Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls
These delicious Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls are a perfect treat for breakfast or dessert. With their soft texture, sweet cinnamon filling, and creamy frosting, these rolls are not only easy to make but also utilize sourdough discard effectively. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to enjoy a cozy weekend treat, these cinnamon rolls offer a delightful way to incorporate your sourdough starter into a beloved classic.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal effort and is perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of brown sugar and cinnamon creates an irresistible filling that complements the soft dough perfectly.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy these rolls warm for breakfast or as a sweet snack throughout the day.
- Zero Waste: Using sourdough discard helps reduce kitchen waste while adding flavor and texture to your rolls.
- Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have freshly baked rolls on the table in no time.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the baking process, gather your tools. Having the right equipment will make your experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Rolling pin
- Mixing bowls
- Baking dish or cast iron skillet
- Parchment paper (optional)
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Rolling pin: This tool helps you roll out the dough evenly, ensuring consistent thickness for perfect cinnamon rolls.
- Mixing bowls: Having separate bowls for mixing ingredients keeps your process organized and makes it easier to combine components.
Ingredients
These are the easiest sourdough discard cinnamon rolls you will ever make. Soft, sweet, and full of cinnamon goodness.
Ingredients:
– 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 will ensure that your cinnamon rolls bake evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Cinnamon Filling
In a small bowl, mix together:
1. 3 tablespoons melted butter
2. 1/2 cup brown sugar
3. 1 tablespoon cinnamon
Set this mixture aside as you prepare the dough.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine:
1. 3 cups all-purpose flour
2. 1 teaspoon baking soda
3. 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
4. 1/2 teaspoon salt
Mix well to combine these dry ingredients before adding wet items.
Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients
Add to the dry mixture:
1. 3 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup)
2. 6 tablespoons melted butter
3. 3/4 cup water
4. 3/4 cup sourdough discard
Stir until the dough comes together, then knead it until soft—about five minutes by hand or with a stand mixer using a dough hook attachment.
Step 5: Roll Out the Dough
Flour a clean work surface and roll out the dough into an even rectangle about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick.
Step 6: Spread Cinnamon Filling
Spread the prepared cinnamon filling over the entire surface of the rolled-out dough.
Step 7: Roll Up Dough
Starting from one long side, tightly roll up the dough. Pinch the ends together to keep them sealed.
Step 8: Slice Rolls
Slice the rolled dough into 12 equal pieces using a sharp knife or bench scraper.
Step 9: Prepare Baking Dish
Place sliced rolls in a prepared baking dish lined with parchment paper or in a cast iron skillet.
Step 10: Bake
Bake for 25–35 minutes until golden brown. Allow cooling slightly while making frosting.
Enjoy your delicious Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls!
How to Serve Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls
Sourdough discard cinnamon rolls are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you prefer them warm from the oven or paired with your favorite drink, there are plenty of serving suggestions to enhance your experience.
Classic Breakfast Delight
- Enjoy these rolls fresh out of the oven for a comforting breakfast.
- Pair with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a perfect morning combo.
Sweet Snack
- Have them as an afternoon snack with a dollop of cream cheese frosting on top.
- They also make a great pick-me-up when served with a glass of milk.
Brunch Treat
- Serve them at brunch gatherings alongside fresh fruit and yogurt.
- Guests will love the sweet addition to a savory spread.
Dessert Option
- These cinnamon rolls can double as dessert when served warm with ice cream.
- Drizzle extra icing on top for an indulgent treat.
Freezing for Later
- Wrap individual rolls in plastic wrap and freeze for later enjoyment.
- Simply reheat in the oven for a quick sweet fix anytime.
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: Allow butter and sourdough discard to reach room temperature for better mixing.
- Knead well: Make sure to knead the dough thoroughly; this develops gluten for soft, fluffy rolls.
- Don’t skip the rise: Let the rolled dough rest before slicing; this helps improve texture.
- Check oven temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures for even cooking.
- Adjust sweetness: Feel free to increase or decrease the sugar based on your taste preferences.
- Experiment with fillings: Try adding nuts or dried fruits for added flavor variations.
Best Side Dishes for Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls
Sourdough discard cinnamon rolls pair wonderfully with various side dishes that complement their sweet goodness. Here are some tasty options:
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the sweetness of the rolls.
- Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and berries creates a refreshing contrast.
- Crispy Bacon: The salty crunch of bacon provides a savory counterpoint to the sweet rolls.
- Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy eggs add protein and make for a hearty breakfast plate alongside the rolls.
- Hash Browns: Golden, crispy hash browns offer satisfying texture next to soft cinnamon rolls.
- Coffee Cake: Serve slices of coffee cake alongside for an ultimate brunch experience.
- Chai Tea Latte: The spiced flavors of chai beautifully complement the cinnamon in your rolls.
- Maple Syrup Drizzle: Offer pure maple syrup on the side for those who want an extra touch of sweetness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making sourdough discard cinnamon rolls can be a delightful experience, but there are common mistakes to watch out for.
- Ignoring dough consistency: If your dough is too dry or too wet, it will affect the texture of the rolls. Adjust flour or water as necessary.
- Not rolling the dough evenly: Uneven thickness can lead to inconsistent baking. Aim for a uniform rectangle for even layers and cooking.
- Overbaking the rolls: Keep an eye on your rolls in the oven. Baking them too long can lead to dryness. Look for a golden brown color as a sign they are ready.
- Skipping the resting time: Allowing the dough to rest helps develop flavor. Don’t rush this step; it’s worth it!
- Rushing the frosting preparation: Make sure your cream cheese is softened and mixed well for a smooth glaze. A lumpy frosting can ruin the experience.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover sourdough discard cinnamon rolls in an airtight container.
- They can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls
- Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls
- Oven: Preheat to 350℉ and bake for about 10 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat individual rolls for about 20-30 seconds or until warm.
- Stovetop: Place rolls in a pan with a lid on low heat until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes sourdough discard cinnamon rolls different?
Sourdough discard cinnamon rolls use leftover sourdough starter, adding unique flavor and moisture that traditional recipes lack.
Can I use active sourdough starter instead of discard?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to adjust the water content slightly since active starter is more hydrated than discard.
How do I know when my cinnamon rolls are done?
Your sourdough discard cinnamon rolls should be golden brown on top and spring back slightly when touched.
Can I customize my sourdough discard cinnamon rolls?
Absolutely! Feel free to add nuts, raisins, or even chocolate chips into the filling for added flavor and texture.
What should I do with leftover sourdough discard?
You can use it in pancakes, waffles, or even bread recipes! It’s versatile and adds great flavor to many baked goods.
How do I store unfrosted vs. frosted rolls?
Unfrosted rolls stay fresh longer than frosted ones. Store unfrosted rolls at room temperature and frost just before serving.
Final Thoughts
These sourdough discard cinnamon rolls are not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them with your favorite flavors or toppings. Try making these delightful treats for breakfast or dessert; they’re sure to impress everyone at your table!
Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful taste of Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls, a perfect blend of sweet and comforting flavors that can elevate any breakfast or dessert spread. These rolls boast a soft texture, enriched with a luscious cinnamon filling and topped with creamy frosting, making them irresistible any time of day. Best of all, they utilize sourdough discard, transforming kitchen waste into a delicious treat. With just 10 minutes of prep time and simple ingredients, you can whip up these gooey rolls effortlessly. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or enjoying a cozy morning at home, this easy recipe will surely impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup sourdough discard
- 3/4 cup water
- 6 tablespoons melted butter (plus more for filling)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 4 oz cream cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Mix melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl for the filling.
- In another bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add honey, melted butter, water, and sourdough discard to the dry mix; stir until combined.
- Knead dough until soft (about five minutes).
- Roll out dough into a rectangle; spread cinnamon filling evenly on top.
- Roll tightly from one side; slice into 12 equal pieces.
- Place rolls in a baking dish; bake for 25–35 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Breakfast/Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll (65g)
- Calories: 198
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 197mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
