• Let’s roll up our sleeves and get baking! Here’s a detailed guide to making this scrumptious coffee roll.

Step 1: Prepare the Tangzhong

• Start by making the tangzhong, a cooked mixture that locks in moisture—your secret weapon for soft rolls. In a small saucepan, combine ¾ cup of filtered water and ¼ cup of flour.
• Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and bubbles. It should reach a pudding-like consistency. Set it aside to cool.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

• In a large bowl, combine 3 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, ½ cup of warm whole milk, one egg, and ⅓ cup of sugar.
• Add the cooled tangzhong, 2 teaspoons of rapid-rise yeast, ¾ teaspoon salt, 4 tablespoons of softened butter, 1 teaspoon of instant espresso powder, ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1 teaspoon of ground cardamom.
• Mix until it forms a soft dough. If the mixture is too sticky, gradually add a bit more flour.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

• Turn the dough onto a floured surface. Knead it for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Form it into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover it and let it rise in a warm area for about an hour, or until it doubles in size.

Step 4: Prepare the Filling

• While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. In a bowl, mix 5 tablespoons of softened butter, 2 teaspoons of cinnamon, ⅔ cup of brown sugar, 1 ½ teaspoons of instant espresso powder, and 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder until it’s well combined. Set it aside.

Step 5: Roll Out the Dough

• After the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it onto a floured surface. Roll it out into a rectangle about 12×18 inches. Spread the filling evenly across the surface, leaving a small border. The rich filling will bring deep satisfaction.

Step 6: Roll and Slice

• Starting from the long side, roll the dough tightly, sealing the edges as you go. Cut the roll into 12 equal slices. Place them cut-side up in a greased baking dish, leaving some room for them to rise again. Cover and let rise for another 30 minutes.

Step 7: Bake

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. As they bake, your kitchen will fill with a heavenly aroma that’ll make your mouth water!

Step 8: Make the Frosting

• While the rolls cool, prepare the frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat together 4 tablespoons of heavy cream, 4 tablespoons of softened butter, ¾ teaspoon of instant espresso powder, 1 cup of sifted powdered sugar, and 2 ounces of softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.

Step 9: Frost and Enjoy

• Spread the frosting generously over the warm rolls. Allow some time for the rolls to cool slightly before diving in. Each bite will be rewarding, with the frosting perfectly complementing the soft, sweet roll beneath.