sourdough discard cinnamon rolls

If you’re looking for a way to use up your sourdough discard while creating something absolutely delicious, these Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls are a must-try! They’re soft, fluffy, and filled with gooey cinnamon-sugar goodness, all while incorporating the slight tang of sourdough for extra depth of flavor.

These rolls require minimal kneading and no overnight rise, making them faster than traditional sourdough cinnamon rolls but still packed with that signature sourdough taste. Trust me—once you make them, you’ll never want store-bought cinnamon rolls again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ Uses Sourdough Discard – No waste! Adds amazing flavor and softness.
✔ Soft, Fluffy, and Gooey – The perfect texture with a delicious cinnamon filling.
✔ No Overnight Rise Required – Ready in just a few hours!
✔ Perfect for Breakfast or Dessert – Enjoy warm with a rich glaze.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• Sourdough Discard – Adds a slight tang and extra moisture.
• All-Purpose Flour – The base for soft, fluffy rolls.
• Milk – Creates a tender dough.
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and flavor.
• Granulated Sugar – Slight sweetness balances the sourdough tang.
• Egg – Helps create a soft and elastic dough.
• Salt – Enhances flavor.
• Instant Yeast – Helps speed up the rising process.

For the Cinnamon Filling:

• Brown Sugar – Gives a deep, caramel-like sweetness.
• Ground Cinnamon – The star of the filling!
• Unsalted Butter – Ensures a gooey, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

For the Glaze:

• Powdered Sugar – The base for a sweet, smooth glaze.
• Milk or Heavy Cream – Adjusts the consistency.
• Vanilla Extract – Adds warmth and depth of flavor.

Note: Ingredients with measurements will be right under the article in the recipe card.

How to Make Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Warm the milk until it’s lukewarm (about 110°F/43°C). Stir in the yeast and sugar and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.

Step 2: Make the Dough

In a large bowl, mix the sourdough discard, egg, melted butter, and salt. Add the yeast mixture and stir. Gradually add the flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.

Step 3: Knead & Let the Dough Rise

Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 4: Make the Cinnamon Filling

In a bowl, mix softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until combined.

Step 5: Roll Out the Dough

Punch down the dough and roll it into a 12×16-inch rectangle. Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the surface.

Step 6: Roll & Cut

Roll the dough into a tight log and slice into 8-10 rolls. Place them in a greased baking dish.

Step 7: Second Rise

Cover and let them rise for 30-45 minutes until puffy.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cinnamon rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.

Step 9: Make the Glaze & Serve

Whisk together powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until smooth. Drizzle over warm cinnamon rolls and enjoy!

Pro Tips for the Best Cinnamon Rolls

✔ Use Warm Ingredients – Helps activate the yeast and makes the dough rise faster.
✔ Don’t Overbake – The rolls should be soft and slightly golden.

✔ For Extra Gooey Rolls – Brush the rolls with melted butter before baking.
✔ Chill the Dough (Optional) – If you want to prepare ahead, refrigerate overnight and bake fresh in the morning!

How to Serve

• Fresh & Warm – Best right out of the oven with glaze melting over the top!
• With a Cup of Coffee or Tea – Perfect for breakfast or a cozy treat.
• With Extra Caramel or Cream Cheese Frosting – For an extra indulgent twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep cinnamon rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.

Freezing

Freeze unbaked rolls in a baking dish, covered tightly, for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

Reheating

Warm in the microwave for 15-20 seconds for that fresh-baked taste!

FAQs

1. Can I make these without yeast?

Yes! If you prefer a longer fermentation, let the dough rise overnight in the fridge using just the sourdough discard.

2. Can I use whole wheat flour?

Yes, but the rolls may be denser. Try using half whole wheat, half all-purpose for a balance.

3. How do I make them dairy-free?

Use almond milk and vegan butter as substitutes.

4. Can I use active sourdough starter instead of discard?

Yes! If using an active starter, you can reduce the yeast or eliminate it and let the dough rise longer (overnight).

Final Thoughts

These Sourdough Discard Cinnamon Rolls are the perfect sweet, tangy, and fluffy treat that helps you make the most of your discard. Whether you’re baking for a weekend breakfast, holiday brunch, or just because, these cinnamon rolls will become a favorite in your kitchen!

🥐 Ready to bake? Let me know how they turn out! 👇✨

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