There’s something magical about that moment when the scent of freshly baked goods fills your kitchen, and you can hardly wait to take a bite. These Miso Caramel Coffee Cinnamon Buns are a delightful spin on classic cinnamon rolls that elevate your breakfast or dessert game. Infused with rich coffee flavor and a luscious miso caramel, they seamlessly blend sweetness with umami, creating an irresistible treat that is surprisingly dairy-free. Not only are these buns soft and fluffy, but they also come together quickly, making them a perfect choice for a cozy weekend brunch or a well-deserved indulgence after a long day. As you prepare to roll out this unique recipe, just imagine the delight on your loved ones’ faces as they dig into these mouthwatering miso-swirled treasures. Ready to discover the secret to your new favorite treat?

Why are Miso Coffee Buns a Must-Try?
Irresistible Flavor: The delicate balance of rich coffee and the savory depth of miso creates a unique taste that tantalizes your palate.
Dairy-Free Delight: Enjoy this guilt-free indulgence that caters to both dairy-free and vegetarian diets.
Quick and Easy: With straightforward steps, you’ll have these buns rising in no time—perfect for a satisfying brunch or an afternoon treat.
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Their addictive taste will impress guests and family alike, turning ordinary mornings into special occasions.
Versatile Options: Feel free to customize with different milks or nuts, just like in our yummy Oat Tiramisu Sugar or Banana Bread Brownies recipes!
Miso Brown Sugar Cashew Buns
Ingredients Breakdown:
For the Dough
- Almond Milk – A dairy-free liquid that activates yeast; substitute with any milk of choice.
- Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness to the dough, enhancing caramel notes; try coconut sugar for a richer flavor.
- Active Dry Yeast – Essential for the dough to rise; make sure it’s fresh for the best results.
- Instant Coffee – Infuses rich flavor into the dough; espresso powder can be used for an even bolder taste.
- All-Purpose Flour – The main structure of the buns; consider bread flour for added chewiness.
- Bread Flour – Optional for texture; increases chewiness; substitute more all-purpose if needed.
- Butter – Adds richness both to the dough and the glaze; use dairy-free alternatives for a vegan version.
For the Miso Caramel
- Red Miso Paste – A unique enhancer that adds umami and complexity; white miso offers a milder flavor.
- Brown Sugar (for caramel) – Contributes sweetness and depth to the caramel; be cautious with dark brown sugar as it packs a stronger punch.
- Applesauce – Provides moisture in the caramel mix; pureed dates can be a fun alternative for a different twist.
- Crushed Cashews – Adds a delightful crunch; swap with walnuts or pecans for variety.
For the Glaze
- Powdered Sugar – Ensures sweetness in the glaze; sift well to achieve a smooth consistency.
- Vanilla Extract – Infuses warmth and enhances flavor in the glaze; don’t skip this for an extra touch!
Get ready to create these magical Miso Brown Sugar Cashew Buns that will wow your taste buds!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Miso Brown Sugar Cashew Buns
Step 1: Prep Dough
Heat almond milk in a saucepan to about 115°F (just warm to the touch) and mix in brown sugar until dissolved. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the top and let it bloom for 5-10 minutes until foamy. Stir in the dissolved instant coffee, then gradually mix in all-purpose flour until a cohesive dough forms.
Step 2: Knead and Rise
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 2-3 minutes until smooth and elastic. Shape the kneaded dough into a ball and place it in an oiled bowl, turning it to coat. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let the dough rise in a warm place for 60-90 minutes, or until it doubles in size, indicating it has risen properly.
Step 3: Make Miso Caramel
In a mixing bowl, combine red miso paste, brown sugar, applesauce, and melted butter, stirring until smooth. Pour this delicious miso caramel mixture into a greased loaf pan, ensuring it spreads evenly across the bottom. This caramel layer will add a rich sweetness to your Miso Brown Sugar Cashew Buns as they bake.
Step 4: Shape Buns
Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down and roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a large rectangle. Sprinkle generously with brown sugar and a dash of cinnamon, then roll it up tightly from one end to the other into a log. Cut the log into 8 equal pieces, ensuring each bun will capture that lovely filling.
Step 5: Second Rise
Place the cut buns upright into the loaf pan, nestled in the miso caramel, ensuring they fit snugly. Cover the pan with a cloth again, allowing the buns to rise for another 60-90 minutes until they puff up nicely. You’re looking for them to nearly double in size, ready to soak up the caramel flavor.
Step 6: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the Miso Brown Sugar Cashew Buns for 30-40 minutes, or until they turn golden brown on top and the kitchen fills with the wonderful aroma of caramel and coffee. Keep an eye on them; you want a perfectly baked finish that is warm and inviting.
Step 7: Prepare Glaze
While the buns are baking, whisk together the powdered sugar and vanilla extract in a small bowl, adding a tablespoon of almond milk until you achieve a smooth and drizzle-able consistency. This sweet glaze will complement the rich flavors of the buns beautifully, bringing it all together once they are out of the oven.
Step 8: Glaze and Serve
Once the Miso Brown Sugar Cashew Buns are baked to perfection, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes. While they are still warm, drizzle the prepared glaze over the buns, permitting it to seep into the crevices. Slice them and serve warm for an indulgent experience!

Storage Tips for Miso Brown Sugar Cashew Buns
Room Temperature: Keep the buns in an airtight container for up to 3 days to retain their softness and flavor.
Fridge: If you have leftovers, store them in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat gently in the microwave to enjoy their original fluffiness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual buns in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature and warm before serving.
Reheating: To refresh your Miso Brown Sugar Cashew Buns, pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes for that freshly-baked taste.
Miso Brown Sugar Cashew Buns Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists on your Miso Brown Sugar Cashew Buns that will surprise your taste buds and add a personal touch!
- Nut-Free: Omit cashews and replace with sunflower seeds for a crunchy texture without nuts. Perfect for allergy-friendly treats!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a delectable, gluten-free version that everyone can enjoy.
- Flavor Boost: Infuse the dough with spices like nutmeg or cardamom to give an aromatic twist that will have your kitchen smelling delightful.
- Extra Sweetness: Drizzle with caramel sauce before baking for an even richer treat. The added layer of sweetness is irresistible!
- Chocolatey Delight: Fold in mini chocolate chips into the dough for a luscious chocolate surprise that pairs excellently with the miso flavor.
- Fruit Twist: Add chopped dried fruits like cranberries or apricots into the filling for a burst of sweetness and chewiness with every bite.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper into the caramel for a sweet and spicy flavor contrast that will intrigue adventurous eaters.
Personalizing your Miso Brown Sugar Cashew Buns has never been easier—consider trying these variations! If you’re looking for more creative recipes, don’t miss out on our delicious Oat Tiramisu Sugar and Banana Bread Brownies for some sweet inspiration!
Expert Tips for Miso Brown Sugar Cashew Buns
- Activate Yeast Properly: Always ensure your yeast is fresh and bubbly before mixing it into the dough. This crucial step guarantees your buns will rise beautifully.
- Knead with Care: When kneading the dough, use a gentle touch to maintain the sweetness. Over-kneading can toughen the dough, leading to less fluffy buns.
- Stretch It Thin: Roll the dough as thin as possible without tearing; this increases the quality of your rolls and enhances the rich flavors of the miso caramel filling.
- Perfect Rising Conditions: For the best results, create a warm environment for rising. A slightly heated oven or a warm water bath can be effective, but ensure it’s comfortably warm, not hot.
- Customize Crunch: Feel free to swap out crushed cashews for your favorite nuts to personalize your Miso Brown Sugar Cashew Buns, but take care to chop them evenly for consistent texture.
Make Ahead Options
These Miso Caramel Coffee Cinnamon Buns are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by following the first three steps and then refrigerating it instead of allowing the dough to rise fully. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before proceeding with the shaping and second rise. The miso caramel can also be made ahead and stored in the fridge for about 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, shape your buns and let them rise until puffy, then simply bake them as directed. This way, you’ll enjoy fresh, warm buns with minimal effort even on the busiest mornings!
What to Serve with Miso Brown Sugar Cashew Buns
Indulge in a meal that evokes warmth and comfort, perfectly matching the sweetness and richness of these delightful buns.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright, juicy fruits provide a refreshing contrast, balancing out the sweet and rich flavors of the buns beautifully.
- Spiced Chai Latte: The aromatic spices in a chai latte blend seamlessly with the coffee notes in the buns, creating a delightful cozy beverage.
- Vanilla Almond Milkshake: This creamy shake adds a dreamy, smooth texture that complements the fluffy cinnamon buns and enhances their sweetness.
- Coconut Yogurt Parfait: Layer coconut yogurt with granola and berries for a light, tangy side that elevates each bite of the sweet buns.
- Hazelnut Coffee: A rich, nutty coffee accentuates the flavors of miso and caramel, enhancing your bun experience with every sip.
- Chocolate Avocado Mousse: For dessert lovers, this rich, creamy mousse offers a luxurious finish to your meal and pairs wonderfully with the buns.
- Honey Almond Granola: Sprinkle on top of your yogurt or enjoy as a side to add crunch and a hint of sweetness that matches the buns’ caramel notes.
- Maple-Glazed Roasted Carrots: The earthy sweetness of these carrots complements the unique umami and caramel flavors without overpowering them.
- Lemonade Iced Tea: A refreshing drink that cuts through the sweetness, offering a zesty twist to balance the meal.
- Cinnamon Sugar Doughnuts: For a sweet brunch spread, these doughnuts echo the flavors of the buns, creating a delightful treat medley.

Miso Brown Sugar Cashew Buns Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my yeast is fresh?
Absolutely! To check the freshness of your active dry yeast, sprinkle it over warm (not hot) water mixed with a little sugar and wait for 5-10 minutes. If it becomes frothy and bubbly, it’s alive and ready to use!
How should I store leftover buns?
I recommend storing your Miso Brown Sugar Cashew Buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them soft and flavorful. If you need longer storage, pop them in the fridge for up to a week, but be sure to reheat gently in the microwave for that warm, inviting taste!
Can I freeze these buns? How?
Absolutely! For freezing, wrap each bun individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw at room temperature, then warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. They will taste as fresh as the day you baked them!
What can I do if my dough isn’t rising?
Very! If your dough isn’t rising, it could be due to inactive yeast; ensure it’s fresh and properly bloomed. Additionally, make sure your environment is warm enough. If it’s too cool, the dough may not rise. Try moving it to a warmer spot or placing it near a slightly warmed oven. A trick I often use is to put the dough in a bowl and cover it with a warm, damp towel – just be sure it’s not too hot!
Are these buns suitable for anyone with nut allergies?
The Miso Brown Sugar Cashew Buns contain crushed cashews, so they won’t be suitable for those with nut allergies. However, you can use seeds or omit the nuts altogether for a nut-free version. Just keep in mind that the texture may change slightly, but they’ll still be delicious!

Miso Brown Sugar Cashew Buns That Will Wow Your Taste Buds
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat almond milk to about 115°F, mix in brown sugar until dissolved, sprinkle yeast over top and let bloom for 5-10 minutes.
- Knead dough for 2-3 minutes on a floured surface, shape into a ball, place in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for 60-90 minutes until doubled.
- Combine miso paste, brown sugar, applesauce, and melted butter in a mixing bowl until smooth. Pour into greased loaf pan.
- Roll out dough, sprinkle with brown sugar and a dash of cinnamon, roll tightly, and cut into 8 pieces.
- Place cut buns in loaf pan over miso caramel, cover, and allow to rise for another 60-90 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Bake buns for 30-40 minutes until golden brown and fragrant.
- Whisk powdered sugar and vanilla extract together, adding almond milk for consistency.
- Drizzle glaze over warm buns before serving.
