Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls Recipe

Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls Recipe: An Irresistible Morning Indulgence 🥐✨🌟

1. Introduction

If you’re on the hunt for the perfect breakfast treat that combines the delightful tang of sourdough with the comforting sweetness of cinnamon, look no further than this sourdough cinnamon rolls recipe! This recipe caters to all levels of bakers, from beginners to sourdough aficionados. These sourdough discard cinnamon rolls are not only an excellent way to use up leftover sourdough starter – reducing waste and maximizing flavor – but they can also be prepared overnight for a convenient morning bake. For more delicious breakfast ideas, visit our breakfast recipes category. Imagine waking up to the warm aroma of freshly baked sourdough cinnamon rolls wafting through your home, a treat you’re sure to love! These rolls offer a delightful combination of textures, with a slightly chewy exterior and a soft, pillowy interior. It’s the perfect way to elevate your brunch or impress your family and friends. This recipe is also easily adaptable to different dietary needs, with options for gluten-free and vegan substitutions available online.

2. Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your scrumptious easy sourdough cinnamon rolls:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour (for a lighter roll) or bread flour (for a chewier texture)
• 1 cup sourdough starter (discard is fine, but an active starter will provide better rise)
• 1 cup milk (warm, about 100-110°F – this helps activate the sourdough)
• 1/3 cup sugar (granulated or cane sugar, adjust to your desired sweetness)
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter (melted, and slightly cooled)
• 2 large eggs (at room temperature, for better incorporation)
• 1 teaspoon salt (enhances the flavors)
• 1 tablespoon cinnamon (ground, for that classic cinnamon roll aroma)
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar (light or dark, depending on your preference)
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for icing, also known as confectioners’ sugar)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for icing, adds a hint of warmth)

Before you start, check out these pumpkin sourdough bread recipe, or these peanut butter oatmeal cookies!

3. Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, melted butter, sugar, and eggs. Whisk until smooth, ensuring the eggs are fully incorporated. Add the sourdough starter and mix well. Gradually incorporate the flour and salt until a soft dough forms. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it’s elastic and smooth. A stand mixer with a dough hook can also be used for this step.

Step 2: Rise and Rest

Place your kneaded dough in a greased bowl, turning to coat. Cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot (around 75-80°F) for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size. The rising time will depend on the strength of your sourdough starter and the ambient temperature. If you prefer to make the overnight sourdough cinnamon rolls, instead, cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. This slow fermentation will develop a deeper, more complex flavor. Discover more recipes using sourdough on Little Spoon Farm.

Step 3: Assemble the Rolls

Once your dough has risen, gently punch it down to release any excess air. Roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle about ½ inch thick, aiming for roughly 12×18 inches. Brush the surface with melted butter, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle cinnamon and brown sugar evenly over the buttered surface, pressing lightly to help it adhere. Then roll it up tightly from one end to the other, creating a log. Pinch the seams to seal and slice the log into even pieces for your sourdough cinnamon roll recipe. Use a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss for clean cuts, about 1-1.5 inches thick.

Step 4: Bake and Enjoy

Place the rolls in a greased baking dish (a 9×13 inch pan works well), leaving a little space between each roll. Cover them with a towel or plastic wrap and let them rise for about 30-45 minutes. This second rise will ensure a light and airy texture. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. The internal temperature should reach around 200°F. While they are baking, prepare the icing by whisking powdered sugar with vanilla extract and adding a splash of milk (or cream) until you reach your desired consistency. Drizzle over the warm rolls immediately before serving. Check out this cookie dough delight cake recipe!

4. Storage Tips

Store any leftover sourdough cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To maintain the best texture, avoid storing them in the refrigerator. You can also freeze them for longer storage. Just ensure they are well-wrapped individually or in a freezer-safe container to prevent freezer burn; they can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds (about 20-30 seconds) or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.

5. Serving Suggestions

These sourdough cinnamon rolls are perfect on their own, but you can elevate your breakfast experience by serving them with fresh fruit (such as berries or sliced bananas), a side of bacon or sausage, or a hot cup of coffee or tea. Enhance this coffee brownie cheesecake recipe with these rolls. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent dessert option too! A sprinkle of chopped nuts or a drizzle of caramel sauce can also add a special touch.

6. FAQs

Q1: Can I use regular yeast instead of sourdough starter?

A1: Yes, you can substitute the sourdough starter with active dry yeast. Use approximately 2 ¼ teaspoons (one packet) of active dry yeast. Simply follow a traditional cinnamon roll recipe using yeast for rising instead. Keep in mind that the flavor will be different, lacking the characteristic tang of sourdough.

Q2: How can I make these rolls without sugar?

A2: You can substitute sugar with natural sweeteners like maple syrup or honey. Adjust quantities to taste, starting with about half the amount of sugar called for in the recipe. You can also use sugar substitutes like erythritol or stevia, but be aware that these may affect the texture and browning of the rolls. You can also explore our cookies that might suits you!

Q3: Are sourdough cinnamon rolls suitable for freezing?

A3: Absolutely! Ensure they are kept in airtight packaging to maintain freshness and prevent freezer burn. For best results, freeze them before adding the icing. When ready to serve, thaw the rolls overnight in the refrigerator and then warm them in the oven before adding fresh icing.

7. Tips for Perfect Rolls

For flawless sourdough cinnamon rolls, ensure your starter is active and bubbly. A healthy starter will result in a better rise and a more flavorful roll. Don’t skip the resting times—these are crucial for a soft and fluffy texture. Experiment with different spices or fillings, like nuts or raisins, to customize your rolls! Consider adding a pinch of cardamom or nutmeg to the dough for extra warmth. Be careful not to over-bake the rolls, as this can make them dry.

8. Variations to Try

Consider adding a nutty twist by incorporating chopped pecans or walnuts into your filling, or swap cinnamon for cardamom to create a unique flavor profile. You can also add a tablespoon of orange zest to the dough for a bright, citrusy note. Try a cream cheese filling for a decadent touch (mix softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract) or a chocolate twist if you’re craving something sweeter! Substitute some of the cinnamon sugar with cocoa powder for a rich chocolate flavor.

9. Conclusion

This sourdough cinnamon rolls recipe is not only a perfect way to use sourdough discard but also an easy, delightful treat to start your day or impress your guests. You can also check other easy recipes like chicken pasta recipe, chicken and stuffing casserole recipe, pioneer woman mexican chicken casserole recipe and tortellini carbonara recipe. With this step-by-step guide, you can enjoy the benefits of sourdough with the deliciousness of cinnamon rolls. Try this recipe today and transform your breakfast into a delightful celebration! Enjoy the process of baking these rolls and savor the delightful aroma and taste that fills your home.

Print