French Coffee Cake Rolls

Prep: 120 min Cuisine: French

Fragrant French Coffee Cake Rolls feature a tender, yeasted dough infused with cinnamon and filled with brown sugar and nuts, perfect for breakfast or a cozy brunch.

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Ingredients

  • 4 cups flour
  • 3/4 cup sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 package yeast
  • 1/4 cup warm water
  • 1/2 pound oleo
  • 1 cup warm milk
  • 3 eggs, separated
  • 2 teaspoons cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1 cup nuts

Instructions

  1. Combine yeast and warm water, and let stand for 10 to 14 minutes until frothy.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt; cut in oleo until the mixture resembles pie crust.
  3. Add warm milk and beaten egg yolks to the mixture and stir until a soft dough forms.
  4. Stir in the yeast and water mixture.
  5. Cover and refrigerate the dough overnight before using.

Tips & Substitutions

Ensure your yeast is active by checking for froth after mixing it with warm water. If you don't have oleo, unsalted butter can be used as a substitute. For added flavor, consider incorporating a teaspoon of vanilla extract or using a mix of nuts such as walnuts and pecans. If you're short on time, you can skip overnight refrigeration but allow the dough to rise in a warm place until doubled.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these French coffee cake rolls warm, drizzled with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk for a delightful finish. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea, making them perfect for brunch or afternoon snacks. Consider serving alongside a fresh fruit salad or Mini Strawberry Milk Shake for a refreshing complement.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover coffee cake rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. Reheat individual rolls in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes until warmed through, which helps retain their softness.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of French Coffee Cake Rolls contains roughly 824 calories, with 17g protein, 148g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (35% of the Daily Value), iron (27% of the Daily Value), and potassium (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).

824 kcal 41% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 17.4g 35% DV
Total Fat 19.2g 25% DV
Carbs 148.1g 54% DV
Fiber 5.7g 20% DV
Sugar 75.9g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 3000mg 100% DV
Potassium 1085mg 23% DV
Cholesterol 46.5mg 16% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 32.5mcg 4% DV
Vitamin C 16.6mg 18% DV
Vitamin D 0.7mcg 3% DV
Calcium 283.9mg 22% DV
Iron 4.8mg 27% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Low-fat
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough the night before and refrigerate it. This allows the flavors to develop. After refrigeration, simply shape the rolls and allow them to rise before baking. This method enhances the taste and texture of the rolls.

What can I use instead of nuts in this recipe?

If you're looking for a nut-free option, you can use seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a similar crunch. Alternatively, you can omit the nuts entirely or substitute with dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for added sweetness and texture.

How do I know when the rolls are done baking?

The rolls are done when they are golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. Additionally, you can use a toothpick: insert it in the center, and if it comes out clean, the rolls are ready. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes to prevent over-baking.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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