Sharing is caring!

Overnight Cinnamon Rolls

Why You’ll Love Overnight Cinnamon Rolls?

There’s nothing quite like waking up to the warm, sweet aroma of freshly baked overnight cinnamon rolls. These soft, gooey delights are the perfect make-ahead breakfast, saving you time in the morning while delivering a decadent treat. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or simply treating yourself, these rolls are a crowd-pleaser. Plus, with our easy recipe, you’ll have them prepped the night before—just pop them in the oven when you wake up! For more comforting breakfast ideas, check out our vegetable quiche recipe.

Ingredients to make overnight cinnamon rolls

• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 cup warm milk (110°F/45°C)
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup packed brown sugar
• 1 ½ tbsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ cup softened butter (for filling)
• 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
• 2 tbsp milk or cream (for glaze)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (for glaze)

Time needed to make overnight cinnamon rolls

Making overnight cinnamon rolls is a breeze, especially since most of the work happens the night before. Here’s the breakdown:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes (mixing dough, rolling, and assembling)
• Rising Time: Overnight (8–12 hours in the fridge)
• Bake Time: 25–30 minutes
• Total Time: 9–12 hours (mostly hands-off)

For a stress-free morning, prep these rolls the night before and bake them fresh. If you love make-ahead breakfasts, try our vegetable quiche recipe for another easy option.

Quick Steps to Make Overnight Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast in a bowl. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy. Add melted butter, eggs, flour, and salt, then knead until smooth. Cover and let rise for 1 hour.

Step 2: Roll Out the Dough

On a floured surface, roll the dough into a large rectangle. Spread softened butter evenly, then sprinkle with a mix of brown sugar and cinnamon. Roll tightly from the long edge.

Step 3: Slice and Arrange

Cut the rolled dough into 12 even slices. Place them in a greased baking dish, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

The next morning, let the rolls sit at room temperature for 30 minutes. Bake at 375°F for 25 minutes until golden brown.

Step 5: Add the Glaze

Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla to make a smooth glaze. Drizzle over warm rolls before serving. Enjoy your irresistible overnight cinnamon rolls!

Is overnight cinnamon rolls healthy and nutritious ?

While overnight cinnamon rolls are undeniably delicious, they are more of an indulgent treat than a health food. A typical roll contains refined flour, sugar, and butter, contributing to higher calories and carbs. However, you can boost their nutritional value by using whole wheat flour, reducing sugar, or adding protein-rich ingredients like Greek yogurt.

For a balanced breakfast, pair them with protein sources like scrambled eggs or a smoothie. If you’re looking for healthier alternatives, try our vegetable quiche recipe or protein-packed chicken chili for a more nutrient-dense meal.

For further insights on balancing indulgence with nutrition, check out The Stay at Home Chef’s guide to hearty meals or explore Julie’s protein-rich split pea soup for inspiration.

Can I make overnight cinnamon rolls healthier and still delicious?

Absolutely! You can enjoy fluffy, flavorful overnight cinnamon rolls with smart ingredient swaps that don’t sacrifice taste. Here’s how:

Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Flour

Swap all-purpose flour for whole wheat pastry flour or a gluten-free blend for added fiber. The texture stays soft, especially if you let the dough rest overnight to hydrate fully.

Natural Sweeteners

Reduce refined sugar by using mashed bananas, applesauce, or pure maple syrup in the filling. For a sugar-free option, try monk fruit sweetener blended with cinnamon—it caramelizes beautifully. Check out these tips for baking with alternative sweeteners.

Lighter Cream Cheese Frosting

Mix Greek yogurt with a touch of cream cheese and vanilla for a protein-rich frosting. Or try coconut yogurt for a dairy-free version—it pairs perfectly with the warm spices. For more dairy-free ideas, this creamy recipe offers great inspiration.

Nut or Seed Toppings

Add crunch and healthy fats with chopped walnuts, pecans, or chia seeds. A sprinkle of flaxseeds boosts omega-3s without overpowering the cinnamon flavor. Learn how to balance textures in baked goods like a pro.

Pro Tip: Letting the rolls rise slowly in the fridge (like this make-ahead casserole) deepens the flavor while keeping them light and airy.

How to Serve Overnight Cinnamon Rolls?

Freshly baked overnight cinnamon rolls are best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven. For an extra touch, drizzle them with cream cheese glaze or a simple vanilla icing. Pair them with a hot cup of coffee or a cold glass of milk for the ultimate breakfast experience.

If you’re serving these for a brunch gathering, consider adding a side of fresh fruit or a savory dish like this vegetable quiche to balance the sweetness. For a cozy winter morning, try pairing them with slow cooker beef stew for a hearty contrast.

Looking for more dessert inspiration? Check out these pumpkin cheesecake or classic chocolate chip cookies for a sweet ending to any meal. And if you love easy breakfast ideas, don’t miss our chicken pot pie with biscuits for another comforting option.

Avoid These Mistakes

Making overnight cinnamon rolls is simple, but a few missteps can ruin your breakfast masterpiece. Here’s what to watch for:

Overproofing the Dough

Letting the dough rise too long makes it collapse during baking. Stick to the recommended time—usually 8–12 hours in the fridge. For more dough tips, check our flaky pastry guide.

Skimping on the Filling

A thin cinnamon-sugar layer leads to bland rolls. Generously spread the mixture—this slow-cooker recipe’s layering technique works great for fillings too.

Rushing the Glaze

Adding icing while rolls are piping hot causes it to melt off. Wait 10–15 minutes. Our pumpkin dessert post explains temperature control for frostings.

Using Cold Ingredients

Eggs and butter straight from the fridge hinder rising. Take them out 30 minutes early—a trick we also recommend in this soup prep guide.

Pro tip: Measure flour correctly by spooning it into cups. Packed flour leads to dense rolls—learn measuring hacks from our cookie baking secrets.

The best way to store leftover overnight cinnamon rolls

Leftover overnight cinnamon rolls stay fresh for up to 3 days when stored properly. Place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap to prevent drying out. For longer storage, freeze them individually wrapped in foil, then transfer to a freezer bag—they’ll keep for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 300°F for 10 minutes or microwave for 20 seconds for that just-baked warmth. For more tips on preserving baked goods, check out our guide on storing quiche or explore slow-cooker-friendly desserts. If you love make-ahead breakfasts, our casserole storage tips and soup preservation methods offer extra inspiration.

Ready to give overnight cinnamon rolls a try?

If you’re craving a warm, gooey breakfast treat that practically makes itself, these overnight cinnamon rolls are your answer. Perfect for lazy weekends, holiday mornings, or anytime you want to impress with minimal effort, this recipe delivers fluffy, aromatic rolls with a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Pair them with a savory quiche for a balanced brunch or enjoy them solo with a hot cup of coffee. For more cozy breakfast ideas, check out our hearty casseroles or comforting chicken dishes. And if you love baking, don’t miss our classic Amish-inspired bakes for more homestyle inspiration. Happy baking!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I prepare overnight cinnamon rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely! That’s the beauty of overnight cinnamon rolls. Prepare them the night before, let them rise in the fridge, and bake them fresh in the morning for a warm, gooey breakfast.

Can I freeze overnight cinnamon rolls?

Yes! After assembling, wrap the unbaked rolls tightly in plastic and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

Why are my cinnamon rolls dense?

Dense rolls usually result from over-kneading the dough or not letting them rise long enough. Ensure proper proofing time for light, fluffy results.

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, but adjust the amount—use 25% less instant yeast since it’s more potent. No need to dissolve it in liquid first; mix directly with dry ingredients.

How do I prevent dry cinnamon rolls?

Don’t overbake them! Pull them out when golden brown, and brush with melted butter right after baking to keep them soft and moist.