Easy Overnight Cinnamon Rolls

Introduction

Easy Overnight Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Are you looking for a delightful breakfast treat without having to wake up too early to prepare dough? These easy overnight cinnamon rolls are the perfect solution! They are soft, fluffy, and packed with sweet cinnamon flavor, making them a crowd-pleaser for any breakfast, brunch, or special occasion. The best part? Most of the work is done the night before, so you can enjoy freshly baked cinnamon rolls in the morning with minimal effort. This recipe ensures that you’ll have tender, delicious rolls every time!

Detailed Ingredients with Measures

Ingredients for Dough:

• Milk – 1 cup
• Granulated sugar – 1/3 cup
• Butter – 6 tablespoons
• Active dry yeast – 2 1/4 teaspoons (or 1 packet)
• Warm water – 1/3 cup
• Large eggs – 2
• All-purpose flour – Approximately 4 1/4 cups
• Salt – 1/2 teaspoon

Ingredients for Cinnamon Filling:

• Brown sugar – 1 cup, packed
• Ground cinnamon – 2 1/2 tablespoons
• Butter – 6 tablespoons, softened

Ingredients for Frosting:

• Cream cheese – 4 ounces, softened
• Powdered sugar – 1 1/2 cups
• Milk – 2 tablespoons
• Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon

Prep Time

How to Prepare the Dough:

In a small saucepan, combine milk, sugar, and butter. Heat over medium heat until the butter melts and the mixture is smooth. Let the mixture cool until lukewarm. In a separate small bowl, mix warm water and yeast. Let it sit until it becomes frothy. Combine the milk mixture, yeast mixture, eggs, salt, and flour in a large bowl. Knead the dough until smooth, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise until doubled in size.

Assembling the Rolls:

Roll the dough out into a large rectangle. Spread softened butter over the surface and sprinkle evenly with the cinnamon and brown sugar mixture. Roll the dough tightly into a log and slice it into equal pieces to form rolls. Place the rolls into a greased baking pan, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time:

The next morning, remove the rolls from the fridge, let them rise until puffy for about 45 minutes, and bake in a preheated oven set to 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.

Total Time:

While the actual hands-on time is less than an hour, the total time, including overnight refrigeration, is approximately 12-14 hours.

Yield:

This recipe makes about 12 delicious cinnamon rolls, perfect for serving your family or sharing with friends.

Enjoy these soft, tender cinnamon rolls with a rich cream cheese frosting in the morning, and make every breakfast or brunch unforgettable!
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Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the warm milk (about 110°F) and sugar. Stir until dissolved.
2. Sprinkle the yeast over the warm milk mixture. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the yeast is foamy.
3. Add in the melted butter, eggs, and salt. Stir to combine.
4. Gradually add the bread flour, 1 cup at a time, mixing well after each addition, until a soft dough forms.

Step 2: Knead the Dough

1. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.
2. Alternatively, use the dough hook attachment of a stand mixer and knead on medium speed for 5 minutes.

Step 3: First Rise

1. Lightly grease a large bowl and place the dough inside. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel.
2. Allow the dough to rise in a warm location for 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.

Step 4: Prepare the Filling

1. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon for the filling.
2. Set the mixture aside for later use.

Step 5: Roll Out the Dough

1. After the dough has risen, transfer it to a lightly floured surface.
2. Roll the dough into a large rectangle, approximately 18×12 inches.

Step 6: Add the Filling

1. Evenly spread softened butter over the rolled-out dough, leaving about a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
2. Sprinkle the prepared cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the buttered dough.

Step 7: Roll and Cut the Dough

1. Starting at one of the long edges, tightly roll the dough into a log.
2. Pinch the seam closed to seal the log.
3. Use a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss to cut the log into 12 equal slices.

Step 8: Arrange in Baking Dish

1. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Arrange the cinnamon roll slices in the prepared dish, spaced slightly apart to allow room for rising.

Step 9: Second Rise

1. Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight, or allow the rolls to rise at room temperature for 1-2 hours until puffy.

Step 10: Bake the Cinnamon Rolls

1. When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. Remove the plastic wrap from the rolls.
3. Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until lightly golden on top.

Step 11: Prepare the Frosting

1. While the rolls are baking, prepare the frosting by mixing together the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk in a medium bowl until smooth.

Step 12: Frost the Rolls

1. After removing the rolls from the oven, let them cool slightly for about 5-10 minutes.
2. Spread the prepared frosting over the warm rolls.

Notes

Note 1: Make-Ahead Tip

To make this recipe ahead of time, refrigerate the rolls overnight after the second rise. This is perfect for easy preparation in the morning.

Note 2: Freezing Instructions

You can freeze the unbaked rolls after cutting and arranging them in the dish. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.

Note 3: Warming Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container. Reheat individual rolls in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds.

Note 4: Customize the Cinnamon Rolls

Feel free to add extras like chopped nuts or raisins to the filling, depending on your preferences.

Note 5: Dough Consistency

The dough should be soft but not sticky. If the dough feels too sticky while kneading, add a small amount of flour, 1 tablespoon at a time.
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Cook Techniques

Prepare the Dough in Advance

The dough can be made the night before to save time and ensure a hassle-free morning. Letting it rise slowly overnight in the fridge enhances the flavor and simplifies preparation.

Use Room Temperature Ingredients

Allowing the butter, eggs, and other ingredients to come to room temperature ensures a smoother dough consistency and even mixing.

Roll the Dough Evenly

When rolling out the dough, aim for a uniform thickness to ensure all the cinnamon rolls bake evenly.

Create a Tight Roll

Once you’ve added the filling, tightly roll the dough. This helps prevent the filling from spilling out and gives the rolls their classic shape.

Use Dental Floss to Cut Rolls

For clean and precise cuts, use unflavored dental floss to slice the log into individual portions. Simply slide the floss under the log, cross it over, and pull tight to cut.

Let Rolls Rise Before Baking

Allow the assembled rolls to rise in a warm place for a final proofing step. This ensures they bake soft and fluffy.

Make the Frosting While Rolls Bake

Take advantage of the bake time to prepare the frosting. This ensures the frosting is fresh and ready to spread on warm rolls.

Adjust Frosting Consistency

If the frosting seems too thick, add a teaspoon of milk at a time until the desired consistency is achieved.

FAQ

Can I freeze cinnamon rolls?

Yes, you can freeze them unbaked or after baking. If freezing unbaked, let them thaw and complete the second rise before baking. If freezing baked rolls, defrost them and warm them in the oven before serving.

Why did my rolls come out dense?

Dense rolls may occur if the dough didn’t rise enough or if too much flour was added. Ensure the yeast is fresh, and add only as much flour as needed to achieve a soft and slightly sticky dough.

Can I make these without a stand mixer?

Yes, you can mix the dough by hand with a sturdy wooden spoon and knead it on a floured surface, although it will require more effort compared to using a stand mixer.

How should I store leftover cinnamon rolls?

Store leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. You can also refrigerate them for up to five days, reheating before serving.

Can I use a different filling?

Yes, you can swap the classic cinnamon-sugar filling for alternatives like chocolate, fruit preserves, or nuts, depending on your preference.

What should I do if my rolls stick to the pan?

Use parchment paper to line the baking pan or grease it well with butter. If rolls stick, gently loosen them with a spatula.

How do I know when the rolls are done baking?

The rolls are done when they’re golden brown on the top. For accuracy, you can check that the internal temperature of the center roll reaches 190°F.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, the recipe can be doubled, but make sure your stand mixer and baking pans are large enough to accommodate the extra dough and rolls.

Conclusion

These overnight cinnamon rolls are a delightful and stress-free way to enjoy a classic and indulgent breakfast treat. By preparing them the night before, you save time in the morning while still getting that warm, freshly baked taste. Perfect for holidays, weekends, or whenever you’re craving something special, these cinnamon rolls balance a fluffy texture with a rich, cinnamon-spiced filling and creamy glaze on top. The convenience and deliciousness make them a must-try recipe in any home baker’s repertoire.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Glazed Donuts

Try pairing the cinnamon rolls with homemade glazed donuts for a breakfast spread that everyone will adore. The soft and sweet donuts make a perfect complement.

Fruit Salad

Add a refreshing and fruity element to your breakfast or brunch with a vibrant fruit salad. The natural sweetness of fruits balances the rich cinnamon rolls.

Maple Pecan Sticky Buns

For another baked indulgence, try making maple pecan sticky buns. They make an excellent option for a mix-and-match breakfast table.

Homemade Hot Chocolate

Pair these cinnamon rolls with a steaming cup of homemade hot chocolate. The rich, creamy drink is a cozy match for the rolls.

Quiche or Savory Egg Dish

Balance the sweetness with a savory dish like quiche or an egg bake. The contrast between sweet and savory can elevate your meal.