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Overnight Cinnamon Rolls

Overnight Cinnamon Rolls - Hearty Food Ideas

Let me take you on a delectable journey into the warm, sweet world of overnight cinnamon rolls. You wake up to the smell of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through your kitchen. The aroma dances in the air, promising comfort and satisfaction. 
There is something magical about waking up to a warm treat, and that’s exactly what overnight cinnamon rolls deliver. 
Prep Time 3 hours
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 3 hours 25 minutes
Servings: 12
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Calories: 388

Ingredients
  

Dough
  • 2/3 cup granulated sugar, divided
  • 1 and 1/2 tablespoons active dry yeast or instant yeast
  • 4 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour or bread flour
  • 1/2 cup 1/2 unsalted butter, softened to room temperature and sliced into 4 pieces
  • 1 cup whole milk, warmed to approximately 100°F 38°C
  • 2 teaspoons neutral oil for greasing the bowl canola, vegetable, or olive
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste
Filling
  • 1 and 1/2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
  • 2/3 cup packed light or dark brown sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
Cream Cheese Icing
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 4 ounces full-fat brick-style cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon heavy cream or milk

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Dough
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1/3 cup of granulated sugar and yeast. Pour in the warm milk. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This is your yeast proofing moment.
Step 2: Mix in the Dry Ingredients
  1. Add eggs, vanilla bean paste, and 4 cups of flour into the bowl with the yeast mixture. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to mix until combined. Then, gradually add the remaining 1/2 cup of flour to achieve a soft dough.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
  1. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. It should bounce back when you poke it. Form it into a ball.
Step 4: First Rise
  1. Lightly grease another bowl with neutral oil. Place the dough ball in the bowl, cover it with a damp towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour or until doubled in size.
Step 5: Make the Filling
  1. While the dough is rising, mix together brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a bowl. Set this mixture aside. You'll want the filling ready to go when the dough is ready.
Step 6: Roll Out the Dough
  1. Once risen, punch the dough down gently. Transfer it back to a floured surface and roll it out into a rectangle, about ¼-inch thick. Spread the softened butter over the dough evenly, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture all over.
Step 7: Roll and Shape
  1. Starting from one long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Pinch the seam to seal it. Cut the log into 12 equal pieces (you can use dental floss for a clean cut or a sharp knife).
Step 8: Prepare for Overnight Rise
  1. Grease a baking dish. Arrange the rolls in the dish, cover them with plastic wrap, and place them in the fridge overnight. This step is crucial for that amazing texture.
Step 9: Bake
  1. The next morning, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove the rolls from the fridge and let them come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Step 10: Make the Icing
  1. While the rolls cool, combine cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla, and heavy cream in a bowl. Mix until smooth and creamy. Drizzle this icing over the warm rolls.

Notes

  • Use Fresh Yeast: Always check the expiration date on your yeast for the best results.
  • Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure all your dairy and eggs are at room temperature. This helps the dough rise better.
  • Customize Filling: Feel free to mix in nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit to the filling for added flavor.
  • Don’t Rush the Dough: Let it rise fully; this is crucial for a light and fluffy texture.
  • Store Leftovers Properly: You can freeze rolls before baking them. Just let them thaw and rise, then bake as instructed.