Introduction
Easy Overnight Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect indulgence when you crave the comforting blend of cinnamon, sugar, and a touch of love. Imagine waking up on a relaxed morning with the scent of warm cinnamon gliding through your home. This recipe was inspired by my mother’s weekend tradition of baking goodies for the family, making every Saturday morning feel like a special occasion. We wanted to create something that anyone could prepare effortlessly, especially busy individuals or novice bakers. These rolls are not only hassle-free to make, but they also provide all the satisfaction of homemade pastry goodness, with minimal effort. Discover more delightful baking tips at Serious Eats.
💡 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No kneading required, making it super easy for anyone to make.
- The rolls can be prepared the night before, ensuring a stress-free morning baking routine.
- Deliciously soft and fluffy texture that pairs wonderfully with cream cheese frosting.
- The enticing aroma of cinnamon will fill your home, drawing everyone to the breakfast table.
Why This Is So Good
With its tempting aroma and the perfect blend of sweet and spicy flavors, this recipe for Easy Overnight Cinnamon Rolls promises to transform your mornings. These cinnamon rolls are a labor of love that doesn’t require endless kneading, allowing you to savor more moments with your loved ones.
- – Experience the warmth and comfort of homemade goodness with every bite.
- – Save time by preparing these rolls the night before and baking them fresh in the morning.
- – Enjoy the classic combination of cinnamon and sugar, deliciously swirled in soft, fluffy dough.
- – Relish the perfect dollop of rich cream cheese frosting that adds an irresistible finish.
I’ll never forget the first time I introduced these Easy Overnight Cinnamon Rolls to my family. While we were busy decorating for the winter holidays, their enticing aroma wafted through the house, pulling everyone into the kitchen. Although there was a chill in the air outside, the warmth inside was undeniable, permeating not only our home but also our hearts. Each fluffy roll, coated in velvety cream cheese frosting, captured the attention of my children, whose giggles and delight were the sweetest reward. These magical moments simply remind us why we gather around the table—to share joy and create cherished memories.
For those interested in learning more about achieving the perfect texture, consider checking out this comprehensive guide on dough techniques by Serious Eats. Additionally, if you’re curious about other easy bread recipes that don’t require kneading, you can explore the No-Knead Bread post on our blog. Embrace the art of stress-free baking and savor the joy of homemade delights every day.

Making Sure It Turns Out
Ensuring your Easy Overnight Cinnamon Rolls are perfect every time requires a few essential tips. First, always use fresh yeast to guarantee the dough rises beautifully overnight. Secondly, allow your butter to fully soften for the filling, ensuring it spreads easily over the dough. Also, cover your rolls tightly in the fridge, preventing them from drying out. Lastly, let your rolls come to room temperature before baking for even cooking and a fragrant aroma in the kitchen. One time, I forgot to do this, and the centers were a bit doughy, a mistake easily avoided by being patient.
Perfect Serving Ideas
These Easy Overnight Cinnamon Rolls shine brightly at breakfast gatherings and brunch get-togethers. Pair them with a steaming cup of coffee or a refreshing glass of orange juice. To enhance the indulgence, serve them warm, perhaps with a fruit salad or crispy bacon on the side. Here’s how this recipe ties perfectly into your morning plans.
Making It Different
Get creative with your cinnamon rolls by experimenting with flavors and textures. Swap out cream cheese frosting for a tangy lemon glaze or incorporate shredded coconut into the filling. You might even add chopped nuts or different spices like cardamom for a unique twist. Explore adding a touch of spice to your filling with a hint of cayenne for an unexpected kick. For more ideas on how you could elevate your baking, check out Serious Eats.
Storage and Leftovers
Storing your Easy Overnight Cinnamon Rolls is as effortless as prepping them. Simply place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through. Surprisingly, these rolls taste even more delightful the next day as the flavors meld together, creating an even richer experience.
Tips That Actually Help
Here are some additional tips to enhance your baking. Firstly, use a 9×13 inch pan for evenly baked rolls. Secondly, roll out the dough evenly to ensure consistent portions. Finally, if you’re short on time, prepare the filling the night before, speeding up the morning assembly. One thing I’ve learned is to always double-check the yeast’s expiration date. Once, I attempted to bake with expired yeast, and the rolls didn’t rise properly, leading to a disappointing outcome. This small detail makes all the difference.
Recently, I made these for a family brunch. As the warm scent of cinnamon wafted through the air, my sister walked in, eyes alight with excitement. She couldn’t stop raving about the soft, pillowy texture and the rich, sweet filling. It reminded me of those cozy mornings at grandma’s house, filled with laughter and love. Making these rolls isn’t just about baking; it’s about creating memories. For more baking inspiration, explore our post on Overnight Brioche Buns, which are equally delightful.

Closing Paragraph
In our home, these Overnight Cinnamon Rolls have become a beloved staple. Friends and family often request them at gatherings, which is a testament to their undeniable charm. Their ease of preparation ensures they’re a hit at breakfast, allowing everyone to enjoy a delicious treat without the fuss. Next time you’re planning a family brunch, why not give these easy overnight cinnamon rolls a try? You’ll soon discover why they’re favored over other similar recipes. If you’re in search of more delightful baking ideas, consider visiting our featured recipes or explore general kitchen tips at King Arthur Baking.
Frequently Asked Questions
We’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions to help you make the most of these delightful rolls. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a newbie, these insights will guide you.
→ Can I use a different flour for the recipe?
Yes, you can substitute with bread flour, though the texture may vary slightly. For more on flour types, check Bob’s Red Mill.
→ How long should I let the dough rise?
Typically, the dough needs to rise until doubled in size, which can take about 8-12 hours in the fridge.
→ Can I add nuts or raisins to the filling?
Absolutely! Adding nuts or raisins can enhance the flavor, providing a delightful twist on this classic. Explore more variations on our variations page.
→ What is the best way to store leftover cinnamon rolls?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
→ Can I freeze the rolls before baking?
Yes, freeze them after rolling and before the second rise. Bake straight from the freezer, adding a few more minutes to the baking time.

Ingredients
Overnight Cinnamon Rolls (No Knead)
Indulge in these easy overnight cinnamon rolls that require no kneading. Perfectly soft and aromatic, topped with a smooth cream cheese frosting, they’re a delightful treat any morning.
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
25 minutes
Total Time
12 hours 45 minutes
Author: Sarah Mitchell • Traditional Recipe • Difficulty: Easy • Servings: 12 • Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
– For 12
Dough
- 01 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 02 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 03 1 tsp salt
- 04 2 1/4 tsp instant yeast
- 05 1 1/2 cups whole milk, warmed
- 06 1/3 cup butter, melted
- 07 2 large eggs
Filling
- 08 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 09 1 cup brown sugar
- 10 3 tbsp cinnamon
Cream Cheese Frosting
- 11 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 12 1/4 cup butter, softened
- 13 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 14 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 15 2-3 tbsp milk
Preparation
- 01 In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, granulated sugar, salt, and instant yeast.
- 02 Add the warmed milk, melted butter, and eggs to the dry ingredients. Stir until well combined.
- 03 Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the dough rest at room temperature for about 10 minutes.
- 04 Spread the softened butter over the dough surface, then sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon evenly.
- 05 Roll the dough tightly into a log and cut into 12 equal slices. Arrange the slices in a greased 9×13 inch baking pan.
- 06 Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight or at least 8 hours.
- 07 Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- 08 For the frosting, beat together cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla. Mix in milk to reach desired consistency.
- 09 Spread the frosting over warm rolls and serve immediately.
Notes
- For a lighter dough, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before beginning.
- To save time, prepare the frosting a day ahead and store in the fridge. Bring to room temperature before spreading.
Required Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Rolling pin
- Electric mixer
Allergen Information
Contains wheat, dairy, and eggs. If gluten or dairy intolerant, consider using gluten-free flour and plant-based butter and milk alternatives.
Nutritional Values (per serving)
Calories: 340 kcal, Carbohydrates: 48 g, Protein: 5 g, Fat: 15 g, Saturated Fat: 9 g, Cholesterol: 65 mg, Sodium: 260 mg, Fiber: 2 g, Sugar: 23 g