If you love waking up to the irresistible smell of freshly baked cinnamon rolls but dread the long prep times, you’re in for a treat! This easy overnight cinnamon rolls with cream cheese frosting recipe is designed to save you time and effort while delivering soft, fluffy, and flavorful rolls that melt in your mouth.
Imagine going to bed with dough in the fridge and waking up to the sweet aroma of warm cinnamon rolls topped with luscious cream cheese frosting. Sounds amazing, right? Let me guide you step-by-step through this foolproof recipe that’s perfect for busy mornings, special occasions, or simply whenever you crave a cozy treat.
Why Choose Overnight Cinnamon Rolls?
Traditional cinnamon rolls can be time-consuming because the dough needs to rise multiple times at room temperature. With the overnight method, the dough rises slowly in the fridge, which not only fits your schedule better but also improves the flavor and texture.
Benefits of the overnight method:
- Convenience: Prep the dough before bed, bake fresh rolls in the morning.
- Better Flavor: Slow fermentation develops richer, more complex taste.
- Perfect Texture: Fluffy, soft, and tender rolls every time.
Ingredients for Easy Overnight Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting
For the Dough:
- 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- ¾ cup warm whole milk (about 110°F / 43°C)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
For the Cinnamon Filling:
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 3 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter, softened
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 oz (115g) cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1-2 tablespoons milk (optional, for desired consistency)
Step-by-Step Recipe – Easy Overnight Cinnamon Rolls
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This ensures your yeast is active and ready to make the dough rise.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar, melted butter, salt, and eggs. Add the yeast mixture and stir well. Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing after each addition until a soft dough forms.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer with a dough hook, knead on medium speed for 6-7 minutes.
Step 4: First Rise (Refrigerator Overnight)
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Refrigerate overnight (8-12 hours). The dough will slowly rise and develop flavor.
Step 5: Prepare the Filling
In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon. Set aside. Soften the butter for spreading.
Step 6: Roll Out the Dough
Remove the dough from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes. Roll it out on a floured surface into a 16×12 inch rectangle.
Step 7: Spread Filling and Roll
Spread softened butter evenly over the dough. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture generously on top.
Starting at the long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal.
Step 8: Cut and Arrange Rolls
Cut the log into 12 equal pieces using a sharp knife or dental floss. Place the rolls into a greased 9×13 inch baking pan.
Step 9: Second Rise
Cover the pan with a towel and let the rolls rise at room temperature for 45 minutes to 1 hour, until puffed.
Step 10: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
How to Make Cream Cheese Frosting
While the rolls bake, prepare the frosting:
- Beat softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract.
- Add milk a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.
Once the cinnamon rolls are slightly cooled, generously spread the frosting over the top.
Tips for the Best Overnight Cinnamon Rolls
- Use whole milk for richer dough; you can substitute with 2% if needed.
- Don’t over-flour the dough; it should remain soft and slightly sticky.
- For an extra indulgent touch, add chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling.
- If you want a thicker frosting, double the cream cheese or reduce milk.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make cinnamon rolls without eggs?
Yes, you can substitute eggs with ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce per egg for a vegan-friendly dough.
Can I freeze these cinnamon rolls?
Absolutely! Freeze unbaked rolls after cutting and placing them in the pan. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as usual.
How do I reheat leftover cinnamon rolls?
Microwave individual rolls for 15-20 seconds or warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a game-changer for busy mornings or weekend brunches. The overnight rise means less morning prep, and the soft, sweet cinnamon rolls with tangy cream cheese frosting always impress.
Whether you’re serving family, friends, or guests, these cinnamon rolls are sure to be the star of the table.
Complete Recipe Summary – Easy Overnight Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Activate yeast | Dissolve yeast in warm milk, wait till frothy |
| Make dough | Mix sugar, butter, eggs, yeast mix, flour |
| Knead | Knead until smooth and elastic |
| Refrigerate overnight | Cover dough and chill for 8-12 hours |
| Prepare filling | Mix brown sugar & cinnamon |
| Roll dough | Roll out dough, spread butter & filling |
| Shape rolls | Roll into log, cut into 12 slices |
| Second rise | Let rise 45-60 minutes |
| Bake | Bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes |
| Frost | Spread cream cheese frosting on warm rolls |
Final Thoughts
With this easy overnight cinnamon rolls with cream cheese frosting recipe, you get the perfect balance of convenience and flavor. Prep ahead, bake fresh, and indulge in the best homemade cinnamon rolls ever. Try it today and share the warmth of fresh-baked goodness!
🍞 Easy Overnight Cinnamon Rolls with Cream Cheese Frosting
Ingredients
- ¾ cup warm milk (110°F / 43°C)
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp salt
Filling:
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1–2 tbsp milk (as needed)
Instructions
1️⃣ Make the Dough
In a bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let sit 5–10 minutes until foamy.Mix in egg, melted butter, salt, and flour. Knead until smooth (5–7 minutes).2️⃣ First Rise
Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise 1–1½ hours until doubled.3️⃣ Roll & Fill
Roll dough into a 14×9-inch rectangle.Spread butter evenly. Mix brown sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle over butter.4️⃣ Shape Rolls
Roll tightly from the long side. Cut into 12 rolls.Place in a greased baking dish.5️⃣ Overnight Rise
Cover tightly and refrigerate 8–12 hours.6️⃣ Bake
Remove from fridge and rest 30 minutes.Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes, until golden.7️⃣ Make Frosting
Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until creamy.8️⃣ Frost & Serve
Spread frosting over warm rolls and serve immediately.
Notes
🌟 Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Rolls
- Warm (not hot) milk activates yeast best
- Dental floss makes clean cuts
- Frost while warm for gooey rolls
