Print

Cozy Overnight Cinnamon Rolls with Extra-Thick Cream Cheese Frosting

overnight cinnamon rolls - featured image
Print Recipe

These cinnamon rolls feature a slow overnight rise for deep flavor and tenderness, topped with a rich, extra-thick cream cheese frosting that melts into the warm rolls for a cozy, indulgent breakfast treat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups (480g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast (one packet)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup (240ml) whole milk, warmed to about 110°F (43°C)
  • 1/4 cup (57g) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1 cup (220g) brown sugar, packed
  • 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup (57g) unsalted butter, softened
  • Optional: pinch of nutmeg or cardamom
  • 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup (57g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 1/2 cups (180g) powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1–2 tablespoons milk (to adjust frosting consistency)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, instant yeast, and salt.
  2. In a separate bowl, combine warmed whole milk, melted butter, and egg; mix well.
  3. Pour wet ingredients into dry mixture and stir until combined. Add extra flour tablespoon by tablespoon if dough is too sticky.
  4. Knead dough on a floured surface for about 8 minutes by hand or 5 minutes with a stand mixer until smooth and elastic.
  5. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap or damp towel, and refrigerate overnight (8-12 hours) for slow rise.
  6. Mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and optional nutmeg or cardamom in a small bowl for the filling.
  7. Next morning, let dough sit at room temperature for 20 minutes. Roll out on floured surface into a 16×12 inch rectangle.
  8. Spread softened butter evenly over dough, then sprinkle cinnamon sugar mixture on top.
  9. Roll dough tightly from the long edge into a log and pinch seam to seal.
  10. Cut log into 12 equal slices using a sharp knife or dental floss.
  11. Arrange slices cut-side up in a greased 9×13 inch baking pan, leaving space between rolls.
  12. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and let rise at room temperature for 45 minutes or until puffy.
  13. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake rolls for 25-30 minutes until golden brown. Tent with foil if tops brown too quickly.
  14. While rolls bake, beat cream cheese and softened butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt. Add milk as needed to reach thick but spreadable consistency.
  15. Spread frosting generously over warm rolls and serve.

Notes

Use milk warmed to about 110°F to activate yeast without killing it. Do not skip the overnight rise for best flavor and texture. Dental floss works well for cleanly slicing rolls. Frost rolls while warm for best melting effect. For vegan or gluten-free versions, substitute ingredients as noted in variations.

Nutrition

Keywords: cinnamon rolls, overnight cinnamon rolls, cream cheese frosting, breakfast, brunch, sweet rolls, homemade cinnamon rolls

Find it online: https://milacook.com/cozy-overnight-cinnamon-rolls-with-extra-thick-cream-cheese-frosting-recipe/