Overnight Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Discover the perfect overnight cinnamon rolls recipe, featuring soft, fluffy dough layered with a rich cinnamon-sugar filling and topped with a creamy, tangy cream cheese icing. Perfect for holidays, brunch gatherings, or any special morning, these cinnamon rolls are easy to prepare ahead of time and bake fresh the next day. Learn tips, substitutions, and answers to FAQs for guaranteed success in making these bakery-style cinnamon rolls at home.

Ingredients

Dough:

• 1 cup warm milk (not hot)
• ½ 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
• ½ tsp salt

Filling:

• 7 tbsp unsalted butter, softened, divided
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp ground cinnamon

Cream Cheese Icing:

• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ tbsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup confectioners’ sugar

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Instructions

Making the Dough

1. In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine warm milk, yeast, and 2 tbsp sugar. Let sit uncovered for 7 minutes until foamy.
2. Add ½ cup flour and whisk until smooth. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise for 35–45 minutes at room temperature (or 25 minutes in a 100°F oven). The mixture should appear puffy.
3. Whisk in the egg, remaining 2 tbsp sugar, 1 tbsp melted butter, and salt.
4. Using the dough hook on speed 2, add the remaining 2 ½ cups of flour in ½-cup increments. Mix until the dough no longer sticks to the sides of the bowl, adding 1 tbsp of flour at a time if necessary. Knead for 10 minutes.
5. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and let it rise for 2 hours at room temperature (or 1 hour in a 100°F oven) until doubled in size.

Assembling the Rolls

1. Flour your work surface generously. Place the dough in the center and roll it into a 17”x10” rectangle.
2. Spread 6 tbsp of softened butter evenly across the dough.
3. Mix the sugar and cinnamon for the filling. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the buttered dough.
4. Roll the dough tightly, starting from the long side. Gently press the ends to create a uniform roll, then slice into 12 even pieces.
5. Butter the sides and bottom of a 9×13 baking dish with 1 tbsp butter. Arrange the rolls in the pan, cut-side down. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight (up to 18 hours).

Baking the Rolls

1. Remove the rolls from the refrigerator. Let them rise at room temperature for 1–1 ½ hours (or 35 minutes in a 100°F oven) until puffy.
2. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Brush the tops with 1 tbsp melted butter. Bake for 22–24 minutes, or until the tops are lightly golden.
3. Let the rolls cool in the pan for 15 minutes before frosting.

Making the Cream Cheese Icing

1. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth.
2. Add vanilla extract and mix until incorporated.
3. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until fluffy, about 3–4 minutes. Spread generously over warm cinnamon rolls.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfectly soft and fluffy texture with a rich cinnamon filling.
• The overnight method makes it an ideal make-ahead breakfast or brunch option.
• The cream cheese icing adds a delicious tangy sweetness.

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Tips

• Use warm milk (about 110°F) to activate the yeast properly.
• Avoid over-kneading to keep the dough soft and tender.
• Ensure the butter for the filling is softened for easy spreading.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Swap granulated sugar in the filling for brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
• Add chopped nuts or raisins for extra texture.
• Use plant-based milk and vegan butter for a dairy-free version.

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FAQs

Can I freeze the rolls before baking?
Yes, assemble the rolls and freeze them instead of refrigerating. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before letting them rise and baking.

Can I make the icing ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the icing up to 2 days ahead and refrigerate. Bring to room temperature before using.

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Serving and Suggestions

• Serve warm with a side of fresh fruit or coffee.
• Pair with a glass of milk for a comforting treat.
• Ideal for holiday mornings, brunch gatherings, or as a sweet indulgence any day!