Overnight Cinnamon Rolls

Overnight Cinnamon Rolls Recipe – Soft Sweet Breakfast Treat

ByBella Skye
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Overnight Cinnamon Rolls

Overnight cinnamon rolls are the ultimate indulgence for breakfast lovers who want a decadent, bakery-style experience with minimal morning effort. These rolls combine soft, fluffy dough with a sweet, buttery cinnamon filling and a luscious glaze that melts over the warm rolls. The magic of an overnight cinnamon roll recipe is that it allows the dough to rise slowly, developing richer flavor and a tender, airy texture that standard quick-rise methods cannot achieve.

More Hearty Desserts

What makes overnight cinnamon rolls special is their convenience paired with luxury. You can prepare the dough and filling the night before, refrigerate them, and wake up to a warm, aromatic breakfast ready to bake. They are perfect for mornings when you want to impress your family or guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of a soft interior, a caramelized cinnamon swirl, and a sweet glaze topping makes them a favorite among all ages, whether served at a casual breakfast table or as part of a sweet breakfast casserole for a crowd.

Overnight cinnamon rolls also serve as a foundation for a variety of creative dishes. Transform them into a cinnamon roll casserole make ahead style, a cinnamon roll French toast casserole overnight, or a sweet casserole breakfast by simply layering or slicing them differently. Their versatility and simplicity make them a must-have recipe in every home cook’s collection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This overnight cinnamon rolls recipe stands out for several compelling reasons:

  • Effortless morning preparation: The dough is prepared the night before, saving time and stress on busy mornings.
  • Superior flavor and texture: Slow refrigeration allows the dough to develop a tender crumb and rich taste that rivals bakery-quality cinnamon rolls.
  • Versatile serving options: Perfect as standalone rolls, incorporated into a cinnamon roll casserole make ahead style, or baked into a cinnamon roll French toast casserole overnight.
  • Crowd-pleasing: Ideal for sweet breakfast casserole recipes or breakfast sweets for a crowd, ensuring everyone enjoys a luxurious start to their day.
  • Flexible timing: While the classic method requires overnight refrigeration, this recipe can adapt to quick versions such as easy one-hour cinnamon rolls or 1-hour cinnamon buns if needed.
  • Creative variations: Works with recipes using Grands cinnamon rolls, homemade dough, or combined with other breakfast elements like glazes, toppings, or fruit.

This recipe transforms your morning routine into a celebration, offering both comfort and elegance without requiring complicated baking skills.

Overnight Cinnamon Rolls

Preparation and Cooking Time, Also Serving

  • Preparation Time: 25-30 minutes (night before)
  • Refrigeration Time: 8-12 hours
  • Baking Time: 25-30 minutes
  • Total Time: 9-12 hours (including overnight refrigeration)
  • Servings: 12

For a quicker alternative, see tips for 1-hour cinnamon rolls or easy 1-hour cinnamon rolls, which produce a slightly different texture but remain soft and flavorful.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 packet active dry yeast (2 ¼ teaspoons)
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup whole milk, warmed (substitute with almond or oat milk if needed)
  • ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature

For the Filling:

  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)

For the Glaze:

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons milk or cream
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Substitution Notes:

  • Milk can be swapped for plant-based alternatives to make the recipe dairy-free.
  • Butter can be replaced with vegan butter or margarine for dietary restrictions.
  • Sugar may be adjusted slightly depending on sweetness preference.
  • For quick versions like 1-hour cinnamon rolls, instant yeast can be used for faster rise.
Overnight Cinnamon Rolls

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cinnamon rolls vector

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Add melted butter, sugar, salt, and eggs. Gradually add flour while mixing until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms. Knead for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Cinnamon rolls vector

Step 2: First Rise and Refrigeration

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight (8–12 hours). The slow rise develops flavor and tenderness, creating the signature soft texture of overnight cinnamon rolls.

Cinnamon rolls vector

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

While the dough rests, combine softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a small bowl. Mix until smooth and creamy. This filling is rich and aromatic, providing the sweet swirls that make cinnamon rolls irresistible.

Cinnamon rolls vector

Step 4: Roll Out the Dough

Remove the chilled dough from the refrigerator and lightly flour a clean surface. Roll the dough into a 16×12-inch rectangle. Spread the cinnamon-sugar filling evenly over the surface, leaving a ½-inch border on the edges.

Cinnamon rolls vector

Step 5: Form the Rolls

Starting at the long edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Pinch the seam to seal. Using a sharp knife, cut the log into 12 even slices. Place the slices cut-side up in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, leaving a little space for expansion.

Cinnamon rolls vector

Step 6: Second Rise

Cover the baking dish loosely with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let the rolls rise at room temperature for 30–45 minutes until puffy. This second rise ensures soft, fluffy rolls with the perfect texture.

Cinnamon rolls vector

Step 7: Bake the Cinnamon Rolls

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Bake the rolls for 25–30 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. If making 1-hour cinnamon rolls, bake for 20–25 minutes due to slightly smaller, quicker-rising dough.

Cinnamon rolls vector

Step 8: Prepare the Glaze

While the rolls bake, whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust consistency with more milk or powdered sugar as needed.

Cinnamon rolls vector

Step 9: Glaze the Rolls

Remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool slightly for 5 minutes. Drizzle the glaze generously over the warm rolls, allowing it to melt into the swirls for a sweet, glossy finish.

How to Serve

  • Serve warm, directly from the baking dish, for a classic breakfast or brunch.
  • Pair with coffee, tea, or hot chocolate for a cozy morning experience.
  • For sweet breakfast casserole overnight, layer rolls in a dish with extra glaze or cream filling for a decadent treat.
  • Add fruit toppings such as sliced strawberries or blueberries for a fresh contrast to the sweet rolls.
  • Sprinkle chopped nuts or chocolate chips for extra texture and flavor, especially for recipes with Grands cinnamon rolls.

Additional Tips

  • Ensure milk is warm but not hot; high temperatures can kill yeast.
  • Chill dough overnight for the best flavor, but allow a short second rise at room temperature before baking.
  • Use a sharp knife or dental floss to cut rolls cleanly without squishing.
  • Cover rolls while rising to prevent drying and maintain soft texture.
  • Adjust cinnamon and sugar ratio according to personal taste preference.

Recipe Variations

  • Cinnamon Roll Casserole Make Ahead: Layer sliced rolls in a baking dish, add extra glaze or cream cheese filling, and refrigerate overnight.
  • Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole Overnight: Slice rolls and soak in an egg-milk mixture, then bake for a sweet breakfast twist.
  • 1-Hour Cinnamon Rolls: Use instant yeast for a quicker rise, follow the same method, and bake slightly less for fast results.
  • Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls: Add a sprinkle of chocolate chips into the filling for a sweet, melty surprise.
  • Nutty Cinnamon Rolls: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the filling for added texture and flavor.

Freezing and Storage

  • Allow rolls to cool completely before freezing.
  • Wrap individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
  • To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm in the oven at 325°F for 10–15 minutes.
  • Glaze fresh before serving for the best texture and flavor.
  • For casserole versions, assemble and freeze before the second rise; bake directly from frozen with additional 10–15 minutes.

Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Serving)

  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Protein: 6 g
  • Fat: 12 g
  • Carbohydrates: 55 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Sugar: 28 g
  • Sodium: 280 mg

Values vary based on glaze, butter, or variations such as chocolate or nuts.

Final Words

Overnight cinnamon rolls are a perfect blend of convenience and indulgence, turning an ordinary morning into a special occasion. Their soft, fluffy texture, combined with sweet cinnamon swirls and a creamy glaze, creates a classic comfort food that everyone loves. By preparing them overnight, you save precious morning time while ensuring that every bite has rich, developed flavors that come from slow, thoughtful fermentation.

This recipe also demonstrates the versatility of cinnamon rolls. From breakfast sweets for a crowd to sweet casserole breakfast ideas or cinnamon roll French toast casserole overnight, the possibilities are endless. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or explore variations such as chocolate or nut-filled rolls, the foundation of soft, tender dough ensures consistently excellent results. Even the faster alternatives like easy one-hour cinnamon rolls or 1-hour cinnamon buns provide satisfying outcomes without compromising flavor.

Ultimately, making overnight cinnamon rolls at home is a rewarding experience that brings joy and comfort to your kitchen. You gain not only delicious breakfast treats but also the ability to experiment creatively with toppings, glazes, and fillings. Sharing freshly baked rolls with family or guests showcases both your baking skill and your thoughtfulness, making this recipe a staple in any home cook’s repertoire. Once you master these rolls, they will become a reliable, cherished recipe for holidays, weekend breakfasts, or special gatherings.

FAQ’s

Soft, sweet cinnamon rolls that are prepared ahead of time and refrigerated overnight to develop flavor and texture.

Yes, use instant yeast for 1-hour cinnamon rolls or easy 1-hour cinnamon rolls.

Yes, they can be adapted into cinnamon roll casserole make ahead or layered casserole versions.

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or in the fridge for 4–5 days.

They are an indulgent breakfast; moderation is key, though they can be customized with whole grain flour or less sugar.

Overnight Cinnamon Rolls Recipe - Soft Sweet Breakfast Treat
Print

Overnight Cinnamon Rolls Recipe – Soft Sweet Breakfast Treat

Recipe by Bella SkyeCourse: Desserts
Servings

12

servings
Prep time

30

minutes
Cooking time

30

minutes
Calories

350

kcal

Ingredients

  • For the Dough:

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour

  • 1 packet active dry yeast (2 ¼ teaspoons)

  • ½ cup granulated sugar

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • 1 cup whole milk, warmed (substitute with almond or oat milk if needed)

  • ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted

  • 2 large eggs, room temperature

  • For the Filling:

  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened

  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed

  • 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)

  • For the Glaze:

  • 1 cup powdered sugar

  • 2 tablespoons milk or cream

  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Add melted butter, sugar, salt, and eggs. Gradually add flour while mixing until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms. Knead for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  • Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight (8–12 hours). The slow rise develops flavor and tenderness, creating the signature soft texture of overnight cinnamon rolls.
  • While the dough rests, combine softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a small bowl. Mix until smooth and creamy. This filling is rich and aromatic, providing the sweet swirls that make cinnamon rolls irresistible.
  • Remove the chilled dough from the refrigerator and lightly flour a clean surface. Roll the dough into a 16×12-inch rectangle. Spread the cinnamon-sugar filling evenly over the surface, leaving a ½-inch border on the edges.
  • Starting at the long edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Pinch the seam to seal. Using a sharp knife, cut the log into 12 even slices. Place the slices cut-side up in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, leaving a little space for expansion.
  • Cover the baking dish loosely with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let the rolls rise at room temperature for 30–45 minutes until puffy. This second rise ensures soft, fluffy rolls with the perfect texture.
  • Preheat the oven to 350°F. Bake the rolls for 25–30 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. If making 1-hour cinnamon rolls, bake for 20–25 minutes due to slightly smaller, quicker-rising dough.
  • While the rolls bake, whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust consistency with more milk or powdered sugar as needed.
  • Remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool slightly for 5 minutes. Drizzle the glaze generously over the warm rolls, allowing it to melt into the swirls for a sweet, glossy finish.

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