavenly.
FAQ
Q1: Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast? A1: Yes, you can substitute instant yeast for active dry yeast. Use the same amount, but you can skip the proofing step and mix it directly with the dry ingredients.
Q2: Can I make the dough ahead of time and bake it later? A2: Absolutely! You can prepare the dough, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it overnight. When you’re ready to bake, let it come to room temperature, and then proceed with the recipe.
Q3: Can I use whole wheat flour for a healthier version? A3: Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, but keep in mind that it will yield a denser texture. You might want to blend it with all-purpose flour for the best results.
Conclusion
In the world of home baking, “Nun at the Cafe” stands as a testament to the joy of creating simple yet exquisite delights. Whether you enjoy it with your morning coffee, as an afternoon pick-me-up, or as a special treat for guests, these cinnamon coffee buns are sure to leave a lasting impression.
So, what are you waiting for? Roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let the aroma of freshly baked “Nun at the Cafe” fill your kitchen. Once you’ve experienced the magic of this recipe, don’t forget to share it with your fellow food lovers and subscribe to my blog for more culinary adventures. Happy baking!
