Overnight Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Make the best overnight cinnamon rolls with this soft, fluffy, and easy homemade recipe. These buttery cinnamon rolls are made with a sweet cinnamon-sugar filling and topped with a rich cream cheese frosting. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, holidays, or special occasions, this make-ahead cinnamon roll recipe ensures a stress-free morning with minimal effort. Get tips for perfect dough texture, easy variations, and expert baking techniques to achieve the best homemade cinnamon rolls every time!

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 1 cup warm milk (not hot)
• 1/2 Tbsp active dry yeast
• 4 Tbsp granulated sugar, divided
• 3 cups all-purpose flour, divided (plus 2 to 4 Tbsp as needed)
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 2 Tbsp unsalted butter, melted, divided
• 1/2 tsp salt

For the Cinnamon Roll Filling:

• 7 Tbsp unsalted butter, softened, divided
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 Tbsp ground cinnamon

For the Cream Cheese Icing:

• 4 Tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 Tbsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup confectioners’ (powdered) sugar

Instructions

Making the Dough:

1. In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine warm milk and active dry yeast. Let sit uncovered for 7 minutes until foamy.
2. Add 1/2 cup flour and 2 Tbsp sugar. Whisk until smooth. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise at room temperature for 35-45 minutes (or in a 100°F oven for 25 minutes) until puffy.
3. Whisk in the egg, remaining 2 Tbsp sugar, 1 Tbsp melted butter, and salt.
4. Using the dough hook attachment on speed 2, gradually add the remaining 2 1/2 cups flour, 1/2 cup at a time. Mix well between additions.
5. Add extra flour 1 Tbsp at a time, just until the dough is no longer sticky and pulls away from the bowl. Knead/mix for 10 minutes.
6. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise for 2 hours at room temperature (or 1 hour in a 100°F oven) until doubled in size.

Shaping the Rolls:

1. Lightly flour a clean work surface and roll the dough into a 17″ x 10″ rectangle.
2. Spread 6 Tbsp softened butter evenly over the dough.
3. In a small bowl, mix 1/4 cup sugar and 1 Tbsp cinnamon, then sprinkle the mixture evenly over the buttered dough.
4. Starting from the long side, roll the dough into a tight log. Slightly push the ends in for uniformity and slice into 12 equal rolls.

Overnight Rest & Baking:

1. Grease a 9″ x 13″ baking pan with 1 Tbsp butter and arrange the cinnamon rolls, cut-side down, evenly in the pan.
2. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight (up to 18 hours).
3. The next day, remove the rolls from the fridge and let them rise at room temperature for 1 to 1 1/2 hours (or in a 100°F oven for 35 minutes) until puffy.
4. Brush the tops with 1 Tbsp melted butter and bake at 350°F for 22-24 minutes, or until golden brown.
5. Let the rolls cool in the pan for 15 minutes before frosting.

Making the Cream Cheese Icing:

1. Using an electric mixer, beat 4 Tbsp softened butter and 4 oz softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
2. Add 1/2 Tbsp vanilla extract and mix.
3. Gradually add 1 cup powdered sugar and beat for 3-4 minutes until fluffy, scraping down the bowl as needed.
4. Spread generously over warm cinnamon rolls.

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Tips

• Perfect Dough Texture: Add flour gradually to ensure the dough is soft but not sticky.
• Even Cinnamon Distribution: Use a fine sieve to evenly sprinkle cinnamon sugar over the dough.
• Tightly Rolled Dough: Keep the roll firm to create uniform spirals.
• Rising Tip: If your kitchen is cold, use an oven with the light on for a warm proofing spot.

Variations and Substitutions

• Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute.
• Dairy-Free: Replace butter with plant-based alternatives and use almond or oat milk.
• Nutty Flavor: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling.
• Extra Sweetness: Drizzle with caramel or maple glaze instead of cream cheese frosting.

FAQs

Can I make these the same day?

Yes! After shaping, let the rolls rise for 1-2 hours at room temperature instead of refrigerating overnight, then bake as directed.

How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.

Can I freeze cinnamon rolls?

Yes! Freeze the unbaked rolls in the pan, covered tightly, for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the fridge overnight and let rise before baking.

Serving Suggestions

• Enjoy with a hot cup of coffee or chai latte.
• Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
• Pair with fresh fruit or a smoothie for a balanced breakfast.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft, Fluffy Texture: The overnight rise results in tender cinnamon rolls.
• Rich and Buttery Flavor: Perfectly balanced with cinnamon spice.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare in advance for stress-free mornings.
• Easy to Customize: Adjust flavors and toppings to suit your taste!