Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls

These Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls are the easiest and most delicious way to use up your sourdough discard. Soft, sweet, and filled with cinnamon goodness, these rolls are perfect for breakfast or a sweet treat any time of day. They are simple to make and will impress your family and friends at gatherings, brunches, or even as an afternoon pick-me-up!

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• How to Make Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Prepare the Cinnamon Filling
• Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
• Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients
• Step 5: Knead the Dough
• Step 6: Roll Out the Dough
• Step 7: Spread Cinnamon Sugar Mixture
• Step 8: Roll Up Tight
• Step 9: Slice Into Rolls
• Step 10: Prepare for Baking
• Step 11: Bake
• How to Serve Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls
• With Cream Cheese Frosting
• Serve Warm
• Pair with Coffee
• Add Fresh Fruit
• Ice Cream Delight
• Drizzle with Maple Syrup
• How to Perfect Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls
• Best Side Dishes for Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls
• Reheating Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use active sourdough starter instead of discard?
• How do I know when my cinnamon rolls are done baking?
• What other flavors can I add to my Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls?
• How do I prevent my rolls from getting too hard after baking?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only 10 minutes of prep time, you can have fresh cinnamon rolls in no time.
• Flavorful: The combination of brown sugar and cinnamon creates a warm, inviting flavor that everyone loves.
• Versatile: Great for breakfast, brunch, or as a delightful dessert after dinner.
• Uses Leftover Discard: A perfect way to reduce waste by using leftover sourdough discard.
• No Yeast Required: This recipe is quick because it doesn’t require yeast; the baking powder does all the work.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin baking your delicious sourdough discard cinnamon rolls, gather the necessary tools to streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Rolling pin
• Large mixing bowl
• Small mixing bowl
• Baking dish (or cast iron skillet)
• Parchment paper (optional)
• Dough scraper (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• Rolling pin: Ensures your dough is rolled evenly, creating uniform rolls.
• Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space for mixing ingredients without spillage.
• Baking dish: Ideal for holding the rolls while they bake to golden perfection.

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 ensures that your rolls bake evenly and come out perfectly golden brown.

Step 2: Prepare the Cinnamon Filling

In a small bowl:
1. Mix together 3 tablespoons melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
2. Set this delicious mixture aside while you prepare the dough.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl:
1. Combine all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
2. Mix thoroughly to distribute the leavening agents evenly throughout the flour.

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients

To the dry ingredient mixture:
1. Add in your honey, melted butter, water, and sourdough starter.
2. Stir until a dough forms.

Step 5: Knead the Dough

Knead the dough:
1. Use your hands or a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment.
2. Knead until all ingredients are well incorporated and the dough feels soft—about five minutes by hand is usually enough.

Step 6: Roll Out the Dough

On a floured surface:
1. Roll out the dough into an even rectangle approximately 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick.
2. The thinner it is, the more layers of cinnamon sugar you’ll enjoy in each bite!

Step 7: Spread Cinnamon Sugar Mixture

Spread:
1. The prepared cinnamon sugar mixture over the entire surface of the rolled-out dough.

Step 8: Roll Up Tight

Starting from one long edge:
1. Roll up the dough tightly into a log shape.
2. Pinch both ends to ensure they seal well.

Step 9: Slice Into Rolls

Using a sharp knife:
1. Slice into 12 equal pieces so each roll bakes evenly.

Step 10: Prepare for Baking

Place:
1. The sliced rolls into a prepared baking dish lined with parchment paper or directly into a cast iron skillet.

Step 11: Bake

Bake in preheated oven for:
1. About 25-35 minutes or until golden brown on top.
2. Allow them to cool slightly while you prepare frosting if desired!

How to Serve Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls

Serving your Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls can elevate your breakfast or dessert experience. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy them.

With Cream Cheese Frosting

• Drizzle a generous amount of cream cheese frosting on top for a rich and tangy flavor that complements the sweetness of the rolls.

Serve Warm

• Enjoy your cinnamon rolls warm from the oven. The gooey filling and soft dough create a heavenly texture that everyone will love.

Pair with Coffee

• A cup of freshly brewed coffee pairs perfectly with these rolls, enhancing their sweet cinnamon flavor and making for a delightful morning treat.

Add Fresh Fruit

• Top with fresh fruit like sliced strawberries or bananas for a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the rolls.

Ice Cream Delight

• Serve warm cinnamon rolls with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert option that is sure to impress.

Drizzle with Maple Syrup

• For extra sweetness, drizzle warm maple syrup over the rolls just before serving. This adds a unique flavor twist that everyone will enjoy.

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How to Perfect Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls

To make your Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls even better, follow these handy tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, especially your flour and baking powder, are fresh for the best results.
• Knead Properly: Knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic. This helps create the perfect texture in your rolls.
• Roll Evenly: Roll out the dough to an even thickness so each roll bakes uniformly, ensuring every bite is delicious.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on them while they bake; remove them from the oven when they’re golden brown to avoid dryness.
• Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to add nuts or different spices like nutmeg to vary the flavor profile of your cinnamon rolls.
• Let Them Rise: Allowing the rolled dough to rise slightly before baking can yield fluffier rolls.

Best Side Dishes for Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls

When serving Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls, consider pairing them with these tasty side dishes for a balanced meal.

1. Scrambled Eggs
   Fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein and creaminess that balances out the sweet rolls beautifully.

2. Bacon Strips
   Crispy bacon adds a savory crunch that contrasts wonderfully with the soft sweetness of cinnamon rolls.

3. Yogurt Parfait
   A yogurt parfait layered with granola and berries gives a refreshing side option filled with probiotics and vitamins.

4. Fruit Salad
   A mix of fresh seasonal fruits offers a light and healthy complement to rich cinnamon rolls, adding color and nutrients.

5. Coffee Cake
   Serving coffee cake alongside adds another layer of sweetness while keeping up with that cozy brunch vibe.

6. Hash Browns
   Crispy hash browns bring hearty flavors that pair well with sweet pastries like cinnamon rolls, making for a filling breakfast option.

7. Tea Selection
   Offering various teas can enhance the experience, providing soothing flavors that work harmoniously with sweet treats.

8. Smoothie Bowl
   A vibrant smoothie bowl topped with seeds and nuts can add nutrition while also being visually appealing next to your warm cinnamon rolls.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls can be a delightful experience, but there are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Using stale sourdough discard: Always use fresh sourdough discard for the best flavor. Stale discard can lead to less fluffy rolls.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Baking is precise, so use a kitchen scale or measuring cups to ensure you get the right amounts for optimal results.
• Overworking the dough: Kneading too much can make the rolls dense. Mix until just combined and knead gently for the softest texture.
• Skipping the resting period: Letting the dough rest allows it to rise and develop flavor. Don’t rush this step; it’s essential for airy rolls.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Preheat your oven thoroughly. Baking at the wrong temperature can lead to uneven cooking and burnt edges.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls

• Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer bag.
• These can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm the rolls for about 10-15 minutes for a fresh-baked taste.
• Microwave: Heat individually on high for 15-20 seconds, but be cautious not to overdo it as they can become tough.
• Stovetop: Place rolls in a covered pan on low heat with a splash of water. This method steams them back to softness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls.

Can I use active sourdough starter instead of discard?

You can use active sourdough starter, but keep in mind that it will add more rise. Adjust water accordingly.

How do I know when my cinnamon rolls are done baking?

The rolls should be golden brown on top and spring back when lightly pressed. A toothpick inserted should come out clean.

What other flavors can I add to my Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls?

You can add nuts, raisins, or even chocolate chips for extra flavor. Experiment with different fillings!

How do I prevent my rolls from getting too hard after baking?

Make sure they are stored properly in an airtight container and avoid overbaking them.

Final Thoughts

These Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls are not only easy to make but also incredibly delicious. With their soft texture and sweet cinnamon flavor, they’re perfect for breakfast or dessert. Feel free to customize with nuts or additional spices to make them your own!