Overnight Buttermilk Soft and Fluffy Cinnamon Rolls

There’s something magical about waking up to the smell of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through the house, and that’s exactly what you get with these Overnight Buttermilk Soft and Fluffy Cinnamon Rolls. I remember the first time I made them; it was a cold Saturday morning, and I had an entire day free to indulge in the simple pleasure of baking. As I gathered my ingredients, the anticipation grew. The buttery dough mixed with warm spices filled the kitchen with a cozy aroma, making it impossible to resist sneaking a taste.

These rolls are perfect for a family brunch, a special occasion, or even just a treat for yourself. The beauty of this recipe is that it allows you to prepare the dough the night before, so you can simply roll out of bed, let the rolls rise, and pop them into the oven. When it’s chilly outside, there’s nothing quite like a warm roll slathered in creamy frosting. I love how these Overnight Buttermilk Soft and Fluffy Cinnamon Rolls bring everyone together, creating a sense of warmth and community around the breakfast table.

Whether you’re hosting friends, celebrating a holiday, or simply enjoying a lazy day at home, this recipe is sure to impress. Let me share with you why these rolls are my go-to for any occasion.

Everything You Need for Overnight Buttermilk Soft and Fluffy Cinnamon Rolls

Let’s talk about the ingredients that make these Overnight Buttermilk Soft and Fluffy Cinnamon Rolls truly special. Each component plays a significant role in developing flavor and texture. From the creamy buttermilk to the warm spices, these ingredients work harmoniously to create a comforting treat.

• Up to 4 1/4 cups all-purpose flour – This is the foundation of the rolls, creating a soft and fluffy texture. Adjust as necessary to achieve the perfect dough consistency.
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar – Adds sweetness to the dough and balances the flavors of the filling and frosting.
• 2 ¼ teaspoons instant dry yeast – This is crucial for the dough to rise and become airy. One packet typically contains 2 ¼ teaspoons.
• Pinch of salt – Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness of the rolls.
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted – This adds richness and flavor to the dough. Make sure it’s not too hot when added.
• 3 large eggs, lightly whisked – Eggs contribute to the richness of the dough and help with leavening.
• ¾ cup buttermilk – Provides a tender texture and a slight tanginess, which is ideal for these rolls.
• ½ cup unsalted butter – Softened butter spreads easily over the rolled-out dough, adding flavor and moisture.
• 1 to 1 ¼ cups light brown sugar – Sweetens the filling and creates a caramel-like flavor when baked.
• 3 to 4 teaspoons cinnamon – A quintessential ingredient for cinnamon rolls, delivering warmth and sweetness.
• 6 ounces cream cheese, softened – Forms the base of the frosting, giving it a rich, creamy texture.
• 1 tablespoon vanilla – Adds a lovely depth of flavor to both the frosting and the rolls.
• 1 pound confectioners’ sugar – Used in the frosting to create a smooth, sweet topping.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Helps to balance the sweetness in the frosting.

How to Cook Overnight Buttermilk Soft and Fluffy Cinnamon Rolls

The process of making these Overnight Buttermilk Soft and Fluffy Cinnamon Rolls is as enjoyable as the final product. It’s all about enjoying the journey of baking, and I promise you’ll love every step. Let’s dive right into it!

1. Make the Dough: To the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine 4 cups flour, ⅓ cup sugar, yeast, and salt. Set aside. In a small microwave-safe bowl, melt 6 tablespoons butter (about 45 seconds) and set that aside.
2. Whisk 3 eggs in another bowl and set aside. Warm ¾ cup buttermilk in a glass measuring cup for about 45 seconds in the microwave until it reaches the right temperature, about 100 to 110 degrees Fahrenheit.
3. Add the melted butter, eggs, and warm buttermilk to the dry ingredients in the stand mixer. Beat on medium-low speed for about a minute until everything is combined. The dough will be sticky.
4. Switch to the dough hook and knead for 10 to 12 minutes. You want the dough to clear the sides of the bowl but stick to the bottom. If it’s too sticky to handle, add a little more flour, but avoid making it too dry.
5. Transfer the dough to a lightly greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 2 to 2 1/2 hours or until it’s doubled in size. An oven turned off works perfectly for this.
6. Prepare your baking pan (either a jellyroll pan or a 9-by-13-inch pan) by lining it with aluminum foil and spraying it with cooking spray; set aside.
7. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a floured surface. Knead lightly for a couple of minutes, then roll it out into a 16-by-12-inch rectangle.
8. Spread ½ cup softened butter over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle 1 to 1 ¼ cups brown sugar and then 3 to 4 teaspoons cinnamon over the butter.
9. Roll the dough tightly from the long edge, pinching the seam to seal it. Gently stretch the log to an even diameter and slice it into 12 rolls using a bench scraper or a sharp knife.
10. Place the rolls cut side down in the prepared pan. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise again for about 1 to 1 ½ hours until doubled in size. Alternatively, for overnight rolls, place the pan in the refrigerator for up to 16 hours.
11. Preheat your oven to 350ºF and bake the rolls for 22 to 25 minutes or until lightly golden and cooked through. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-browning.
12. While the rolls cool, make the cream cheese frosting. In the stand mixer, combine ½ cup butter and 6 ounces cream cheese, and beat until smooth. Add 1 tablespoon vanilla and 3 to 4 cups confectioners’ sugar, mixing until fluffy.
13. Spread the frosting over the warm rolls and serve. Enjoy the fruits of your labor!

Pro Tips and Tweaks

To make your cinnamon roll experience even better, here are some pro tips and tweaks you can try!

• Storage: To keep the rolls fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They tend to dry out if left exposed.
• Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked rolls after slicing them. Just place them on a baking sheet in the freezer, and once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag. Bake them straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
• Variations: Feel free to get creative! You can add nuts, raisins, or even chocolate chips to the filling for a fun twist.
• Frosting Options: If you’re not a fan of cream cheese frosting, you can opt for a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk.
• Serving Suggestions: These rolls pair wonderfully with a side of fresh fruit or a hot cup of coffee.

How to Enjoy Overnight Buttermilk Soft and Fluffy Cinnamon Rolls

When it comes to serving your Overnight Buttermilk Soft and Fluffy Cinnamon Rolls, there are plenty of delightful ways to enjoy them. Here are some ideas:

• Morning Treat: Serve these rolls fresh out of the oven for a cozy breakfast that everyone will love.
• Brunch Delight: They make a fantastic centerpiece for any brunch table, alongside fresh fruit, yogurt, or a breakfast casserole.
• Holiday Breakfast: Perfect for festive occasions, these rolls can elevate any holiday breakfast, making it memorable.
• With Coffee: Pair your rolls with a cup of coffee or tea for the ultimate indulgent treat.
• Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container. They can be enjoyed for up to two days at room temperature.

FAQ

Conclusion

What makes these Overnight Buttermilk Soft and Fluffy Cinnamon Rolls truly special is their blend of convenience and delightful flavor. The overnight prep means you can enjoy fresh, warm rolls with minimal morning effort. I encourage you to try this recipe; it’s perfect for gatherings or simply treating yourself. With a bit of love and patience, you’ll create something that brings joy to your table.

Overnight Buttermilk Soft and Fluffy Cinnamon Rolls

The ultimate comfort food, these Overnight Buttermilk Soft and Fluffy Cinnamon Rolls will satisfy your sweet tooth! With a soft, pillowy texture and a rich cream cheese frosting, they're the perfect addition to your breakfast table. Make them overnight for a hassle-free morning treat!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 22 minutes mins

Total Time 52 minutes mins

Servings: 12 servings

Course: Breakfast

Cuisine: American

Calories: 320

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 4 1/4 cups All-Purpose Flour
• ⅓ cup Granulated Sugar
• 2 ¼ teaspoons Instant Dry Yeast one 1/4-ounce packet, I use Red Star Platinum
• 1 pinch Salt optional and to taste
• 6 tablespoons Unsalted Butter melted (3/4 of one stick)
• 3 large Eggs lightly whisked
• ¾ cup Buttermilk See Notes
• ½ cup Unsalted Butter 1 stick, very soft – let it sit out while dough rises
• 1 to 1 ¼ cups Light Brown Sugar packed (granulated sugar or a half-and-half combo of white and brown sugars may be substituted)
• 3 to 4 teaspoons Cinnamon or to taste (I use 5 teaspoons)
• ½ cup Unsalted Butter softened
• 6 ounces Cream Cheese softened
• 1 tablespoon Vanilla extract
• 1 pound Confectioners’ Sugar 4 cups
• ½ teaspoon Salt optional and to taste

Equipment

• Oven
• Whisk
• Baking Sheet
• Mixing Bowl
• Chef's Knife
• Frying Pan

Method

 

1. Make the Dough: To the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine 4 cups flour, ⅓ cup sugar, yeast, and salt. Set aside. In a small microwave-safe bowl, melt 6 tablespoons butter (about 45 seconds) and set that aside.
2. Whisk 3 eggs in another bowl and set aside. Warm ¾ cup buttermilk in a glass measuring cup for about 45 seconds in the microwave until it reaches the right temperature, about 100 to 110 degrees Fahrenheit.
3. Add the melted butter, eggs, and warm buttermilk to the dry ingredients in the stand mixer. Beat on medium-low speed for about a minute until everything is combined. The dough will be sticky.
4. Switch to the dough hook and knead for 10 to 12 minutes. You want the dough to clear the sides of the bowl but stick to the bottom. If it’s too sticky to handle, add a little more flour, but avoid making it too dry.
5. Transfer the dough to a lightly greased bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 2 to 2 1/2 hours or until it's doubled in size. An oven turned off works perfectly for this.
6. Prepare your baking pan (either a jellyroll pan or a 9-by-13-inch pan) by lining it with aluminum foil and spraying it with cooking spray; set aside.
7. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a floured surface. Knead lightly for a couple of minutes, then roll it out into a 16-by-12-inch rectangle.
8. Spread ½ cup softened butter over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle 1 to 1 ¼ cups brown sugar and then 3 to 4 teaspoons cinnamon over the butter.
9. Roll the dough tightly from the long edge, pinching the seam to seal it. Gently stretch the log to an even diameter and slice it into 12 rolls using a bench scraper or a sharp knife.
10. Place the rolls cut side down in the prepared pan. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise again for about 1 to 1 ½ hours until doubled in size. Alternatively, for overnight rolls, place the pan in the refrigerator for up to 16 hours.
11. Preheat your oven to 350ºF and bake the rolls for 22 to 25 minutes or until lightly golden and cooked through. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-browning.
12. While the rolls cool, make the cream cheese frosting. In the stand mixer, combine ½ cup butter and 6 ounces cream cheese, and beat until smooth. Add 1 tablespoon vanilla and 3 to 4 cups confectioners’ sugar, mixing until fluffy.
13. Spread the frosting over the warm rolls and serve. Enjoy the fruits of your labor!

Notes

• Tip 1: Make your own buttermilk by adding 1 tablespoon of white vinegar to ¾ cup of milk and letting it sit for 2 minutes.
• Tip 2: You can also use powdered buttermilk by mixing it according to package instructions.

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Meet Rose Kelley

I’m happiest when I have dirt under my fingernails and fresh herbs in my hand. I bring a garden-to-table philosophy to our group. I’m always tossing handfuls of fresh basil or mint into our pots, looking for that pop of freshness. I love cooking alongside Maya to ensure our meals feel vibrant and alive. I participate in every step, from the initial chopping to the final taste test!