Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls
These Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls are the easiest and most delightful treat you can make using your sourdough discard. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert, these rolls are soft, sweet, and bursting with cinnamon flavor. Their unique combination of ingredients ensures a tender texture while reducing waste in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, anyone can whip up these delicious rolls.
- Great for Leftovers: This recipe is a fantastic way to use up sourdough discard without compromising on taste.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family breakfast or a special gathering, these rolls will impress everyone at the table.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them warm, topped with cream cheese frosting or plain—they’re delightful either way!
- Kid-Friendly: With their sweet flavor and fun shape, kids will love helping out in the kitchen with this recipe.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making your sourdough discard cinnamon rolls, gather your tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Small bowl
- Rolling pin
- Baking dish (or cast iron skillet)
- Parchment paper (optional)
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl helps combine ingredients effectively, ensuring an even dough.
- Rolling pin: This tool is essential for rolling out the dough to the perfect thickness for layering.
- Baking dish: A good baking dish ensures even cooking and browning of your cinnamon rolls.
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 is crucial for ensuring 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; it will become the sweet filling for your rolls.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing 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 these dry ingredients thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of leavening agents.
Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients
Add to the dry mixture:
1. 3/4 cup water
2. 3/4 cup sourdough discard (or active starter)
3. 6 tablespoons melted butter
4. 3 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup)
Stir until a dough forms, then knead until soft—about five minutes by hand or use a stand mixer with a dough hook.
Step 5: Roll Out Dough
Flour a clean work surface and roll out the dough into an even rectangle about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. The thinner it is, the more layers of cinnamon sugar you will have!
Step 6: Add Cinnamon Filling
Spread the prepared cinnamon filling evenly over the entire surface of the rolled-out dough.
Step 7: Roll Up Dough
Starting on one long side, roll up the dough tightly into a log shape. Pinch the ends together to seal.
Step 8: Slice Rolls
Slice into twelve equal pieces using a sharp knife or bench scraper.
Step 9: Place in Baking Dish
Arrange the sliced rolls in a prepared baking dish lined with parchment paper or directly in a cast iron skillet.
Step 10: Bake
Bake for about 25–35 minutes or until golden brown on top. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning!
Step 11: Cool Slightly
Remove from oven and allow cooling slightly while preparing frosting if desired.
Enjoy these delightful Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls fresh from the oven!
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 a sweet snack, these rolls are versatile and delicious.
With Coffee
- A perfect pairing with your morning cup of coffee, enhancing the flavors of both the drink and the rolls.
Drizzled with Icing
- Top your rolls with cream cheese icing for an extra layer of sweetness that complements the cinnamon filling beautifully.
Served Warm
- Enjoy them fresh out of the oven while they are still warm and gooey for the ultimate cinnamon roll experience.
As a Dessert
- Serve them as a dessert after dinner, perhaps alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast of temperatures.
With Fresh Fruit
- Pair with fresh berries or sliced bananas to add a refreshing touch to your sweet rolls.
In a Brunch Spread
- Include them in a brunch spread along with other items like eggs and fruit for a delightful morning feast.
How to Perfect Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls
To ensure your sourdough discard cinnamon rolls turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:
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Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure all ingredients, especially butter and cream cheese, are at room temperature for easy mixing.
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Knead Well: Kneading the dough properly helps develop gluten, leading to softer and fluffier rolls. Aim for about five minutes of kneading.
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Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your rolls while baking. They should be golden brown but not too dark.
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Let Them Rise: Allowing the rolled dough to rest for about 15 minutes before slicing can help achieve better texture and rise.
Best Side Dishes for Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls
Sourdough discard cinnamon rolls can be complemented by various side dishes that enhance their flavor profile. Here are some great options:
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the rolls.
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Greek Yogurt: Serve with plain or flavored Greek yogurt for added protein and tanginess.
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Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs make for a hearty addition that balances the sweetness.
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Bacon: Crispy bacon provides a savory element that pairs nicely with the sweet cinnamon rolls.
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Hash Browns: Golden, crispy hash browns offer texture contrast and heartiness to your meal.
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Smoothie Bowl: A vibrant smoothie bowl can serve as a refreshing side dish that pairs well with sweets.
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Cottage Cheese: Creamy cottage cheese adds protein and can be topped with fruit or honey for extra flavor.
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Coffee Cake: For those who love sweets, serving coffee cake alongside makes it an indulgent brunch option.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls can be simple, but mistakes can happen. Here are common pitfalls and how to avoid them.
- Ignoring Dough Consistency: If the dough is too sticky or dry, your rolls won’t turn out right. Always adjust by adding flour or water gradually until you achieve a soft, workable dough.
- Skipping the Kneading: Not kneading the dough enough can lead to dense rolls. Knead for at least five minutes until smooth to ensure a fluffy texture.
- Overfilling with Cinnamon Sugar: Using too much filling can make rolling difficult. Spread a thin layer to ensure even distribution without making a mess.
- Not Preheating the Oven: Baking in a cold oven can ruin your rolls. Always preheat to 375℉ for perfect baking results.
- Not Allowing Rolls to Cool Slightly: Frosting hot rolls can cause it to melt away. Let them cool for a few minutes for better frosting adherence.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover rolls in an airtight container.
- They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls
- Wrap individual rolls in plastic wrap and then foil.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls
- Oven: Preheat to 350℉ and reheat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat one roll at a time for about 20-30 seconds.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat with a lid, reheating for around 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls.
Can I use active sourdough starter instead of discard?
Yes! You can substitute active sourdough starter for discard. Just consider adjusting the liquid ingredients since active starters contain more moisture.
How do I know when my cinnamon rolls are done baking?
Cinnamon rolls are ready when they turn golden brown on top and feel soft but firm when lightly pressed.
What can I do with leftover sourdough discard?
You can use sourdough discard in various recipes like pancakes, muffins, or even pizza dough!
Can I make these cinnamon rolls ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the rolls and refrigerate them overnight before baking. Just let them come to room temperature before baking.
What if I want a richer frosting?
You can add more cream cheese or butter to your frosting mixture for extra richness and flavor!
Final Thoughts
These Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls are not only easy to make but also incredibly delicious. Their fluffy texture and warm cinnamon flavor make them perfect for breakfast or dessert. Feel free to customize with nuts or dried fruits for added flair! Enjoy this delightful treat that uses up your sourdough discard effectively!
Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful world of Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls, where soft, sweet dough meets a rich cinnamon filling. This easy-to-follow recipe transforms your sourdough discard into a warm, comforting treat perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. With each bite, you’ll savor the fluffy texture and mouthwatering aroma that fills your kitchen. Whether served plain or drizzled with cream cheese frosting, these rolls are sure to impress family and friends alike. Plus, making them is a wonderful way to reduce waste while enjoying a delicious homemade treat!
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup sourdough discard (or active starter)
- 3/4 cup water
- 6 tablespoons melted butter (divided)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- 3 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Cream cheese frosting (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- In a small bowl, mix together 3 tablespoons of melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon to create the filling.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- Add water, sourdough discard, remaining melted butter, and honey to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms and knead for about five minutes.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a rectangle. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over it.
- Roll the dough tightly from one long side to form a log; seal the ends.
- Slice into twelve equal pieces and place in a greased baking dish or cast iron skillet.
- Bake for 25–35 minutes until golden brown on top.
- Cool slightly before serving; drizzle with cream cheese frosting if desired.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
