Imagine waking up to the sweet scent of freshly baked cinnamon rolls, with vibrant pops of color from rainbow sprinkles waiting to delight your taste buds. Overnight Funfetti Cinnamon Rolls are the essence of a festive breakfast, ideal for lazy weekends or special occasions. This recipe not only brings joy to your mornings but also offers a wonderful way to treat your loved ones to homemade goodness without the early morning rush. The dough preparation is done the night before, letting you wake up to golden rolls that are ready to bake and enjoy!

With simple ingredients and minimal active prep time, these delightful rolls are both fun to make and scrumptious to devour. The combination of warm cinnamon and sweet frosting, paired with the cheerful sprinkle surprise, makes for an irresistible breakfast or brunch dish. Not to mention, they can easily become the star of any festive gathering. The great thing about these Overnight Funfetti Cinnamon Rolls is how they can be personalized with even more sprinkles or your favorite icing. So grab your apron and prepare for a sweet breakfast adventure!

Why You’ll Love This Overnight Funfetti Cinnamon Rolls

Overnight Prep: The dough rises while you sleep, giving you a hassle-free morning.
Colorful Fun: Rainbow sprinkles add a cheerful twist, perfect for any holiday or celebration.
Easy to Make: Simple steps that anyone can follow, whether you’re a baking novice or a pro.
Indulgent Frosting: Topping with a sweet glaze makes these rolls feel like a treat!
Perfect for Sharing: Bake a batch for family, friends, or brunch parties — they will be a hit!

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you dive into creating your Overnight Funfetti Cinnamon Rolls, it’s important to prepare your kitchen and gather your tools. Start by ensuring your counter or workspace is clean to handle dough, and gather these essential items:

A mixing bowl for combining the ingredients.
A small bowl to mix the cinnamon and sugar.
A rolling pin for flattening out the dough.
A buttered cast iron skillet or baking dish to hold the rolls while they rise and bake.
Measuring cups and spoons for precise ingredient measurements.

Make sure you also have an oven preheated to the right temperature, and that your yeast is fresh to ensure the dough will rise properly. These little preparations will contribute greatly to the success of your rolls!

Ingredients

½ cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon cinnamon
8 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened and divided
3 tablespoons granulated sugar
¾ teaspoon salt
1 large egg
½ cup milk
3½ teaspoons instant dry yeast
2¼ cups all-purpose flour
⅔ cup rainbow sprinkles, divided, plus more for topping
1 cup confectioner’s sugar
3 tablespoons milk
½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cinnamon Mixture

Begin by mixing the granulated sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. This sweet and spicy blend will infuse the rolls with flavor when layered on the dough.

Step 2: Make the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, ½ cup granulated sugar, and salt using a whisk or electric mixer until light and fluffy. Then, add in the egg, milk, instant dry yeast, and flour. Mix until you have a smooth dough. Once combined, gently fold in the rainbow sprinkles for that delightful surprise in each roll. Now, be sure to let the dough rise in a warm environment; cover it with a clean kitchen towel and allow it to rest for 1½ hours until it doubles in size.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

After the dough has risen, lightly flour your work surface and roll it out into a rectangle measuring approximately 9×12 inches. Spread the remaining 4 tablespoons of softened butter evenly over the surface of the rolled-out dough. Next, sprinkle the cinnamon mixture generously over the buttered dough. Don’t forget to sprinkle some more rainbow sprinkles on top for extra color and fun!

Step 4: Shape and Slice the Rolls

Starting from one long edge, tightly roll the dough into a cylinder shape. Once rolled, use a sharp knife or a pizza cutter to slice the log into 8 even pieces. This will create your individual cinnamon rolls.

Step 5: Prepare for Overnight Refrigeration

Take the sliced rolls and place them in a buttered cast iron skillet or a baking dish. Cover the skillet tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. This slow-cooking method enhances the flavor and simplifies the morning bake.

Step 6: The Morning Bake

When you are ready to bake, take the rolls out of the refrigerator and let them rise in a warm place for about 90 minutes or until they become fluffy. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Bake the rolls for 32-34 minutes, or until they are golden brown and the smell fills your kitchen with anticipation!

Step 7: Make the Glaze

While the rolls are baking, prepare the glaze by mixing together the confectioner’s sugar, 3 tablespoons of milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth. This sweet glaze will add the perfect finishing touch to your cinnamon rolls.

Step 8: Glaze and Serve!

Once the rolls are baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool for about 15 minutes. Drizzle the prepared glaze over the warm rolls and top with extra rainbow sprinkles to amplify the fun! Now, all that’s left to do is enjoy your delicious homemade Overnight Funfetti Cinnamon Rolls!

Variations

Protein: Add cooked and crumbled sausage or bacon for a savory twist alongside the sweetness.
Vegetables: Incorporate grated carrots or zucchini into the dough for extra moisture and nutrition.
Spices: Experiment with nutmeg or cardamom in the cinnamon mixture for a more complex flavor profile.

Cooking Notes

Don’t rush the rising times; these are crucial for the dough’s texture and flavor.
Be sure to keep the rolls covered during the overnight rise to prevent drying out.
If you want a richer dough, substitute whole milk or half-and-half in place of regular milk.
Feel free to adjust the sweetness of the glaze according to your taste by adding more or less confectioner’s sugar.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with fresh fruit on the side, such as berries or sliced bananas, for a balanced breakfast.
Pair with a hot cup of coffee or tea to complement the sweet cinnamon flavors.

Tips

For best results, ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature before starting.
If your kitchen is cold, create a warm spot by placing the covered dough near a warm oven or in a sunny nook.
Adjust baking time based on your oven’s actual performance — check for doneness a few minutes early.
Don’t skip the sprinkles on top; they not only provide stunning presentation but also add a creative touch!

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 32-34 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 24 minutes (including rising time)

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 400 per roll
Protein: 5g
Sodium: 250mg

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! The overnight rising process is designed for you to make it ahead; just refrigerate after slicing.

What can I substitute for the sprinkles?

If you’re looking for a lower-sugar option, you can leave them out entirely or use dried fruit instead.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any uneaten rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze individual rolls for longer storage.

Can I use whole wheat flour?

Yes, but it may result in denser rolls. Consider mixing half all-purpose flour with half whole wheat for better texture.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Overnight Funfetti Cinnamon Rolls are not only a delightful treat but also a celebration of flavor and color that can brighten any breakfast table. Their ease of preparation, paired with the joyful surprise of sprinkles, makes them a beloved choice for gatherings and family mornings alike. Don’t hesitate to try different variations or additions to customize your rolls to fit your taste. Share your experiences and variations, and get ready to fall in love with these rolls just as much as everyone else will. Happy baking!