Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls

Soft, fluffy Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect way to transform leftover sourdough into a delicious brunch treat. These rolls are not only flavorful but also a sustainable choice for reducing food waste. Ideal for family gatherings, weekend brunches, or just a cozy afternoon snack, they bring warmth and sweetness to any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Zero-Waste Delight: Use your sourdough discard instead of tossing it out, creating delicious rolls while minimizing waste.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even beginners can master these cinnamon rolls without fuss.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize fillings with nuts, raisins, or spices to match your taste preferences.
• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of cinnamon, brown sugar, and cream cheese frosting creates a mouthwatering treat.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday breakfast or casual brunch, these rolls fit right in.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delightful recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Rolling pin
• Baking dish
• Whisk
• Dental floss (for slicing)
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to easily combine ingredients without spills.
• Rolling pin: This tool helps achieve an even dough thickness for perfectly shaped rolls.
• Baking dish: A greased baking dish ensures your cinnamon rolls bake evenly and don’t stick.

Ingredients

Here’s what you need to create these scrumptious Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls:

For the Dough

• 1 cup sourdough discard (Unfed, straight from fridge works)
• 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour (Substitute ⅓ with bread or whole wheat if desired)
• 3/4 cup milk (Whole, 2%, or non-dairy like almond or oat)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (Melted, or vegan substitute)
• 1 large egg (Or flax egg for vegan)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 1/2 tbsp cinnamon (Or add pinch of cardamom, nutmeg, or pumpkin spice)

For the Filling

• 3/4 cup brown sugar (For filling)
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter (For brushing filling, or vegan)

For the Frosting

• 4 oz cream cheese (For frosting; vegan substitute or glaze if desired)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter (For frosting, softened)
• 1 cup powdered sugar (For frosting)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (For dough and frosting)

Optional Add-ins

• Chopped nuts
• Raisins
• Orange zest

How to Make Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Warm the Milk & Melt Butter

Warm the milk in a saucepan until it’s just warm to the touch; do not boil. Melt the butter separately. In a large mixing bowl, combine both warm milk and melted butter.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

Add the sourdough discard, granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract into the bowl. Whisk until smooth. Gradually add the flour and salt; mix until combined. Knead the dough on a floured surface until it becomes soft and elastic.

Step 3: First Rise

Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise at room temperature for about 2–3 hours or longer if your space is cool. The dough should nearly double in size.

Step 4: Roll Out the Dough

Once risen, turn out the dough onto a floured surface. Roll it into a rectangle measuring approximately 12×16 inches.

Step 5: Spread Filling

Brush the rolled-out dough with melted butter. Sprinkle generously with cinnamon and brown sugar mixture. Press down lightly to adhere.

Step 6: Shape & Slice

Starting from one long edge, roll up the dough tightly into a log shape. Using dental floss, slice into 12 equal pieces.

Step 7: Second Rise

Place the sliced rolls in a greased baking dish. Cover them again with a towel and let them rise for another 1–2 hours until puffy. Alternatively, you can refrigerate them overnight for an easy bake in the morning.

Step 8: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the rolls for about 25–30 minutes until they are golden brown on top.

Step 9: Make Cream Cheese Frosting

In a bowl, whip together cream cheese, softened butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until creamy. Spread generously over warm rolls after they come out of the oven.

Step 10: Serve

Enjoy your Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls warm from the oven! Store any leftovers airtight at room temperature for up to two days.

How to Serve Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls

Sourdough discard cinnamon rolls are not only delicious but also versatile. They can be served in various ways to enhance your brunch or breakfast experience. Here are some tasty suggestions for serving these delightful rolls.

With Fresh Fruit

• Berries: Top your cinnamon rolls with a mix of strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a refreshing burst of flavor.
• Bananas: Add sliced bananas for a creamy texture that complements the sweetness of the rolls.

With Whipped Cream

• Homemade Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream can elevate your cinnamon rolls to a new level of indulgence.
• Flavored Whipped Cream: Try adding vanilla or almond extract to your whipped cream for an extra touch.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• Salted Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of salted caramel on top adds a sweet and savory contrast that pairs beautifully with cinnamon flavors.
• Homemade Caramel: Make your own caramel sauce for a personal touch that impresses guests.

Accompanied by Coffee or Tea

• Coffee: Enjoy your cinnamon rolls alongside a warm cup of coffee, enhancing the cozy brunch atmosphere.
• Herbal Tea: Pair with herbal tea for a lighter option that balances the richness of the rolls.

How to Perfect Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls

Making perfect sourdough discard cinnamon rolls takes practice and attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure fluffy and flavorful results.

• Choose the Right Flour: Use high-quality all-purpose flour, and consider substituting some with bread flour for added structure.
• Knead Properly: Knead the dough until it’s soft and elastic, which helps develop gluten for a better texture.
• Monitor Rising Time: Keep an eye on the dough during its rise; it should be nearly doubled in size before moving on to the next step.
• Don’t Skip the Second Rise: Allowing the shaped rolls to rise again is crucial for achieving that light and airy consistency.
• Bake Until Golden: Bake until they are golden brown, as underbaking may lead to dense rolls.
• Serve Warm: For the best experience, serve these cinnamon rolls warm from the oven or shortly after baking.

Best Side Dishes for Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls

To create a well-rounded meal alongside your sourdough discard cinnamon rolls, consider these complementary side dishes. They add variety and balance to your brunch spread.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and brightness to your meal.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a creamy texture that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of cinnamon rolls.
3. Savory Quiche: A slice of quiche provides protein and savory flavors that pair well with sweet pastries.
4. Oatmeal: Serve a bowl of oatmeal topped with nuts or fruits for a hearty option that balances out sweetness.
5. Smoothie Bowl: Blend up a smoothie and top it with seeds, nuts, and fresh fruit for a vibrant addition.
6. Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs offer protein and make your brunch more filling while complementing sweet dishes perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Ignoring the Dough Consistency: If your dough is too dry or sticky, it may not rise correctly. Always adjust flour or liquid gradually until you achieve a smooth texture.

• Skipping the First Rise: Allowing your dough to rise is crucial for achieving fluffy rolls. Don’t rush this step; let it nearly double in size for the best results.

• Not Rolling Evenly: An uneven roll can lead to irregularly shaped cinnamon rolls. Take your time to roll the dough into a uniform rectangle before adding the filling.

• Overbaking the Rolls: Keep an eye on your rolls as they bake. Overbaking can dry them out. Look for a golden brown color rather than relying solely on time.

• Forgetting to Brush with Butter: Brushing with melted butter before adding the filling enhances flavor and helps it stick. Don’t skip this tasty step!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls

• Wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be stored for up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat the rolls for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place a roll on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 15-20 seconds. Cover with a damp paper towel to maintain moisture.
• Stovetop: Use a covered skillet over low heat for about 5 minutes, flipping occasionally to warm evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use whole wheat flour for Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls?

Yes, you can substitute part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrition and flavor. Just ensure you keep the total amount of flour consistent.

How do I know when my rolls are done baking?

Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls are done when they are golden brown on top. You can also tap the bottom lightly; it should sound hollow when fully baked.

Can I make these cinnamon rolls vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute regular butter with vegan butter and use a flax egg instead of a chicken egg for a delicious vegan version of Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls.

What can I add to enhance my cinnamon rolls?

Feel free to customize your filling with chopped nuts, raisins, or even orange zest! These additions can elevate your Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls further.

How should I store leftover frosting?

Keep any leftover cream cheese frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to one week.

Final Thoughts

These Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls are not only delicious but also an eco-friendly way to use sourdough discard. Their soft, fluffy texture combined with sweet cinnamon filling makes them perfect for brunch or dessert. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different fillings and toppings; customization is key to making these rolls your own!