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    Home » Breakfast and Brunch » Mashed Potato Cinnamon Rolls with Overnight Option

    Mashed Potato Cinnamon Rolls with Overnight Option

    April 2, 2022 , Updated June 20, 2024 Maria 66 Comments

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    Iced cinnamon rolls on a sheet pan.

    Are you looking for a delicious and unique breakfast recipe? Look no further than mashed potato cinnamon rolls! These rolls are soft, fluffy, and loaded with flavor.

    Plus, they can be made ahead of time so you can enjoy them for breakfast or brunch on the weekend or on special occasions. No one will ever guess the secret ingredient!

    Iced cinnamon rolls on a sheet pan.
    Jump to:
    • Introduction
    • Mise en place
    • Kneading and proofing the dough
    • How to make the best cinnamon rolls
    • A simple vanilla icing
    • To make overnight cinnamon rolls
    • Tips
    • FAQ
    • Potato dough recipes
    • Recipe origins
    • Recipe

    Introduction

    Do you know that gut feeling you get when you come across a recipe that you know will be spectacular?

    It’s not the first time I’ve felt this way. When I discovered this sweet dough recipe, I experienced the same sensation.

    Well, it happened again when I stumbled across this potato cinnamon rolls recipe.

    I was more than slightly intrigued when I initially read the list of ingredients for this recipe. Potatoes in cinnamon rolls!

    Then it occurred to me, why not? If you can make potato gnocchi as well as this Italian focaccia recipe or this light and fluffy Easter bread, why not cinnamon rolls?

    After all, the potatoes would add lovely moisture and richness to the dough.

    And so, I set to work in my kitchen, eager to try out this new recipe.

    The results were so delicious that my family finished off the entire batch in one sitting!

    I just had to share this recipe with you all.

    These cinnamon rolls with this secret ingredient are both delicious and easy to prepare. Plus, there’s an overnight option if you want to get a head start on your breakfast. This is especially useful if you’re hosting a special brunch or other major events, such as Christmas.

    Mise en place

    We’ll need to do a few things before getting started with this recipe.

    Boil the potatoes: First, boil a medium russet potato for 20 minutes or until fork-tender in boiling water. You need about 135 grams of riced potatoes. If you do not have a scale, this is about 1 cup. If you do not have a potato ricer, you can use a potato masher, the large holes of a box grater or mash lightly with a fork. Be careful not to overmanipulate. 

    Room temperature eggs and butter: Simply remove 2 eggs from the refrigerator and set them on the counter. Allow them to come to room temperature, for about 30 minutes. We also need ¼ cup of room temperature butter for the filling so it will be easy to spread.

    Kneading and proofing the dough

    Now that we have some of the ingredients ready, it’s time to get started on the dough.

    Step by step photo collage of how to make cinnamon rolls.
    1. In a large mixing bowl of a stand mixer, whisk together 1½ cups of all-purpose flour (215 grams) and 2¼ teaspoons of active dry yeast (8 grams).
    2. Once the mashed potatoes are ready, place them in a medium saucepan along with 1 cup of milk, ⅓ cup butter (cut up), ¼ cup granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon of salt.
    3. Whisk them together over medium heat until the butter begins to melt and a thermometer reads 105°F-115°F (41°C-46°C). It should be lukewarm to the touch if you don’t have a thermometer.
    4. Add the mashed potatoes mixture to the bowl. Whisk together on low speed until everything is well combined, about one minute.
    5. Add the 2 eggs (room temperature). You can add them one at a time or at the same time. 
    6. Whisk until well combined, about another minute or two. Scrape down the sides and the bottom of the bowl with a rubber spatula as needed.
    7. Change to the dough hook attachment. Add the remaining flour 3 cups of all-purpose flour (425 grams). Mix on low speed until the dough starts to come together. Increase the speed to medium and knead for about five minutes or until the dough is smooth and elastic. Alternatively, you can knead by hand for about ten minutes. The dough should pull away from the sides of the bowl while sticking to the bottom.
    8. To test the dough consistency, press your finger lightly into the dough. It should be soft and slightly tacky to the touch. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour (a tablespoon at a time) until you reach the desired consistency. Lightly wet your hands and form the dough into a ball. Place it in a lightly greased bowl, turning once to coat.
    9. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for about 45-60 minutes or until doubled in size.

    Tip: To assist the dough rise, I put it in my oven on the bread-proof setting.

    While waiting, prepare the filling by whisking together ½ cup of light brown sugar, 1½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon and 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour in a small bowl. Set aside.

    Position rack in the center of oven. Preheat it to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a large baking pan 13 x 9 x 2-inch with cooking spray.

    How to make the best cinnamon rolls

    Now that the cinnamon roll dough has doubled in size, it’s time to roll it out and assemble the rolls.

    Step by step process of rolling cinnamon rolls.
    1. But first, let’s test if the dough is ready by poking it with two fingers. If the impressions remain, the dough has risen enough. If not, let it rise for another 10-15 minutes.
    2. Then, punch the dough down. Cover and let it rest for 10 minutes. This will make it easier to roll out.
    3. Remove it from the bowl and place it on a lightly floured work surface.
    4. Roll the dough to an 18 x 12-inch rectangular rectangle with a floured rolling pin (45 x 30 cm).
    5. Spread the softened butter evenly over the surface of the dough leaving a ½-inch border. Can also use melted butter.
    6. Sprinkle the brown sugar mixture evenly over the butter. Press the mixture into the dough gently with your fingers.
    7. Starting with one long side, tightly roll up the dough into a log shape, jelly-roll style.
    8. Pinch the seams together.
    9. Brush the top surface and sides of the log with the remaining softened butter.
    A close up of sliced rolls.

    With a serrated knife, cut the dough into 12 equal pieces. First, cut in half, then cut the halves in half, and then the quarters in thirds. 

    Transfer rolls and place them in the prepared pan barely touching each other.

    Sliced cinnamon rolls being placed in a greased pan.

    Cover the pan loosely with plastic wrap for the second rise. This should take about 30 minutes in a draft-free place or until doubled in size.

    Bake in preheated oven for 25 minutes or until you get golden-brown rolls.

    Remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 15 minutes before drizzling with vanilla icing. Cool slightly and serve warm.

    A close up photo of a cinnamon roll with vanilla icing.

    A simple vanilla icing

    Combine icing ingredients In a medium bowl, and whisk together. More specifically, 1 cup of powdered sugar, ¼ teaspoon of vanilla extract, and enough milk (a tablespoon at a time) to reach desired consistency. If you want a thicker icing, add more powdered sugar. If you want a thinner icing, add more milk.

    Pour the icing over the fluffy cinnamon rolls and let it drizzle down the sides.

    To make overnight cinnamon rolls

    Simply follow the instructions up to the point where you cut and place the shaped dough in a greased pan. Cover loosely with oiled plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight (for 2-24 hours). In the morning, before baking, take the cinnamon rolls out of the fridge and let stand, covered, at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Then, uncover and bake as directed.

    Tips

    • Check the expiration date on the yeast and test it to see if it’s still viable.
    • For easier mixing, have the eggs at room temperature.
    • If possible, use russet potatoes because they have a high starch content and yield a light and fluffy texture in the bread.
    • The most precise technique to measure flour is by weight. If you don’t have a kitchen scale, fluff your flour and then scoop it using a dry measuring cup and level it off with the back of a knife. For reference, 1 cup of all-purpose flour = 142 grams [source]. 
    • When slicing the dough, you’ll squish the rolls if your knife isn’t sharp enough. One alternative is to use kitchen string or unflavored dental floss. Simply slide the string (or floss) under the rolled dough, bring the two ends up and cross them over each other to cut through the dough. Another alternative is to use a serrated knife or a sharp bench scraper.

    FAQ

    Can I use leftover mashed potatoes?

    Yes, you can use leftover mashed potatoes. Just make sure that they are at room temperature before beginning the recipe.

    Can I freeze mashed potato cinnamon rolls?

    Yes, to freeze, simply wrap them individually in plastic wrap then aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will last for about two months. When ready to eat, remove them from the freezer and let them thaw overnight in the fridge. Then, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.

    What effect does adding potato to dough have?

    The starch in the potatoes (which is higher in Idaho or Russet potatoes) contributes to the structure of the dough and holds more moisture than wheat flour. All of this is done without contributing to the development of gluten. That’s why the end product turns out to be light and tender.

    How do you keep cinnamon rolls moist?

    Cinnamon rolls are best served the same day they are made but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Alternatively, you can freeze them in an airtight container for up to two months.

    Potato dough recipes

    Braided Easter loaves on a cooling rack.

    Italian Easter Bread

    Did you know that this authentic recipe for Italian Easter bread also uses mashed potatoes? The perfect way to celebrate a special brunch or an Italian Easter.

    GET THE RECIPE

    If you are looking for more yeast bread recipes made with mashed potatoes be sure to try this Italian focaccia recipe or these traditional Italian donuts my nonna would call “screppelle”.

    Recipe origins

    I bought a Better Homes and Gardens magazine called “Cook’s Secrets” a few years ago. I’ve adapted this recipe from there. 

    This is your recipe if you are looking for the best make-ahead breakfast recipes for a crowd.

    These mashed potato cinnamon rolls are perfect for special occasions, weekend breakfasts, or holiday brunches. But don’t worry – they’re easy enough to make any time. The best part is the delicious vanilla icing that’s perfect for drizzling over the rolls. 

    Every time I make these rolls, I can’t decide if I have more pleasure making or eating them. 

    Enjoy! 

    And if you are new here, welcome! You may want to sign up for my weekly e-mail newsletter. You can unsubscribe any time you want.

    THANKS SO MUCH for following and being part of the She Loves Biscotti community, where you will find Simple & Tasty Family-Friendly Recipes with an Italian Twist.

    Ciao for now,

    Maria 

    ★★★★★ If you have made these homemade potato cinnamon rolls, I would love to hear about it in the comments below and be sure to rate the recipe!

    Recipe

    Stacked cinnamon rolls on a sheet pan.

    Easy Mashed Potato Cinnamon Rolls

    Looking for a delicious and unique breakfast recipe? Look no further than mashed potato cinnamon rolls! These rolls are soft, fluffy, and loaded with flavor. Plus, they can be made ahead of time so you can enjoy them for breakfast or brunch on the weekend or on special occasions. No one will ever guess the secret ingredient!
    5 from 15 votes
    Print Save RecipeSaved! Pin Rate
    Course: Breakfast
    Cuisine: American
    Prep Time: 30 minutes minutes
    Cook Time: 30 minutes minutes
    Resting Time: 1 hour hour 25 minutes minutes
    Total Time: 2 hours hours 25 minutes minutes
    Servings: 12 rolls
    Calories: 344kcal
    Author: Maria Vannelli RD
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    Ingredients

    • 4½ cups all-purpose flour separated 1½ and 3 cups (215g and 425g)
    • 1 package active dry yeast 2¼ teaspoons (8 grams)
    • 1 cup milk
    • 1 cup mashed potato (russet) cooked
    • ⅓ cup butter cut up
    • ¼ cup sugar granulated
    • 1 teaspoon salt
    • 2 eggs room temperature

    Cinnamon sugar mixture

    • ½ cup brown sugar light
    • 1½ teaspoon cinnamon gound
    • 1 tablespoon flour
    • ¼ cup butter softened (for brushing)

    Instructions

    • In a large mixing bowl (of a stand mixer) combine 1½ cups (215 grams) of flour with yeast. Set aside.
    • Combine milk, potato, butter, sugar, and salt in a medium saucepan. Heat on medium heat and whisk until butter starts to melt and a thermometer reads 105°F-115°F (41-46°C).
    • Remove from heat.
    • Add this mixture to the flour and yeast in the stand mixer and whisk on low speed for about one minute.
    • Add eggs and continue beating until well incorporated (1-2 minutes). Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl with a rubber spatula as needed.
    • Switch to the dough hook.
    • Add the rest of the flour (3 cups) and mix for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. The dough should pull away from the sides of the bowl while sticking to the bottom. Alternately, you can knead by hand.
    • Place it in a lightly greased bowl, turning once to coat.
    • Cover with plastic wrap.
    • Let rise for about 45 minutes or until doubled in size.
    • Punch down dough. Cover and let it rest for 10 minutes.
    • While waiting, prepare the cinnamon-sugar mixture by whisking together the brown sugar, cinnamon and flour in a small bowl. Set aside. Also, prepare the pan (13 x 9 x 2 inches) by greasing or spraying with non-stick spray. Preheat the oven to 375° F.
    • Remove teh dough from the bowl and place it on a lightly floured work surface.
    • Roll out dough until you get an 18 x 12 inch rectangle.
    • Spread most of the softened butter evenly over the surface of the dough leaving a ½-inch border. Can also use melted butter.
    • Sprinkle the brown sugar mixture evenly over the butter. Press the mixture into the dough gently with your fingers.
    • Starting with one long side, tightly roll up the dough into a log shape, jelly-roll style.
    • Pinch the seams together.
    • Brush the top surface and sides of the log with the remaining softened butter.
    • With a serrated knife, cut the dough into 12 equal pieces. First, cut in half, then cut the halves in half, and then the quarters in thirds. 
    • Transfer rolls and place them in the prepared pan barely touching each other.
    • Cover with plastic wrap and let rise for about 30 minutes or until double in size.
    • Bake in preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until you get golden-brown rolls.
    • Remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 15 minutes before drizzling with vanilla icing (if using).
    • Cool slightly and serve warm.
    Enhance Your Cooking Experience!SCROLL UP for essential step-by-step photos embedded in the article above. When available, videos can be found in the next section. These visuals are designed to help you achieve perfect results every time. Happy cooking!

    Video

    Notes

    • Check the expiration date on the yeast and test it to see if it’s still viable.
    • For easier mixing, have the eggs at room temperature.
    • If possible, use russet potatoes because they have a high starch content and yield a light and fluffy texture in the bread.
    • The most precise technique to measure flour is by weight. If you don’t have a kitchen scale, fluff your flour and then scoop it using a dry measuring cup and level it off with the back of a knife. For reference, 1 cup of all-purpose flour = 142 grams [source]. 
    • When slicing the dough, you’ll squish the rolls if your knife isn’t sharp enough. One alternative is to use kitchen string or unflavored dental floss. Simply slide the string (or floss) under the rolled dough, bring the two ends up and cross them over each other to cut through the dough. Another alternative is to use a serrated knife or a sharp bench scraper.
     
    A simple vanilla icing:
    Combine icing ingredients In a medium bowl, and whisk together. More specifically, 1 cup of powdered sugar, ¼ teaspoon of vanilla extract, and enough milk (a tablespoon at a time) to reach desired consistency. If you want a thicker icing, add more powdered sugar. If you want a thinner icing, add more milk.
    Pour the icing over the fluffy cinnamon rolls and let it drizzle down the sides.
    To make overnight cinnamon rolls:
    Simply follow the instructions up to the point where you cut and place the shaped dough in a greased pan. Cover loosely with oiled plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight (for 2-24 hours). In the morning, before baking, take the cinnamon rolls out of the fridge and let stand, covered, at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Then, uncover and bake as directed.
    *adapted from a recipe in Cook’s Secrets Magazine

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1serving | Calories: 344kcal | Carbohydrates: 54g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Cholesterol: 53mg | Sodium: 300mg | Potassium: 154mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 14g | Vitamin A: 350IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 48mg | Iron: 2.5mg
    SIGN UP for Email updates!YES! Send me FREE RECIPES!

    This post was originally published on January 10, 2015, and republished on April 2, 2022, with updated content and photos. Thanks for sharing! 

     

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    Filed Under: Baked Goods, Breads, Breakfast and Brunch

    About Maria

    Maria Vannelli is a retired dietitian who lives in a suburb just outside Montreal, Canada. She's the founder of the food blog She Loves Biscotti. Maria hopes to inspire you and bring you and your loved ones closer together at meal times enabling you to create some memorable moments.

    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. Mary

      April 10, 2025 at 6:16 pm

      The dough is soft, pillowy, and delicious. However, the filling needs much, much more cinnamon. Next time I’ll use a tablespoon and a half instead of a teaspoon and a half.

      Reply
      • Maria

        April 11, 2025 at 1:48 pm

        Thanks so much for the feedback Mary! I’m so glad you enjoyed the dough—it really is so soft and pillowy. Totally agree, if you’re a cinnamon lover, upping the amount makes a big difference. A tablespoon and a half sounds perfect for a bolder flavor. Let me know how it turns out next time!

        Reply
    2. NETTIE

      March 28, 2025 at 6:48 pm

      Absolutely amazing! My first attempt on another recipe without mashed potatoes were just OK. Tried these and oh my!! Took them to work and got rave reviews! Followed recipe except used half and half for milk. I will never use another recipe! Thank you!

      Reply
      • Maria

        March 29, 2025 at 3:26 pm

        My pleasure Nettie! Thanks so much for sharing!

        Reply
    3. Deneen Pond

      July 21, 2024 at 5:07 am

      5 stars
      Delicious. I followed the dough recipe measurements exactly but used my bread maker instead of mixer. The dough was very stick and moist so I needed to add about 1/3 cup more flour. The cinnamon rolls were tasty, fluffy, and perfectly baked at 25 minutes. Can’t wait to try them again using an orange zest and white sugar filling with orange butter cream glaze on top.

      Reply
      • Maria

        September 16, 2024 at 3:54 pm

        Thanks so much for taking the time to share Deneen.

        Reply
    4. Alison S

      January 14, 2023 at 10:59 pm

      5 stars
      This is a very good recipe, thank you for sharing. I only made one change and that is I used bread flour instead of all-purpose. I will definitely make these again but I will add chopped pecans to the cinnamon/sugar mix, just for a different twist.

      Reply
      • Maria

        January 16, 2023 at 7:23 pm

        Thanks so much Alison!

        Reply
    5. Rose Marie A. Klavonlo

      April 05, 2022 at 3:55 pm

      Can you freeze before frosting and also can you freeze Easter bread?

      Reply
      • Maria

        April 06, 2022 at 9:27 pm

        Thanks for your interest Rose Marie. Yes, you can freeze them once they are baked without the frosting. Yes, the Easter bread freezes wonderfully! Enjoy!

        Reply
    6. Shirley

      April 02, 2022 at 5:47 pm

      I don’t understand, after cutting them into 12 pieces, why do you cut again in half, then thirds? It doesn’t make sense to me.

      Reply
      • Maria

        April 02, 2022 at 6:42 pm

        Thanks for your interest Shirley. I just wanted to clarify how to cut the log into 12 sections. Thanks for stopping by.

        Reply
    7. Lenora Fair

      November 07, 2021 at 5:57 pm

      5 stars
      Very soft and pillowy, love them!

      Reply
      • Maria

        November 14, 2021 at 10:21 pm

        They really are! Thanks so much for sharing Lenora!

        Reply
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    Hi, I'm Maria! a dietitian (retired) and full-time content creator. Join me as I share traditional Italian recipes from my youth to modern twists on classics using fresh and seasonal ingredients.

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