Introduction
Welcome to a delightful morning treat that will make your kitchen smell heavenly! These Easy Overnight Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect combination of sweet, sticky, and cinnamon-spiced goodness. Imagine waking up to warm, fresh rolls that seem to melt in your mouth—there’s truly nothing better. The best part? You can prepare everything the night before, allowing you to enjoy your morning coffee while these rolls bake to golden perfection. Let’s dive into this simple recipe that will have your family eagerly awaiting breakfast!
Ingredients
- 1 batch refrigerated cinnamon roll dough
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons cinnamon
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons milk
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 8 hours 45 minutes (includes overnight refrigeration)
Yield: 12 rolls
Directions and Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and cinnamon, mixing until well blended.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the refrigerated cinnamon roll dough into a large rectangle, about ¼ inch thick.
- Brush the melted butter generously over the dough, coating it evenly to enrich the rolls with flavor.
- Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly across the buttered dough, ensuring every inch is covered for that perfect burst of flavor.
- Starting from one end, roll the dough tightly into a log, sealing in all that delicious filling.
- Using a sharp knife, slice the log into equal pieces, about 1 inch thick, to form the rolls.
- Place the rolls into a greased baking dish, making sure they are snug but not too cramped, and cover with plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate the rolls overnight, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
- When morning comes, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and take a moment to savor the anticipation!
- Remove the rolls from the refrigerator and let them rest at room temperature while the oven heats. This allows them to rise slightly.
- Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes or until they are beautifully golden brown and your kitchen is filled with a heavenly aroma.
- While the rolls are baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk in a small bowl until the mixture is smooth and glaze-like.
- Once the rolls are out of the oven, drizzle the icing over them while they are still warm and let it melt into those soft layers.
Notes or Tips
For an extra touch, consider adding chopped nuts or raisins to the filling before rolling up the dough. You can also swap out the vanilla extract for almond extract for a delightful twist. If you want to prepare this recipe in the morning, simply allow for a longer rise time before baking, as the dough will need to come to room temperature first.
Cooking Techniques
Rolling the dough evenly is crucial for ensuring that each roll gets its fair share of that sweet cinnamon filling. Also, pay attention to baking times; every oven is different, so keep an eye on the rolls as they bake to get that perfect golden brown finish.
FAQ
Can I freeze the unbaked rolls?
Yes! You can prepare the rolls and freeze them before the final rise. Just make sure to wrap them tightly. When you’re ready to bake, place them in the refrigerator overnight to thaw and then let them rise before baking as directed.
What if I want to make these rolls healthier?
Feel free to substitute whole wheat flour for a part of the dough or reduce the sugar slightly. You can also use sugar alternatives for a lighter version.
Conclusion
These Easy Overnight Cinnamon Rolls are sure to become a cherished tradition in your home. With their gooey center and sugary glaze, they make for a warm atmosphere and a delightful start to any day. So go ahead, treat yourself and your loved ones to this special recipe—you deserve it! Happy baking!