Introduction
There’s something truly special about waking up to the warm, inviting aroma of cinnamon rolls wafting through your kitchen. These Overnight Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect blend of fluffy dough, sweet cinnamon sugar, and a drizzle of creamy frosting, making them an irresistible morning treat. The best part? You can prepare them the night before! Just pop them in the oven when you wake up, and you’ll be greeted with freshly baked goodness that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) instant yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup whole milk, warmed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk (for frosting)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 45 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 12 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of flour, granulated sugar, instant yeast, and salt. Mix well to incorporate all the dry ingredients.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the warm milk, melted butter, and eggs until smooth and fully combined.
- Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until everything is nicely combined.
- Continue to add the remaining flour, one cup at a time, until a soft and slightly sticky dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- Once risen, roll the dough out into a large rectangle of about 16×12 inches on a floured surface.
- Spread the melted butter evenly over the rolled-out dough, then sprinkle the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and any optional raisins or chopped nuts over the top.
- Carefully roll the dough tightly from the long side, then slice it into 12 equal pieces.
- Place the rolls in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, cover them, and refrigerate overnight to let the flavors meld.
- The next morning, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Take the rolls out of the refrigerator, and allow them to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking.
- Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and filling your home with deliciousness.
- While the rolls are baking, prepare the frosting by whisking together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Once the rolls are done, drizzle the frosting generously over the warm buns, serve, and watch everyone’s eyes light up!
Notes or Tips
Feel free to get creative with the fillings! You can add chocolate chips for a delightful twist or substitute dried fruits for the raisins. If you prefer a nut-free version, simply leave out the nuts. Also, make sure to adjust the sugar in the frosting to your taste; if you prefer a richer flavor, don’t hesitate to increase the vanilla slightly!
Cooking Techniques
The key to perfect cinnamon rolls lies in the dough. Kneading it properly helps develop gluten, which gives the rolls their lovely texture. Be patient during the rising process; this is crucial for achieving that fluffy, satisfying bite. Additionally, letting the dough refrigerate overnight allows the flavors to develop beautifully, making for a truly special breakfast treat.
FAQ
Can I freeze these cinnamon rolls?
Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked rolls before the overnight refrigeration; simply wrap them tightly and store in the freezer. When you’re ready to bake, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then follow the baking instructions.
How can I make the rolls even more indulgent?
Try adding a cream cheese frosting instead of a simple sugar glaze. Just blend cream cheese, powdered sugar, a bit of vanilla, and some milk for the perfect topping!
Conclusion
These Overnight Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect way to start your day, bringing warmth and sweetness right to your breakfast table. Prepare them the night before, and enjoy the cheerful anticipation of freshly baked rolls in the morning. Gather your loved ones and indulge in the sweetness of this delightful treat—they’re sure to bring smiles and maybe even a few happy sighs!