Make Ahead Cinnamon Rolls

There’s something undeniably comforting about the aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through your home. The fluffy dough, the sweet cinnamon filling, and the creamy frosting come together to create a breakfast treat that’s hard to resist. But what if I told you that you can prepare these delectable treats ahead of time? That’s right! With my Make Ahead Cinnamon Rolls recipe, you can enjoy the pleasure of warm, gooey rolls without all the hassle on those busy mornings. So grab your apron, and let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Keep Making It

These Make Ahead Cinnamon Rolls are not only a crowd-pleaser but also incredibly versatile. You can whip them up during the weekend and have them ready to bake on a busy weekday morning. They are perfect for brunch gatherings, holiday breakfasts, or simply as a special treat for your family. Plus, the ability to prepare them in advance means less stress for you.

What Goes In

To create these irresistible rolls, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 egg
• 2 envelopes rapid rise yeast
• 3 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons warm water (120 to 130°F)
• 5 tablespoons butter, melted (for filling)
• 1/2 cup sugar (for filling)
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1-2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
• 4 oz Philadelphia Cream Cheese Frosting, softened
• 4 tablespoons butter, softened (for frosting)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2-3 tablespoons milk
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Tools of the Trade

Before you start, make sure you have the following essential kitchen tools:

• Mixing Bowls: For combining the dough ingredients.
• Rolling Pin: To roll out the dough to the perfect thickness.
• 9×13-inch Baking Dish: Ideal for baking your rolls.
• Whisk: For blending your frosting smoothly.
• Plastic Wrap: To cover the rolls while they rise.

Stepwise Method: Make Ahead Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, sugar, and salt. Mix until well combined. Add the egg, rapid rise yeast, and warm water, stirring until the mixture is smooth.

Step 2: Incorporate the Flour

Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms. You may need to adjust the flour amount slightly based on humidity.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Form it into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.

Step 4: Roll Out the Dough

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll it into a large rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick.

Step 5: Add Filling

Brush the melted butter over the surface of the dough. In a small bowl, mix together the sugar, cornstarch, and ground cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the buttered dough.

Step 6: Roll It Up

Starting from one edge, tightly roll the dough into a log. Pinch the seam to seal it, then cut the log into 12 equal pieces.

Step 7: Arrange in Baking Dish

Place the rolls cut side up in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until they have puffed up.

Step 8: Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly.

Step 9: Make the Frosting

In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese frosting, softened butter, vanilla extract, milk, powdered sugar, and salt. Whisk until smooth and creamy.

Step 10: Frost and Serve

Spread the frosting over the warm rolls and enjoy your delicious Make Ahead Cinnamon Rolls fresh from the oven!

Warm & Cool Weather Spins

Cinnamon rolls are a delightful treat year-round, and you can adapt this recipe for different seasons:

• Warm Weather: Serve with a light lemon glaze for a refreshing twist.
• Cool Weather: Add nutmeg or cloves for a spiced flavor that’s perfect for cozy mornings.
• Holiday Season: Incorporate dried fruits like cranberries or nuts for a festive touch.

Behind-the-Scenes Notes

• For a richer flavor, you can substitute some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
• If you’re short on time, you can prepare the dough and filling the night before and refrigerate overnight before baking.
• Experiment with different fillings like chocolate chips or nuts for a unique variation.

Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide

To keep your Make Ahead Cinnamon Rolls fresh:

• Store cooled rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• You can also freeze unbaked rolls. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and they will last for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

Common Questions

Can I make these cinnamon rolls vegan?

Absolutely! You can replace the butter with a plant-based alternative, use a flax egg instead of a regular egg, and opt for a dairy-free cream cheese frosting.

How do I know when the rolls are done baking?

The rolls should be golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.

Can I use instant yeast instead of rapid rise yeast?

Yes, you can use instant yeast. The rising time may vary slightly, so keep an eye on the dough.

How can I make the frosting more flavorful?

Add a dash of cinnamon or a splash of maple syrup to the frosting for an extra layer of flavor.

Don’t Miss These

• Soft Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies – A delightful twist on classic cookies!
• Overnight Breakfast Casserole – Perfect for a hearty breakfast with minimal effort!

Ready to Cook?

Your journey to creating warm, gooey, and utterly delicious Make Ahead Cinnamon Rolls is just a recipe away. These rolls are not only a treat for your taste buds but also a joy to share with family and friends. Whether it’s a leisurely weekend morning or a busy weekday, this recipe is your ticket to sweet satisfaction. So preheat that oven, roll up your sleeves, and let the baking begin!