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Homemade Easy Overnight Cinnamon Rolls photo

Easy Overnight Cinnamon Rolls

Wake up to the irresistible aroma of these Easy Overnight Cinnamon Rolls! Soft, gooey, and packed with cinnamon goodness, they're perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Breakfast, Brunch
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Dough:
  • 1.5 cups milk whole milk preferred
  • 0.5 cup sugar granulated
  • 0.33 cup shortening vegetable shortening or coconut oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 package active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
  • 0.5 cup warm water to activate yeast
  • 1 large egg
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
For the Filling:
  • 0.67 cup dark brown sugar
  • 1.5 tablespoons cinnamon the star of the show!
  • 6 tablespoons butter or margarine for greasing and flavor

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Rolling Pin
  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Plastic Wrap
  • Oven thermometer

Method
 

Preparation Steps:
  1. In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup of warm water and the active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, shortening, and salt. Once the yeast mixture is ready, add it to the milk mixture along with 1 egg. Stir until well combined.
  3. Gradually add the all-purpose flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms. Adjust the amount of flour slightly based on humidity and temperature.
  4. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in the refrigerator overnight.
  5. In a small bowl, mix together the dark brown sugar and cinnamon for the filling. Set aside.
  6. The next morning, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll the chilled dough on a floured surface into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Spread the softened butter or margarine over the dough and sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly on top.
  7. Starting from one long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Cut into 12 equal slices and place cut-side up in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
  8. Cover the rolls with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for about 30-45 minutes or until doubled in size.
  9. Uncover and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. If they brown too quickly, cover loosely with aluminum foil.
  10. Once baked, allow to cool slightly before drizzling with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

  • Store leftover rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
  • For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week.
  • Reheat in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.