0 Shares

There’s something truly comforting about waking up to the enticing aroma of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through the house. I discovered this Easy Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls recipe during one of those lazy Sunday mornings when the idea of breakfast felt just a bit too mundane. The beauty of this recipe is how it transforms that usually disregarded sourdough discard into something utterly delightful.

With every bite, your tastebuds will dance in delight, thanks to the perfect balance of sweet brown sugar and warm cinnamon filling, all wrapped in a soft, fluffy roll. Topped with a rich cream cheese frosting, these rolls steal the show at breakfast or brunch, turning an ordinary day into an extraordinary one. Plus, you’ll feel great knowing you’re making good use of that sourdough starter you’ve been nurturing. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and bring some joy to your kitchen with these delicious cinnamon rolls!

Why is Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls a Must-Try?

Comforting, delicious goodness: These cinnamon rolls are the perfect blend of cozy flavors and satisfying textures. Easy to make: You’ll be surprised how simple the process is while achieving impressive results. Waste not, want not: Use that leftover sourdough discard creatively and deliciously. Crowd-pleasing treat: Friends and family will rave about your baking skills when they taste these soft, fluffy rolls topped with creamy frosting. Flexible variations: The recipe allows you to experiment with nuts, fruits, or even different extracts for a unique twist. Enjoy a delightful breakfast experience that brings everyone together!

Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls Ingredients

For the Dough

Milk – Activates yeast and adds moisture; remember to use room temperature milk to speed up the rise.
Butter – Provides richness to both the dough and filling; it can be melted or softened for easier mixing.
Sourdough Discard (100% hydration) – Acts as a flavor enhancer and dough improver; ensure it’s fresh and free of mold for the best results.
Instant Yeast – Helps the dough rise; there’s no need to worry about freshness as it works well with sourdough.
Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness; feel free to adjust the amount to suit your taste.
Egg – Contributes to the richness and moisture of the dough; make sure it’s at room temperature for best incorporation.
Bread Flour – Creates the perfect structure for your rolls; reserve some for adjustments as needed.

For the Filling

Brown Sugar – Used in the filling for a deep sweetness that pairs beautifully with cinnamon.
Cinnamon – Provides that warm, comforting spice flavor everyone loves in cinnamon rolls.

For the Frosting

Cream Cheese – Forms the base of the creamy frosting, giving it a delightful tang and sweetness.
Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the frosting; avoid using granulated sugar to ensure a smooth texture.
Vanilla Extract & Maple Extract – Enhance the flavor of the frosting; the combination will delight your taste buds.

How to Make Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls

Warm Milk: Start by gently warming the milk until it’s just warm to the touch. This step activates the yeast, making your rolls rise beautifully during baking.
Mix Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the warm milk with melted butter and sourdough discard. Let it sit for a few minutes to activate the yeast properly.
Add Dry Ingredients: Next, stir in the granulated sugar, egg, salt, and most of the bread flour. Mix until it becomes a sticky but cohesive dough, taking about 8-10 minutes of kneading until it’s smooth and elastic.
First Rise: Cover the bowl with a clean cloth and set it in a warm, draft-free spot for 1-2 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the dough has doubled in size.
Prepare Filling: While the dough is rising, melt more butter and combine it with brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. This will be your sweet filling!
Shape Rolls: Once the dough has risen, roll it out into a rectangle. Spread the filling evenly over the dough, then roll it up tightly from the long edge and slice it into individual rolls.
Second Rise: Place the rolls in a greased baking dish, cover them, and let them rise again for about an hour, until they’ve puffed up nicely.
Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake the cinnamon rolls for approximately 30 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and your kitchen smells heavenly.
Cool & Frost: Allow the rolls to cool for 10-15 minutes before generously topping them with cream cheese frosting for the perfect finishing touch.

Optional: Sprinkle some chopped nuts on top of the frosting for added flavor and crunch.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls?

There’s nothing quite like the warmth and comfort of fresh cinnamon rolls on a serene morning, and pairing them well can elevate your breakfast experience even more.

Crispy Bacon: The savory, salty crunch of bacon adds the perfect contrast to the sweetness of the rolls, creating an irresistible balance for your palate.
Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright, juicy berries and tangy citrus provide a refreshing burst of flavor that complements the rich, gooey cinnamon rolls beautifully.
Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layered with honey and granola, this creamy, crunchy addition offers an exquisite textural contrast to the fluffy rolls.
Creamy Scrambled Eggs: The softness of eggs pairs wonderfully with the rolls. Serve them side by side for a comforting breakfast plate that feels indulgent yet satisfying.
Maple Syrup Drizzle: In case you enjoy an extra touch of sweetness, a drizzle of warm maple syrup not only enhances the cinnamon rolls but also brings a classic touch to your breakfast spread.
Hot Coffee or Spiced Chai Latte: A cozy beverage elevates the dining experience. The aromatic notes of coffee or a spiced chai bring warmth that harmonizes with the comforting flavors of the cinnamon rolls.
Cinnamon-infused Tea: A soothing cup of cinnamon tea adds a gentle spice that enhances the overall experience. Sip alongside your rolls for a delightful start to your day.
Oatmeal Cookies for Dessert: If you’re feeling indulgent, finish your breakfast with a sweet touch by serving a couple of soft oatmeal cookies, keeping the comforting vibes alive throughout your meal.

How to Store and Freeze Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls

Room Temperature: Store unfrosted cinnamon rolls in an airtight container for up to 2 days. This keeps them soft and ready for a warm treat anytime!

Fridge: If you have leftovers, you can refrigerate them for up to 5 days in an airtight container. Just warm them up in the microwave or oven before enjoying.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the rolls (preferably unfrosted) in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and frost before serving for the freshest taste.

Reheating: For the best experience, reheat the rolls gently in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or warm them individually in the microwave for about 30 seconds.

Expert Tips for Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls

Ingredient Temperature: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for optimal yeast activation, which leads to better rises in your sourdough discard cinnamon rolls.
Patience is Key: Don’t rush the proofing times! Allowing the dough to rise properly ensures light and airy rolls; this is vital for the best texture.
Use a Warm Environment: To aid dough rising, place it in a warm area—like an oven with the light on. This helps achieve that perfect fluffy consistency.
Cool Before Frosting: Let the rolls cool for 10-15 minutes before frosting them. This prevents the cream cheese frosting from melting and gives you a beautiful finish.
Knead Mindfully: Knead until the dough is tacky and smooth. Over-kneading can lead to tough rolls, so stop once it feels silky and elastic.

Make Ahead Options

These Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls are a great option for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prep the dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all ingredients and allowing the first rise, then refrigerate the covered bowl overnight. When ready to bake, simply let the dough come to room temperature, shape the rolls, and allow the second rise for about an hour before baking. Alternatively, you can shape the rolls and place them in the baking dish, then cover and refrigerate for about 3 days. Just remember to let them rise until doubled in size before baking. Following these tips will ensure your rolls remain fluffy and just as delicious when served!

Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls Variations

Feel free to get creative and make these delicious cinnamon rolls your own! Your kitchen will come alive with enticing aromas as you experiment.

Whole Wheat: Substitute regular flour with whole wheat for a heartier texture and nuttier flavor.
Wholesome and satisfying, this swap enhances the nutrition while keeping the cinnamon roll charm.
Vegan: Replace butter with coconut oil and the egg with applesauce or ground flaxseed mixed with water.
These rolls can still be soft and fluffy without sacrificing taste, making them perfect for plant-based diets.
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling for a delightful crunch.
The nuts provide an unexpected texture and complement the cinnamon beautifully, making each bite a bit of a surprise.
Fruit-Filled: Incorporate dried cranberries or raisins into the filling to add a burst of sweetness.
This variation introduces a fruity twist, elevating your rolls to new delicious heights.
Spiced Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the cinnamon filling for a warm, spicy kick.
This enhances the cozy flavor profile, enveloping you in comforting aromas that remind you of home.
Frosting Flair: Experiment with different frostings, like chocolate ganache or vanilla bean, instead of the usual cream cheese.
Transform the flavor experience and give your rolls a new look and taste that surprises every guest.
Extra Creamy: Fold in a bit of sour cream or Greek yogurt into the frosting for added creaminess and tang.
This creates a luscious topping that balances the sweetness of your cinnamon rolls.
Maple Bliss: Swap maple extract for vanilla in the frosting for a richer flavor profile.
Maple complements cinnamon perfectly, adding an extra layer of warmth and sweetness.

Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting sourdough discard?
Absolutely! Ensure your sourdough discard is fresh and has no signs of mold. It should be bubbly and have a pleasant, tangy smell. Using discard that is 100% hydration yields the best results in flavor and texture for your cinnamon rolls.

How can I store leftover sourdough discard cinnamon rolls?
Very simple! Unfrosted cinnamon rolls can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you have leftovers, they can be refrigerated for up to 5 days. Just remember to warm them back up before enjoying!

Can I freeze sourdough discard cinnamon rolls and how?
Absolutely, you can! For best results, freeze the cinnamon rolls unfrosted. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and frost right before serving for that fresh-baked taste.

What do I do if my dough isn’t rising?
If your dough isn’t rising, it could be due to a few factors. First, make sure your ingredients were at room temperature to activate the yeast effectively. If your kitchen is cold, try placing the dough in a warm, draft-free area, like an oven with just the light on, for optimal rising.

Are there any common allergies I should be aware of?
Yes, definitely consider common allergens! The main ingredients include gluten (from bread flour), dairy (from milk and butter), and eggs. If you’re baking for someone with allergies, you could substitute these with gluten-free flour, plant-based butter, and egg alternatives such as flaxseed or applesauce. Just be sure to adjust the recipe accordingly!