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Make-Ahead Cinnamon Rolls

Make-Ahead Cinnamon Rolls – Soft, Fluffy & Perfect for Breakfast


  • Author: Clara Whisk
  • Total Time: ~50 minutes + overnight rise
  • Yield: 12 rolls 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

These Make-Ahead Cinnamon Rolls are soft, buttery, and filled with gooey cinnamon sugar, then topped with a luscious maple cream cheese frosting. Perfect for a stress-free morning, you can prep them the night before and bake them fresh in the morning for an indulgent breakfast treat!


Ingredients

Scale
For the Dough:
  • 4½ cups all-purpose flour
  • ⅓ cup sugar
  • 2 tsp kosher salt
  • 2¼ tsp instant yeast
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup warm milk (100°F)
  • 12 tbsp unsalted butter, room temp (cut into small pieces)
For the Filling:
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • ¾ cup brown sugar
  • 3 tbsp ground cinnamon
For the Maple Cream Cheese Frosting:
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter, room temp
  • 8 oz cream cheese, room temp
  • 2 tbsp maple syrup
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 13 tbsp milk (optional, for consistency)

Instructions

  • Prepare the Dough: In a stand mixer, combine flour, sugar, salt, and yeast. Whisk together eggs and warm milk in a separate bowl. Add wet ingredients to the dry mixture and knead using a dough hook. Gradually add butter pieces, mixing until the dough is smooth and elastic. Let rise for 1 hour.
  • Shape the Rolls: Roll out the dough into an 18×10-inch rectangle. Brush with melted butter and sprinkle brown sugar and cinnamon evenly. Roll tightly, then cut into 1½-inch slices. Arrange in a buttered 9×13-inch baking dish.
  • Overnight Rising & Baking: Cover tightly and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, let the rolls sit at room temperature for 1 hour before baking at 350°F for 25-30 minutes.
  • Make the Frosting & Serve: Beat butter, cream cheese, and maple syrup until smooth. Add powdered sugar and mix well. Spread over warm rolls and enjoy!

Notes

  • Ensure the milk is warm (not hot) to activate the yeast properly.
  • For a crispier topping, broil the rolls for 1-2 minutes after baking.
  • Store leftovers at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast, Brunch
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American