Easy Overnight Cinnamon Rolls: Wake Up to Freshly Baked Goodness

Easy Overnight Cinnamon Rolls
Easy Overnight Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect way to start your day with a warm, comforting treat. Imagine waking up to the irresistible aroma of fresh cinnamon rolls baking in the oven, ready to be enjoyed with your morning coffee. This recipe allows you to prepare the rolls the night before, making breakfast a breeze!

Perfect Pairing
Serve your cinnamon rolls with a side of fresh fruit or a steaming cup of coffee for the ultimate breakfast experience. The sweetness of the rolls complements the acidity of fresh berries perfectly.
Occasions to Serve
These rolls are perfect for special occasions like holidays, brunches, or just a cozy Sunday morning with family. They also make a delightful treat for overnight guests.
Recipe Overview
- Servings: 12 rolls
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus overnight resting)
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 8 hours (including overnight resting)
- Calories: About 300 calories per roll (including icing)
Nutrition Information
- Calories: 300
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 250mg
Cook and Prep Times
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Resting Time: 7-8 hours (overnight)
- Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ingredients List
For the Dough
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) instant yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup whole milk, warmed
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
For the Filling
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
For the Icing
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, instant yeast, and salt. Add the warmed milk, melted butter, and eggs. Mix until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Make the Filling: In a bowl, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until well combined. Set aside.
- Assemble the Rolls: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a rectangle (about 16×12 inches). Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough.
- Roll and Slice: Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Slice into 12 equal pieces and place them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Overnight Rest: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.
- Bake the Rolls: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the rolls from the fridge and let them sit at room temperature for 30 minutes. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
- Make the Icing: While the rolls are baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Serve: Drizzle the icing over the warm cinnamon rolls and enjoy!

Overnight Cinnamon Rolls
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- bowl
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) instant yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup whole milk, warmed
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
For the Filling
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
For the Icing
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, instant yeast, and salt. Add the warmed milk, melted butter, and eggs. Mix until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Make the Filling: In a bowl, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until well combined. Set aside.
- Assemble the Rolls: Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a rectangle (about 16×12 inches). Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough.
- Roll and Slice: Starting from the long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Slice into 12 equal pieces and place them in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Overnight Rest: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.
- Bake the Rolls: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the rolls from the fridge and let them sit at room temperature for 30 minutes. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
- Make the Icing: While the rolls are baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Serve: Drizzle the icing over the warm cinnamon rolls and enjoy!
Nutrition
Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Rolls
- Use Fresh Yeast: Ensure your yeast is fresh for the best rise.
- Don’t Skip the Overnight Rest: This allows the flavors to develop and makes for a softer roll.
- Adjust Baking Time: Keep an eye on the rolls towards the end of the baking time to avoid over-baking.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Rolls Not Rising: Ensure your yeast is active. If it doesn’t bubble in warm milk, it may be expired.
- Dry Rolls: Avoid over-baking; check for doneness a few minutes early.
- Filling Oozes Out: Make sure to roll tightly and seal the edges well before slicing.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use whole wheat flour? Yes, but it may affect the texture. Mix with all-purpose flour for best results.
- Can I freeze the rolls? Absolutely! Freeze before baking, then let them rise overnight in the fridge before baking.
- How long do leftovers last? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Can I make the icing ahead of time? Yes, store it in the fridge and whisk before using.

Conclusion
Making Easy Overnight Cinnamon Rolls is a delightful way to treat yourself and your loved ones to a special breakfast. With minimal effort the night before, you can enjoy warm, gooey rolls that will have everyone coming back for seconds. So, gather your ingredients, prepare the dough, and look forward to waking up to the sweet scent of freshly baked cinnamon rolls!