Overnight Cinnamon Rolls: 12 Steps to Sweet Bliss

Name: Overnight Cinnamon Rolls: 12 Steps to Sweet Bliss
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 8 h 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 packet active dry yeast; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 cup whole milk; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 large eggs; 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons milk (for icing)

November 25, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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There’s just something magical about waking up to the smell of freshly baked overnight cinnamon rolls. Imagine pulling back the covers, wandering into the kitchen, and being greeted by the warm, sweet aroma of cinnamon wafting through the air. These delightful rolls are not only incredibly delicious, but they’re also super easy to prepare the night before, making them the perfect breakfast treat for busy mornings or lazy weekends. With just a bit of planning, you can have gooey, fluffy cinnamon rolls ready to enjoy in no time. Trust me, once you try these overnight cinnamon rolls, they’ll become a cherished staple in your breakfast routine!

Ingredients for Overnight Cinnamon Rolls

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making these scrumptious overnight cinnamon rolls! Here’s what you’ll need:

4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 packet active dry yeast (about 2 1/4 teaspoons)
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup whole milk, warmed
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs, at room temperature
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1 cup powdered sugar (for icing)
2 tablespoons milk (for icing)

Make sure to measure your ingredients carefully for the best results. Trust me, the right ratios make all the difference in achieving those fluffy, gooey rolls we’re dreaming of!

How to Prepare Overnight Cinnamon Rolls

Now, let’s dive into the delightful process of making these overnight cinnamon rolls! It’s easier than you might think, and I promise the end result is worth every minute spent in the kitchen. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you rolling!

Start by mixing your dry ingredients. In a large bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, active dry yeast, and salt. Give it a good stir so everything’s evenly distributed.
Next up, warm the milk and melted butter together until they’re just lukewarm—this helps activate the yeast! You can do this in a small saucepan or even in the microwave. Just be careful not to overheat it.
Pour the warm milk and butter mixture into your bowl of dry ingredients. Then, crack in the eggs and mix everything together until a dough forms. It should be slightly sticky but not too wet.
Now, it’s time to knead! Flour your work surface and turn the dough out. Knead for about 5 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. If it’s too sticky, don’t hesitate to sprinkle a little more flour.
Once kneaded, place your dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour. You’re looking for it to double in size, so be patient!
After the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Then, roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Brush the surface with melted butter, and sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon evenly over the top.
Starting from one edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Once rolled, use a sharp knife to cut it into 12 equal pieces. Place the rolls in a greased baking dish, leaving a little space between each one.
Cover the dish with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel and refrigerate overnight. Yes, this is the magic part where they get all fluffy and delicious while you sleep!
In the morning, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take the rolls out of the fridge and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes while the oven heats up.
Once ready, pop them in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and your kitchen smells heavenly. Seriously, it’s hard to resist the aroma!
While they’re baking, mix the powdered sugar with the 2 tablespoons of milk to make a simple icing. Adjust the milk to get your desired consistency—drizzly is the goal!
When the rolls are done, drizzle that icing over the warm rolls right when they come out of the oven. Wow, just wow!

And there you have it! A foolproof way to prepare your overnight cinnamon rolls. It’s all about timing and a little love, and soon you’ll be enjoying these sweet, fluffy treats!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to prepare: With just a bit of mixing and rolling, you can get these delicious rolls ready to rise overnight. No fuss, just pure joy!
Perfect for gatherings: Whether it’s a cozy brunch or a festive holiday breakfast, these overnight cinnamon rolls are sure to impress your friends and family.
Deliciously sweet: Each bite is a heavenly combination of gooey cinnamon and brown sugar, topped with creamy icing. You won’t be able to resist going back for seconds!
Make-ahead convenience: Prepare them the night before, and you’ll wake up to a delightful breakfast without any stress. It’s a game changer for busy mornings!
Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite nuts or dried fruits for extra flavor. The possibilities are endless!

Trust me, once you experience the magic of waking up to these rolls, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them!

Tips for Success

Getting those overnight cinnamon rolls just right is all about a few simple tricks! Here are my top tips to ensure your rolls turn out perfectly every time:

Watch the dough rise: Make sure you give your dough enough time to rise. A warm, draft-free spot is perfect for this. If your kitchen is chilly, try placing it near a warm oven.
Check ingredient temperatures: Using warm milk and melted butter is crucial for activating the yeast. Just make sure they’re not too hot—think lukewarm, like a cozy bath!
Don’t skip the kneading: Kneading helps develop the gluten, which gives your rolls that lovely fluffy texture. Just a few minutes is all it takes, and you’ll feel the difference!
Experiment with fillings: While the classic cinnamon and sugar are divine, don’t hesitate to get creative! Consider adding chopped nuts, raisins, or even a bit of cream cheese filling for a delicious twist.
Perfect your icing: For the icing, you can adjust the milk to achieve your desired consistency. I love it thick enough to stay on top but drizzly enough to run down the sides of the rolls!
Store properly: If you have leftovers (which might be rare!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for a day or two. You can also freeze them for future breakfasts—just reheat gently!

With these tips, you’ll be a cinnamon roll pro in no time! Enjoy the process and the delicious results!

Variations of Overnight Cinnamon Rolls

If you’re like me, you love to experiment in the kitchen! These overnight cinnamon rolls are a fantastic base, and there are so many fun ways to mix things up. Here are some ideas to inspire your creativity:

Nutty Delight: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the cinnamon and brown sugar filling for a delightful crunch. You could even sprinkle some on top of the glaze for extra texture!
Fruity Twist: Toss in some raisins or dried cranberries for a chewy, fruity surprise. You could also use fresh fruit like sliced apples or pears mixed with a bit of cinnamon for a fresh take!
Spice It Up: Experiment with different spices! Try cardamom, nutmeg, or even pumpkin spice for a seasonal twist. Each will add a unique flavor profile that’s absolutely delicious!
Chocolate Lovers: For a decadent treat, add chocolate chips to the filling or drizzle melted chocolate over the rolls before serving. Chocolate and cinnamon? Yes, please!
Maple Glaze: Swap out the traditional icing for a maple glaze. Just mix powdered sugar with maple syrup and a splash of milk. It adds a lovely depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon.
Cheesecake Filling: For a rich twist, spread a layer of cream cheese mixed with sugar and vanilla on the rolled-out dough before adding the cinnamon and sugar. You’ll get a creamy surprise in every bite!

Feel free to mix and match these ideas! The beauty of these overnight cinnamon rolls is their versatility. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or venture out with these variations, you’re bound to create something delicious that suits your taste!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Once you’ve indulged in those delicious overnight cinnamon rolls, you might find yourself with a few leftovers (if you’re lucky!). Storing them properly is key to keeping them fresh and tasty!

To store your leftover rolls, simply place them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay yummy for about 2 days, but trust me, they rarely last that long in my house!

If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the rolls. Just wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll be good for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just take out however many you want and let them thaw in the fridge overnight.

For reheating, you can pop them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds to get them nice and warm. If you prefer a bit of crispness, you can also reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This way, the edges get a little crunchy while the insides stay soft and gooey. Yum!

And don’t forget to drizzle a bit of icing over the top after reheating for that fresh-out-of-the-oven experience! Enjoy every last bite!

Nutritional Information

When enjoying these delightful overnight cinnamon rolls, it’s great to know what you’re indulging in! Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutritional values for one roll:

Calories: 250
Total Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 40mg
Sodium: 150mg
Carbohydrates: 36g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 15g
Protein: 4g

Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary depending on the specific ingredients you use. So, if you decide to add nuts or swap out the milk, it’ll change things up a bit! But no matter the numbers, the joy of biting into a warm, cinnamon-swirled roll is truly priceless!

FAQ About Overnight Cinnamon Rolls

Got questions about these delightful overnight cinnamon rolls? I’m here to help! Here are some of the most common inquiries I get, along with my answers:

Can I freeze overnight cinnamon rolls?

Absolutely! Freezing is a great way to make sure you always have a delicious treat on hand. Just wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, let them thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat as needed!

How do I make them dairy-free?

It’s super easy to make these overnight cinnamon rolls dairy-free! Simply substitute the whole milk with almond milk, soy milk, or any other non-dairy milk you prefer. For the butter, you can use a dairy-free alternative like coconut oil or a plant-based buttery spread. They’ll still come out delicious!

What can I use instead of eggs?

If you’re looking to make these rolls egg-free, there are a few great substitutes. You can use 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce or 1/4 cup mashed banana for each egg. Another option is to mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit until it thickens. It works like a charm!

Can I make the dough in advance and bake it later?

Yes, you can! If you want to prepare the dough a day or two ahead, simply follow the recipe up to the point of cutting the rolls. Instead of refrigerating overnight, you can store it in the fridge for up to 48 hours before baking. Just let the rolls sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before popping them in the oven.

What if my dough doesn’t rise?

Oh no! If your dough doesn’t rise, it could be due to a few reasons. Make sure your yeast is fresh and active—if it’s been sitting in your pantry for a while, it may not work. Also, check the temperature of your liquids; they should be warm but not hot. If your kitchen is too cold, try creating a warmer environment by placing the bowl near a warm oven or covering it with a warm towel.

How do I know when the rolls are done baking?

The best way to tell if your cinnamon rolls are done is by checking their color and texture. They should be golden brown on top and spring back slightly when you press them gently in the center. If you have a kitchen thermometer, the internal temperature should be about 190°F (88°C) when they’re perfectly baked.

If you have any more questions or need further tips, don’t hesitate to reach out! I love chatting about all things cinnamon rolls!

Final Thoughts

I really hope you give these overnight cinnamon rolls a try! They’re not just a recipe; they’re a cozy way to start your day and bring a little happiness to your breakfast table. I can already picture you pulling those warm, gooey rolls out of the oven, the smell filling your kitchen, and everyone gathering around to dig in. Trust me, once you make them, they’ll become a favorite for family gatherings, lazy Sundays, or any day that needs a sprinkle of sweetness!

I’d love to hear how your cinnamon rolls turn out! If you have any tips, variations, or stories to share, please drop a comment below. And if you enjoyed the recipe, a rating would mean the world to me! Let’s spread the joy of baking together. Happy rolling, and enjoy every delicious bite!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.