Go Back
Delicious apple cinnamon overnight rolls for Thanksgiving meals

Delicious Apple Cinnamon Overnight Rolls

These Delicious Apple Cinnamon Overnight Rolls are perfect for a sweet breakfast or brunch, featuring a soft dough filled with spiced apples and finished with a sweet glaze. Prepare them the night before for a fresh-baked treat in the morning.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 45 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings 12 rolls
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

  • large bowl
  • plastic wrap
  • kitchen towel
  • small bowl
  • rolling pin
  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • oven
  • whisk

Ingredients
  

For the Dough:

  • 1 cup warm milk 105-115°F
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg lightly beaten
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter melted
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour plus more for dusting

For the Apple Cinnamon Filling:

  • 2 medium Granny Smith apples peeled, cored, and finely diced
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter melted

For the Glaze:

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2-3 tablespoons milk
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions
 

The Night Before:

  • Combine warm milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar in a large bowl, then let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
  • Add the remaining granulated sugar, egg, melted butter, and salt to the yeast mixture and stir until well combined.
  • Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a shaggy dough forms.
  • Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  • Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turn once to coat, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
  • While the dough rises, combine diced apples, ¼ cup granulated sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl and toss to coat.
  • Gently punch down the risen dough to release air.
  • On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a large rectangle, about 12x18 inches.
  • Brush the melted butter evenly over the dough, then sprinkle the apple cinnamon mixture over the butter.
  • Starting from one long edge, tightly roll the dough into a log.
  • Cut the log into 12 equal slices, each about 1.5 inches thick.
  • Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish and arrange the rolls cut-side up in the prepared dish.
  • Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight for 8-12 hours.

The Morning Bake:

  • Take the rolls out of the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature for 30-60 minutes while the oven preheats for a second proof.
  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Bake the rolls for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.

The Finishing Touch:

  • While the rolls cool slightly, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth, adjusting milk for desired consistency.
  • Drizzle or spread the glaze over the warm rolls and serve immediately.

Notes

For best results, ensure your milk is at the correct temperature to properly activate the yeast. The overnight refrigeration develops flavor and makes morning baking a breeze. Enjoy these warm for a truly delicious treat!