These Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls are the easiest you will ever make. They’re soft, sweet, and bursting with cinnamon flavor, making them perfect for breakfast or dessert. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or simply treating yourself, these rolls are sure to impress. The use of sourdough discard not only reduces waste but also adds a delightful tang that enhances the overall taste.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With just 35 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy fresh cinnamon rolls without spending hours in the kitchen.
Delicious Flavor: The combination of sourdough discard and cinnamon creates a unique taste that is both comforting and indulgent.
Perfect for Any Occasion: These rolls are suitable for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, making them a versatile choice for any meal.
Minimal Ingredients: You only need common pantry staples to whip up these delicious rolls.
Great for Using Discard: This recipe is an excellent way to utilize your sourdough discard creatively, reducing food waste.

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking experience smoother and more enjoyable, gather your tools before starting. Having everything ready will help streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowls
Rolling pin
Baking dish or cast iron skillet
Parchment paper (optional)
Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients efficiently while preventing mess.
Rolling pin: Helps achieve an even thickness in your dough for consistent baking results.
Baking dish or cast iron skillet: Provides a sturdy base for baking your cinnamon rolls evenly.

Ingredients

These are the easiest sourdough discard cinnamon rolls you will ever make. Soft, sweet, and full of cinnamon goodness.

3 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup sourdough discard (or active starter)
3/4 cup water
3 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup)
6 tablespoons butter (melted)
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
3 tablespoons butter (melted)
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon cinnamon
1 cup powdered sugar
4 oz cream cheese (preferably full fat)
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons cream (milk or half and half would also work)

How to Make Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375℉. This step ensures that your rolls will bake evenly when they’re ready.

Step 2: Prepare the Cinnamon Filling

In a small bowl:
1. Mix together 3 tablespoons melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
2. Set this mixture aside; it will add the sweet cinnamon flavor to your rolls.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl:
1. Combine all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
2. Stir well to ensure all dry ingredients are mixed thoroughly.

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients

Add the following to the dry mixture:
1. Honey,
2. melted butter,
3. water,
4. sourdough starter.

Stir until the dough comes together, then knead until soft—about five minutes by hand or using a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment.

Step 5: Roll Out the Dough

Flour a clean work surface:
1. Roll out the dough into an even rectangle about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick.
2. The thinner you roll it, the more layers of cinnamon sugar you’ll have!

Step 6: Add Filling

Spread the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the rolled-out dough.

Step 7: Roll Up the Dough

Starting at one long side:
1. Roll up the dough tightly into a log.
2. Pinch the ends together to seal them well.

Step 8: Slice into Rolls

Slice the log into 12 equal pieces using a sharp knife.

Step 9: Arrange in Baking Dish

Place the sliced rolls into a prepared baking dish lined with parchment paper or a cast iron skillet.

Step 10: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for about 25–35 minutes or until golden brown on top. Let them cool slightly while you prepare the frosting!

How to Serve Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls

Sourdough discard cinnamon rolls are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack, these rolls can be paired with different accompaniments to enhance their flavor and presentation.

With Cream Cheese Frosting

Add a generous layer of creamy frosting made from cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and a splash of milk for a rich finish.

Drizzled with Honey

For a lighter option, drizzle warm honey over the top of your cinnamon rolls to accentuate the sweetness and add a touch of floral flavor.

Served Warm with Coffee

Pair these rolls with a hot cup of coffee or tea. The warmth and spice complement the beverage perfectly and create a cozy experience.

Topped with Fresh Fruit

Add sliced bananas or berries on the side. The freshness of the fruit balances the sweetness of the cinnamon rolls.

With Ice Cream

Serve warm sourdough discard cinnamon rolls alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert that everyone will love.

How to Perfect Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls

To ensure your sourdough discard cinnamon rolls turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

Use room temperature ingredients: Make sure your sourdough discard and butter are at room temperature for easy blending into the dough.
Knead properly: Kneading helps develop gluten, contributing to the perfect texture. Aim for soft but not sticky dough.
Roll thinly for more layers: Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thick. This creates more layers filled with delicious cinnamon sugar.
Let them rise: After slicing, allow the rolls to rise slightly before baking. This makes them fluffier and more tender.
Watch baking time closely: Check your rolls around the 25-minute mark to prevent overbaking. They should be golden brown on top.

Best Side Dishes for Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls

Pairing your sourdough discard cinnamon rolls with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and color to your plate.
Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a creamy, crunchy contrast.
Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein and balance against sweet rolls.
Breakfast Sausages: Savory sausages create a hearty breakfast when served alongside sweet cinnamon rolls.
Oatmeal: A warm bowl of oatmeal can be a comforting addition to this sweet dish.
Smoothie Bowl: A refreshing smoothie bowl topped with nuts and seeds adds nutrition and vibrancy to your breakfast spread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making sourdough discard cinnamon rolls can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes is key to success. Here are some pitfalls to steer clear of:

Not measuring ingredients accurately – Ensure you use precise measurements for flour and liquids. Too much or too little can affect dough consistency.
Overworking the dough – Kneading is essential, but overworking can lead to tough rolls. Aim for a soft, pliable dough.
Ignoring resting time – Allow the dough to rest before rolling it out. This helps the gluten relax and makes rolling easier.
Skipping the parchment paper – Using parchment paper in your baking dish prevents sticking. Always line your dish for easy removal.
Baking at incorrect temperature – Oven temperatures vary, so check that yours is calibrated correctly. Adjust baking time as needed.

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Keep in the fridge to maintain freshness and moisture.

Freezing Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls

Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing in a freezer-safe bag.
They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor.

Reheating Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls

Oven – Preheat to 350℉, place rolls on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
Microwave – Heat individual rolls for 15-20 seconds. Add a damp paper towel for moisture.
Stovetop – Place in a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls?

Sourdough discard cinnamon rolls are delightful pastries made using sourdough discard, which adds flavor and tenderness while reducing food waste.

How do I make Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls more flavorful?

To enhance their taste, consider adding vanilla extract or using flavored butter in the dough or frosting.

Can I substitute ingredients in Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls?

Yes! You can swap honey with maple syrup or use different types of milk in the frosting. Get creative!

What Can I Make With My Sourdough Discard besides Cinnamon Rolls?

There are many options! Use sourdough discard in pancakes, waffles, crackers, or even bread recipes.

Final Thoughts

These sourdough discard cinnamon rolls are not only easy to make but also versatile! You can customize them with nuts or dried fruits for added texture and taste. Give this recipe a try; you won’t regret it!

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Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls

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Author: Amanda
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: Makes approximately 12 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful experience of baking Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls, a sweet treat that’s perfect for breakfast or dessert. These rolls are incredibly soft and infused with a rich cinnamon flavor, making them an irresistible option for any occasion. With just 35 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy fresh, warm cinnamon rolls that not only taste fantastic but also help reduce food waste by utilizing sourdough discard. This recipe is simple enough for beginners and offers a unique twist on the classic cinnamon roll, ensuring your family and guests will be thoroughly impressed. Treat yourself or share them at brunch—either way, these easy-to-make rolls will become a new favorite.

Ingredients

Scale

3 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup sourdough discard
3 tablespoons honey
6 tablespoons butter (melted)
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon cinnamon
1 cup powdered sugar (for frosting)
4 oz cream cheese

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F.
In a small bowl, mix melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon for the filling.
In a large bowl, combine flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
Add honey, melted butter, water, and sourdough discard to dry ingredients; stir until dough forms.
Knead dough for about five minutes until soft.
Roll out dough into a rectangle; spread filling mixture evenly.
Roll tightly into a log and slice into 12 pieces.
Place slices in a baking dish and bake for 25–35 minutes until golden brown.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American